Cameroon Waza National Park | africatourvisa

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.

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.

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

Visiting Cameroon

Visiting Cameroon can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a unique blend of diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich wildlife, earning it the moniker "Africa in Miniature."

Best Time to Visit Cameroon

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

Cameroon Law

Cameroon Travel Advisories

When planning travel to Cameroon, it's essential to use official and up-to-date sources for information on visas, safety, and general travel advice.

• Website: Embassy of Cameroon
• U.S. Department of State
• 北京市人民政府外事办公室 Travel Alerts
• Government of Canada Travel Advice
• UK Foreign travel advice
• Smartraveller Advice & Safety
• RU Cameroon Advisories
• SafeTravel Page updated
• CIA Travel Facts
• Business Travel