World Country Guide

Sport & Activities

Wildlife
There 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 Contact Addresses section).

Photo safaris
A range of tours including photo safaris are organised by the Ministry of Tourism (see Contact Addresses section): a seven- to 10-day tour of northern Cameroon sets out from Ngaoundr and includes sports activities at Ngaoundaba Ranch, safari photography at Bnou 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 organised tour of western Cameroon and the Bamileke region sets out from Douala and includes visits to Nkongsamba coffee plantations, Bati and Dschang mountain towns, and Foumban with its museums of arts, crafts and culture, before returning to Douala.

Hiking and trekking
Mount 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 favouring really strenuous exercise, an international marathon is held annually at the mountain. Favourite 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.

Other
Fishing 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 Yaound. Football is a very popular spectator sport.