Overview of Cameroon

Quick Overview

Located on the Gulf of Guinea, Cameroon is nicknamed "Africa in miniature" due to its climatological, geographical, human, and cultural diversity. It is divided into four distinct zones. The coastal region, spanning a few hundred kilometres, is dominated by equatorial forest and is the most densely populated area. Next comes the central plateau, which rises to 1,500 m, followed by the vast northern plains that are home to numerous animals. Finally, in the west, there is a volcanic landscape reaching up to 4,100 m at Mount Cameroon.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: in the heart of Africa, on the Gulf of Guinea.

• Latitude/longitude: 6°00' N, 12°00' W.

• Local time: Heure : 12254

• Capital: Yaoundé.

• Nature of the state:

• Official languages: French and English.

• Currency: CFA franc.

• Population: 25,640,965 inhabitants (2018)

• Area: 475,442 km².

• Density: 54 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Cameroon (4,095 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 402 km.

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

With its beaches, forests, mountains, and volcanoes, as well as a rich wildlife (including gorillas) and vibrant local cultures, Cameroon has everything to offer—despite instability in parts of the country and limited enthusiasm from authorities for tourism. In 2016, the country welcomed 994,000 visitors (a quarter of them French), with a significant portion traveling for affinity-based trips.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for slightly experienced or seasoned travelers.

• By air: France-Douala.

• Entry requirements: passport valid at least 6 months after planned return date + visa + yellow fever vaccination + proof of accommodation + return or onward ticket.

• Currency to bring: euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation/Holidays ★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 151/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $3,700 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +0.6% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 4.3% (2014)

• Population below poverty line: ()

• Life expectancy: 59.4 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.1 (2017)

• Population growth: +2.54% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 75% (2015)

• Urban population: 56.4% (2018)

• Press freedom: 129/180 (2018 ranking)

• Political regime: authoritarian regime (132/168 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook