Language

The official languages in Cameroon are French and English. Most of the country is francophone, while in the north and southwest English is more common. There are, however, over 200 other smaller tongues which are recognized in the country.

Currency

The national currency in Cameroon is the Communauté Financière Africaine Franc (XAF). Credit cards, especially MasterCard and Visa are not readily accepted in most establishments. Airports and large hotels are your best bet, but even ATMs are rare so it is advised to keep a reasonable amount of cash on hand. Currency exchanges can be made at major banks and at airports with the euro and the US dollar the easiest to exchange.

Time

Cameroon is on West African Time which is GMT +1.

Electricity

Cameroon uses electricity at 220V or 50Hz and round two-pin plugs points.

Communications

The international dialing code for Cameroon is +237 and +22 in the capital of Yaoundé. Prepaid SIM cards are the best way to make international and local calls. These are generally available at airports and at local stores. The most popular and reliable mobile phone carriers are MTN and Orange. Internet connectivity is available in internet cafes, but keep in mind that the connection speeds many be rather slow.

Duty-free

Duty free regulations largely depend on the country of entry, but the following information can be used as a loose guideline. Travelers are permitted to bring 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars or five small packets of loose tobacco; one bottle of alcohol and five bottles of perfume. All other goods should not exceed US $500.

Tourist Office

Ministry of Tourism, Yaoundé: +237-22-22-29-36 or www.mintour.gov.cm

Consulates in Cameroon

American Embassy, Yaoundé: +237-22-201-500 Canadian Consulate, Yaoundé: +237-22-232-311 British Consulate, Yaoundé: +237-22-220-545 French Embassy, Yaoundé: +237-22+279-00 Chinese Embassy, Yaoundé: +237-22-210-083 German Embassy, Yaoundé: +237-22-100-56 Belgian Embassy, Yaoundé: +237-22-211-768

Emergency

Police: 17 Fire: 18 Ambulance (in Yaoundé): +237-22-34-020

Click here to learn about Visas and Vaccinations in Cameroon