Cameroon flights and travel guide

Language

French and English are the official languages, although French is more commonly spoken and is the language of business. There are also numerous other African dialects.

Back to top

Communications

The international dialling code for Cameroon is +237. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). City codes are not required. International phone calls can be made from CAMTEL offices. A GSM 900 network provides cellphone coverage mainly in Yaounde, Malabo and the southwest of the country. Internet cafes are available in the main towns.

Back to top

Tipping

If service charges are not included then 10 per cent is customary.

Back to top

Safety

Occurrences of banditry and mugging are serious problems throughout the country, and car hijacking and robbery along roads has resulted in several deaths. Travellers are advised to avoid the Meiganga-Ngaoundere road and the Belel area. Incidents, often armed, are common in towns and cities and visitors should be vigilant in public places. Visitors should be cautious in the area surrounding the Mount Febe Hotel in Yaounde due to an increased risk of muggings and robberies.

Back to top

Health

Traveller's diarrhoea is the most common complaint and precautions should be taken with regard to food and drink. Tap water should be avoided. There is a risk of malaria throughout the country and prophylaxis is recommended for all travellers. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, yellow fever, polio, meningococcal diseases and rabies. There are regular outbreaks of cholera, particularly between December and June. Bird flu has been detected in the Cameroon, but no human infections have been reported. The risk to travellers is low, but as a precaution close contact with live birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked. Visitors should avoid bathing in stagnant, fresh water due to the risk of bilharzia. HIV/AIDS is prevalent. Medical facilities are very limited with frequent shortages of medication and outdated equipment; visitors should ensure they have comprehensive medical insurance, which includes emergency air evacuation. Doctors and hospitals generally expect immediate cash payment.

Back to top

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin attachment plugs are in use.

Back to topp