Country's codes
International phone code for Cameroon: +237
3 letters CMR,2 letters (internet domain) .CM
digital country code 120
Cameroon: Tourist & Vacation Guide
2 letters (internet domain) .CM
digital country code 120
Olympic country code: CAM 
Cameroon Travel Guide
Central Africa Republic of Cameroon Atlantic Coast
Region
Central & West Africa
Nickname
Africa in Miniature
Known For
Diverse landscapes, wildlife, cultural diversity, and Mount Cameroon
Best Time to Visit
November–February
Population: ~28 million Area (sq mi): ~183,567
Cameroon offers an incredible mix of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife, earning its nickname as “Africa in Miniature” thanks to its remarkable diversity.
Cameroon is located in Central Africa and features everything from Atlantic beaches and tropical rainforests to savannas and volcanic mountains. The country gained independence in 1960 and today serves as a cultural crossroads between West and Central Africa.
The capital city, Yaoundé, is the political center, while Douala is the largest city and economic hub. With over 250 ethnic groups and rich traditions, Cameroon offers visitors a unique cultural and natural travel experience.
Key Facts
- Capital: Yaoundé (~4.2 million metro)
- Largest City: Douala (~2.5 million)
- Official Name: Republic of Cameroon
- Languages: French and English (official), plus 200+ local languages
- Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- Government: Republic
Top Attractions
- Mount Cameroon – Active volcano and the highest peak in West Africa
- Waza National Park – Famous for elephants, lions, and wildlife safaris
- Limbe – Coastal town with beaches and botanical gardens
- Korup National Park – One of Africa’s oldest rainforests with rich biodiversity
- Kribi – Popular beach destination with nearby waterfalls
- Dja Faunal Reserve – UNESCO-listed rainforest with rare wildlife species
Food & Culture
- Staple dishes like Ndolé (bitterleaf stew) and grilled fish
- Plantains, cassava, and spicy sauces
- Strong French and African culinary influences
- Traditional music, dance, and colorful festivals
- Rich tribal diversity with unique customs and crafts
Outdoor & Adventure
- Hiking Mount Cameroon
- Wildlife safaris in national parks
- Exploring rainforests and river systems
- Relaxing on Atlantic beaches in Kribi and Limbe
- Birdwatching and eco-tourism experiences
Traveler Tip: Carry both cash and small denominations, as card payments are not widely accepted outside major cities.
Did you know? Cameroon is called “Africa in Miniature” because it contains nearly all of Africa’s major climate zones and ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit Cameroon
Cameroon has a tropical climate that varies by region. The dry season is generally the best time for travel, especially for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
- Dry Season (November–February) – Best for safaris, hiking, and travel
- March–May – Hot and humid with occasional rains
- Rainy Season (June–October) – Lush landscapes but difficult travel conditions in some areas
- Coastal Areas – Can receive heavy rainfall, especially in mid-year months
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Yaounde: Capital City Profile
Religions: indigenous beliefs 40%, Christian 40%, Islam 20%
The name Cameroon is derived from the Portuguese word, Camaroes, meaning shrimps. As Portuguese sailor Ferdanando Poo arrived in 1472 at the Wouri river in Douala and discovered so many shrimps in the river he decided to call it Rio Dos Camaroes (River of shrimps, in Portuguese). It was from this word that the territory derived its name which is now spelt in various forms: Spanish spelt it Cameroes; Germans, Kamerun; English, Cameroon; and French, Cameroun.
The territory was colonized by the Germans in 1884 but after the end of the First World War Cameroon was mandated by the League of Nations to the French and British governments. France took the greater sector, formally known as East Cameroon, while Britain took responsibility over former West Cameroon known then as "Cameroon under British Administration".
On January 1st 1960 the French Sector became independent under the new name of Cameroon Republic. Following agitation for independence by the Southern Cameroons - before the name was changed to West Cameroon - a plebiscite was held in that sector of Cameroon on February 11th 1961 under the United Nations supervision. The result of the plebiscite was overwhelming for reunification (233,571 against 97,741) and gave Southern Cameroon automatic independence and unification, which was achieved on 1 October 1961. Thus after the reunification of both sectors, the Federal Republic of Cameroon was born.
After a referendum in May 1972, Cameroon became a United Republic and by a Presidential Decree of 1984 it became the Republic of Cameroon.
A coalition government, formed after national elections in 1998, brought renewed political stability and the surrender of remaining Khmer Rouge forces.
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