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Join Pandit Rajmani Tigunait on a Service Excursion of a lifetime. Together we’ll travel to Cameroon to put our yoga into action. Volunteer and leave a lasting impact on the community while exploring the vibrant cultures of Cameroon and celebrating our 10th anniversary of service in the region! This trip is a unique blend of service, cultural immersion, self-study, and adventure.

Pandit Rajmani Tigunait will share key insights on social development and how we can use this service experience as a catalyst in our own journey of self-transformation. Pandit Rajmani Tigunait is spiritual head of the Himalayan Institute, a prolific author, and the driving force behind the Himalayan Institute’s humanitarian projects.

Service Projects

During our stay in Cameroon, we will dedicate much of our time to two projects that are very important to the community.

Children’s Summer Learning Camp

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Our Children’s Summer Learning Camp is an ongoing project working with the children who are part of the Learning Camp. You will have the opportunity to partner with local children one-on-one while reading, teaching about health, doing science projects, playing sports, and serving the local community. Get inspired by the transformation you are contributing to and leave a lasting impact on the local community.

Public Library Construction

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We will also complete the construction of a new Public Library, for a local school in the village of Tobin. This project will allow for your hard work to be as far reaching as possible. A public library has the potential to increase literacy, bring a community together, and have a positive impact on hundreds of lives for years to come.

Excursion Highlights

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Learn how yoga in action can shape your behavior, transform your being, and help those around you live fuller, happier lives. Panditji will share his insights on social development and how we can use this experience as a catalyst in our own journey of self-transformation.

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Volunteer with the Himalayan Institute’s humanitarian projects. You’ll do meaningful work that addresses community needs, specifically in the area of education while working with the local youth.

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Explore Cameroon’s natural beauty and its diverse geographical zones, such as tropical rain forests, grassy mangroves, and expansive savanna.

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Reach out into the community. In addition to our Children’s Summer Learning Camp you’ll have the opportunity to meet and visit other community groups, local schools, and nonprofit organizations in the area.

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Meet the King at his palace. Formally greet and be welcomed by the Fon of Nso at his palace in Kumbo and enjoy colorful and lively traditional Cameroonian music and dance.

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Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Himalayan Institute in Cameroon, and take part in our milestone event as we announce our mission for the next 10 years.

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Farm-to-table picnic. Enjoy a home-cooked organic meal prepared in local fashion and served picnic-style right on the land in which it was grown. You even get to go home with the authentic African recipes.

Drill Monkey

Nurture Africa’s exotic wildlife that has been displaced or injured due to poaching while visiting a wildlife rehabilitation center in Limbe town, Cameroon.

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Relax on the volcanic black sand beaches off the historic Gulf of Guinea and swim in the bay against the backdrop of Mt. Cameroon, West Africa’s highest peak.

Itinerary

June 18–29, 2018

Day 1, Mon., June 18 Arrive in Douala. Dinner and overnight at Planet Hotel.
Day 2, Tues., June 19 Travel to Bamenda, the capital of the Northwest region of Cameroon.
Day 3, Wed., June 20 Morning: Depart Bamenda and travel to HI Cameroon in Kumbo.
Afternoon: Lunch and program orientation, followed by chai, group walk, and dinner.
Day 4, Thurs., June 21 Morning: Special visit to the palace of the regional King. Learn about the Nso Kingdom and enjoy a special dance performance at the palace.
Afternoon: service projects; satsang with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait.
Day 5, Fri., June 22 Morning: Service Projects.
Afternoon: Group sharing session, and walk.
Day 6, Sat., June 23 Morning: 10th anniversary celebration of HI Cameroon and announcement of our mission for the next 10 years.
Afternoon: Bonfire and music after dinner.
Day 7, Sun., June 24 Morning: Visit to the local open-air market for shopping.
Afternoon: Meet with a local tailor for custom-made clothing; evening satsang.
Day 8, Mon., June 25 Morning: Service projects.
Afternoon: A special, locally hosted farm to table picnic. Explore the economic history of the region with an optional coffee farm tour, roasting, and sampling the locally grown and fresh-roasted coffees.
Day 9, Tues., June 26 Morning: Service projects.
Afternoon: Free time followed by chai and a traditional Juju music and dance party with HI staff.
Day 10, Wed., June 27 Depart Kumbo for Limbe. Dinner and overnight at Seme Beach Resort on the Gulf of Guinea coast in the lush Southwest region of Cameroon.
Day 11, Thurs., June 28 Morning: A special trip to Animal Wildlife and Rescue Center in Limbe followed by lunch at Arnes Café.
Afternoon: Free time to enjoy the black sand beaches, swimming, and relaxing with a backdrop of West Africa’s highest peak, Mt. Cameroon
Day 12, Fri., June 29 Morning: Free time for swimming, hiking, relaxing at the beach, and preparing for departure.
Afternoon: Travel to Douala and shop at the world-famous craft market. Dinner followed by departure for airport and international flights.

*Itinerary, schedule, and dates are subject to change.

Cameroon Photo Gallery

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Registration Information

Rates

Regular Registration: closes February 15, 2018 – $3,000
Mount Cameroon National Park Add-on: closes February 15, 2018 – $749

For more information or to make a balance payment:
Call: (800) 822-4547 x6
Email: [email protected]

If mailing an application, send to:
Himalayan Institute Spiritual Excursions
Attn: Alat Shanti Tigunait
952 Bethany Turnpike
Honesdale, PA 18431 USA

Two ways to register

Online: Register online for your Service Excursion to Cameroon. Complete the registration form below and make your payment (deposit or in full) to secure your space.

Individual Registration

Mail: Download the Tour Participant Agreement (“TPA”). Print, read, complete, sign. Mail your signed TPA with deposit or full payment.

Download Individual TPADownload Family TPA

Register for Mount Cameroon National Park Add-on: Download Addendum A. Print, read, complete, sign. Mail your signed Addendum with full payment.

Download Individual Addendum ADownload Family Addendum A

Mount Cameroon National Park Add-on

Mount Cameroon National Park Add-on

Explore West Africa’s highest peak
June 29–July 3, 2018

Extend your stay in Western Africa with an optional add-on to Mount Cameroon, an active volcano and the highest point in western and central Africa, rising through coastal, rainforest, and mountainous regions to a height of 13,255 feet.

This add-on excursion is ideal for those who have an adventurous spirit and are prepared for hiking through rainforest and mountainous climates. Accommodations will include local cabins for camping. A team of local guides will share their knowledge of indigenous wildlife, flora, and the history of the area as we ascend Mount Cameroon. Participants who wish to reach the summit will see the stunning crater formed during the last eruption in 2000 and beautiful scenic views of lush rainforests and oceanic horizons.

Limited Space—minimum 12 people, maximum 18 people

Add-on Itinerary

July 29–July 3, 2018 (5 days/4 nights)

Day 1, Fri., June 29 Free time and swimming in Limbe before lunch. After lunch, travel by bus from Limbe to Buea. Dinner and Overnight at hotel in Buea.
Day 2, Sat., June 30 Early morning arrival to Mount Cameroon National Park to begin our hike and begin hiking through the beautiful, lush rainforest. Break for lunch at 6,000ft in an area known for its unique fauna and bird species. After lunch continue to savanna camp at an elevation of 9,416 ft. Total hiking distance this day is approximately 4.5 miles from Buea to our camp.
Day 3, Sun., July 1 Optional day hike to the summit of Mount Cameroon (the roof of West Africa). After breakfast, start our 3-mile hike to the summit at an elevation of 13,255 ft. Return to camp at 9,416 ft before nightfall.
Day 4, Mon., July 2 Pack up camp and hike back down to the base of Mount Cameroon and travel by bus to our hotel in Buea for the evening.
Day 5, Tues., July 3 Travel by bus from Buea to Douala. Explore Douala’s world-famous craft market. Special dinner and chai send off party and transfer to airport for evening flights.

*Itinerary, schedule, and dates are subject to change.

Add-on Rates and Registration

Rates

Add-on Regular Registration: closes February 15, 2018 – $749

For more information or to make a balance payment:
Call: (800) 822-4547 x6
Email: [email protected]

If mailing an application, send to:
Himalayan Institute Spiritual Excursions
Attn: Alat Shanti Tigunait
952 Bethany Turnpike
Honesdale, PA 18431 USA

Registration

Mail: Download Addendum A. Print, read, complete, sign. Mail your signed Addendum with full payment.

Download Individual Addendum ADownload Family Addendum A

Mount Cameroon National Park Photo Gallery

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10 Years of Service in Cameroon

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The Himalayan Institute’s humanitarian mission is yoga in action—offering spiritually grounded healing and transformation to the world. Our humanitarian projects serve impoverished communities through rural empowerment and environmental regeneration.

In 2018, we will be celebrating 10 years of service in Cameroon working to fight poverty, illiteracy, and inequality through education, health care, and job creation. Click here to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the nature of this service excursion?

A: This trip is a unique blend of service, cultural immersion, self-study, and adventure. Volunteer and leave a lasting impact on the community while exploring the vibrant cultures of Cameroon and celebrating our 10th anniversary of service in the region!

Q: What type of activities will we do on this excursion?

A: During our stay in Cameroon, we will dedicate much of our time to two service projects—the Children’s Summer Learning Camp and construction of a new library for a local school. Aside from this there will be opportunities to explore the picturesque Cameroonian countryside and local markets, take part in cultural festivities, enjoy a farm-to-table picnic, and relax on beautiful black sand beaches.

Q: What is the weather like in June?

A: The temperature in June ranges from 50°F–90°F. Day time temperatures are typically in the mid-70s–80s with the occasional rain shower.

Q: How do I get to Cameroon?

A: A number of airlines offer flights to Cameroon. From the United States, we recommend booking round trip tickets from your originating departure city to Douala, Cameroon connecting in Brussels, Belgium, or Paris, France when possible.

Q: Do I need a passport and visa?

A: Yes, passport and Cameroon tourist visa must be obtained in advance before booking and purchasing airline tickets. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the Tour return date. It is advisable to have a minimum of 3 blank pages in the back of your passport.

Q: Where do I apply for my visa?

A: Apply for a visa with the Embassy of the Republic of Cameroon allowing sufficient time for processing after receiving your Yellow Fever immunization. Entry into Cameroon must be within 90 days of issuance of a visa. Visas are valid from the date of entry into Cameroon.

Q: What immunizations do I need?

A: A Yellow Fever vaccination is required by the government of Cameroon for all travelers. You are welcome to check the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization websites for their list of recommended vaccines. These vaccinations are optional and the decision to get them is strictly personal. We encourage you to discuss immunizations with your health professional in order to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and health history.

Q: Is the water safe to drink in Cameroon?

A: Bottled (mineral) water is recommended when staying in hotels in Cameroon. UV-treated, carbon- filtered water is available for drinking and filling your water bottles at the Himalayan Institute Cameroon Community Center.

Q: What medicines should I bring with me?

A: If you are taking any prescription medications, bring an adequate amount with you. Although some medicines are available in Cameroon, their supply and quality are not reliable.

Q: Where will we be staying?

A: We will be staying in comfortable hotels in Douala, Bamenda, and Limbe. Once in Kumbo, participants will be staying at the Himalayan Institute Cameroon’s Community Center. Accommodations will be on double occupancy or dormitory basis with private or shared bath.

Q: What type of meals can I expect?

A: All meals are vegetarian, prepared with wholesome locally grown vegetables, and may include dairy.

Q: What is the culture like and how should I dress?

A: Cameroonians are very welcoming and inviting and children are curious and very excited to Westerners. In Kumbo, people speak the local dialect, Lamnso, as well as English. It is common to see a mix of traditional African clothing and more western attire. In general, modest attire is recommended.

Q: What do I need to bring?

A: Prepare for pleasant, sometimes hot, partially sunny days and cool, sometimes cold nights. Temperatures range from the 50s to 90s with occasional rain. Few accommodations in Cameroon have air-conditioning or heat so plan accordingly. Plan on packing layers.

The following is a suggested packing list:

  • Walking or hiking shoes
  • Rubber shoes (such as Crocs)
  • 2–3 T-shirts
  • 1–2 long sleeve/active wear shirts
  • Light-mid weight thermal base layers (tops and bottoms)
  • 1 medium or heavyweight fleece jacket
  • Wind and waterproof layer with a hood
  • 2–3 trekking pants
  • 1 long skirt (for women)
  • Warm hat
  • Socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Lightweight travel or pack towel
  • Water bottle
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Personal toiletries, including soap and shampoo
  • Prescription medicine, if required
  • Day pack with rainproof cover
  • Sleeping bag (rated to approximately 40°F); and compression sack for packing it

Other things to consider:

  • Sturdy, comfortable sandals
  • Waterproof liner for inside your duffel (or a large garbage bag)
  • Rain poncho
  • Extra Zip Lock or plastic bags
  • Camera and accessories
  • International converter kit for rechargeable items, or bring extra batteries
  • Plug adaptor
  • TSA luggage locks (locks keep zippers closed during handling, and help prevent accidental opening)
  • Laundry soap (for hand laundry)
  • Earplugs

Things to leave at home:

  • Hair dryer, curling iron, hair straightener, electric shaver, iron, hot water pot, heating coil, and similar electrical items
  • Non-essential electronics
  • Incense and candles
  • Excess clothing
  • Valuables

Q: Can I do laundry during the trip?

A: You are welcome to do hand laundry or send out laundry on scheduled days during your stay in Kumbo.

Q: Where can I change money?

A: Money can be changed at the hotel in Douala or in Kumbo at the Himalayan Institute Cameroon.

Q: Will we have access to a phone or internet?

A: Internet cafes are located within walking distance to Himalayan Institute Cameroon in Kumbo.

Q: How do I register for this trip?

A: Register online or download and mail the Tour Participant Agreement (TPA) with your deposit or full payment. If you are registering as a family please download, complete, and return the Family TPA.

Q: What if I need to cancel?

A: Requests for cancellation must be made in writing to the tour organizer. See the TPA for complete terms and conditions and applicable cancellation charges.

Q: What is Mount Cameroon National Park known for?

A: Mount Cameroon, an active volcano, is the highest peak in West and Central Africa standing at 13,255ft and covers a wide variety of terrain including coastal, rain forest, and mountainous regions. The area has rich biodiversity including ancient trees, endangered and endemic plant and animal species including two bird species which are only found on Mount Cameroon. There are over 370 species of birds on Mount Cameroon. Mount Cameroon National Park is known for hiking, bird watching, wild elephant tracking tours, and the yearly Mount Cameroon Race of Hope marathon.

Q: What will the weather be like?

A: Partially sunny days with periods of rain, which can be heavy at times, are expected at the end of June into July. Temperatures will be warm and humid at the start of the hike and become cooler as we ascend. Night time temperatures at camp may be in the 40s. It is best to pack layers.

Q: How many nights will we be camping?

A: We will be camping for two nights on Mount Cameroon and utilizing local cabins.

Q: What essential items do I need to bring?

A: Waterproof hiking shoes/boots, day pack, rain gear, bug repellant, headlight/flashlight, hiking poles, and personal toiletries are essential.

Q: What will we need to carry while hiking?

A: Individuals will need to carry backpacks containing water, rain gear, and any other personal items they may need while hiking. Porters will be provided to carry other essentials. We recommend you bring an extra, small duffle of stuff sack in which you can pack essentials you’ll need on days 2-4 and leave excess luggage in a secure location in Buea where we will begin and end our add-on.

Q: How difficult will the hikes be?

A: The hikes will range from moderate to difficult and will be steep during portions. Some trails may be wet and muddy depending on rainfall.

Q: How do I register?

A: To register, download, fill in, and sign the Addendum found under the registration section, and return it, along with your full payment.

Contact

For more information or to make a balance payment:

Call (800) 822-4547 x6 or email [email protected]