Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program

Nestled between Pico Basile and other volcanic peaks farther south, in a valley 1200 m (3800 ft) above sea level, the village of Moka enjoys a cool, comfortable, mosquito-free climate. With open slopes of bracken and grass, lush tree-fern forests, and spectacular waterfalls and crater lakes, the Moka valley forms a gateway to one of West Africa's most beautiful tropical locations.

Two pristine crater lakes are just a short hike from Moka: Lago Loreto and Lago Biao. Lago Biao is the usual visitor destination because it is higher, larger, and offers more wildlife. Little egrets and dabchicks (little grebes) are found at the lake itself; palm nut vultures, turacos, and the spectacular blue plantain-eaters are often seen on the walk to the crater; and several species of monkeys, including both the black (satanic) colobus and the red-eared guenon, inhabit the forests around the lake.

Another attraction easily accessible from Moka is the breathtaking cascades, where three separate branches of the Iladyi River plunge over the edge of a 250 m (800 ft) canyon. As you stand in moss-draped montane forest at the top of the largest waterfall, you look out across undisturbed forest to the other cascades.

The valley is also an important agricultural center, providing the cool climate and rich volcanic soil required for the cultivation of tomatoes, beans, and other vegetables.

Moca is also a spiritual center for the Bubi people, the earliest inhabitants of Bioko Island. As your Bubi guide will explain, many of the natural attractions also have spiritual significance.

The Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program maintains a wildlife research center at Moka which provides accommodations for visiting scientists, ecotourists and others.