Arrival and Getting into Town

Getting Around the City

• Taxis: In Douala, yellow taxis are common, while in Yaoundé they’re mostly green. Most operate as shared rides with metered or flat rates—always agree on the price and whether it’s a shared ride before getting in.
• Motorcycle taxis (bendskin): The fastest option for short trips and very cheap, but helmets are essential and safety can be a concern.
• Ride-hailing apps: Apps like Yango are available locally, offer relatively transparent pricing, and are useful in both major cities—especially good for late-night travel.

Intercity Transport

Intercity travel in Cameroon is mainly by road. Companies like Général Express, Touristique Express, and Musango operate buses and minibuses connecting cities such as Douala, Yaoundé, Bafoussam, and Kribi. Fares are low, but schedules and vehicle conditions vary. Always buy tickets at official stations or from windows offering proper receipts. For cross-region trips, private car hire or reputable bus companies are better options. Long-distance travel is best done during the day. During the rainy season, watch for poor road conditions and flooding. Allow extra time for checkpoints along the way, and carry a copy of your passport for identification checks.

Trains and Flights

Camrail runs passenger trains on routes such as Douala to Yaoundé. It’s a unique way to experience local transport, but schedules are unreliable and comfort is limited—best suited to travelers with flexible time. Domestic flights connect Douala, Yaoundé, and northern cities. For remote areas, flying can save significant travel time. Overall, Cameroon has long distances and varied road conditions, so plan intercity trips with enough buffer time and avoid cramming multiple long-haul legs into one day.

Tips

• Carry small change when taking taxis, be polite when negotiating fares, and ask your hotel to arrange rides or use apps at night.
• In Douala, heavy rain often causes traffic jams due to flooding—leave plenty of time when catching a flight, or consider staying near the airport the night before if needed.
• For long-distance private car hire, confirm if fuel, tolls, and driver meals are included, and keep the driver’s contact details for returns or schedule changes.