Getting in and out
Air
The main international gateway to Cameroon is Douala International Airport, located in the economic capital city, Douala. This airport handles most international flights and is well connected to major African and some European hubs. Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport, near the political capital Yaoundé, also serves international flights but on a smaller scale.
Train
There are no international train services connecting Cameroon with neighbouring countries. Domestically, the rail service between Douala and Yaoundé is one of the most punctual and comfortable in Africa. The journey takes approximately six hours and offers scenic views along the way. Always book tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Land Borders
Cameroon borders Nigeria, Chad, the Central African Republic (CAR), Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Republic of Congo. Most of these borders are officially open for travel. However, the border with Equatorial Guinea remains closed to tourists and locals alike. The CAR border near Dzangha-Sangha National Park is among the safest entry points into CAR but requires you to return to Cameroon afterward.
Sea
A ferry service links Douala with Malabo in Equatorial Guinea approximately every second day. The 12-hour trip offers a unique way to experience the Gulf of Guinea coast and can be a scenic alternative to flying.
Getting a visa
Tourists visiting Cameroon almost always require a visa, which must be obtained prior to arrival in the form of an e-visa or physical visa before arrival.
Most nationalities may be eligible for the e-visa, but these provisions are limited and subject to change. It is critical to check current visa policies with official sources well before your trip.
See and do
Cameroon is often described as “Africa in miniature” thanks to its great geographic and cultural diversity. Saiga Tours’ Cameroon itinerary centres on cultural immersion in the Western Highlands, focusing on the area around Foumbam and Batoufam:
- Visit the palace complex of the Bamileke king in Foumbam, a unique structure featuring imposing a double headed snake and a giant spider. This is not merely a museum but an active cultural and spiritual hub representing the Bamileke’s royal authority and traditions, deeply imbued with ritual significance.
- Explore the surrounding Foumbam village, experiencing traditional ceremonies, artisanal crafts, and local life in authentic settings.
- Visit local markets where you can find a wide variety of traditional textiles, wood carvings, and crafts.
- Mount Cameroon: At 4,040 meters, it is the highest peak in West Africa and an active volcano. Trekking here ranges from moderate to challenging and rewards hikers with panoramic views and unique flora.
Dress code
No strict dress codes are enforced. Cameroonians tend to dress somewhat modestly – men in long trousers and shirts or T-shirts, women in dresses often with traditional prints. But having shoulders, legs, arms, etc. visible is totally normal. For visitors, light, breathable clothing is best due to the hot and humid climate.
Because Cameroon lies in a malaria zone, wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn, dusk, and during rains is advisable for protection against mosquitoes. You probably want closed-toe shoes and insect repellent as well.
Topics of discussion
Popular and safe conversational topics include Cameroon’s rich ethnic diversity, music styles, local cuisine, and football (the national passion). People appreciate polite interest in their traditions and history. It is best to avoid discussions on sensitive political matters or ethnic tensions unless you have a trusted local guide or friend.
Religion
Approximately 70% of Cameroonians identify as Christians, predominantly in the south and west. Islam is practiced mainly in the northern regions, making up about 30% of the population. Traditional indigenous beliefs often intertwine with these two major religions.
Ethnicity
Cameroon hosts more than 250 ethnic groups grouped broadly into:
- Western Highlanders: Bamileke, Bamum, and related peoples known for their artistic crafts and farming traditions.
- Coastal Tropical Forest Peoples: Bassa and Douala are coastal fishing and trading communities.
- Southern Tropical Forest Peoples: Includes Fang, Bulu, Petit Bahuin, and the forest-dwelling Baka pygmies with deeply-rooted forest cultures.
- Northern Islamic Peoples: Mainly Fulani and related groups living in the Sahelian zones.
- Kidri: Non-Muslim desert communities in northern Cameroon with distinct customs.
Significant migrant communities from China, Lebanon, and India work in commerce and industry.
Photography
Taking photographs is generally welcomed if done respectfully. Avoid photographing military installations, police officers, or official buildings without permission. Always ask strangers before taking their picture, especially in rural areas or markets, as some may be sensitive or expect a small tip.
Money and costs
The currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). Cash is king, especially outside major cities. ATMs operate in Douala and Yaoundé but are scarce elsewhere. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels but rarely in local businesses.
Bargaining is common in markets and small shops.
