Cameroon travel guide
Cameroon Tourism | Cameroon Guide
You're Going to Love Cameroon
Multiethnic and multicultural, Cameroon is a vast land of contrasting landscapes from beaches of white sand to lush, thick rainforests.
What to do in Cameroon
1. Observe Wildlife at Parc National de Campo-Ma'an
In this protected rainforest, you'll have the chance to spot leopards, gorillas, and elephants going about their daily lives. Book a guided tour for a better chance of seeing these often elusive animals.
2. Visit Fon's Palace
Get to know the traditional culture of Cameroon at Fon's Palace, the home of a dynasty over 700 years old.
3. Visit the Ekom-Nkam Falls
You'll probably recognize these mighty falls from the 1984 movie "Greystoke," starring Christopher Lambert as Tarzan and Andie MacDowell as Jane. Don't worry if you don't know the movie because the falls are an attraction on their own.
4. Climb Mount Fako
An active volcano, this peak over 13,000 ft high welcomes Mount Cameroon Race of Hope every year. Schedule a guided tour to get to the top.
5. Attend Nguon Festival
Every two even years, in December, the Nguon Festival celebrates the local Bamoun culture. This harvest-related event has been happening for more than six centuries.
When to visit Cameroon
The dry and cooler season, from November to February, is the best time to visit Cameroon. It's also the time of year when you'll be able to attend the Ngoun Festival and participate in the Race of Hope.
How to Get to Cameroon
Entry requirements
Travelers from all nationalities need to apply for a visa before traveling to Cameroon and show a certificate for yellow fever vaccination.
In addition to a passport valid for at least six months, people traveling with a tourist visa also need a hotel booking confirmation and a consular letter from the bank with proof of funds at the time of travel.
Plane
Cameroon is served by two international airports: Douala International Airport and Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport.
Most international flights from Europe arrive in Cameroon at the Douala Airport from Paris and Brussels.
Popular airlines serving Cameroon
Where to stay in Cameroon
Accommodation types in Cameroon range from simple and cheap hostels or a bed in a dorm at religious missions to high-end luxury hotels.
Where to stay in popular areas of Cameroon
How to Get Around Cameroon
Public Transportation
The only means of public transportation available in Cameroon are shared taxis. Normally, these taxis only start their journey when they are full.
Fares are negotiated with the driver before the ride, depending on the distance. Make sure the driver has change before you get on board if you're not carrying the exact amount.
Trains
Trains in Cameroon are operated by Camrail on three fixed routes: between Yaoundé and N'Gaoundéré, between Yaoundé and Douala, and between Douala and Kumba.
The availability and conditions of the railroad may change without notice, so always check schedules and frequency of trains when planning your trip.
Bus
Taking agency buses is one of the most efficient and comfortable ways to get around Cameroon. These buses connect most towns and cities, following a regular schedule and charging a fixed fare.
The service is affordable, with a one-way ticket from Yaoundé to Douala, for example, starting at approximately 3,000 XAF (5 USD). Ticket class varies according to the amenities included, such as air conditioning.
Car
Most towns in Cameroon have car rental companies, but in the larger cities like Douala and Yaoundé, you'll have more options.
You can choose to rent a car with a driver or rent a vehicle to drive around yourself. In most cases, you won't need an International Driving Permit and your local driver's license will suffice.
Plane
Domestic flights in Cameroon are operated by local carrier Camair-Co. There are regular connections between Yaoundé, Douala, Garoua, and Maroua.
The Cost of Living in Cameroon
Most towns are equipped with ATMs and payments in cash are widely preferred. A week of groceries can cost approximately 10,000 XAF (17 USD). A one-way ticket on public transportation costs, on average, approximately 250 XAF (0.40 USD).