Cameroon

Types of trips: Adventure, Nature/Wildlife, Geography, Cultural, Exploration

Best known for: Coffee, Cocoa, National Parks, Football Players

Why Go?: Often referred to as a miniature of the entire African continent, Cameroon boasts an incredibly diverse landscape and a culture including over 200 languages. As one of the most politically and socially stable countries of the continent, Cameroon is a great destination for a memorable experience of both nature and society .

Fact File

Population: 22,500,000

Capital: Yaounde

Language(s): French, English

Ties to the UK?: Decent politcal relationship

Landscape: Cameroon has examples of many different types of landscapes, including mountains, rainforests, savannas, coastal and desert. 

Climate/Seasons: Rain in the north in April/May and September/October, with the peak heat in March - May. The southern areas have rainy periods throughout the year, and is generally quite humid. November - February is the driest time throughout the entire country.

When to Go: July to October is the worst time to visit Cameroon as it's rainy pretty much everywhere - the best time is from November to February!

Reasons to Visit: Local nature and wildlife, languages 

How to Get There: There are several international airports in the country that you can travel to - make sure to check flight availability well in advance though!

Places to Go: Espace Doual'art, Dja Faunal Reserve, Mankon Museum

Famous People: Paul Biya, Mongo Beti, Richard Bona, Patrick Baudry

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Mount Cameroon, Mandara Mountains, Waza National Park

History: Was split between France and Britain after WWI, but reformed and mrged during the late 1900s to form the current Republic of Cameroon.

Architecture: Palais Royal, Fon's Palace

Culture: Influences from Nigera, France and Britain, but with many native traditions and styles still evident.

Sport: Canoe racing, Wrestling, Football

Events: Ngondo Festival, Cultural Week, Medumba Festival

Watch Out For: There are some areas it is advised to avoid travel to because of local unrest - see the FCO page linked below for up to date information. You will need a visa to enter the country, so make sure to leave plenty of time to apply and recieve the necessary visas. 

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised - see here for a good general overview and always consult with a doctor.