7-Day Cameroon Itinerary
Cameroon offers a mix of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical sites. This 7-day itinerary will give you a well-rounded experience of the country. The pace is relaxed, so you’ll have time to soak in the atmosphere. Based on my travels around Cameroon, here’s how I would spend a week exploring this West African gem.
Day 1: Arrive in Yaoundé
Your trip begins in Yaoundé, the capital city. It doesn’t have a lot of must-see attractions, but it’s a great place to get your bearings. Spend your first day exploring at a leisurely pace.
In the morning, head to the National Museum of Yaoundé. This gives you a good introduction to Cameroonian history and culture. The museum is inside the old presidential palace, and the exhibits cover everything from traditional music to colonial history.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Mvog-Betsi Zoo, which focuses on the conservation of local wildlife. You’ll see animals like lions and gorillas. Be aware that conditions for some animals aren’t perfect, but this is one of Cameroon’s main conservation centers.
End your day by stopping at a local restaurant to try some Cameroonian dishes like ndolé (bitterleaf stew) or poulet DG (chicken and plantains). Get a good night’s rest before a busier second day.
Day 2: Yaoundé to Kribi
On Day 2, head south to Kribi, a 3-4 hour drive from Yaoundé. If you’re open to it, hiring a private driver will make things a lot easier, but there are also buses that connect the cities.

Kribi is your beach getaway. After arriving, get settled in and then spend the afternoon at Chutes de la Lobé (Lobé Falls). These waterfalls flow directly into the Atlantic Ocean, which is a unique sight. If you want to, you can take a canoe trip upriver for a closer look.
In the evening, relax on the beach. Kribi is known for its seafood, so grab some fresh grilled fish at one of the local seaside restaurants. Kribi is a laid-back town, perfect for unwinding.
Day 3: Relax in Kribi
Today is all about relaxation. You can take it slow in Kribi and spend more time by the beach. Walk along the coast, swim, or just sunbathe.
If you’re feeling up to it, Kribi also offers some hiking trails around the area. Otherwise, take the chance to enjoy some fresh seafood or buy some souvenirs from local markets.
The pace is easy today, allowing you to recharge before heading inland tomorrow. In the evening, take in a beautiful sunset by the ocean.
Day 4: Kribi to Douala
After breakfast, head north toward Douala. The drive takes around 2-3 hours. Douala is the largest city in Cameroon and offers a mix of history, modern life, and markets.
Once you arrive, check out the Doual’art gallery. It’s one of the few modern art spaces in Cameroon, showcasing local art and culture. Art lovers will find the exhibits interesting, plus it’s a good insight into the country’s contemporary scene.

Next, visit Marché des Fleurs, the flower market. It is a colorful spot where you can shop for local crafts, art, and handmade goods. It’s a nice way to support local artisans while picking up some souvenirs.
End your evening at a local restaurant; Douala has a diverse food scene, offering everything from street food to more upscale dining options. Try dishes like braised fish or grilled maize.
Day 5: Douala to Buea & Mt. Cameroon
Today, take a day trip to Buea, which is about an hour from Douala. Buea is at the foot of Mount Cameroon, the highest mountain in West Africa. If you’re up for it, you can attempt a day hike. There are multi-day hiking options as well, but the one-day option gives you a chance to see some of the beautiful landscapes without the commitment.
Even if you don’t want to hike, a visit to Buea offers a slower pace. The town has colonial history, and a walk through town showcases old German architecture. It’s not very touristy, so you’ll get a real feel for local life.

If you do the day hike, hire a guide locally. The hike takes you through different vegetation zones, and while it’s challenging, the views are worth it.
Return to Douala in the late afternoon and relax after a full day of exploring the outdoors.
Day 6: Douala to Bamenda
Head north to Bamenda. The ride can take around 5-6 hours, so it’ll be a long day of travel, but Bamenda gives you a different perspective on the country. It’s the capital of the North-West region and offers cooler weather and mountain views. You’ll immediately notice the difference in pace compared to the coastal cities.

Once you arrive, explore the town. Make a visit to the Bamenda Handicraft Cooperative. They sell handmade items like pottery, carvings, and textiles, which have been created by local craftspeople. It supports the community, and the souvenirs are authentic.
If you’re interested in local history, you can visit the Mankon Museum, which features information about the culture and history of the people in this area. It’s more low-key than museums in Yaoundé but still worth a visit.
Try the local specialty fufu and njama njama (huckleberry greens) for dinner before winding down.
Day 7: Ring Road Day Trip from Bamenda
The final day is a chance to explore nearby villages on the famous Ring Road, which loops around several traditional towns. You can hire a private driver or go with a group tour to explore the area.
Your main stop should be at the town of Bafut, where you’ll find the Bafut Palace. This traditional palace is home to the Fon of Bafut, the community’s leader. A guided tour will give you insight into local customs and history.
Other villages along the Ring Road include Bali and Ndop, each with its own sites and landscapes. It’s a slow day of driving, but you’ll get to interact with local communities and learn about their way of life.
Return to Bamenda for the evening and reflect on all the experiences you’ve had. If you’re up for it, try some local palm wine to celebrate your last night in Cameroon.
Conclusion
Cameroon is diverse and offers something for every kind of traveler. This 7-day itinerary balances cities, nature, history, and relaxation. You’ll see a nice mix of iconic places without feeling rushed. Enjoy your time traveling across Cameroon!
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