Road Trips in Cameroon

While travelling around Cameroon, you should definitely direct your steps to the capital - Yaoundé. The city is studded with interesting attractions, from imposing buildings to religious edifices, thematic museums, picturesque parks, and beautiful gardens. The fans of delicious cuisine and top-notch entertainment will also find something of interest here - Yaoundé offers a wide selection of restaurants and night clubs. 

Contrary to what one might expect, Cameroon's capital isn't the largest and most populous city in the country. The first place in this respect goes to Duala, which is a great starting point for the exploration of Central and Western Africa. In its nearest vicinity, you'll find a few scenic resorts, including Limbe and Kribi, famous for paradise beaches and breathtaking views. 

If you want to learn more about local tribes, you should visit Bafoussam located in the western part of the country. One of the greatest highlights of this place is the seat of the tribe's chief, a treasure trove of knowledge concerning the everyday life and habits of the Bamileke tribe. You can also pay a visit to the nearby Dschang which is considered a center of mountain tourism. 

The fans of holidays close to nature should head for the southern part of the country and the fascinating nature park - Dja. Here, you will see one of the largest tropical forests in the world. Moreover, the place is home to numerous animal and plant species. Other similar gems can be found in the northern part of the country and the Waza National Park eagerly visited by lovers of safari. 

Suggested Road Trips in Cameroon

• The Ring Road: This circular road trip takes you through some of Cameroon's most stunning landscapes, including the Adamawa Plateau, the Cameroonian Highlands, and the savanna plains of the Far North region. Along the way, you'll encounter traditional villages, towering waterfalls, and scenic mountain passes and will have the opportunity to visit several national parks, including the Waza National Park and the Faro National Park.

• The Douala-Yaoundé Route: This popular road trip takes you through Cameroon's two largest cities, Douala and Yaoundé. The journey offers a unique chance to experience the country's bustling urban life, as well as its more rural areas. Along the way, you'll encounter colorful markets, bustling street life, and charming villages, and will have the opportunity to try local foods, shop for souvenirs, and visit some of Cameroon's most important cultural sites, including the Royal Palace of Foumban.

• The Yaoundé-Bafoussam Route: This road trip takes you from the capital city of Yaoundé to the high-altitude town of Bafoussam, located in the heart of the Cameroonian Highlands. The journey offers a chance to escape the heat and explore cooler, more temperate climes, and visit some of Cameroon's most stunning mountain landscapes, including the famous Mount Cameroon, which is the highest peak in West Africa. Along the way, you'll also encounter traditional villages, scenic waterfalls, and lush tea plantations, and will have the opportunity to learn about Cameroon's rich cultural heritage and the people who call it home.

Before your trip to Cameroon, it's worth choosing the primary mode of travelling. One of the options is, of course, travelling by public transport, especially considering that road transport is well-developed in this part of Africa. Residents and tourists have buses, microbuses, taxis, and trains at their disposal. 

Individuals who value comfort and full freedom can choose a rented car available at one of the local car rental companies. Before signing the contract, it is vital to check whether the company has provided you with insurance. In case or a road check, apart from this document, you should also show a valid passport, visa, registration certificate, and driver's licence. 

Be prepared for frequent police checks during a trip around Cameroon. Don’t be surprised if the police officer asks you for a bribe - in Cameroon, it is a common procedure. In such a situation, you have the right to ask for a regular ticket - the ticket has to be paid at the nearest police precinct. Driving around Cameroon is often very dangerous due to stray animals sauntering across the street, poor lighting, and lack of road signs. 

The state of road infrastructure is of varied quality - of course, the roads in large cities are considerably better than those in small villages and less frequented recesses. Another problem is the native motorists who drive quite chaotically and don't follow basic traffic regulations. Most European drivers will be glad that Cameroon follows right-hand traffic. 

When taking a road trip in Cameroon, it is important to be aware of the following things:

• Road Conditions: Cameroon's road network is still developing and many of the country's roads are in poor condition, with potholes and rough surfaces being common. Drivers should be prepared for long and challenging drives, especially in rural areas.

• Safety: Cameroon has a high crime rate and visitors should take extra care when driving, especially at night and in rural areas. Banditry and theft are common, and travelers are advised to keep valuables out of sight and secure.

• Health: Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, and should carry enough food, water, and other supplies for their trip. Travelers are also advised to check their insurance policies to ensure that they are covered for medical expenses.

• Fuel Availability: Fuel is readily available in the cities and larger towns, but may be more difficult to find in rural areas. It is advisable to fill up the tank whenever possible and to carry extra fuel if traveling in remote areas.

• Local Customs and Laws: Cameroon is a culturally diverse country, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and laws. This includes avoiding taking photos of military or government buildings and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.

• Vehicle Requirements: Vehicles driving in Cameroon must have all necessary documents and insurance, and must be in good condition. Visitors should also carry a spare tire, jack, and other tools in case of a breakdown.

Overall, taking a road trip in Cameroon can be a rewarding and memorable experience, but it is important to be prepared and to be aware of the potential challenges and risks. By taking the necessary precautions, visitors can ensure that their road trip is safe, enjoyable, and full of unforgettable memories.

The best time for taking a road trip in Cameroon depends on personal preference and the specific regions you plan to visit.

For a dry and sunny road trip, the best time is from November to March, when the weather is dry and temperatures are relatively cool. During this time, the roads are in good condition, and there is less chance of rain-related road closures or difficulties.

However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and the heat, the best time to visit Cameroon is from June to August, when the monsoon season brings heavy rains to the country. Although road conditions may be more challenging during this time, the scenery is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, making it a great time for a more peaceful road trip experience.

It is important to research the specific regions you plan to visit, as weather and road conditions can vary greatly depending on the time of year. For example, the high-altitude regions in the Cameroonian Highlands are generally cooler and drier than the low-lying coastal regions and may be more comfortable to visit during the hot and humid months of the year.

The cost of a road trip in Cameroon can vary depending on your travel style and preferences.

In terms of accommodation, there are options available to suit different budgets. Basic guesthouses and hostels are affordable and can cost around $10-20 per night. Mid-range hotels can cost around $30-50 per night, and luxury hotels can cost upwards of $100 per night.

Food and drink in Cameroon is generally quite affordable, with many traditional Cameroonian dishes available at reasonable prices. You can expect to pay around $5-10 for a basic meal at a local restaurant or street food stall.

When it comes to transportation, renting a car can be a good option for a road trip in Cameroon. Rental car prices can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the rental company you use. Generally, you can expect to pay around $40-60 per day to rent a basic car, with prices increasing for more luxurious or high-end options.

In addition to car rental, you can also consider using public transportation to get around. The bus and train networks in Cameroon are extensive and affordable, with fares usually ranging from $1-5 per journey.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Cameroon will depend on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to undertake. However, as a developing country, Cameroon can be a relatively affordable destination compared to some other African countries.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Cameroon:

• "Cameroon (Bradt Travel Guides)" by Alex Newton. This guidebook provides an in-depth overview of Cameroon's history, culture, and attractions, as well as practical information for travelers, such as accommodation and restaurant recommendations.

• "Lonely Planet Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea & São Tomé & Príncipe" by Lonely Planet. This guidebook provides a comprehensive overview of Cameroon's attractions and activities, with a focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

• "Cameroon Insight Guide" by Insight Guides. This guidebook is produced by Insight Guides and provides a detailed overview of Cameroon's attractions and activities, including national parks, cultural sites, and adventure sports.

• For road maps, you can check out the "Cameroon Road Map" by ITM Maps, which provides detailed maps of the country's roads, highways, and major attractions. You can also find online maps from Google Maps or other online mapping services.

Remember to always double-check information from different sources and to take note of any changes or updates to road conditions or attractions. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that Cameroon is a developing country with limited infrastructure, and road conditions may not be as good as those in more developed countries.