North-West

North-West is a region in the Cameroon highlands, known for its cool climate, green hills, and Anglophone culture. The capital is Bamenda. The region is part of the former British Cameroons.

The North-West's highland elevation keeps it cooler than lowland Cameroon year-round, with distinct dry and rainy seasons that drive tourism timing. Peak season (November–February) brings dry, sunny days with cool mornings — ideal conditions for hiking the escarpment, visiting Bamenda's vibrant Monday Market, and touring traditional grassfield chiefhoods without muddy roads. Shoulder months (March and October) mark the transitions: March sees the first heavy showers but remains largely navigable, while October's rains taper off leaving lush green hillsides. Off season (April–September) means persistent heavy rainfall, frequently impassable dirt roads, and landslide risk on mountain routes, though the landscape is at its most dramatic and green. Plan around the Bamenda Cultural Festival (typically held in late December or early January) for a rich showcase of Anglophone Cameroonian music, dance, and craft traditions at the heart of peak season. Avoid August drives on unpaved highland roads when downpours are at their heaviest.

• Bamenda — regional capital
• Kumbo — highland market town
• Bafut — traditional kingdom and palace
• Wum — Ring Road market centre
• Oku — mountain town with a crater lake