Cameroon
All about this beautiful country!
About Cameroon
Location: Central Africa, bordering the Bight of Biafra, between Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria
Capital: Yaoundé
Official languages: English & French
Religion: Christianity
Area: Total 475,442 km2 (54th)
Government: Dominant-party presidential republic
- President Paul Biya
- Prime Minister Philémon Yang
Currency: Central African CFA Franc BEAC
About Cameroon History
Cameroon Around The World
Cameroon is perhaps best known around the world for it's soccer prowess, but it is also a beautiful country with lots of potential for tourism. There's plenty of wildlife, beaches (Kribi and Limbe offer the best locations) and cultural riches - however the infrastructure makes it somewhat difficult to draw tourists in large numbers. Cameroon is both French and English speaking and home to Muslims, Christians and many other indigenous beliefs.
One of it's most popular attractions is Mount Cameroon (the tallest mountain in West Africa), for those keen on trekking. Unfortunately recent Boko Haram activity has also put parts of the country on high alert and the US Department of State has issued a travel warning for its citizens.
Things to see and do
Drive through the central highlands
Hop in a 4-wheel drive and explore the splendid scenery of the central highlands. Starting in Douala, the drive to Nkongsamba rises to reveal vibrant, verdant valleys and breath-taking waterfalls. As dusk falls, ready the camera to capture the striking orange and purple skylines.
Find colonial architecture in Foumban
In this culture-rich town, discover many traditional buildings dating from Cameroon's period of German colonisation. Completed in 1917, a beautiful Sultan's Palace contains a museum on King Ibrahim Njoya, whilst nearby the Musée du Palais, the Musée des Arts et des Traditions Bamoun and the market are all well worth a visit.
Go on a gorilla safari in Lobéké National Park
Lobéké National Park is home to elusive families of western lowland gorillas. For the best chance of viewing these graceful giants, visitors can spend the night in a specially built watchtower. Equally exciting but easier to spot are elephants, buffalo and the giant forest hog, though visitors should keep their eyes peeled for red river hogs and bongo antelope.
Learn about the local fauna at Limbé
This pleasant port town (formerly Victoria) boasts a beautiful botanical garden. Founded in 1892 by Cameroon’s German colonisers, the gardens were originally set up to trial exotic crops such as coffee, cocoa and rubber. Today, conservation is at the heart of the scent-filled gardens, which offer trails and insights into Cameroonian botanic culture.
Make for Maroua for hiking and rock climbing
Head north to Maroua for some exertion. Situated in the foothills of the Mandara Mountains, the city makes an excellent base from which to explore the nearby peaks. Lower reaches offer moderate hiking trails and fine views whilst Le Dent de Mindif, south of the city, is a highly regarded rock climbing spot.
Economy of Cameroon
coffee, cocoa, cotton, rubber, bananas, oilseed, grains, cassava (manioc, tapioca); livestock; timber
petroleum production and refining, aluminum production, food processing, light consumer goods, textiles, lumber, ship repair
Among The Major Holidays Celebrated In Cameroon Include
- New Year's Day January 1
- Youth Day February 11
- Labor Day May 1
- National Day May 20
- Assumption August 15
- Women's Day March 8
- Christmas December 25
- Teacher's Day October 5