Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
INTERNET ACCESS
Internet access can be found in any town of a reasonable size. Connections range from de-
cent to awful, and costs average CFA300 to CFA600 per hour.
MONEY
The unit of currency is the Central African Franc (CFA), which is pegged to the West
African Franc. Cash is king in Cameroon, especially in remote regions where it's the only
way to pay - bring plenty of euros. Banks regularly refuse to change travellers cheques,
and charge around 5% commission when they do. Moneychangers on the street in Douala
and Yaoundé will change money at good rates and without taxes or commission, but
there's always an element of risk to such transactions.
Most towns now have at least one ATM, which is always tied to the Visa network.
Banks won't generally offer cash advances on credit cards. If you get stuck, Western
Union has branches throughout Cameroon for international money transfers.
Express Exchange moneychangers change travellers cheques and US dollars; there are
branches in many towns across the country.
POST
International post is fairly reliable for letters, but international couriers should be pre-
ferred for packages - there are branches in all large towns.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
New Year's Day
1 January
Youth Day
11 February
Easter
March/April
Labour Day
1 May
National Day
20 May
Assumption Day
15 August
Christmas Day
25 December
Islamic holidays are also observed throughout Cameroon; dates change yearly for these.
SAFE TRAVEL
The major cities, Douala and Yaoundé, both have reputations for petty crime, especially in
the crowded central areas. The roads pose a greater risk, with plenty of badly maintained
vehicles driven at punishing speeds.
