At the crossroads of West and Central Africa, Cameroon is one of the most culturally diverse countries on the continent-rich in indigenous cultures, vibrant artistic and musical traditions, and wonderful Cameroonian hospitality. The country is made up of a network of ancient tribal kingdoms, and offers the choice of rainforests and relaxing beaches in the south; rocky outcrops, terraced hillsides and hobbit-like villages in the north; and the wildlife of Parc National de Waza.

March and April, for wildlife viewing before the rains come

Bargaining for local crafts at Foumban’s artisans market Dining on grilled fish on the beaches around Limbe and Kribi Exploring the mountains and picturesque villages around Maroua Climbing Mt Cameroon, West Africa’s highest peak Watching wildlife at Parc National de Waza Hiking among ancient tribal kingdoms and striking mountain scenery in the Ring Road area near Bamenda

Read The Poor Christ of Bomb, Mongo Beti’s cynical recounting of the failure of a missionary to convert the people of a small village, or Kenjo Jumban;s novel The White Man of God, which deals with the country’s colonial experience

Listen to Manu Dibango’s hit album Soul Makossa

Watch Afrique, Je Te Plumerai (Africa, l Will Fleece You), directed by Jean-Maric Teno, an outstanding documentary about modern Cameroon life

Eat delicious sauces accompanied by riz (rice), or with pate or fufu both thick mashed potato-like staples made from staples made from corn, manioc, plantains or bananas; feuille (manioc leaves)

Drink tea served with loads of sugar in a small glass or, if you’re feeling brave, tackle a white mimbo (local brew)

No ngoolu daa (hello)

Tribal kingdoms; Pygmies; black rhinos; trekking; great food; makossa music

When travelling to areas that see few outsiders, it’s always best to announce your presence to the local chief (known as the fon in western Cameroon, and lamido in parts of the north). The ruler of the Bamoun is known as the sultan, and the Bamoun can trace the lineage of their sultan back to 1394.

Most Pygmies follow traditional religions, which typically center around a powerful forest spirit, with the forest viewed as mother, and guardian.Among the Baka, this forest god is known as Jengi. Jengi is also the name given to celebrations marking the rite of passage of your Baka men into adulthood.