Lake Barombi Mbo Lake

Address: Lake Barombi Mbo, Southwest Region, Cameroon

Hours: Open year-round

Admission: Free

Lake Barombi Mbo is a volcanic crater lake in Cameroon’s Southwest Region noted for its high level of endemic freshwater fish, especially cichlids. It is an important site for biological and evolutionary research because many species in the lake are found only there.

The lake is relatively small and isolated, with shoreline villages that rely on its resources; its biological distinctiveness has attracted both researchers and conservation attention. Human impacts in the surrounding catchment and the introduction of non-native species are ongoing conservation issues for the lake’s unique fauna.

Lake Barombi Mbo sits in a volcanic crater landscape in Cameroon’s southwestern lowlands and is reached via local roads from nearby settlements in the region.

• Endemic fish: The lake contains multiple endemic cichlid species found nowhere else, making it a focus of scientific study and conservation concern.
• Conservation concerns: Because it is a small, isolated volcanic crater lake, it is particularly vulnerable to pollution, deforestation in the catchment and introductions of non-native species.

Access: Reachable by road from Kumba or other regional centers; local guides and drivers recommended due to rough roads and limited signage.

• Bring a local guide when looking for endemic cichlids-the lake's ecology is fragile and best observed responsibly.
• Avoid polluting the shoreline; local communities rely on the lake's resources.
• Combine with a visit to nearby villages to understand the lake's social context and fishing practices.