With rainforests, deserts, wildlife parks and beaches, the West African country of Cameroon has much to offer intrepid tourists; adventurous travellers book flights to Cameroon to see some of the best that Nature has to offer in Africa. The country is still not a major tourist destination, though the industry is growing fast, so travellers can get a glimpse of the “real Africa”, both in its large towns and in the more deserted countryside.
Geographically, the country packs much interest into a small space. The northern parts are largely savannah, the western parts contain large mountain peaks, while the east stretches out towards the Congo Basin. The coastal region has some stunning beaches, with golden sand, palm trees and almost guaranteed sunshine. But to merely laze on a beach would be to miss much in this stunning country. The wildlife parks offer a chance to spot many of Africa’s big game: elephants, lions and giraffe abound. Its towns have a French colonial style. Douala, the arrival point for all Cameroon flights, especially, is vibrant and active.
From November to February, southern Cameroon is dry and mild. You will probably see some rain from March to June, but the majority of the wet season takes place between August and September. Temperatures in the rainy season average just below 27 degrees, and the rest of the year usually sees a drought-like lack of moisture.
What is good to know if travelling to Cameroon?- Yaounde is the capital of Cameroon, though only the second-largest city in the country. It is home to the Cameroon Art Museum (in a Benedictine monastery), the Cameroon National Museum and the Afhemi Museum, a contemporary art museum and gallery.
- Douala is Cameroon’s largest city, built on the banks of the Wouri River and with a port and airport. It is the arrival point for many visitors to the country. The town is vibrant and more prepared for tourists than much of the country. There is also a host of attractions to explore just outside the main town. Trek up Mount Cameroon, or along the lava flow from the last time it erupted (1999); visit the botanical gardens at Limbe, or just spend some time relaxing at the beach.
- As with many African countries, be extremely careful what you try to photograph. Pictures of government buildings or anything military (including soldiers themselves) are not allowed. Police will take your camera and, at best remove the film or delete the photographs. They will probably also charge you a fine or even confiscate your camera. Bribery can help in trying to retrieve it.
- If you get the chance, visit the homes of the Mugum in the far north of the country. The round huts are made of earth and grass, but are impressively intricate.
- Also in the Far North province is Waza National Park, the best game reserve in the country. Founded in 1934 as a hunting reserve, the park was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1979. It is open between November and June, though the best time to spot animals is between March and April. There is no accommodation available, though it is possible to camp in the small village of Waza. Each vehicle that enters the park must take a guide. Some of the animals you might see include giraffe, elephants, lions, ostriches and a wide variety of birds.