Catching the Train from Douala to Yaoundé: A Cameroonian Adventure

Ben Crowley

July 16, 2025

Traveling by train from Douala to Yaoundé is a unique way to experience Cameroon’s vibrant landscapes and rich culture. The almost 300 kilometre journey connects the economic centre of Cameroon, Douala, with the capital of Yaoundé, offering a mix of comfort and scenic views. Here’s everything you need to know about Cameroons main rail adventure.

Train Station Locations

In Douala, the main railway station is Gare de Bessengué, located in the Bessengué neighborhood near Boulevard de la République. It’s centrally positioned, making it accessible by taxi or motorbike from most parts of the city. The station is a bustling hub, with clear signage directing passengers to ticket offices and platforms.

In Yaoundé, the primary station is Gare Voyageurs , situated on Rue Josepf Ombga NSI, in the city centre, close to the Ethnographic Museum of Forest People.

Buying Tickets

Tickets can be purchased at CAMRAIL ticket offices located at both Gare de Bessengué and Gare Voyageurs. In Douala, the ticket office for the Douala-Yaoundé line is upstairs, while in Yaoundé, it’s easily accessible on the main concourse. Prices start at approximately XAF 8,000 for Premium class and XAF 10,000 for First class.

Ticket can also be bought online either through the CAMRAIL website ( https://www.mycamrail.cm/home-en/ ), or through KIWOTI ( https://www.kiwoti.cm ), an online platform for travel booking in Cameroon. Booking 2-3 days in advance is recommended, as tickets sell out quickly, especially for First class.

Train Schedule

The Express Train operates daily between Douala and Yaoundé and vice versa. The train makes five brief stops at Edéa, Messondo, Eséka, Makak, and Ngoumou, with the following schedule:

• Douala to Yaoundé : Departs at 6:30am (TE185), arriving around 11:15am (4 hours 45 minutes).
• Yaoundé to Douala : Departs at 5:00pm (TE186), arriving around 9:45pm.

Another service, called the Omnibus Train also operates daily and stops at all 42 station, taking roughly 12 hours, with the following schedule:

• Douala to Yaoundé : Departs at 7:30am.
• Yaoundé to Douala : Departs at 8:15am.

Types of Tickets and Classes of Travel

CAMRAIL offers three main classes:

• First Class : Air-conditioned cars with 64 seats, offering spacious seating, power sockets, and access to the bar-restaurant car. Tickets cost around XAF 10,000.
• Premium Class : Air-conditioned with 88 seats, slightly less luxurious but still comfortable, priced at XAF 8,000.
• Second Class : Non-air-conditioned, available on Omnibus trains, with 88 seats per car. These are more affordable but less comfortable for longer journeys.

Station Facilities

Both Gare de Bessengué and Yaoundé Railway Station provide modern amenities to enhance the passenger experience. Free Wi-Fi is available, allowing travelers to stay connected. Small shops sell newspapers, snacks, and essentials. Individuals who have booked Premium tickets also have access to a private lounge.

At both Douala and Yaounde you need to check your luggage in, as if checking in for a flight. You’ll then receive your bags at your destination.

Onboard Facilities

The Express Train is equipped with the following:

• A bar-restaurant car serving a variety of hot and cold dishes, refreshments, and local specialties. Passengers can dine in or have meals delivered to their seats by professional hostesses. The bar-restaurant also serves beer, wine and spirits.
• Audiovisual entertainment via TV screens playing music videos or shows.
• Power sockets in First and Premium class cars for charging devices.
• Air-conditioned comfort in First and Premium classes, ensuring a pleasant journey through Cameroon’s hot tropical weather.

History of the Train

The Douala-Yaoundé railway, part of Cameroon’s metre-gauge network, was first constructed in 1909 under German colonial rule to facilitate the transport of goods and people. After World War I, French and British administrations expanded the network, with the Yaoundé-Ngaoundéré line added by 1974. The rail system played a crucial role in unifying Cameroon’s southern and northern regions post-independence in 1961.

In 1999, CAMRAIL, took over operations under a government privatisation plan. CAMRAIL has since invested heavily, greatly improving their rolling stock and services. The Express Train was relaunched in July 2021 after a suspension following the 2016 Eséka accident, with new locomotives and refurbished cars enhancing safety and comfort.

CAMRAIL remains the sole operator of Cameroon’s railway network, managing both passenger and freight services. The company has modernized services, introducing e-ticketing and Wi-Fi.

Taking the train from Douala to Yaoundé is more than just a commute—it’s a journey through Cameroon’s lush jungles and vibrant villages. With comfortable trains, modern facilities, and a reliable schedule, the Express Train offers an affordable, great way to see the country.

If you're looking to travel Cameroon, then check out the tours we have up on our website here. To get in touch about joining us, send us an email to [email protected].