Welcome to Cameroon

Known as the heart of Africa or “Africa in miniature,” Cameroon encapsulates the best of the African continent. There are mountains, rain forests and beaches. There is wildlife for days in various national parks, including Waza and Korup.

There is a captivating capital city – Yaounde – spread out over seven lush green hills. There’s off-the-beaten-path Bamenda, with quaint guest houses and mountain biking and hiking opportunities. There’s art and culture in Fouman, where you’ll feel a blend of North Africa, West Africa and Islamic influences. And, there are the beaches of Kribi, where you can lounge all day and dine on the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted.

Unique Facts

• Listen carefully – there are approximately 230 languages spoken in Cameroon.
• There are only three waterfalls on the African continent that empty directly into the ocean – the Chute de La Lobé in the beach town of Kribi is one of them.
• Several rare plant and animal species are found in Cameroon, including the rare Cross-River gorilla.
• One of the country’s top attractions is Waza National Park, home to 30 species of mammals. Look for waterbuck, Sudan cheetah, lions, African bush elephants, great white pelicans, ostriches and more.
• Archaeologists believe that Cameroon has been inhabited by humans for at least 50,000 years.

Language

Cameroon’s official languages are French and English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Cameroon is from November to February when it is dry and slightly cooler than average.

Airports

MD-Douala International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Cameroon: Measles, Yellow Fever, Polio and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A, Malaria and Typhoid vaccines. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Cholera, Meningitis and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and E. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Central African CFA Franc

Getting Around

Be aware that Cameroon’s roadways are poorly maintained and poorly lit. Many roads are not passable from April to November. Be aware of pedestrians and livestock on the roads.

Hire private transportation to get about the country.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Yaounde
Avenue Rosa Parks
(in the Mbankolo Quartier, adjacent to the Mount Febe Golf Club)
P.O. Box 817
Yaounde, Cameroon
Telephone: +(237) 22220-1500 Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(237) 22220-1500
Fax: +(237) 22220-1572
YaoundeACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

https://www.tourisminformationcameroon.net/

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 112
Police: 117

Safety and Security

The crime rate is high in Cameroon, including violent and petty crime.