The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is underway in Cameroon, and we are all excited about soccer. For those who make the trip, why don’t you take a chance to enjoy some attractions in Cameroon?
Cameroon is a vibrant West African country with warm, friendly people and is the best place for an unexpected holiday. Douala is Cameroon’s commercial capital.
This is the country’s stronghold, where the economy, business, and diplomatic life collide. It is the heart of the country, and it is a hive of activity. It is home to the country’s largest airport and the country’s most vital port.
Douala is where all of the action takes place. Because it is primarily a business centre, Douala may appear to be an unlikely spot to visit and enjoy, yet it does provide some unique experiences and adventures. Do take advantage of AFCON and let it open Cameroon up for you.
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Visit Lobeke National Park
Lobeke Natioal Park. Photo/Luxecam Tours
In between the AFCON games, you can visit Lobeke National Park on a day trip from Douala if you want to go on a national park tour. The park tops attractions in Cameroon list.
Spend a day in magnificent nature, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, and see some incredible species. You will sight buffaloes, leopards, Columbus monkeys, Chimpanzees, elephants, and even gorillas.
Drive to the Central Highlands of Cameroon
Hire a four-wheel-drive SUV and make a trip to the Central Highlands. Not only will you encounter amazing views, but there are a few spots to stop and have a snack as you admire the scenery. The Central highlands are among the top attractions in Cameroon.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the urban areas, the air quality here is unmatched. On your drive to Nkongsamba, you will encounter picturesque valleys as well as cascading waterfalls.
Take a moment to take pictures of a sunset when the sky provides an orange backdrop.
Track up Mount Cameroon
Mt Cameroon. Photo/Wikipedia
From Douala, head out to Mount Cameroon, West Africa’s highest mountain and an active volcano. The trip could take four days if you have a good tour guide. This is, of course, as you are taking a break from cheering the AFCON matches.
The peak of Mt Cameroon is roughly 4095 meters high, and there is enough to view along the way. You only appreciate the beauty of attractions in Cameroons while at the peak.
This track is also for the Guinness Mt Cameroon International Race. The Equatorial forest and the savanna are both visited on this expedition. Among the animals to be seen are monkeys, elephants, chimps, and drills.
You can see a variety of bird species if you are a bird enthusiast. Before resting at Maan’s Spring Camp, take a stroll past craters produced by volcanic eruptions and experience the distinctive lava fields. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance.
Musee Maritime de Douala
The Maritime Museum of Douala is a great place to visit to learn more about the city, including its history, culture, and Cameroon’s past. Every juicy detail of attractions in Cameroon is here.
It is a stunningly designed structure with three levels and a stunning port view. You learn about the maritime landscape and history of the Cameroonian tropical coast.
Paintings, sculptures, maps used by the ships that went to the port, and replicas of the trade vessels are among the displays that depict the growth of the port city. It is conveniently accessible from various hotels, and you can even walk there.
Doual’Art
This is the place to go if you’re a fan of art or want to learn more about Cameroon’s artistic and cultural activities.
This art centre exists to promote and encourage local artists and their works. And there are no better attractions in Cameroon than those speaking of art and culture.
The art is modern and fits in well with the urban environment. You can purchase a couple of pieces and help support a local artist.
Cathedral of St Peter and Paul Bonadibong
The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul is one of Douala’s most important historical sites.
It is a historically significant location. You can both enjoy the building and snap some fantastic photographs. The gardens are lovely, and some vendors sell antiques and literature that you may take home with you.
La Pagode
The meaning of La Pagode is Kings’ Place. They established it in 1905, writer Louis-Ferdinand Celine named it.
It is a lovely tower with a lot of history that the Germans erected. Today, it is a posh restaurant where you dine while listening to classical music.
Limbe
You travel to Limbe outside of Douala if you want to spend some time on the beach – the most chilled attractions in Cameroon.
You may unwind and enjoy the view on the sandy beaches, and the weather is usually pleasant. There is also plenty to do, such as visiting the botanical garden if you enjoy plants or the zoological park, which houses endangered species and provides a haven for them. There are numerous restaurants to visit, as well as numerous historical attractions.
A Foodie’s Paradise
Watching AFCON games can really build your appetite and Douala has a lot to offer. Various traditions and cultures influenced the city for ages as a port city.
Traditional Cameroonian food comes with a mixture of Pan-African-influenced cuisines you should sample. There are also Mediterranean and Middle Eastern meals on the menu.
Water Sports and Fishing
If you enjoy being out on the water, this is the place to be. Lease a boat from Douala and go deep-sea fishing. You can also participate in water sports, which is fascinating if you are daring enough.
The 33rd edition of AFCON runs till the 6th of February. If the current results are anything to go by, it looks like a cracker of a tournament. In-between the matches, take some time to visit this beautiful country, you will not be disappointed. Take in and enjoy the rich culture and history you will encounter along the way.
