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Cameroon Bénoué National Park | africatourvisa

Cameroon Bénoué National Park | africatourvisa: Bénoué National Park remains a vital conservation area and offers a rewarding safari experience, particularly for those interested in antelopes and riverine wildlife.

Cameroon Bénoué National Park

Bénoué National Park is another one of Cameroon's significant protected areas, located in the North Region of the country. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is distinct from Waza National Park, offering a different safari experience focused on its unique ecosystem.

1. Bénoué National Park Key Features and Wildlife

  • Bénoué National Park Landscape: The park covers approximately 1,800 square kilometers and is characterized by a humid savanna woodland belt. The Bénoué River is a prominent feature, flowing for over 100 km and forming the park's eastern boundary. This riverine environment is crucial for much of the park's wildlife, especially during the dry season. The terrain includes undulating plains and some large rocky massifs, providing diverse habitats. It's often highlighted for safari tourism.
  • Unique Ungulates: Bénoué is particularly renowned for its populations of large antelopes:
    • Giant Eland (Lord Derby Eland): This park is considered one of the best places in Africa for a realistic chance to view the giant eland, Africa's largest antelope.
    • Kob, Western Hartebeest, Waterbuck, Roan Antelope: These antelope species are also prevalent and commonly sighted.
    • African Buffalo: Significant herds of buffalo are present.
  • Bénoué National Park Predators: Lions: The park supports a healthy lion population, estimated at around 200 adult individuals as of 2011, making it a Lion Conservation Unit. Spotted Hyenas: Frequently seen. African Wild Dogs: While present, they are less commonly sighted than in Faro National Park.
  • Bénoué National Park Riverine Wildlife: The Bénoué River is a haven for: Hippopotamuses: Large colonies of hippos are a major attraction, often seen on the riverbanks. Crocodiles: Nile crocodiles are also common in the river.
  • Bénoué National Park Other Mammals: African elephants, warthogs, and various monkey species (e.g., baboons, vervet monkeys) can also be found.
  • Bénoué National Park Birdlife: Bénoué National Park is an Important Bird Area (IBA) with over 300 bird species identified. The sandbars exposed by the fluctuating Bénoué River during the dry season provide important habitats for waterbirds. Common species include Adamawa turtle-dove, crocodile bird, red-throated bee-eater, and violet turaco.

Best Time to Visit Bénoué National Park

  • The dry season, from November to June: is the ideal period for visiting Bénoué National Park.
  • Bénoué National Park Wildlife Viewing: Animals congregate around the Bénoué River and other water sources, making them easier to spot as vegetation thins out.
  • Bénoué National Park Accessibility: Roads and tracks within the park are generally more accessible during the dry months.
  • Bénoué National Park Comfort: Temperatures are more moderate, though it can get hot towards the end of the dry season (March-May).

Bénoué National Park Location and Accessibility

Bénoué National Park is located in northeastern Cameroon, situated in the Bénoué Department. It lies between the cities of Garoua to the north and Ngaoundéré to the south.

  • Getting Bénoué National Park by Air: You can fly from Yaoundé (NSI) or Douala (DLA) to Garoua (GOU) or Ngaoundéré (NGE). From these airports, you would then arrange road transport to the park.
  • Getting Bénoué National Park by Train: The CAMRAIL train service from Yaoundé to Ngaoundéré is a popular and relatively safe option for reaching the general region. From Ngaoundéré, you would then need to arrange road transport (often a 4x4) to the park.
  • Getting Bénoué National Park by Road: The main road linking Garoua and Ngaoundéré forms part of the western boundary of the park, and a public road to Tcholliré crosses its northern part. However, as discussed, road conditions can be poor,

2. Bénoué National Park (North Region):

  • Significance: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Bénoué is known for its humid savanna woodland and the Bénoué River, which flows through it. It's considered one of the best places to see large antelopes.
  • Wildlife:
    • Giant Eland: Bénoué is one of the only places in Africa where there's a realistic chance to view the giant eland, Africa's largest antelope.
    • Antelopes: Other prominent antelopes include kob, western hartebeest, and waterbuck.
    • Predators: Lions (estimated population of 200 adults), spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs are present.
    • Other Mammals: African elephants, African buffalo, warthogs, and various monkey species.
    • Riverine Species: The Bénoué River supports significant populations of hippopotamuses and crocodiles.
  • Birdlife: Over 300 bird species have been identified, making it excellent for birdwatching.
  • Landscape: Characterized by savanna, riverine forests, and rocky massifs.
  • Accessibility: Located between the cities of Garoua and Ngaoundéré.

3. Dja Faunal Reserve (Southeast Region)

  • Dja Faunal Reserve Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dja is one of the largest and best-protected rainforests in Africa, with about 90% of its area remaining undisturbed. It's almost entirely surrounded by the Dja River, forming a natural boundary.
  • Dja Faunal Reserve Biodiversity: Exceptionally rich in species, particularly known for its primate diversity.
    • Primates: Over 14 primate species, including endangered species such as Western Lowland Gorillas, Chimpanzees, White-collared Mangabeys, Mandrills, and Drills.
    • Other Mammals: Forest elephants, African forest buffalo, bongos, leopards, and over 100 other mammal species.
    • Birds: More than 320 bird species.
    • Flora: Over 1,500 known plant species.
  • Indigenous People: A population of Baka pygmies lives in a relatively traditional manner within the reserve, maintaining cultural ties to the land.
  • Conservation: It forms part of the larger TRIDOM area, a trans-boundary conservation initiative with the Republic of Congo and Gabon.

4. Korup National Park (Southwest Region)

  • Korup National Park Significance: One of Africa's oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, renowned for its pristine condition and incredible biodiversity. It's also one of the most accessible rainforest parks for visitors in Cameroon.
  • Korup National Park Biodiversity: Considered one of the most species-rich tropical rainforests on Earth, particularly for:
    • Korup National Park Biodiversity Primates: Home to 14 primate species (8 diurnal, 6 nocturnal), including chimpanzees , drills, Preuss's red colobus, red-capped mangabeys, and red-eared monkeys. Western Lowland Gorillas have also been reported.
    • Korup National Park Biodiversity Birds: Over 430 species of birds.
    • Korup National Park Biodiversity Butterflies: The butterfly fauna is one of the richest in Africa.
    • Korup National Park Biodiversity Reptiles and Amphibians: Has the highest diversity of these groups of any single locality in tropical Africa.
    • Korup National Park Biodiversity Other Mammals: Forest elephants, leopards, and African forest buffalo.
  • Korup National Park Landscape: Characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and numerous streams. It features a notable suspension bridge offering canopy views.
  • Korup National Park Accessibility: Located in the Southwest Region, near the Nigerian border. While it has good infrastructure for visitors (trails, basic lodging), the Southwest Region has been affected by the Anglophone crisis, so checking security advisories before visiting is essential.

5. Lobéké National Park (Southeast Region

  • Lobéké National Park Significance: Part of the larger Sangha Tri-National Protected Area (with Central African Republic and Republic of Congo), also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's primarily a semi-evergreen forest.
  • Lobéké National Park Wildlife: Famous for its populations of Western Lowland Gorillas, offering unique gorilla trekking opportunities. Also home to forest elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, and a variety of forest antelopes.
  • Lobéké National Park "Bais": Known for its "bais" (forest clearings or salt licks) where large mammals congregate, offering excellent viewing opportunities from hides.

6. Mount Cameroon National Park (Southwest Region)

  • Mount Cameroon National Park Significance: Protects the active Mount Cameroon volcano, the highest peak in West and Central Africa. It offers challenging but rewarding trekking through diverse ecological zones.
  • Mount Cameroon National Park Wildlife: While known more for its trekking, the park's varied habitats (rainforest to montane grasslands) support diverse wildlife including primates (chimpanzees, drills), forest elephants, and numerous bird species.
Other Notable Parks
  • Campo Ma'an National Park (South Region): Located near the coast, inhabited by elephants and chimpanzees within a luxuriant forest.
  • Bouba Njida National Park (North Region): istorically known for its rhinoceros population (though severely impacted by poaching) and other large mammals like lions, elephants, and various antelopes. Also home to the critically endangered African wild dog.
  • Faro National Park (North Region): Located near the Nigerian border, with diverse mammals including cheetahs, hippopotamuses, and giraffes.
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Important Considerations for Visiting National Parks:

Cameroon's national parks offer unparalleled opportunities to experience Africa's natural heritage, from savanna giants to elusive rainforest dwellers.

  • Security: Always check the latest travel advisories for the specific regions where the parks are located. Northern and some western regions can have security risks.
  • Guides: It is mandatory and highly recommended to use experienced local guides for safaris and treks.
  • Best Time: The dry season (November to March) is generally best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, and for trekking.
  • Permits: You will need permits to enter the national parks, which are usually arranged through your tour operator.
  • Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and follow your guide's instructions.
  • Responsible Tourism: Support local communities and choose eco-friendly tour operators.
  • Photography Rules: Remember strict rules about photographing military or government assets. Within the parks, follow guide instructions, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
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Cameroon Visa Costs (Essential Pre-Trip Expense)

eVisa (Consular Fee): visas

  • Short Stay (1-180 days): Around €153 - €206 (approx. $165 - $220 USD).
  • Long Stay (181-360 days): Around €305 - €326 (approx. $330 - $350 USD).
  • Transit Visa: Around €153 (approx. $165 USD).
  • xpress/Urgent Processing: Additional fees apply, increasing the cost. For example, an expedited 6-month single entry visa through a third-party service might cost around $303 - $414 USD (including consular and service fees).
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination: Costs vary by country and provider, but budget for this mandatory vaccine.
Cameroon Travel FAQ

Here's a comprehensive FAQ about Cameroonian visas, incorporating the latest information and common queries: Travel FAQ

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What is the Cameroon eVisa?

The Cameroon eVisa is an electronic travel authorization system that allows eligible foreign nationals to apply for visas online. Apply Cameroon eVisa

Visiting Cameroon

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Best Time to Visit Cameroon

The ideal time to visit Cameroon is during the dry season, from November to February.

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