Cameroon

The Land of Diversity
and Natural Wonders

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Cameroon, a country in West Africa, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cuisine. Home to iconic landmarks like Mount Cameroon, the Lobé Falls, and the Musgum mud huts in Pouss, Cameroon offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. The country's geography ranges from desert plains in the north to tropical rainforests in the south, with the volcanic Cameroon Mountain being the highest point in West Africa.

Cameroonian culture is a vibrant mix of over 250 ethnic groups, reflected in its traditional arts, music, and cuisine featuring dishes like ndolé, poulet DG, and egusi soup. Known for its warm hospitality, diverse wildlife including elephants and gorillas, and as a hub of indigenous architecture, Cameroon presents a captivating destination that combines stunning natural beauty with rich cultural traditions.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Cameroon.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Cameroon.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt for Cameroon. All travelers require a visa unless they have a confirmation letter stating a visa has been approved.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from all nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Cameroon, either through an embassy, high commission, or the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

  • No specific provisions exist for holders of Schengen, US, or UK visas or residence permits to enter Cameroon without a visa; a Cameroon-specific visa is required.
  • Travelers must have confirmed onward or return tickets and proof of sufficient funds for their stay.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Cameroon using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (extendable with approval). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

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Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa durations vary; tourist stays are typically capped at 30 days unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Cameroonian embassy or high commission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
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Driving in Cameroon

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Cameroon has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Yaoundé-Douala road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key highways in the future.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Cameroon Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Central African CFA Franc (XAF) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Cameroon

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h
  • Road conditions: Poor outside major cities; poorly maintained, potholed, and unlit roads are common, especially during the rainy season (April to November).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Cameroonian driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Cameroon has no vignette system, but road taxes may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Roads are hazardous due to aggressive drivers, poor maintenance, livestock, pedestrians, and armed criminals on certain routes. Avoid night driving outside major cities.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; keep an updated physical map and a reliable communication device like a satellite phone.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (service may be limited, especially in rural areas).

Useful Links

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Cameroon Currency

The official currency of Cameroon is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 XAF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 XAF
  • Symbol: CFA

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Yaoundé and Douala airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs are limited but available in Yaoundé, Douala, and some major towns for direct XAF withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially outside urban areas.
  • Credit/debit cards (Visa most widely accepted) are rarely accepted, limited to major hotels, supermarkets, and some petrol stations in cities.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry sufficient cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging or using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Central African States website: https://www.beac.int/en/exchange-rates
Laws Menu

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Cameroon

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Cameroon, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Severe penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including long prison sentences. No tolerance for small amounts.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and punishable by fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in public buildings and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic issues, especially related to the North-West, South-West, or Far-North regions.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 5 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Cameroon.
  • Photography: Prohibited near government buildings, military sites, police stations, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Cameroon Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • No specific legal mandate for public beach access, but coastal areas like Limbe are generally open to the public.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

Cameroon Travel Safety

Cameroon is generally safe for travellers in some areas, but with significant risks and a reputation for hospitality in safer regions. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Cameroon.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) and violent crime (e.g., armed robbery, carjacking) are common, especially in Yaoundé, Douala, and on public transport. Violent crime against tourists is a serious concern, particularly in the North, Far North, Northwest, and Southwest regions.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in urban areas during the day; avoid traveling alone at night or in rural zones, especially for women, due to patriarchal norms and occasional violence.

Road Safety

  • Driving is risky due to poorly maintained roads, aggressive drivers, speeding, and armed criminals on certain routes.
  • Avoid night driving outside major cities due to unlit roads, bandits, and poor vehicle maintenance.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, but enforcement is limited.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is unsafe; use bottled water.
    • Eat well-cooked food to avoid diarrhea, cholera, or typhoid.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis (dry season, November to June), malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and African sleeping sickness are widespread; use repellent and bed nets.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, but caution in high areas like Mount Cameroon (4,095m).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the Baptist Hospital in Bamenda or clinics in Yaoundé/Douala offer better care; rural areas lack advanced facilities.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications, but some drugs may be unavailable.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (patchy service, especially in rural areas).
  • Police: 117 | Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 118.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé (+237 2220 1500) or local police.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural travel; confirm insurance coverage and avoid public transport.
  • Hiking: Use guides for remote areas like Mount Cameroon or national parks.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic issues.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Yaoundé and Douala; monitor via local reports.

Key Links

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Flying to Cameroon