Circular of Mont Messa

de fr

Hike on Mount Messa, circular from Mbankolo, return via Cité Verte, via the radio station. The route offers a circular loop for more variety, but the first part can be replaced by a return trip on the track that passes through point 4, particularly to make the first climb to the point (1) easier, as it is very steep.

Details

n°82537574
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  • Walking
    Activity: Walking
  • ↔
    Distance: 4.74 km
  • ◔
    Average duration: 2h 15 
  • ▲
    Difficulty: Difficult
  • ⚐
    Back to start: No
  • ↗
    Ascent: + 307 m
  • ↘
    Descent: - 309 m
  • ▲
    Highest point: 998 m
  • ▼
    Lowest point: 766 m
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Photos

View of Yaoundé
View of Mbankolo village
View of the quarry

Description of the walk

(S) The hike starts at the Tradex petrol station, which is both a landmark and a functional and active station. However, it is not really possible to park at the foot of the mountain, as there is no designated parking area. I recommend parking closer to the Golf crossroads or even at Super U (route du golf) and taking a taxi or walking to Tradex.

Start via the village of Mbankolo, across fields: this is the suggested route, but there are many other ways to get up the mountain, so don't hesitate to ask the locals. The descent is via the old access track to the mountain, which is also suitable for mountain bikes (rough), except during the rainy season. From the radio station, there is a short circular route to see two fairly impressive caves.

Waypoints

  1. S : km 0 - alt. 808 m
  2. 1 : km 0.74 - alt. 928 m - View of Mbankolo from the rock
  3. 2 : km 2.05 - alt. 992 m - Radio station and viewpoint over Yaoundé
  4. 3 : km 2.36 - alt. 996 m - Cave
  5. 4 : km 3.34 - alt. 880 m - Viewpoint over the old quarry
  6. E : km 4.74 - alt. 806 m - Arrival via Cité Verte

Notes

The point (2) is the ideal place to take a break during your hike. You can picnic on the large flat rock there. Be aware, however, that there is no shade unless you go into the forest that covers the summit itself (where the caves are).

Food and drink are readily available in either Mbankolo or Cité Verte, two lively neighbourhoods in Yaoundé.

Reviews and comments

3.5 / 5
Based on 1 review
Ease of following the route
3 / 5
Route interest
4 / 5
Valou33
Valou33
• Edited:

Overall rating : 3.5 / 5

Date of your route : Nov 09, 2025
Ease of following the route : ★★★☆☆ Average
Route interest : ★★★★☆ Good
Very busy route : No

A pleasant hike with a lovely ending at the old quarry and panoramic views of Yaoundé.
At times, it was difficult to follow the trail because dense vegetation obstructed the path.
The start is very steep, and I can confirm that it is indeed difficult, as indicated. You need to be reasonably fit.
I recommend this hike, which offers beautiful views and a good workout for those who want it!

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