Lake Petpenoun, Lake in Kouoptamo, Cameroon
Lake Petpenoun is a small crater lake in Kouoptamo, near Foumban in the Noun department of Cameroon. It sits at just over 1,120 meters above sea level and is edged by trees and grass that reach down to the shoreline.
The lake formed through volcanic activity typical of the highlands of western Cameroon and was long used by surrounding communities as a natural resource. Over time, protection measures were put in place around the water to safeguard its wildlife.
The lake is known locally by several names, including Paponoun, Petponoun, and Pètponoun, which shows how closely it is tied to the daily life of people in the area. Along the shore, visitors can watch others paddling in small pirogues or walking the paths, and the sound of traditional Tam-Tams from nearby villages sometimes carries across the water.
The Complexe Touristique du Lac Petpenoun is open around the clock and has a restaurant, a bar, accommodation, and a parking area on site. It is a good idea to book ahead, especially on weekends or during busier periods.
Although the lake is sometimes described as covering a much larger area, it actually spans around 30 hectares. The WWF uses the site for bird surveys, and the number of species recorded there is said to exceed 300.
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