THE BAMOUN KINGDOM (Foumban)
This is a special attraction by itself, founded towards the end of the 14th century by NCHARE YEN, the first king of the Bamoun dynasty. The most famous of the successors of Nchare Yen was King Njoya who reigned from 1889-1933. It is King Njoya who invented the SHUMON writing which was later taught in schools in his kingdom.
Very imaginative, King Njoya, after a visit to Buea during the german colonial period, was inspired by the residence of the German Governor and decided upon returning to Foumban to built the present Sultan's palace which up to this date, remains an architectural master piece.
The main cultural attractions of Foumban remain the Palace of the Sultan which contains the royal museum.The museum is of international standard where the visitor can see a collection of the Sultan which traces back the history of the Bamoun people. This collection includes objects such as:
- war weapons used during local tribal wars;
- war trophies , notably calabashes decorated with human jaws of conquered enemies ;
- music instruments and dresses worn by the previous kings ;
- the decorated thrones of various kings ; etc...
Tour Details
Destination |
Day |
Description |
DOUALA/YAOUNDE-BAFOUSSAM |
Day 1 |
Drive from Douala or Yaoundé to Bafoussam with various stops. After about 4 hours arrive at the chefferie Banjoun some 15 kilometres to Bafoussam ; visit the palace, especially the « Great House » and the palace museum. Continue drive to Bafoussam for lunch before driving to Koutaba after a visit of Foumbot market. Overnight at Paradise Hotel |
FOUMBAN-BAMENDA |
Day 2 |
After breakfast, drive to Foumban where you will visit the Sultan’s palace and the craft centre ; after lunch, transfer to Bamenda in the english speaking North-West province of Cameroon. Overnight at Ayaba Hotel or similar |
BAMENDA-BAFUT-BAMENDA |
Day 3 |
Today is scheduled for an excursion to Bafut to visit the colonial built palace of the fon. You may be treated to a local traditional dance performance, upon request. Return to Bamenda and visit the local craft shops and the market. Dinner and overnight |
BAMENDA-DOUALA/YAOUNDE |
Day 4 |
Today, we return to Douala or to Yaoundé |
End of Tour and book for this Tour