Welcome to Cameroon 😊
Cameroon is a country located in central Africa. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and mountains. Cameroon is home to over 200 ethnic groups, each with their own culture and unique traditions. The official languages are English and French, but there are also numerous regional languages spoken throughout the country. Cameroon is a diverse and vibrant country, with a strong history and rich cultural heritage.
Quick Facts About Cameroon
- Currency: Central African CFA franc
- Population: 26,545,864
- Languages: English,French
Money and Finances
The currency in Cameroon is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). It is divided into 100 centimes. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 francs, while banknotes come in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 francs.
ATM Network
ATMs are available in major cities in Cameroon, but they can be unreliable and may run out of cash. It is advisable to carry enough cash when traveling to remote areas.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are accepted in some major hotels and restaurants in Cameroon, but they are not widely used. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted than AMEX. It is advisable to carry cash in case credit cards are not accepted.
Internet and Phones
The average internet speed in Cameroon is around 4 Mbps for downloads and 1 Mbps for uploads. There are no major government interferences in internet use, however, internet connectivity can be unreliable in some rural areas.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
There are several telco companies in Cameroon, including MTN, Orange, and Nexttel. The average cost of a mobile phone plan varies depending on the provider and the data package, but typically ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 XAF per month. There may also be sim compatibility issues with some phones, so it is recommended to check with the provider before purchasing a plan.
Dialling to Cameroon
To call Cameroon from another country, dial +237 followed by the local number. The country uses a closed numbering plan, with area codes ranging from 22 to 33 depending on the region.
Transport Around Cameroon
Air Travel
Cameroon has several major airports including the Douala International Airport and the Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport.
Train Travel
Cameroon has an inter-city train network operated by Camrail. An example ticket price for a trip from Yaoundé to Douala is approximately 6000 FCFA and the journey time is around 4 hours.
Metro / Local Trains
There is no metro or local train network in Cameroon.
Buses
Cameroon has a national bus network, with several operators such as Buca Voyages and STS. An example ticket price for a trip from Yaoundé to Douala is approximately 3000 FCFA and the journey time is around 3 hours.
Rideshare
There are several rideshare companies in Cameroon such as Uber, Bolt, and Gozem. The average travel price for a short trip within a city is around 2000 FCFA.
Driving by Car
Driving in Cameroon can be challenging, with poorly maintained roads and aggressive driving habits. The usual speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Cameroon uses right hand drive.
Local Customs
In Cameroon, tipping is not a common practice. When greeting, locals usually shake hands and exchange pleasantry. Bowing is not customary. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to use formal titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame'. Men and women generally address each other with respect and avoid overly familiar behavior.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
The healthcare system in Cameroon is generally substandard, with limited resources and facilities, especially in rural areas. It is highly recommended that travelers have comprehensive medical insurance. The cost for a visit to the doctor varies depending on the region and type of medical facility, and can range from $10 to $50.
COVID Situation
Cameroon has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 75,000 confirmed cases and more than 1,200 deaths. The government has implemented several measures to slow the spread of the virus, including mandatory face masks in public places and restrictions on gatherings. Travelers should follow the local guidelines and take necessary precautions.
Common Health Risks
Travelers to Cameroon should be aware of the risk of malaria, particularly during the rainy season from May to November. Food and water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever are also common. Additionally, there have been outbreaks of yellow fever in some parts of the country. It is advisable to take necessary precautions such as vaccinations and mosquito nets, and to avoid drinking tap water or eating raw or undercooked food.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is legal in Cameroon for people over 18 years old. However, public drunkenness and drinking in public places are prohibited.
Recreational Drugs
The use and possession of recreational drugs in Cameroon, including cannabis, is illegal and may result in imprisonment.
Pre-Marital Relationships
There are no specific laws on pre-marital relationships in Cameroon. However, the country is largely conservative, and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Homosexuality is illegal in Cameroon, and those found guilty of same-sex relationships can face up to 5 years imprisonment.
Firearms / Guns
Owning firearms in Cameroon requires a license, and the country generally has strict laws on gun ownership and usage.