With its diverse landscapes, cultures and wildlife, Cameroon is often referred to as “Africa in miniature”. It overlooks the Gulf of Guinea on the west coast of the continent, with the inland city of Yaounde serving as its capital. Cameroon encompasses golden beaches, wildlife-filled savannahs and lush rainforests, as well as the tallest mountain in West Africa.
Things to do in Cameroon
From the bright lights of Yaounde to the wildlife-filled forests of Campo Ma’an National Park, Cameroon is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Sightsee in Yaounde. Sprawling across seven hills, Yaounde serves as the leafy capital of Cameroon. Admire the triangular roof of the 20th-century Cathedral of Notre Dame des Victoires and get up close to traditional masks and historic artefacts at the National Museum. Occupying the former presidential palace, the National Museum is a short walk from the Blackitude Museum, which showcases the artistic heritage of Cameroon.
Explore the coastal town of Limbe. Famed for its black sand beaches, Limbe overlooks the Atlantic Ocean to the west of Douala. You can get up close to rescued lowland gorillas and chimpanzees at the Limbe Wildlife Centre or learn about native Cameroonian plant species at the Limbe Botanic Garden. Sprawling north of Limbe is Mount Cameroon National Park, which is home to forest elephants, an active volcano and more than 300 recorded bird species.
Relax in the beach resort of Kribi. On the south-west coast of Cameroon is laid-back Kribi, which hugs the mouth of the Kineke River. In addition to swimming and sunbathing on its sandy beaches, you can learn about the country’s colonial history at the 1906-built Kribi Lighthouse. A short drive south of Kribi is the spectacular Chutes de la Lobé, a wide waterfall that cascades directly into the sea.
Getting around Cameroon
Douala International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Cameroon and has flights to destinations across Africa and Europe. Long-distance buses and trains connect to cities and towns throughout the country, although renting a car and driver is a more convenient way of getting around.