Overview of Yaoundé, Cameroon

Yaoundé, the capital city of Cameroon, is located in the central region of the country and is a hub for government, diplomacy, and education. It is a bustling city with a mixture of modern and traditional culture, and has plenty of attractions for tourists to explore.

Top 10 Places to Visit

1. National Museum of Yaoundé

A fascinating museum that provides a glimpse into the country’s history, art, and culture. The museum has a vast collection of tribal masks, bronze sculptures, and other artifacts from Cameroon’s diverse ethnic groups.

2. Mefou National Park

A wildlife sanctuary located near Yaoundé, where visitors can see rare and endangered animals. The park is home to over 400 chimpanzees, gorillas, and other primates, as well as elephants, leopards, and antelopes.

3. Mount Cameroon

A dormant volcano and the highest mountain in West Africa, Mount Cameroon offers hiking and trekking opportunities for experienced and adventurous travelers. The trek can take up to four days, but the stunning views from the summit are worth the effort.

4. Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul

A stunning 20th-century Catholic cathedral, which is the seat of the Archbishop of Yaoundé. It is built in the shape of a cross and has a modernist design that incorporates elements of traditional African art and architecture.

5. Artisanal Center of Yaoundé

A lively marketplace where visitors can buy traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It is a great place to experience the local culture, taste delicious street food, and bargain with the vendors.

6. Lake Mboandong

A scenic lake located in the suburb of Mbankomo, which offers fishing, boating, and picnicking activities. Visitors can rent a canoe or paddleboat and explore the tranquil waters surrounded by lush forests and hills.

7. St. Anne’s Basilica of Mvolyé

A beautiful neo-gothic basilica, which is one of the largest churches in Central Africa. It has colorful stained-glass windows, a majestic bell tower, and a serene garden.

8. Cameroon Art Museum

A small but impressive museum that showcases contemporary Cameroonian art. The museum has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations by local artists, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

9. Yaoundé Central Market

A bustling covered market, which is the heart of the city’s commercial activity. The market is divided into sections for food, clothing, jewelry, and household goods, and offers a unique sensory experience.

10. Reunification Monument

A symbol of Cameroon’s reunification, which marks the merger of the French and British territories in 1961. The monument features two bronze statues holding hands, each representing one of the two territories, and is surrounded by a lush garden.

5 Places to Avoid

1. Emana Neighborhood

A neighborhood with high crime rates, especially at night. Visitors are advised to avoid walking alone and to be cautious with their belongings.

2. Mokolo Market

A chaotic and overcrowded market, which is known for pickpocketing and scams. Visitors should be careful with their wallets and avoid buying counterfeit goods.

3. Nsam Neighborhood

A neighborhood with a high prevalence of prostitution and drug trafficking. Visitors are recommended to avoid walking around at night and to stay in well-lit areas.

4. Motor Parks

The bus stations in Yaoundé can be overwhelming and chaotic, with touts and waste littering the area. Visitors should be careful with their luggage and avoid getting into unmarked taxis or buses.

5. Tsinga Neighborhood

A neighborhood with a high incidence of muggings and robberies, especially towards foreigners. Visitors should avoid walking around with expensive jewelry or electronics, and be mindful of their surroundings.