Things To Do
in Yaoundé
Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, is a hilly city set on a high plateau in the heart of the country, blending colonial architecture with lively markets and lush greenery. The capital's administration, culture, and education hubs give the city a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel while retaining a distinct Central African charm. Its elevated climate keeps temperatures milder than coastal cities, but humidity can be high and rain showers frequent.
Visitors will find a welcoming atmosphere, with a mix of French influence and diverse Cameroonian traditions evident in food, music, and daily life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Yaoundé, where you can discover the rich cultural heritage of Cameroon through various artifacts and exhibits. After immersing yourself in the museum, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of the historic center to appreciate the colonial-era architecture. Stop by a local café for a taste of fresh pastries and coffee, while soaking in the bustling atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Cathedral of Saint Paul, a stunning architectural marvel that offers a glimpse into the country's religious traditions. Following your visit, head to the bustling Mokolo Market, where you can shop for handmade crafts, spices, and local produce while interacting with friendly vendors. Experience the lively ambiance as you sample local street foods like plantains and grilled meats.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Cameroonian restaurant where the menu features local dishes such as Ndolé and Ekwang. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along Avenue Jean Paul II, enjoying the local nightlife and possibly catching a live music performance. End your evening with a drink at a rooftop bar, taking in panoramic views of the city.
Begin your day early by heading to Mefou National Park, located just outside of Yaoundé, where you can encounter diverse wildlife, including primates like gorillas and monkeys. Explore the park on a guided tour, learning about the conservation efforts in place to protect these incredible animals. Breathe in the fresh air as you hike through the lush rainforest, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
After your morning adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch in the serene environment of the park, taking the opportunity to relax and reflect on your experiences with nature. Post-lunch, embark on a walking trail to discover more of the park's flora and fauna, keeping your eyes peeled for exotic birds and vibrant butterflies. Capture the beauty of the surroundings with photographs as you explore.
Return to Yaoundé in the evening, where you can unwind at a local café with a refreshing drink. For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its fusion of Cameroonian and international cuisine, allowing your palate to experience diverse flavors. Wrap up your day with a stroll through the city, soaking in the vibrant night lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🪙Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culture and warm hospitality
- Compact city center with good access to nature and viewpoints
- Infrastructure can be uneven; some roads and utilities may be unreliable
- Traffic congestion and long travel times during peak hours
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien cela coûte-t-il?" - How much does this cost?
- "Où est le marché?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Yaoundé
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lookout on Mont Fébé offering sweeping views over Yaoundé and surrounding green hills, ideal for sunset photography.
Iconic religious architecture and bustling streets provide strong lines, colors, and candid street photography opportunities.
Waterfront scenes with palm trees, boats, and reflections—great for tranquil daytime shots and early evening light.
Cultural spaces and exhibits offer textural backdrops and opportunities to photograph art, crafts, and events.
Food in Yaoundé
Yaoundé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bitter leaf stew cooked with peanuts and usually served with meat or shrimp; a Cameroonian classic widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Chicken with plantains, vegetables, and flavorful spices; a celebratory, family-style dish common in Yaoundé.
Steam-cooked black-eyed pea cake wrapped in banana leaves, often paired with fish or sauce.
A cassava-based salad served with spicy grilled fish and a bright, tangy sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant street food stalls and fresh produce stands where you can sample fried plantains, roasted corn, and suya-style skewers.
Bustling local markets offering ready-to-eat snacks, fruits, and traditional beverages; great for people-watching and street photography.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a simple 'Bonjour' (French) or appropriate local greeting; handshakes are common, and farewells are expressed warmly.
Dress modestly in public spaces; ask before taking photos of people; use the right hand for gestures and money when interacting.
Be patient in markets, bargain lightly, and show appreciation for local food; sharing food is common in social gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in Yaoundé
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is good or if a service charge isn’t included. For taxis and small services, small coins or notes are appreciated.
Cash (CFA in smaller bills) remains widely used; many hotels and restaurants accept cards in urban centers. Mobile money (e.g., MTN Mobile Money, Orange Money) is common for small payments and transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with higher humidity; expect late-afternoon showers or rain. Lightweight clothing and a compact umbrella are handy; mornings are typically cooler and pleasant for outdoor exploration.
Frequent rain and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor plans, carry a light rain jacket, and allow extra travel time due to slick roads.
Yaoundé at Night
Hiking in Yaoundé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular local hike for city views and forest scenery; a short to moderate trail suitable for a half-day excursion.
Gentle woodland path near the city offering shade, birds, and a relaxing outdoor experience.
Riverside paths close to town for an easy, scenic daytime walk.
Airports
How to reach Yaoundé by plane.
Primary international gateway for Yaoundé, located about 25 km from the city center; accessible by taxi or shuttle.
Cameroon’s largest international airport located near Douala; roughly 230–260 km from Yaoundé; travelers may transfer by road or domestic flight.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Yaoundé is a diverse, cosmopolitan city with strong presence of Ewondo and Bassa communities, along with people from across Cameroon and neighboring countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; expect games and local leagues to color weekend culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yaoundé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options exist (beans, peanuts, plantains, cassava). Request dishes without meat or fish; use 'sans viande' or 'sans poisson' to specify. Rely on plant-based stews and legume dishes when possible.