The possibility of isolated acts of violence exists throughout the country. For travelers, this means you should avoid large demonstrations, even if they don't appear to be related to politics. Street crime is common in Douala and Yaounde. Also, check your money carefully—counterfeiters have been circulating false U.S. dollars and Central African Francs. Cameroon and Nigeria occasionally clash over their disputed border along the Bikassi Peninsula.
Bandits are a problem throughout Cameroon, including some tourist destinations and the Extreme North province. Carjackings in Douala and Yaounde are becoming more frequent, too. Hiring a reliable local guide is the best way to avoid being caught in an unsafe place. Do not travel anywhere at night. As you drive through the country, stop at all military checkpoints. Have your passport ready and available for inspection at any time. We suggest you show a photocopy of the passport first; show the original only if it's requested. Register with your embassy upon arrival.
For the latest information, contact your country's travel-advisory agency.
Dos & Don'ts
Do try to take public transportation in Cameroon at least once for the cultural experience. It's a good way to meet local people.
Don't plan to spend much time in either Douala or Yaounde—they are crime ridden and lack the charm that pervades the rest of the country.
Don't take photos without asking first. Photos of government buildings are not allowed, and many of the buildings are unmarked. Your camera might be confiscated if you snap the wrong scene. Stop at the Ministry of Information and Culture in Yaounde to get the Cameroon Photography Regulations and a document stating that it's not necessary to have a permit to take general photos. You may have to show it outside of tourist areas (police occasionally harass those carrying cameras). Generally, carrying a camera will put some distance between you and Cameroonians.
Do change your money in Douala or Yaounde, because banks in small towns may not be able to exchange foreign currency. Don't exchange currency on the black market—it's illegal and dangerous.
Do register at the tourist office before hiking up Mt. Cameroon. Technically, you're supposed to hire a guide, but that rule is not strictly enforced (the path is lined with rocks painted white, so it's easy to stay on the trail). Wear sturdy hiking boots, and if you're staying overnight, take plenty of water and warm clothing.
Don't buy animal skins. They're usually poorly tanned, and the export of many kinds is prohibited (your purchase may be confiscated).
Do examine the bolts of cloth women use to make their wraps. The patterns range from stunning to campy (one we saw featured a repeated image of Queen Elizabeth).
Don't step into a prayer circle (a circle of rocks, often in front of a house).
