The flat-topped Mont Ngaoundéré rises just southwest of town and gives the city its name — in Mbum it means "navel mountain" for its rounded summit profile. A reasonably clear walking track climbs from the western edge of town in about two hours, ending at a ridge with views over the basalt plateau, the railway snaking south, and on a clear day the Mandara mountains to the north.
The walk is steeper than it looks from below and there is little shade — start early and bring plenty of water. A local guide is a good idea for first-timers and easily arranged at the bigger hotels in town.