The North Calls: From 18 Hours on a Train to the Mysterious Lake Tison

Overnight to the Highlands: The Great Journey North

Eighteen hours on a train from Yaoundé to Ngaoundéré—a ride that felt like a moving prison, yet alive with the relentless spirit of Cameroonians selling everything imaginable along the tracks. Me and two friends set out to chase a dream I’ve held my whole life: going north. At TravelCameroon, we know that true travel isn't just about reaching a destination; it's about the grit, the stories, and the raw soul of the transit. If you've ever felt the shared endurance of our Edea Expedition, you know that the toughest paths lead to the greatest rewards.

Thundering Falls & Ancestral Connection

What we found in the Adamawa Region broke us in the best way possible. Three hours driving through red dust and chaos brought us from Ngaoundéré to a waterfall so majestic it felt like the gods themselves were showing off. Water crashes down right in front of a hidden cave, sending thick sheets of mist into the air. Standing behind that roaring curtain of water, looking out at the world through liquid glass, was like stepping into a fantasy movie. I showered in the cool spray and reconnected with our ancestors—acknowledging their sacrifices on this sacred land.

Idool Village & Ngaoundaba Ranch: Heaven on Earth

Next, we rolled into Idool—a village renowned for its meticulous urban planning, lined with tall eucalyptus trees, and home to a lake famously shaped like the map of Cameroon. The local chief welcomed us with open arms, feeding us traditional dishes and local history.

By morning, we reached Ngaoundaba Ranch. Imagine cattle roaming free across open pastures, forest cars, and quad bikes taking you deep into savanna woods on a true safari experience. We swam, breathed the crisp mountain air, and soaked in absolute peace. It is nothing short of paradise—a relaxing highland escape that rivals the serene atmosphere of our Sassé Shrine Waterfall trip in Buea.

The Cursed Beauty of Lake Tison

Then came Lake Tison, a place that hits completely different. This volcanic crater lake mysteriously changes colors throughout the day, and locals whisper tales of ancient curses. The warnings are real: swimming here can kill you, with signposts surrounding the rim warning visitors not to step too close. I almost made the fatal mistake of going in, but managed to pull back. Standing on a stone ledge above the dark water, staring down into the unexplained, you feel the humbling power of nature.

This September, TravelCameroon is bringing all of you back here. You can explore our custom itineraries to get ready, because you are not prepared for what this region will do to your soul. Now tell us... would you stand on the edge of Lake Tison, or dive straight into the safe waters of Ngaoundaba? Drop your answer in the comments!