Intercity Travel In Cameroon | africatourvisa

Intercity travel in Cameroon offers a mix of options, ranging from air travel for speed to buses and trains for more affordable and scenic journeys. The choice often depends on your budget, time constraints, and the level of comfort you seek, as well as the security situation of the route.

By understanding these options and their associated considerations, you can choose the best intercity travel method for your adventures in Cameroon.

1. Intercity Travel Buses In CameroonFastest Option:

Here's a breakdown of the main modes of intercity travel:

• Most Common & Affordable: Buses are the most popular and generally the most affordable way to travel between cities in Cameroon.
• Companies: Numerous private bus companies operate, offering varying levels of comfort. Some reputable ones include:
  • Musango Bus Services (operates between Douala, Yaoundé, Buea, Bafoussam, Limbe)
  • United Express (focuses on the Douala/Yaoundé highway, offers different classes)
  • Touristique Express
  • Buca Voyage
  • Afrique con Plc (connects cities like Buea, Douala, Yaoundé, and even offers international routes)
• Comfort Levels: You can often choose between different classes (e.g., standard, VIP, "Comfort Class"). VIP buses might offer air conditioning, more legroom, and sometimes even onboard entertainment.
• Booking: Tickets can usually be purchased at the bus station on the day of travel, but for popular routes and VIP services, especially during peak seasons or holidays, it's advisable to book a day or two in advance. Some companies now offer online booking or apps.
• Departure: Buses typically depart once they are full, so punctuality can sometimes be an issue. Be prepared for potential delays.
• Routes: Major routes connect cities like Douala, Yaoundé, Limbe, Buea, Bafoussam, and destinations in the North like Ngaoundéré and Garoua.
• Overloaded Buses/Minibuses: Be aware that some smaller minibuses or "bush taxis" (shared taxis for longer distances) might be overloaded, less comfortable, and operate without fixed schedules, leaving only when full. While cheaper, they can be less safe due to speed and maintenance issues.

2. Trains (CAMRAIL) In Cameroon

• Trains Main Operator: Cameroon Railways (CAMRAIL), a subsidiary of Bolloré Africa Logistics, is the primary train operator.
• Trains Key Routes:
• Douala - Yaoundé: This is a popular route with several daily services, including "Express" trains (approx. 4h 45m journey time) and "Omnibus" trains that make more stops.
• Yaoundé - Ngaoundéré ("Gazele du Nord"): This is a long-distance route, often an overnight journey (around 12-14 hours), connecting the capital to the northern regions. This route is often preferred over the challenging road conditions to the North.
• Other Routes: There's also a service between Douala - Mbanga - Kumba (less frequent).
• Trains Comfort Levels: You can choose between first and second class. For overnight journeys to Ngaoundéré, couchette (sleeper) cars with compartments for 2 or 4 people are available, which are recommended for comfort and security. There's usually a bar-restaurant car on board.
• Trains Booking: Tickets can be purchased at CAMRAIL ticket offices at stations. Online booking might be available via MyCamrail website, but it's advisable to confirm its reliability and book in advance, especially for sleeper berths.
• Trains Benefits: Train travel can be more comfortable and safer than road travel for long distances, especially given the condition of some roads and the risks of night driving. It also offers a different perspective of the landscape.

3. Domestic Flights In Cameroon

• Fastest Option: For covering long distances quickly, particularly between major hubs or to the far north, domestic flights are the most efficient.
• Main Airlines In Cameroon: Camair-Co: The national airline, connecting major cities. Elysian Airlines (a smaller operator).
• Key Routes of Domestic Flights In Cameroon Flights operate between cities like: Douala (DLA), Yaoundé (NSI), Garoua (GOU), Maroua (MVR), Ngaoundéré (NGE), Bafoussam (BFX),
• Cost of Domestic Flights In Cameroon Domestic flights are generally more expensive than buses or trains but can save significant travel time and avoid difficult road conditions or security risks in certain regions.
• Booking Domestic Flights In Cameroon: Tickets can be booked online through airline websites or travel agencies.

4. Shared Taxis / "Bush Taxis"

• Local Travel: While primarily used for urban travel, shared taxis (often called "bush taxis" when used for intercity routes) are common for shorter distances between towns where bus routes might be less frequent.
• No Fixed Schedule: They leave only when full, so be prepared to wait.
• Comfort & Safety: These can be very crowded, often exceeding vehicle capacity, and may not be well-maintained, posing safety concerns.
• Negotiation: Fares are usually fixed for popular routes, but always confirm the price before getting in.

Important Considerations for Intercity Travel

• Security In Cameroon: Crucially, check current travel advisories for specific regions before planning intercity travel. Travel to the Northwest, Southwest, and Far North regions is highly discouraged due to ongoing conflict and security risks. Road travel in these areas is particularly dangerous.
• Road Conditions In Cameroon: Roads outside major city centers are often in poor condition, affecting journey times and comfort, especially during the rainy season.
• Patience In Cameroon: Travel in Cameroon often requires patience. Delays, unexpected stops, and less-than-perfect punctuality are common.
• Baggage In Cameroon: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded bus or train stations and during stops.
• Night Travel In Cameroon: It's generally not advisable to travel by road at night due to poor lighting, road conditions, and security concerns. Trains are a safer option for overnight journeys.
• Flexibility: It's good to build some flexibility into your itinerary to account for potential delays or changes.