Entry Requirements and Visas
Most travelers need a visa to enter Cameroon. Citizens of Mali, Chad, the Central African Republic, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Nigeria do not require a visa, but all other visitors should plan ahead for this requirement.
Cameroonian visas are relatively expensive. A tourist visa from the Cameroonian Embassy in the United States costs around US$93, while longer stays are more costly—a one-year visa typically ranges from US$100-300. Processing normally takes up to a week, so apply well in advance.
Standard documentation required for a visa application includes:
- A copy of your passport
- Two passport-sized photographs
- A copy of your travel itinerary (critical—applications without this are rejected)
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination and a copy of your vaccination certificate
- A copy of your bank statement
- A copy of your hotel reservation
- A letter of invitation legalized by the Cameroonian police (if staying up to three months)
If you're visiting friends or family, you'll need a visitor visa with a letter of invitation that has been approved and stamped by local authorities. If you're staying in a hotel, a hotel reservation confirmation suffices instead. For a tourist visa, you'll also need a consular letter from your bank stating your current balance, signed by the bank to be valid.
Check with the Cameroon Embassy in your country of residence for the most current fees and requirements, as these vary by location.
Money, Currency, and Typical Costs
The currency in Cameroon is the Franc (XAF). Most costs are moderate for travelers budgeting carefully, though prices vary by region and season. As a developing country, Cameroon offers relatively affordable accommodation, food, and transportation compared to Western countries, but be prepared for limited payment infrastructure outside major cities.
When arriving at the airport, be aware that airport staff or other individuals may offer to help with luggage in hopes of receiving tips in euros or dollars—around FCFA 1,000 is typical.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Crime levels in Cameroon are high, so common-sense safety precautions are essential. Avoid presenting yourself as wealthy, and do not travel alone at night or visit isolated areas. Blend in with the local population as much as possible.
Petty theft is common. Do not display cameras, mobile phones, laptops, or other valuables openly, as these attract muggers. If robbed, do not resist—complying is safer than risking escalation to violence.
Regarding transportation, use only trusted, pre-arranged taxis rather than hailing random cabs or shared taxis that pick up multiple passengers. Your hotel can help arrange reliable transport. If you're driving your own vehicle, do not leave valuables inside, as smash-and-grab robberies occur. Car theft and carjackings are serious problems.
Corruption is pervasive in Cameroon, and police are notorious for being both highly corrupt and ineffective. The local population does not trust law enforcement.
Terrorism and Armed Conflict
Boko Haram, a Nigerian terrorist group, is active in Northern Cameroon and is known for kidnapping people for ransom. If you absolutely must visit Northern Cameroon, travel only with an armed escort.
Since 2017, the Northwest Highlands region has been in a state of war between Anglophone separatists seeking to create a state called Ambazonia and the Cameroonian government. The security situation is extremely volatile, and approximately 500,000 people have been internally displaced. Avoid this region entirely.
Political Unrest
Demonstrations against the government are common and can turn violent quickly. Avoid all political protests, demonstrations, and marches. Do not take photographs of protests or attempt to help injured participants. If you sense a protest is about to occur, evacuate the area immediately. Roads may be blocked and public transportation disrupted during political unrest. Monitor local media regularly during your stay for current security information.
Photography
While there are no general laws forbidding photography, taking photographs of government buildings, military installations, and public facilities can result in serious trouble with authorities. Always ask permission when in doubt.
LGBT Travelers
Homosexuality is frowned upon by the vast majority of Cameroonians. LGBT individuals often face discrimination and social ostracism. Same-sex activity is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, and no legal protections exist for LGBT individuals. Avoid any public display of affection.
Identification
Cameroon law requires you to carry ID at all times. You can obtain a legalized copy of your passport (front and visa pages) from a police station, or apply for a resident card at your local frontier police station.
Health
Healthcare facilities in Cameroon are poor and well below Western standards. Language barriers may exist at hospitals if your French is limited.
Yellow fever is prevalent, and vaccination is required before entry. Malaria is also prevalent—use insect repellent regularly and consider sleeping under a mosquito net. Vaccination against malaria before travel is worth considering.
Do not drink tap water under any circumstances, even in restaurants. Drink only bottled water.
The adult HIV/AIDS prevalence rate is 3.2%. While the situation has improved since the early 2000s, remain aware and take appropriate precautions.
Staying Connected
Cameroon's international dialing code is +237. Confirm roaming options with your home provider or plan to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival in a major city like Douala or Yaoundé.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Greetings are central to Cameroonian social interaction. It is very common for people to greet those around them, even strangers. You will frequently hear greetings like "good morning," "how's your health," and "how is your family." Rather than being surprised, reciprocate these greetings—this is how Cameroonians get to know others, and following suit can easily lead to making friends.
When in doubt about local customs or sensitive situations, observe how locals behave and follow their lead.