Safari in Cameroon

Cameroon is Africa in miniature, with habitats ranging from Sahel savanna to dense equatorial rainforest. Waza National Park offers classic game viewing...

Cameroon Safari at a Glance

6 safari regions, 43 parks & reserves, 217 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Cameroon

UK FCDO: Advises against all travel to parts.

Best Time to Visit Cameroon

The best months to visit Cameroon are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 24.4°C, rainfall 21.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 54.2%
  • February: Great, temperature 25.6°C, rainfall 24.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 51.7%
  • March: Great, temperature 26.6°C, rainfall 102.2mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 61.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 26.5°C, rainfall 133.6mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 69.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 25.9°C, rainfall 168.4mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 75.9%
  • June: Good, temperature 24.2°C, rainfall 220.6mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • July: Poor, temperature 23.3°C, rainfall 256.9mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 85.2%
  • August: Poor, temperature 23.1°C, rainfall 263mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 85.7%
  • September: Poor, temperature 23.1°C, rainfall 284.9mm, sunshine 7.7 hrs, humidity 87%
  • October: Good, temperature 23.8°C, rainfall 234.3mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 82.2%
  • November: Good, temperature 24.3°C, rainfall 112.5mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 70.4%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.3°C, rainfall 31.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 59.5%

Wildlife in Cameroon

Home to 217 recorded species including 101 iconic birds, 43 birds of prey, 39 waterbirds, 10 tropical birds, 6 primates, 5 antelope & gazelle.

Notable Species in Cameroon

Recommended Packing List for Cameroon

Based on average temperature of 24.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 72%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 25°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Cameroon

Cameroon is a land of profound contrasts, from the Sahelian north to the dense southern rainforests, offering unique safari experiences. While its 'Africa in miniature' moniker holds true, we advise travellers to approach this vibrant country with thorough preparation and a strong awareness of local safety conditions. With the right precautions and a trusted operator, the rewards of exploring its diverse landscapes and wildlife are immense.

Visa

For most nationalities, a visa is a prerequisite for entry into Cameroon. We strongly recommend applying well in advance through the Cameroonian embassy or consulate in your home country. Be prepared for a thorough application process; patience and attention to detail are key. Always carry copies of your passport and visa, keeping the originals in a secure place.

Malaria

Malaria is a significant risk across all regions of Cameroon, including urban areas and national parks. We strongly advise a prescription anti-malarial prophylaxis, such as Malarone or Lariam, after consulting with your doctor. Beyond medication, diligent mosquito bite prevention is crucial: wear long sleeves and trousers at dawn and dusk, use DEET-based insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets, which most reputable lodges provide. We always pack a good quality repellent.

Safari Calendar - Cameroon

Cameroon, often called 'Africa in miniature,' offers a truly diverse safari experience, from the Sahelian savannas of the north to the dense equatorial rainforests of the south. We find the dry seasons, particularly December to February and the short dry season in the south from June to August, to be the most rewarding for wildlife viewing and accessibility. For classic savanna game drives, we recommend the northern parks like Waza and Benoue during their dry months, when animals concentrate around dwindling water sources. If your heart is set on tracking western lowland gorillas and forest elephants, the southern forests of Lobeke and Dja are best visited during their drier spells, when trails are less muddy and sightings are more likely.

January - Dry Season

We love January for its dual appeal, allowing us to combine classic savanna safaris with deep forest explorations for a truly comprehensive Cameroon experience.

February - Dry Season

We recommend February for those seeking the quintessential northern Cameroon safari, where the wildlife viewing is consistently spectacular and the skies are a brilliant blue.

March - Transition / Long Rains Begin

We find March to be a fascinating month for birding in the north as migratory species prepare to depart, offering a last chance to see them before the rains.

April - Long Rains

We suggest April for dedicated birdwatchers who don't mind the rain, as the southern rainforests come alive with vibrant avian activity.

May - Long Rains / Transition

We appreciate May for the dramatic change in scenery, as the parched northern plains burst into life with the arrival of the first rains, offering unique photographic opportunities.

June - Wet Season / Short Dry Season

We highly recommend June for focusing on the southern rainforests, as the short dry spell makes gorilla trekking and forest exploration much more enjoyable.

July - Wet Season / Short Dry Season

We find July to be one of the best months for an immersive rainforest experience, particularly for those keen on seeing western lowland gorillas in their natural habitat.

August - Wet Season / Short Dry Season Ends

We suggest early August for a final push into the southern forests before the heavier rains return, maximizing your chances for comfortable tracking.

September - Wet Season / Long Rains Begin

We consider September a month for the truly adventurous, offering a chance to witness Cameroon's landscapes at their most vibrant, albeit with more challenging travel conditions.

October - Wet Season Ends / Long Rains

We find October to be a transitional month, best suited for those looking to catch the very end of the northern wet season, witnessing the landscape's recovery and early signs of game concentration.

November - Dry Season Begins

We love November as the start of the prime safari season in the north, offering excellent game viewing without the peak season crowds.

December - Dry Season

We consider December an ideal month for a comprehensive Cameroon safari, perfectly blending the classic savanna experience of the north with the unique rainforest adventures of the south.

Safari Regions

Cameroon FAQs

How does a safari in Cameroon differ between the northern savannas and southern rainforests, and what unique wildlife can I expect in each?

Cameroon offers a unique dual safari experience: the northern savannas, like Waza National Park, provide classic game viewing with lions, elephants, and giraffes. In contrast, the southern rainforests, such as Lobeke National Park, focus on tracking elusive forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and chimpanzees, often requiring boat or foot expeditions.

Given Cameroon's diverse habitats, is there a single 'best time' to visit for both northern savanna and southern rainforest safaris?

While the dry season (November to February) is generally ideal for wildlife viewing in the northern savannas, the southern rainforests are accessible year-round, with slightly drier periods from December to February and June to August often preferred for trekking. For a comprehensive trip covering both regions, aiming for the December-February window offers the best compromise.

What are the key safety considerations and logistical challenges for planning a safari in Cameroon, especially for first-time visitors?

It's crucial to consult current travel advisories and use reputable, experienced local tour operators who are knowledgeable about regional conditions and safety protocols. Logistically, internal travel can be challenging due to varying road conditions and less developed infrastructure, requiring flexible planning and patience.

Beyond classic savanna game, what is involved in tracking Western Lowland Gorillas in Cameroon's southern forests, and what permits are required?

Tracking Western Lowland Gorillas in Cameroon, typically in parks like Lobeke or Dja Faunal Reserve, involves challenging hikes through dense, humid rainforest with expert local guides. Permits are essential and must be secured well in advance through your tour operator, as visitor numbers are strictly limited to protect the gorillas and their habitat.

How do safari costs in Cameroon compare to more established African safari destinations, and what factors influence the overall price?

Safari costs in Cameroon can be comparable to, or sometimes higher than, more established destinations due to less frequent international flights, specialized logistics for remote forest camps, and the need for private guiding. The value lies in experiencing a truly off-the-beaten-path destination with unique wildlife and cultural encounters.

Recommended Books for Cameroon

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet West Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and more. Includes national parks, wildlife reserves, and practical overland travel advice across the region.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in West Africa

  • Gambia - 27 safari destinations
  • Ghana - 63 safari destinations
  • Nigeria - 25 safari destinations
  • Senegal - 55 safari destinations