CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Cameroon

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 6 has been updated (information on polio and malaria was added; information on meningitis was removed).

BACK TO TOP

2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Cameroon

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

You are advised to exercise a high degree of caution in Cameroon. Travellers should be vigilant and avoid large crowds and areas where demonstrations could occur.

The border with Equatorial Guinea is frequently closed, and travelers are advised to contact the local authorities for the most current information.

Although the Rapid Intervention Brigade has managed to curtail many large scale “coupures de routes” in the Extreme North Province, travellers should exercise a high degree of caution as incidents of carjacking, banditry and kidnappings still occur. Travellers entering the Extreme North Province should travel in convoys of at least two vehicles and inform the local authorities of their presence. The situation in Chad is fragile and could result in population movements at the border.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the border areas (particularly with the Central African Republic and Chad), Bakassi Peninsula and the Gulf of Guinea.

You are advised to particularly avoid non-essential travel to the region of the Bakassi Peninsula along the Cameroonian border, where an increase in violent incidents between the Cameroonian military and unknown assailants has been reported. The long-disputed peninsula was officially handed over by Nigeria to Cameroon on August 14, 2008, which resulted in some uncertainty in the region. Travellers should evaluate carefully the implications for their security and safety before deciding to travel to the region, monitor news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

In these regions, carjacking, assaults, kidnappings and other forms of armed banditry are recurrent. Overland travel in the Northern and Eastern provinces is dangerous due to their isolation and should be done in a convoy of at least two vehicles.

Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea has been on the rise with attacks occurring on larger vessels. Maritime displacement should be conducted with vigilance at all times and should be avoided at night.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

BACK TO TOP

3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Crime

Violent crime is on the rise, particularly in Yaoundé and Douala. Armed burglaries and attacks are common, particularly in urban centres, in tourist areas in the north, and on rural highways. Do not resist robberies as perpetrators may use violence. Violent assaults on taxi passengers can occur.

Petty theft is prevalent and occurs on trains, buses, and taxis. The Hilton and Mont Fébé hotels offer a shuttle service from Nsimalen Airport to downtown Yaoundé. You should use this service or arrange to be met, especially after dark. Avoid isolated and poorer areas of Yaoundé, in particular la Briquetterie, Mokolo, and Mvog-Ada. Canadians should avoid travelling alone or after dark. Do not show signs of affluence.

Fraud

Cases of attempted fraud are frequently reported in this country. For more information on overseas scams and their impact on the security of Canadians, see our Global Issues page.

Demonstrations

Canadians should avoid large crowds and political demonstrations, and exercise caution at all times. Contact the High Commission of Canada in Yaoundé (see section 5 below) for the latest security information.

General Safety Information

Canadians should carry certified copies of identification and travel documents at all times and keep originals in a safe place (e.g. hotel safe). Tourist facilities are limited. Avoid shopping on the street. If possible, have a guide or buy from established shops.

BACK TO TOP

4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Cameroonian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the High Commission of the Republic of Cameroon and its consulate for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Cameroon. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa. An onward or return ticket is also required.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

Canadians who are going to Cameroon to work require a Resident Card shortly after arrival.

Cameroon does not recognize dual nationality.

Travellers are required to carry evidence of a yellow fever vaccination upon arrival at the airport.

An airport tax of 10,000 CFA (approx. C$24) is charged upon departure.

---

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

BACK TO TOP

5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Cameroon - YAOUNDÉ, High Commission of Canada
Address: Immeuble STC-TOM, Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, Yaoundé, Cameroon
Postal Address: P.O. Box 572, Yaoundé, Cameroon,
Tel.: 237 2223-2311
Fax: 237 2222-1090
E-Mail: yunde@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/cameroon-cameroun/

Cameroon - DOUALA, Consulate of Canada
Address: a/s PRO-PME, 68, avenue Charles de Gaulle, Douala, Cameroon
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2373, Douala, Cameroon,
Tel.: 237 3343-2934
Fax: 237 3342-3109
E-Mail: ConsulatDouala@propme.com, leguerrier@propme.com
Internet: http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/cameroon-cameroun/

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Yaoundé and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

BACK TO TOP

6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends that travellers get vaccinated against poliomyelitis (polio). Polio is a contagious disease, spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water, that can attack the nervous system and destroy the nerve cells that activate muscles.

Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease. It is caused by a parasite which is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. There is no vaccine available against malaria. Travellers can reduce their risk by following the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

BACK TO TOP

7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Even in large cities, medical facilities and supplies can be limited, and proper medical attention may not be provided by medical professionals. You can contact the consular section of the High Commission of Canada for a list of doctors and medical institutions. Medical evacuation to South Africa may be necessary for cases of serious illness.

Water used for consumption should be boiled first or otherwise sterilized. You should also take measures to reduce the risk of insect bites.

Cholera is common in Cameroon.

As the level of HIV/AIDS infection in Cameroon is high, you should be cautious about activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids.

BACK TO TOP

8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Penalties for use and possession of drugs are strict.

Homosexual activity is illegal. Suspects may be subject to a fine and a prison term.

Avoid taking photographs of airports, military sites, government buildings, or service people in uniform. Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

BACK TO TOP

9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Major roads are in good condition but others are damaged and unsafe. Reckless driving, use of poorly maintained vehicles and lack of respect for traffic laws are common. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times. Avoid driving after dark in rural areas and on the main road between Yaoundé and Douala. The presence of livestock and pedestrians on the roadway, and the lack of road and traffic signs pose hazards. Local police roadblocks are erected throughout the country, and you may be expected to make payments. It is recommended to ask the officer to provide a ticket with a description of the violation(s). This ticket can be paid at a local court or at a police station.

Particular attention should be paid when travelling on roads in the Far North province near the Nigerian border. These regions, especially between Garoua and Kousserie in the Northern provinces, are notorious for armed highway bandits, or "coupeurs de routes". Four-wheel-drive vehicles are targeted.

In the event of an accident, the driver should, if possible, go to the next police station or to the High Commission of Canada in Yaoundé or to the Consulate of Canada in Douala to get assistance.

If travelling overland, carry sufficient supplies of water, food, and fuel, as well as a reliable means of communication, such as a satellite or cell phone.

It is difficult to depart Cameroon via the land borders with Gabon and the Central African Republic due to poor road conditions, particularly during the rainy season (see section 10 below).

You should always carry your driving permit and your vehicle's registration documents.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for visits of up to one year in Cameroon. A Canadian licence alone is not acceptable. If you intend to drive in Cameroon for more than one year, you will require a Cameroonian driver's licence. To obtain a Cameroonian driver's licence from local authorities, you are required to present your Canadian driver's licence to the Delegation of Public Transport in your town of residence. The process usually takes only 24 hours.

Buses link Yaoundé to Douala, Bafoussam, Bamenda, Foumban and Dschang. Trains run daily between Yaoundé and the cities of N'Gaoundéré and Douala. Regular flights connect Yaoundé, Douala, Maroua, Garoua, N'Gaoundéré and several other cities.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

---

The currency is the Communauté financière africaine franc (XAF), which is also used in Chad, the Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. The West African CFA franc is not valid in Cameroon, and cannot be used or exchanged. The economy is cash-based.

Euros and U.S. dollars are accepted in major stores and hotels. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major international hotels. VISA cash advance, money wire-transfer and Automated Banking Machine (ABM) cash services are available at major banks. There are no American Express offices.

Money transfer out of Cameroon is regulated, and persons must obtain authorization from the Ministry of Finance for any such transaction. Transferring funds through a bank is time-consuming, and charges are levied. Traveller's cheques can only be cashed at two major hotels in Yaoundé (the Hilton and Mont Fébé) and in banks. Due to forgeries and recent robberies, banks and hotels will cash traveller's cheques only if they are accompanied by the original purchase receipt. Whereas Canadian dollars are accepted in some financial institutions and exchange bureaus, Canadian-currency traveller's cheques are generally not accepted.
 
High-quality counterfeit new 10,000 CFA franc banknotes have been discovered in circulation in CFA franc zone countries. Travellers should avoid offers of large amounts of banknotes in exchange for foreign currency from anyone other than a reputable exchange bureau.

Business travellers who wish to establish a presence in Cameroon should first employ the services of a local agent. Caution should be exercised when pursuing venture capital and licensing arrangements. Business people interested in opportunities in Cameroon are encouraged to contact the commercial section at the High Commission of Canada in Yaoundé for information.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

BACK TO TOP

10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The rainy season occurs from June to September in the north and from July to October in the south. Travel to certain rural areas may be difficult during these periods, as heavy rains and flash floods could make unpaved roads impassable. You should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Cameroon has experienced volcanic activity over the past years. Mountaineers should consult with local authorities prior to ascending. You should be cautious around the Nyos and Monoum volcanic lakes because of periodical toxic fumes.

BACK TO TOP

11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Energy supply is poorly managed and power outages occur all over the country. Inadvertent power cuts are a daily occurrence and may last over eight hours. You are advised to turn off your electrical appliances before leaving your homes. Domestic gas may also be in short supply, especially during holiday periods such as December and January.

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

BACK TO TOP

12. ANNEX

N/A

BACK TO TOP