South-West

South-West is a region in south-western Cameroon, on the Atlantic coast at the foot of Mount Cameroon. The capital is Buea. It is Anglophone and includes the country's best beaches, Mount Cameroon, and rainforest national parks.

South-West Cameroon has two main seasons shaped by the West African monsoon. Peak season (November–March) brings the dry period: sunny skies, low humidity, and comfortably warm temperatures in the low 20s°C in Buea (cooler up on Mount Cameroon). This is the best time for hiking the volcano, lounging on Limbe's black-sand beaches, and exploring the coastal rainforest — crowds pick up around the holidays but prices stay reasonable by international standards. Shoulder season (October and April) sees the rains easing in or picking up, with occasional afternoon downpours that rarely last all day; trails may be muddy but sightseeing is still pleasant. Off season (May–September) brings heavy monsoon rains, frequent overcast skies, and swollen rivers that make some park roads impassable — the least popular window, though accommodation can be found at its cheapest. The annual Mount Cameroon Race of Hope (usually late February) draws thousands of spectators to Buea and is a brilliant reason to time a trip during peak season. Avoid planning around the peak of the rains in July–August if your itinerary centres on hiking or beach time.

• Buea — capital of the region
• Limbe — black-sand beaches
• Kumba — crossroads town
• Korup National Park — ancient rainforest
• Mount Cameroon National Park — highest peak in West Africa