Do I need a visa to visit Cameroon?
Yes. Most travellers need an e-visa obtained before arrival via the official Cameroon evisa portal . The application requires a valid passport, a letter of invitation or confirmed hotel booking, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and your flight itinerary. Visa on arrival is rarely available for tourists. The visa processing normally takes 9 to 11 working days, so apply well in advance of your trip.
How safe is Cameroon for tourists?
Cameroon does largely have quite a bad reputation on the safety front, and there are a lot of horror stories out there of people getting stopped for hours at sketchy police checks and being held up for extreme amounts of money and such like. It’s important to note that these stories almost always take place on the way to the CAR, in the eastern part of Cameroon, which is a common route taken by tours to join up the two countries. This route also involves a lot of very long, uncomfortable driving days.
Otherwise though, Cameroon is considered generally safe for visitors when normal precautions are taken. Large cities like Douala and Yaoundé are relatively safe, even at night in many districts. However, travel to the northern borders near Nigeria, as well as the far north region, can be risky due to ongoing conflicts and extremist activity, including Boko Haram. It is best to avoid these areas and follow advice from local guides and authorities.
What is the local language situation in Cameroon?
French and English are the official languages, with French more widely spoken. In addition, local languages such as Cameroonian Pidgin English and indigenous tongues like Duala (especially in the coastal city of Douala) are commonly used. Learning a few key phrases in Pidgin English or Duala can enrich your experience and ease communication.
What type of weather should I expect?
Cameroon has a tropical climate with wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs approximately from May to October and can bring heavy rains which may affect travel plans. The dry season, from November to April, is generally the best time for visiting and outdoor activities.
What money should I bring?
Cameroon’s currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). It is recommended to budget around $30 USD per day for food, drinks, and incidental expenses. Souvenirs and local items are relatively inexpensive, with small trinkets like magnets costing less than 1000 XAF (about $2 USD).
Are there vegetarian or vegan food options?
Yes, there are many delicious vegetarian dishes based on cassava, yams, plantains, beans, and fresh fruits. However, cross-contamination with meats is common in kitchens, so strict vegetarians and vegans should consider bringing some ready-to-eat supplementary food or purchasing supplies in supermarkets.
Can I travel independently or do I need a guide?
Independent travel is possible but challenging unless you speak French in most of the country. Joining a Saiga Tours group is highly recommended to get the most out of your experience safely and conveniently.
What items am I allowed or not allowed to bring into Cameroon?
Aside from the usual things such as drugs and weapons, there aren’t any major restrictions on what you can and can’t bring into the country. It is advisable not to try bringing in fresh meat or vegetables as these may be confiscated on arrival. Further, if you have prescription medications it would be best to bring the paperwork with you, however it is unlikely that you will be asked for this when entering the country.
What should I pack for a trip to Cameroon?
Light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather is essential. Include a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes for walking, and any medications you need. Packing modest attire for religious or traditional sites is advised.
