French Cameroon gained its independence in 1960, a year later the British regions of Cameroon merged with the new country forming the Federal Republic of Cameroon. Generally, this region has been safe to travel, which enabled the development of Tourism. However, since late 2016, the English-speaking regions of Cameroon have been protesting presidents Paul Biya, French speaking majority Government. They feel they are marginalised by the French speaking majority and treated like second class citizens in Cameroon. Many protesters have been killed by government forces leading to a separatist movement killing and kidnapping government officials.
Cameroon is now grappling with its colonial past in the worst way possible the tensions between the Anglophone and francophone people of Cameroon is at the brick of civil war. It saddens me, Cameroon is my first home, my granddad, sister, Aunties and Uncles live there, I pray for their safety every day. I also pray that all involved realize there is no French and English we are all one Cameroonians. Airlines continue to still fly to Cameroon and for now it is not unsafe for tourist to visit.
Best Time to Visit
The two seasons in Cameroon are the dry season which starts from October to April and the wet season which runs from May until September. The dry season is usually the best time to visit to avoid the heavy rains and difficult roads the wet season brings, however the wet season can be cooler, and the rain does not last all day.
Things to do and see
- Mefou National Park is in the south of Cameroon, in the forested region of Mfou. The national park is a sanctuary and rehabilitation centre for rare and endangered monkeys’, apes and gorillas; who have been rescued from the illegal bush meat and pet trade. The sanctuary is run by Ape Action Africa, whose mission is to provide the animals with lifelong care. This is a great place to not only see Cameroons endangered primates but help support eco-tourism.
- Douala Maritime Museum exhibits historical artifacts about the history of Douala and Cameroon. The museum is divided into three floors one floor is dedicated to the history of the Wouri coast, the Sawa people, and slavery. Another floor is dedicated to boats and the history of trade in Cameroon from all the different ports. The final floor is tailored to Cameroon art. A wonderful museum to visits while in Douala.
- Mount Cameroon is in the southwest of Cameroon. The mountain stands at 4095 meters (13,510 feet) making it the highest mountain in central west Africa. It is also an active volcano which last erupted in 2000. Many tourists who visit the town Buea come to hike this beautiful mountain; enjoying the beautiful landscapes which include tropical rain forest, farmland and breath-taking savanna’s on your way up to the summit.
- Ekom-Nkam Waterfalls at 82 meters is the largest waterfall in Africa and was also featured in the 1984 film ‘Greystoke: The legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Ape’. If you’re interested in exploring the Jungles of Cameroon, this is a great place for an adventure and beautiful scenery.
- Museum of Civilization displays the history of Cameroon from prehistoric times to modern days. The first part of the museum goes through the archaeological finds of all the ancient kingdoms of Cameroon. It also covers slavery, colonization and the independence of Cameroon. A great museum to learn about the history of Cameroon and all the different ethnic tribes. Worth the visit while in the city of Dschang.
Food and drink
Cameroon cuisine varies from region to region dependent on what is grown locally. The diet in the North of Cameroon is mostly corn and peanut dishes, there is also a lot of starchy food like plantains, rice and yams. In the South people eat more vegetables like cassava leaves and okra. Most Cameroon dishes include meat or fried and roasted fish. Majority of the food is very spicy. Nearer to the coast sea food is popular and a big part of the diet. There is also a lot of fresh fruit which is also a big part of the diet in Cameroon. Most hotels in the bigger cities will serve some western food, however there’s not much variety.
Transportation
Air: There are five airlines that fly to Cameroon United Airlines, Air France, Delta, KLM and Swiss Airlines.
Roads: Cameroonians drive on the right side of the road, there are good roads in Douala, Yaoundé, Limbe, Buea, Bamenda and Bafoussam. Other roads are not as well paved and maintained.
Taxi: Taxicabs and shared taxis are cheap throughout Cameroon, however many of the taxis are not well maintained and usually don’t have seat belts.
Rail: Camrail is the provider of the rail service that runs between Yaounde, Ngaoundere, Douala, Kumba and Mbanga. All tickets must be booked on the day of travel at the station.
Visa
All foreigners except citizens of Central Africa Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville and Nigeria need a visa to visit Cameroon, along with an invitation letter, conformation of your accommodation and yellow fever vaccination certificate. A return ticket is also required. I recommend that you contact your nearest embassy for the most up to date information.
Culture, Language and Religion
Cameroon has over a hundred ethnic groups who speak their own tribal languages and have their own unique cultures. Due to its colonial past Cameroon is a bilingual country speaking both French and English. The predominant religion is Christianity, with parts of the North mainly Muslim.
Racism/Sexism/Discrimination
money and expense
The local currency in Cameroon is the Central Franc African, (CFA) it is best to bring Euros or pounds for exchange as the exchange rate is better. There are many banks and ATMs in larger cities. Credit cards are excepted only in big cities like Douala and Yaoundé but are not excepted in smaller towns. There is a departure tax levied on all passengers leaving Cameroon of 10,000CFA (£11). Food and accommodation is relatively cheap, especially in the smaller towns.
Tipping
Tipping customs have recently changed and now it is recommended that tourists tip a small amount, not necessarily a percentage.
Social etiquette
Handshaking is the common form greeting, ask permission before taking photographs.
Adaptor
There are two plug types used in Cameroon, the plug which has two round pins and the plug which has two round pins and a hole. Cameroon operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Wi-Fi
There are no government restrictions on internet access. Most restaurants and big hotels will have free wifi.
Ruth’s Lonely Planet 