Famous Botanical Gardens in Cameroon [Back]
Cameroon's botanical gardens and reserves play a pivotal role in conserving the nation's rich biodiversity. These institutions not only protect native plant species but also offer educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.
Limbe Botanic Garden
Established in 1892 during the German colonial era, the Limbe Botanic Garden is one of Cameroon's most significant botanical institutions. Initially serving as a center for the acclimatization of exotic plant species such as rubber, coffee, and cocoa, it has evolved into a hub for conservation, education, and tourism. Spanning 48 hectares, the garden houses approximately 1,500 plant taxa, including rare and endangered species like Prunus africana and various endemic palms. Visitors can explore themed trails such as the Coastal Track and the Biodiversity Trail, which showcase the garden's diverse ecosystems. The Limbe River meanders through the garden, adding to its scenic beauty.
Bakossi National Park
Created in 2008, Bakossi National Park encompasses 29,320 hectares within the Bakossi Mountains. The park was established primarily to preserve its rich plant diversity, which includes numerous species new to science. The area is also home to significant wildlife populations, including the endangered drill monkey, African forest elephants, and chimpanzees. The park's varied elevations, ranging from 800 to 1,900 meters, support a wide array of habitats, from lowland forests to montane cloud forests.
Bakossi Forest Reserve
Established in 1956, the Bakossi Forest Reserve covers approximately 5,517 square kilometers within the Bakossi Mountains. This reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including many rare plant species and a variety of wildlife such as the endangered drill monkey and diverse bird species. The reserve's cloud forests are among the largest in West-Central Africa, making it a critical area for conservation efforts.
Le Jardin Sonore
Located in the Bonamouti-Deido district near the Wouri River in Douala, Le Jardin Sonore is a unique public artwork created by Lucas Grandin in 2010. This three-story wooden structure serves as a panoramic viewpoint, botanical garden, and dewdrop percussion organ. The garden features a variety of flowering, cosmetic, and medicinal plants, irrigated by a sustainable "drop by drop" system that also produces melodic sounds as water drips into cans of different sizes. This innovative blend of art, nature, and sustainability offers visitors a tranquil space for contemplation and community engagement.