Douala

Cameroon, Africa

Douala, the vibrant economic capital of Cameroon, is a melting pot of cultures and energy. From the bustling markets of Marché Sandaga to the lush landscapes of La Nouvelle Liberte, visitors can savor local cuisine, shop for handcrafted goods, and explore contemporary art spaces. The city's nightlife is equally enticing with lively bars and music. Douala serves as a gateway to stunning beaches nearby, making it a perfect blend of urban adventure and coastal relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Douala

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Douala

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit La Nouvelle Route

Experience the vibrant street life and culture of Douala.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Douala Maritime Museum

Learn about Douala's maritime history and significance.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Local Cuisine at Le Relais

Savor authentic Cameroonian dishes in a local restaurant.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Eko Market

Shop for local crafts and fresh produce in this lively market.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Bonanjo Park

Unwind in a green park with beautiful sculptures and gardens.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

Admire the stunning architecture of this historic cathedral.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience the nightlife at Akwa

Enjoy vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and live music.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Douala Art Museum

Explore contemporary art from Cameroon and beyond.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the African Art Gallery

View unique African art pieces and cultural artifacts.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat ride on the Wouri River

Enjoy scenic views of Douala from the water.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-13 (#184 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

French

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ndolé

Bitter leaf stew with groundnuts. (National dish)

Eru

VE

Vegetable dish with palm oil and spices.

Achu Soup

Thick soup made with pounded cocoyam.

Koki

VE

Steamed bean cake wrapped in leaves.

Poulet DG

Chicken cooked with plantains and vegetables.

Phrases to learn

English

French

Hello

Bonjour

(Bohn-zhoor)

Yes/No

Oui / Non

(Wee / No)

Thank you

Merci

(Mehr-see)

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

(Ex-kew-zay mwah)

How much?

Combien?

(Kohm-byen)