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The 12 Most Instagrammable Places in Cameroon (2025): A Photographer’s Paradise in Africa’s Miniature Continent

Discover the 12 most Instagrammable places in Cameroon for 2025, from Mount Cameroon's epic vistas to Limbe's black sand beaches. Local insights, photography tips & off-beaten path locations.

Discovering Cameroon’s Visual Treasures: My Photography Journey

The first time I visited Cameroon back in 2017, I wasn’t prepared for how stunning and diverse this country would be. I still remember stepping out onto the viewpoint at Limbe’s black sand beaches at sunset, frantically trying to capture the golden light hitting the volcanic sands while simultaneously accepting a cup of folere (hibiscus tea) from a local vendor. My hands were shaking with excitement, and the photos came out blurry – but that moment ignited my love affair with Cameroon’s incredible landscapes.

Seven visits later, I’ve explored nearly every corner of what locals proudly call “Africa in miniature” due to its remarkable geographical and cultural diversity. From the northern savannahs to the southern rainforests, coastal enclaves to volcanic heights, Cameroon packs an astonishing variety of Instagram-worthy scenes into one country.

Whether you’re planning your first Cameroon adventure or looking to capture fresh perspectives on return visits, this guide shares my hard-won knowledge of the most photogenic locations across the country for 2025. I’ve included everything from famous landmarks to hidden gems I discovered purely by getting lost (sometimes intentionally!).

Mount Cameroon: Africa’s Most Active Volcano

Mount Cameroon (locally known as Mongo ma Ndemi – “Mountain of Greatness”) offers some of the most dramatic photography opportunities in West Africa. Standing at 4,040 meters (13,255 feet), this active volcano dominates the landscape around Buea.

Best Photo Spots on Mount Cameroon

  • Hut 2 Viewpoint – Halfway up the mountain, this rest area provides stunning panoramas of the coast and Buea town below
  • The Summit – For the adventurous photographer willing to make the 2-day trek, nothing beats sunrise photos from the summit when clouds part to reveal the coastline
  • Bakingili Lava Fields – The 1999 and 2012 eruption sites showcase dramatic black lava formations against lush vegetation

Photographer’s Tip: The mountain creates its own weather system. I learned the hard way that clear mornings can become foggy within minutes. Always have rain protection for your gear, and if possible, schedule an extra day for your summit attempt in case weather forces you to postpone.

The mountain requires guides, and prices in 2025 start at 45,000 CFA (~$75) for a basic 2-day trek. I recommend booking through Mount Cameroon Adventures, as they employ local guides who know the best photo spots that aren’t in guidebooks.

Limbe: Black Sand Beaches & Botanical Garden

Limbe’s volcanic black sand beaches create a striking contrast with the blue Atlantic waters, making for dramatic photographs unlike typical beach shots. The town, situated at the base of Mount Cameroon, combines natural beauty with colonial architecture.

Prime Photo Locations in Limbe

  1. Down Beach – The most photogenic stretch of black sand, especially at sunrise when local fishermen launch their colorful boats
  2. Limbe Wildlife Centre – Home to rescued gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates in semi-natural enclosures
  3. Limbe Botanical Garden – Established in 1892, these gardens feature century-old trees and tropical flowers against mountain backdrops

I discovered that visiting Down Beach around 6:30 AM not only provides the best light for photography but also lets you witness the morning fish market where women in colorful dress negotiate the day’s catch. The contrast of vibrant clothing against the black sand makes for compelling portraits if you ask permission (offering to send photos via WhatsApp usually gets enthusiastic approval).

In 2025, entry to the Limbe Wildlife Centre costs 3,000 CFA (~$5) for foreigners. The Botanical Garden is now 2,000 CFA (~$3.50), up from last year’s price.

Kribi: Cameroon’s Coastal Paradise

Unlike Limbe’s volcanic beaches, Kribi offers classic golden sands and turquoise waters that rival any Caribbean destination. What makes Kribi special for photographers is the combination of pristine beaches with the Lobé Waterfalls – one of the few places in the world where a waterfall meets the ocean directly.

Instagram-Worthy Spots in Kribi

  • Lobé Waterfalls – Where the Lobé River cascades directly into the Atlantic Ocean
  • Grand Batanga Beach – Less visited than the main beach, this secluded stretch offers uninterrupted white sand views
  • Campo Ma’an National Park – Just south of Kribi, this rainforest park contains elephants, gorillas, and over 300 bird species

Getting the Perfect Lobé Falls Shot

After three visits to Lobé Falls with mediocre photos, I finally got advice from a local photographer: visit during the dry season (November-February) in late afternoon when the light hits the water at a 45-degree angle. This creates golden reflections while still maintaining enough shadows to give the falls dimension. For 5,000 CFA (~$8.50), you can hire a boat to take you right up to where the falls meet the ocean – worth every franc for the unique perspective!

Local Insight: Ask for “mbongo tchobi” at any of the seafront restaurants – this black spicy fish stew is a Kribi specialty that rarely appears on tourist menus. Not only delicious, but the distinctive black sauce makes for striking food photography against the blue ocean backdrop.

Lake Oku: Mystical Highland Waters

Lake Oku sits at 2,227 meters (7,300 feet) above sea level in the Northwest Region, surrounded by cloud forest and shrouded in local mythology. This crater lake is considered sacred by local communities, who believe it houses the spirits of their ancestors.

What makes Lake Oku particularly special for photographers is its mysterious quality – often partially obscured by mist, the dark waters reflect the surrounding forests in mirror-like stillness. It’s also home to the critically endangered Lake Oku clawed frog, found nowhere else on Earth.

Photography Tips for Lake Oku

  • The lake is frequently misty in the mornings (before 9 AM), creating ethereal conditions for photography
  • The road to Lake Oku improved significantly in 2024, but still requires 4WD during rainy season
  • Always seek permission from local guides before photographing any cultural rituals or sacred sites around the lake

My first visit to Lake Oku was a disaster – I arrived mid-day when harsh light created terrible reflections, and local guides were hesitant to help because I hadn’t arranged proper introductions. On my second attempt, I contacted the Kilum-Ijim Forest Project beforehand, who arranged a community guide for 15,000 CFA (~$25) and recommended the best photography times. The difference was remarkable – I not only got spectacular shots but learned fascinating stories about the lake’s cultural significance.

Rhumsiki: Volcanic Plug Landscapes

The Far North region of Cameroon holds some of the country’s most striking landscapes, and Rhumsiki stands as its crown jewel. This village is surrounded by volcanic plugs – dramatic rock formations that rise abruptly from the plains, creating a surreal, almost Martian landscape.

Best Photography Spots in Rhumsiki

Location Best Time Photo Opportunity
Rhumsiki Peak Sunrise/Sunset Iconic volcanic plug with golden light
Village Center Late Afternoon Traditional Kapsiki architecture against rock formations
Mango Trail Viewpoint 1-2 hours before sunset Panoramic vista of multiple volcanic plugs

Getting to Rhumsiki requires effort – it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Mokolo over occasionally rough roads. However, the photographic rewards are immense. I recommend staying at Campement de Rhumsiki, the area’s main accommodation. Their rooms (25,000 CFA, ~$42 in 2025) aren’t luxurious but provide direct views of the peak.

Culture Note: The local Kapsiki people have a tradition of fortune telling using crabs placed in special pots. While interesting, I found this often staged for tourists. Instead, I discovered more authentic cultural photography by visiting the weekly market (Wednesdays), where different ethnic groups gather to trade. Ask before taking photos and consider purchasing something from vendors whose portraits you take.

Waza National Park: Wildlife Photography Paradise

Waza National Park in Cameroon’s Far North region is the country’s premier wildlife photography destination. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covers 1,700 square kilometers of savannah landscape, home to elephants, giraffes, lions, and numerous antelope species.

After safety concerns temporarily closed the park to visitors earlier in the decade, I’m happy to report that as of 2025, Waza is once again accessible with proper guides and security arrangements. The wildlife population has rebounded significantly since protection measures were strengthened in 2022.

Photography Highlights in Waza

  • Mare de Waza – This large watering hole attracts diverse wildlife during dry season (November-May)
  • Savannah Plains – Open landscapes with acacia trees provide classic African safari photos
  • Bird Islands – During migration season, thousands of waterfowl create spectacular opportunities for bird photography

Park entry costs 10,000 CFA (~$17) per person plus 10,000 CFA for your vehicle in 2025. You must hire an official guide (15,000 CFA, ~$25 per day), but this is money well spent as they know exactly where animals have recently been spotted.

My biggest photography mistake at Waza was bringing only a 200mm lens on my first visit – far too short for quality wildlife images. I’d recommend at minimum a 400mm, but ideally a 100-400mm zoom for flexibility. Renting equipment in Cameroon is challenging, so bring what you need.

Mandara Mountains: Village Life & Spectacular Terraces

The Mandara Mountains in Cameroon’s Far North offer some of the most visually striking cultural landscapes in Africa. Here, various ethnic groups have built stone villages and agricultural terraces that cascade down mountainsides, creating geometric patterns that are particularly stunning from elevated viewpoints.

Photography Highlights in the Mandara Mountains

  1. Oudjila Terraces – Intricate agricultural terraces that transform mountainsides into living artwork
  2. Mabas Village – Stone houses with thatched roofs built among massive boulders
  3. Tourou Community – Famous for its distinctive conical huts and cultural traditions

The best base for exploring this region is Mokolo, where basic but comfortable accommodations are available. From there, hire a local guide (negotiate around 15,000-20,000 CFA, $25-35 per day) who speaks both French and local languages.

Cultural Respect Tip: Many communities in this region have only recently opened to tourism. Always get permission before photographing people or entering villages. I’ve found offering to print and mail photos back to subjects (via your guide) creates goodwill and leads to more authentic portraits. The phrase “Ini su’u rei?” (“How are you?” in Mafa language) goes a long way toward building rapport.

April 2023 was my first visit to this region, and I made a critical error – arriving during planting season when many terraces were bare earth rather than green with crops. For the most visually striking photos, visit between July and September when crops are at their fullest.

Ekom-Nkam Falls: Rainforest Cascades

Ekom-Nkam Falls gained international fame as a filming location for the 1984 movie “Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan,” but even without this Hollywood connection, these falls would be worth visiting. During rainy season, the 80-meter cascades thunder with impressive force, creating dramatic spray visible from kilometers away.

Located near the town of Melong in Cameroon’s Littoral Region, Ekom-Nkam offers multiple photographic opportunities beyond just the main falls.

Photographic Highlights at Ekom-Nkam

  • Main Observation Platform – Classic frontal view of the entire waterfall
  • Lower Trail – More challenging access but provides unique angles with massive boulders in foreground
  • Suspension Bridge – Recently constructed in 2023, offering aerial perspectives
  • Surrounding Rainforest – Rich biodiversity including monkeys, tropical birds, and butterflies

Photography Tips for Ekom-Nkam

The falls present some technical challenges for photographers. The constant spray means keeping equipment dry is a constant battle. After ruining a lens on my first visit, I now bring:

  • Multiple microfiber cloths to continuously wipe lenses
  • Rain covers for cameras
  • Clear UV filters (easier to wipe dry repeatedly than front elements)
  • Polarizing filter (crucial for controlling reflections and enhancing the rainbows that often form)

Entry fees in 2025 are 2,000 CFA (~$3.50) per person, plus 1,000 CFA to use a professional camera. During weekends, expect to share the view with local visitors, especially after the road improvements completed in late 2023 made access much easier from Douala (now about 2.5 hours).

Yaoundé: The City of Seven Hills

Cameroon’s capital city offers a mix of urban photography opportunities, from colonial architecture to vibrant markets and hilltop panoramas. Built across seven hills, Yaoundé provides numerous elevated vantage points for cityscape photography.

Instagram-Worthy Spots in Yaoundé

Location Best Time Photo Opportunity
Mont Fébé Sunset Panoramic city views from highest hill
National Museum Morning Traditional architecture and cultural artifacts
Marché Central Early morning Vibrant market scenes and local produce
Reunification Monument Late afternoon Modernist architecture with dramatic shadows

The best view of Yaoundé is from the Mont Fébé Hotel, where even non-guests can access the viewing terrace for the price of a drink (around 3,000 CFA, ~$5). I prefer visiting just before sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle as the sun dips behind the hills.

Local Tip: Yaoundé experiences its clearest skies during the dry season (November-February). The harmattan winds from the Sahara can create a dusty haze in December and January, which sometimes adds a magical golden quality to sunset photos but reduces daytime clarity.

For street photography in Yaoundé, I recommend the area around Avenue Kennedy and the craft market near the Hilton hotel. However, always be respectful and ask permission before photographing people. The phrase “Je peux prendre votre photo, s’il vous plaît?” (“May I take your photo, please?”) is essential French to know.

Dja Faunal Reserve: Pristine Rainforest

The Dja Faunal Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most important protected rainforests. Covering over 5,000 square kilometers, it contains incredible biodiversity, including forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and countless bird species.

While challenging to access, Dja offers unparalleled opportunities for nature and wildlife photography in a pristine setting that feels worlds away from Cameroon’s cities.

Photography Opportunities in Dja

  • Canopy Walkway – Recently constructed in 2023, offering unique elevated perspectives of the forest
  • Somalomo Village – The main entry point with traditional Baka communities nearby
  • River Scenes – The Dja River forms a natural boundary around 90% of the reserve
  • Wildlife Observation Platforms – Strategic locations for wildlife photography (patience required)

The reserve requires serious preparation. You must obtain permits through the Ministry of Forests and Wildlife (MINFOF) in Yaoundé before visiting. Costs include a 15,000 CFA (~$25) entry fee plus guide fees of around 25,000 CFA (~$42) per day.

My biggest photography challenge in Dja was the lighting – dense forest canopy creates extremely dark conditions with occasional bright spots where sunlight breaks through. I recommend:

  • Fast lenses (f/2.8 or wider)
  • A camera with good high-ISO performance
  • A sturdy but lightweight tripod
  • Rain protection for all equipment

I stayed at the Bouamir Research Station, which offers basic accommodation for 20,000 CFA (~$34) per night. While not luxurious, it places you right in the heart of the forest with expert guides available.

Bimbia Slave Port: Haunting Historical Site

Recently developed as a historical site, the Bimbia Slave Port near Limbe offers a sobering but important photography opportunity. As one of the major slave trading ports along the West African coast during the 18th and 19th centuries, Bimbia tells a crucial part of Cameroon’s history.

The site was only rediscovered in 2008 and has been gradually developed for visitors since then, with significant improvements made in 2022-2023.

Photography Elements at Bimbia

  • The “Door of No Return” – A symbolic gateway facing the Atlantic
  • Slave Chains – Archaeological remains preserved in their original locations
  • Forest Path – The route captives were forced to walk to reach ships
  • Memorial Garden – Recently installed in 2023 with educational displays

Photography at Bimbia requires sensitivity. This is a place of remembrance, and while photos are permitted, respect for the site’s significance is paramount. The entrance fee is 5,000 CFA (~$8.50), which includes a guided tour.

Photography Approach: I found black and white photography particularly effective at Bimbia, helping to convey the historical weight of the location. Early morning visits provide soft light filtering through the coastal forest canopy, creating a contemplative atmosphere for photographs.

To reach Bimbia, take a taxi from Limbe to Mile 4 Beach (2,000 CFA, ~$3.50), then hire a boat for the short crossing to the site (negotiable, around 10,000 CFA roundtrip, ~$17). Alternatively, the newer road access completed in 2024 allows direct vehicle access during dry season.

Foumban: Royal Palace & Cultural Heritage

Foumban, the cultural capital of Cameroon’s West Region, is home to the Bamoun people and their impressive royal palace (built in 1917). The palace museum houses an extraordinary collection of Bamoun art, royal regalia, and historical artifacts spanning centuries.

For photographers interested in architecture, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship, Foumban offers rich visual opportunities unlike anywhere else in Cameroon.

Most Photogenic Spots in Foumban

  1. Royal Palace and Museum – Stunning German-influenced architecture with traditional Bamoun elements
  2. Artisanal Quarter – Where craftspeople create brass sculptures and wood carvings using traditional techniques
  3. Sultan’s Mosque – Beautiful white mosque adjacent to the palace
  4. Weekly Market – Especially vibrant on Fridays with traditional textiles and local products

Photography inside the palace museum requires a special permit costing 5,000 CFA (~$8.50) in addition to the 3,000 CFA (~$5) entry fee. This is strictly enforced but worth it – the collection includes stunning royal thrones, beaded ceremonial masks, and historical photographs from the early 20th century.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during Ngouon (the biennial cultural festival held in even-numbered years), you’ll witness spectacular photo opportunities as thousands gather in traditional regalia. The next celebration is scheduled for December 2026.

Cultural Insight: I learned that the Bamoun people have their own unique writing system called “Shumom,” developed by Sultan Njoya in the late 19th century. Examples of this script can be seen throughout the palace and make for fascinating detail shots that tell a deeper cultural story.

I recommend staying at Hôtel Palace Royal (40,000 CFA, ~$67 per night), which is within walking distance of all major photography sites and offers comfortable accommodations with traditional design elements.

Maroua: Extreme North Landscapes & Cultures

Maroua, the capital of Cameroon’s Far North region, serves as a gateway to some of the country’s most distinctive landscapes and diverse ethnic communities. The city itself, with its mud-brick architecture and surrounding mountains, offers numerous photographic opportunities.

Photography Highlights in and around Maroua

  • Mont Maroua (Hosséré Maroua) – The distinctive flat-topped mountain overlooking the city
  • Grand Marché – Especially vibrant on Mondays and Fridays when rural communities come to trade
  • Koza and Tokombéré – Villages with traditional architecture and spectacular mountain backdrops
  • Mayo Tsanaga Riverbed – Dramatic dusty landscapes in dry season, flowing waters in rainy season

My Favorite “Hidden” Photo Location:

After three visits to Maroua, I discovered what’s now my favorite photography spot in the region – the viewpoint at Méri, about 30 kilometers northwest of Maroua. This small Mofu-Gudur village sits atop a rocky outcrop with 360-degree views of the plains and mountains. Visit in late afternoon when the low sun creates dramatic shadows across the landscape and locals bring their cattle home. The village chief may request a small gift (2,000-3,000 CFA, ~$3.50-5) for permission to photograph in the village.

While Maroua was once considered unsafe for visitors due to regional security concerns, the situation has improved significantly since 2022. Still, I recommend hiring a local guide who understands current conditions. Mr. Bouba at Toumaïrou Voyages (contact: +237 699 723 145) has been my trusted guide for three visits.

Photography Tip: The harmattan season (November-February) creates hazy conditions that can be challenging for landscape photography but produces an ethereal quality for portraits. Bring a polarizing filter to cut through some of the haze.

For accommodation, I recommend Le Faro Hotel (45,000 CFA, ~$76 per night) which provides comfortable rooms, reliable electricity (important for charging camera equipment), and a central location.

Capturing Cameroon: Essential Tips & Resources

After seven years of photographing Cameroon, I’ve learned that preparation is key to capturing this diverse country successfully. Here are my top recommendations to make your photography journey smoother:

My 5-Step Action Plan for Cameroon Photography

  1. Prepare Your Gear Strategically – Cameroon’s diverse environments from rainforest to desert require versatile equipment. I recommend one weather-sealed camera body, a 24-70mm for landscapes/culture, a 70-200mm minimum for wildlife, and a wide prime (35mm or 24mm) for environmental portraits. Bring twice as many batteries and memory cards as you think you’ll need.
  2. Secure Permissions in Advance – For national parks, historical sites, and cultural ceremonies, secure permits before arrival. The Ministry of Tourism office in Yaoundé (contact: +237 222 232 936) can provide official documentation that smooths access to restricted areas.
  3. Hire Local Fixers for Each Region – Cameroon’s diverse regions each require specific local knowledge. Budget 15,000-25,000 CFA ($25-42) per day for guides who know exactly when and where to position you for the best shots.
  4. Learn Key Phrases in Local Languages – Beyond French and English, learning basic greetings in regional languages opens doors. I’ve compiled a free downloadable photography phrase guide with essential expressions in Fulfulde, Bamoun, and other key languages.
  5. Follow Through on Promises – If you offer to send photos back to subjects, actually do it. I bring a portable printer (the Canon Selphy) to immediately share physical photos with people I photograph, creating goodwill and often leading to invitations to photograph even more interesting scenes.

Money-Saving Insider Tips

  • Photography Equipment Declaration: When entering Cameroon with professional camera equipment, declare it at customs using the temporary import form (admission temporaire). This prevents potential fines when departing and costs nothing if properly documented.
  • SIM Card Strategy: Purchase both MTN and Orange SIM cards (around 500 CFA each, less than $1) as network coverage varies by region. Local data is inexpensive (5GB for about 5,000 CFA, ~$8.50) and allows you to research locations on the go.
  • Off-Season Photography: Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (October or April) when tourist sites have fewer visitors but weather remains relatively favorable. Many accommodations offer 30-40% discounts during these periods.

Sustainability Tips That Save Money

  • Instead of buying bottled water (which creates plastic waste), invest in a good water purifier like the LifeStraw. I’ve used mine throughout Cameroon for years, saving thousands on bottled water while reducing plastic waste.
  • Support community-based tourism initiatives like the Mount Cameroon Ecotourism Organization, which charges similar rates to commercial operators but reinvests profits into conservation and community development.
  • When possible, use shared transport between major cities (bush taxis or “clandos”) which reduces your carbon footprint and costs about 60% less than hiring private vehicles. For photography gear security, simply pay for an extra seat to keep your equipment bag beside you.

Recent Changes (2023-2025)

Several significant developments have impacted photography in Cameroon recently:

  • The Douala-Kribi coastal highway was completed in late 2023, reducing travel time between these photography hotspots from 4 hours to just over 2 hours.
  • Drone regulations have been standardized as of January 2024. Permits for photography drones now cost 50,000 CFA (~$84) through the Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority and are typically processed within 7 business days.
  • Post-pandemic tourism has resumed fully, but visitor numbers remain below 2019 levels, meaning iconic sites like Mount Cameroon have fewer crowds than in past years – perfect for unobstructed photography!
  • The exchange rate has remained relatively stable at around 590 CFA to 1 USD, making budgeting more predictable than in previous years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cameroon safe for photographers?

The security situation varies significantly by region. As of 2025, most tourist areas in Central, Littoral, South, and West regions are generally safe for photographers. The Far North has improved considerably since 2022, though guided visits are essential. The Northwest and Southwest regions still experience periodic unrest and require careful planning. Always check current conditions through your embassy before traveling.

My personal approach is to hire local guides who understand current conditions and can advise on photography etiquette for each area. In seven years of photography trips, I’ve never experienced serious security issues when following local advice.

What photography gear should I bring to Cameroon?

Cameroon’s diverse environments demand versatile equipment. At minimum, I recommend:

  • A weather-sealed camera body that handles humidity and dust
  • 24-70mm for landscapes and cultural photography
  • 70-200mm minimum for wildlife (longer if possible for Waza)
  • A fast prime lens (35mm or 50mm) for low-light situations and portraits
  • Polarizing filter for landscape work (especially waterfalls)
  • More batteries than you think you’ll need (charging opportunities can be limited)
  • Weatherproof camera bag
  • Lens cleaning supplies (dust is constant in dry regions, humidity in forest areas)

Rental equipment is not readily available in Cameroon, so bring everything you need.

What’s the best time of year for photography in Cameroon?

This depends entirely on what you want to photograph:

  • Landscapes and Mountains: November-February offers clearest visibility (though December-January can have harmattan haze)
  • Wildlife (Waza): March-April when animals concentrate around water sources
  • Waterfalls: July-September when water volumes are highest
  • Cultural Festivals: December-January for most traditional celebrations

My ideal photography itinerary splits visits between dry season (November-February) for northern regions and shoulder season (October or April) for southern forests and coastal areas.

Do I need permission to photograph people in Cameroon?

Yes, always ask before photographing individuals. Cameroonians in urban areas generally understand photography, but in rural communities, expectations vary widely. Some ethnic groups have specific beliefs about photography, and certain ceremonies may be off-limits to cameras.

I’ve found offering small prints (via portable printer) creates tremendous goodwill. The phrase “Je peux prendre votre photo?” (French) works in most areas. In Muslim regions of the north, be particularly respectful about photographing women.

How do I get around Cameroon with photography equipment?

For serious photography expeditions, hiring a vehicle with driver is the most practical option (typically 50,000-70,000 CFA per day, ~$84-118, including fuel). This allows you to stop freely for photography opportunities.

Between major cities, VIP bus services like Garanti Express offer secure, air-conditioned transport where you can keep your gear with you. For remote areas, 4WD vehicles are often necessary, especially during rainy season.

Within cities, I use dedicated taxi drivers whom I pay a daily rate (around 25,000 CFA, ~$42) to wait while I photograph various locations.

Are there any photography restrictions I should know about?

Several important restrictions apply:

  • Military installations, bridges, government buildings, airports and some infrastructure cannot be photographed
  • Some museums and historical sites charge camera fees (typically 1,000-5,000 CFA, ~$1.70-8.50)
  • Drone photography requires permits from the Civil Aviation Authority
  • Some traditional ceremonies restrict photography or require special permission from community leaders

When in doubt, ask before shooting. I’ve found Cameroonians are generally accommodating about photography when approached respectfully.

References & Resources