The Thrills of Gurgu: A Hidden Gem on the Mambilla Plateau, by Abdulaziz Jauro Maisamari
The Mambilla Plateau, also known as Leddi Gembu, is a rugged, hilly region, widely regarded as the coolest place in Nigeria. Situated at an average elevation of around 1,600 metres (5,247 feet) above sea level, it is Nigeria’s highest plateau.
Located in Sardauna Local Government Area, in the southeastern part of Taraba State, the Mambilla Plateau boasts awe-inspiring natural beauty. Its towering peaks include mountains reaching heights of up to 200 metres (656 feet), while others soar even higher. The famous Chappal Waddi, at 2,419 metres (7,936 feet) above sea level, stands as Nigeria’s tallest mountain. Altogether, the plateau spans over 9,389 square kilometres.
Apart from its fertile, agriculturally friendly soil — occasionally featuring granite deposits — the plateau is crisscrossed by streams, including the Taraba and Donga Rivers, both originating there.
The plateau’s rich soil yields an abundance of fruits like avocados, coffee beans, passion fruit, bananas, pineapples, guavas, and various vegetables. It also supports the growth of maize, cassava, and red beans. Timber and crops like pepper are harvested commercially, alongside renowned local teas such as Highland Tea, Samari Tea, Pleasure Tea, and Best Tea.
Beyond its appeal as a tourist destination, the plateau attracts miners, particularly for resources like blue sapphire. It’s also the site of the stalled Mambilla Hydro Power Project.
The plateau is home to numerous towns, with Maisamari serving as the main entry point, followed by Yelwa, Gurgu, Nguroje, Kakara, Ndumyaji, Yerimaru, Dorofi, Mbamga, and Mayo-Ndaga, among others. The largest of these towns is Gembu.
To the south, the plateau stretches into Cameroon, while its northern and western borders lie within Nigeria.
Gurgu village is known as one of the coolest spots on the plateau. Often enveloped in fog and, on rare occasions, snow, it presents challenging driving conditions that require motorists to proceed slowly with headlights on to navigate the many sharp, curving roads that wind between the mountains.
In Gurgu, and indeed across the Mambilla Plateau, visitors can experience a life of simplicity amidst lush green hills, crisp, cool air, and majestic cloudscapes. The plateau’s ethereal, misty mornings invite you to enjoy unique fruits, often at affordable prices, if not freely offered by the hospitable locals.
Throughout the Mambilla Plateau, the breathtaking scenery of rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and serene valleys welcomes travelers. But more memorable than the landscape are the people — warm, generous, and embodying a spirit of peace that reflects the plateau’s heavenly atmosphere.
The Mambilla Plateau, a haven of beauty and tranquility, awaits your visit or return.
Abdulaziz Jauro Maisamari, a journalist, writes from Yola.
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