Cameroon

Things to Do in Cameroon

Africa in miniature: from Atlantic beaches to volcanic peaks.

  • CapitalYaoundé
  • CurrencyCentral African CFA franc (XAF)
  • LanguageFrench, English
  • Time zoneUTC+1
  • Emergency112

Why visit Cameroon?

Often called 'Africa in miniature,' Cameroon encapsulates the continent's diverse climates, cultures, and landscapes within a single nation. Here, the humid Atlantic coastline transitions into dense equatorial rainforests, which then give way to the rugged Western Highlands and the dry Sahelian plains of the Far North. For the adventurous traveler, this geographic variety means you can hike an active volcano, lounge on white-sand beaches, and search for wildlife in remote national parks all in one trip.

Navigating Cameroon requires flexibility and a spirit of adventure. As a bilingual nation split between Francophone and Anglophone regions, its cultural tapestry includes over 250 ethnic groups, each contributing to a rich heritage of music, art, and culinary traditions. While infrastructure can be challenging and travel logistics require careful preparation, the reward is an authentic, untamed encounter with Central Africa's dramatic geography and legendary hospitality.

Mount Cameroon Summit

Kribi Beaches and Lobé Falls

The Foumban Royal Palace

Dja Faunal Reserve

Limbe Wildlife Centre

The Ring Road Cultures

Popular regions

Littoral and South Coast

Littoral and South Coast

The Western Highlands

The Western Highlands

Centre and East Rainforests

Centre and East Rainforests

The Northern Sahel

The Northern Sahel

When to visit Cameroon

Based on average conditions in Cameroon.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature32°32°32°32°31°30°28°28°29°30°31°32°
Rain5d9d14d17d20d22d26d27d26d23d12d5d
CrowdsHighHighMedLowLowLowLowLowLowMedMedHigh
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to Cameroon

Coastal & Volcano Highlights

7 Days

Cultural & Urban Explorer

10 Days

Deep Forest Trekking

12 Days

The Grand Cameroonian Loop

21 Days

Getting around Cameroon

Intercity VIP Buses

Camrail Train

Shared Taxis and Clandos

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Backpacker

    $30 - $55 / day

  • Mid-range

    $80 - $160 / day

  • Premium

    $250+ / day

Food & drinks

  • Ndolé (stewed bitterleaf, peanuts, and fish or beef)$4.50
  • Poulet Directeur Général (fried chicken with plantains and bell peppers)$8.00
  • Soya (skewered grilled beef spiced with peanut powder and chili)$1.50
  • Achou (pounded cocoyam served with a spicy yellow limestone soup)$3.00
  • Local Castel or Beaufort Beer (650ml bottle)$2.00

Practical

  • Visa Requirements

  • Yellow Fever Mandate

  • Language Split

  • Photography Rules

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting Cameroon

How many days do I need in Cameroon? +

A minimum of 7 to 10 days is recommended. This allows you to experience the main hubs of Yaoundé and Douala, alongside a trip to the coast at Kribi or Limbe, without spending your entire vacation in transit.

When is the best time to visit Cameroon? +

The dry season from November to February is the optimal time to visit. Roads are more passable, hiking Mount Cameroon is safer, and the humidity, while still high on the coast, is more manageable.

Is Cameroon safe for travelers? +

Safety varies by region. Major cities like Douala and Yaoundé, and coastal areas like Kribi, are generally safe for cautious travelers. However, avoid travel to the Far North due to extremist threats, and avoid the Anglophone Northwest and Southwest regions due to ongoing political unrest.

Do I need a visa for Cameroon? +

Yes, nearly all foreign nationals must obtain an e-visa before boarding their flight to Cameroon. Ensure you apply online well in advance of your departure date.

What is the local currency? +

The local currency is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF). It is pegged to the Euro. Cash is the primary method of payment across the country.

What vaccinations do I need before going? +

A Yellow Fever vaccination is a strict entry requirement. You must present your physical International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) upon arrival at the airport.

How do I get around between cities? +

For routes between Douala and Yaoundé, VIP buses are the fastest and most reliable road option. For travel further north, the Camrail overnight train from Yaoundé is the preferred land route.

Can I use English in Cameroon? +

While Cameroon is officially bilingual, French is dominant in most of the country, including Douala and Yaoundé. Knowing basic French phrases is highly beneficial for daily interactions.