WildlifeThere are seven national parks and several reserves, which offer excellent opportunities to see some of the richest flora and fauna in Africa. Antelopes, hartebeest, warthogs and lions are amongst the species inhabiting the parks, and there are also numerous types of birds. For further information, contact the Embassy/High Commission (see
General Info section).
Photo safarisA range of tours including photo safaris are organized by the Ministry of Tourism (see
General Info section): a seven- to 10-day tour of northern Cameroon sets out from
Ngaoundéré
and includes sports activities at
Ngaoundaba Ranch, safari photography at
Bénoué and
Waza National Parks, visits to
Garoua, the volcanic landscapes of
Rhumsiki, the traditional village of
Oudjila, the
Maga Dam and a crafts workshop at
Maroua,
before returning to
Garoua. An organized tour of western Cameroon and the
Bamileke region sets out from
Douala and includes visits to
Nkongsamba coffee plantations,
Batié and
Dschang mountain towns, and
Foumban with its museums of arts, crafts and culture, before returning to
Douala.
Hiking and trekkingMount Cameroon, the highest mountain in West Africa and Africa’s highest active volcano, is a popular mountaineering destination. No special equipment is required but permits and guides are compulsory. The climb to the summit takes approximately three to four days; huts are available en route for accommodation. The best time to attempt the climb is in the dry season, between November and May. In Mindif, a park south of the northern town of Maroua, there is a huge rock known as
Le Dent de Mindif, which is highly regarded for rock climbing. For those favoring really strenuous exercise, an international marathon is held annually at the mountain. Favorite hiking areas include the northern region near Mora (not far from the Nigerian border) and the highland area around Bamenda in the southwest. The Mandara Mountains west of Maroua are a good area for trekking. A permit is not required, but it is advisable to take a guide. A variety of trails, featuring coastal terrain, a focus on biodiversity, adventure or riverside terrain, are offered by
Jungle Village in
Limbe Botanic Gardens.
OtherFishing is good in many rivers and coastal areas. Swimming in the sea and swimming pools of luxury hotels, which generally also have tennis courts, is available. A golf course is available to hotel residents in Yaoundé. Football is a very popular spectator sport.
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