Sangmélima - Discovering Cameroon

Travelling to Sangmélima

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sangmélima, a pretty good destination in Cameroon (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sangmélima and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sangmélima, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cameroon, here's everything to know about Sangmélima for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sangmélima

Sangmélima is a city located in the south region of Cameroon. It is the capital of the department of Dja-et-Lobo, and the second-largest city in the region after Ebolowa. The city has a population of around 100,000 people, and it is known for its agricultural richness, particularly in cocoa, coffee, and palm oil production. Sangmélima is also a transportation hub, with a major road passing through the city that connects it to other major cities in the region. The climate in Sangmélima is tropical, with high temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. The city is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, as it is located near the Dja Faunal Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to many endangered species.

What to visit in Sangmélima

Here are some tourist attractions of Sangmélima in Cameroon: 1. Dja Faunal Reserve: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most biodiverse rainforests in Africa. It is home to a variety of endangered species including gorillas, chimpanzees, and forest elephants.
2. Ekom Nkam Waterfalls: Located about 12 kilometers from Sangmélima, these waterfalls are a popular destination for tourists. The falls drop from a height of about 80 meters and are surrounded by lush vegetation.
3. Mount Ngovayang: This is the highest mountain in southern Cameroon and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers.
4. Lake Ossa: This is the only lake in Cameroon that has a connection to the sea. It is home to a variety of fish species and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
5. Mbalam-Nkouo Forest Reserve: This is a protected area that covers over 70,000 hectares of forest. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of primates.
6. Bafia Pottery: The pottery of the Bafia people is known for its unique designs and is a popular souvenir for tourists.
7. Mangrove Forests: The mangrove forests around Sangmélima are home to a variety of bird species and offer a unique ecosystem to explore.
Overall, Sangmélima is a great destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cameroon, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Sangmélima

The best time to visit Sangmélima in Cameroon is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, you can enjoy cooler temperatures, less humidity, and minimal rainfall. However, if you are interested in birdwatching, then the rainy season from March to October is the best time to visit Sangmélima since it is when the migratory birds come to the area. Keep in mind that while the rainforest is lush and green during the wet season, the frequent rains can make it difficult to get around and enjoy outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sangmélima

Sangmélima is located in the southern region of Cameroon. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By air: The closest airport is Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport, which is about 200 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to travel to Sangmélima.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate from Yaoundé and Douala to Sangmélima. The trip can take between 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
3. By taxi: You can also hire a taxi from Yaoundé or Douala to Sangmélima. This will be more expensive than taking a bus, but it can be a comfortable and convenient option.
Regardless of the transportation option you choose, make sure to plan your trip in advance and check with local authorities to ensure a safe journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sangmélima, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sangmélima

Sure, here are the typical foods of Sangmélima, Cameroon with a short description for each of them: 1. Ndole: This is a popular dish in Cameroon made from Ndole leaves which are a green leafy vegetable that is cooked with groundnuts, palm oil, onions, crayfish, and meat or fish.
2. Eru: Another popular dish in Cameroon made from African wild spinach that is cooked with smoked fish or meat, red oil, and crayfish.
3. Koki: This is a traditional meal made from mashed black-eyed beans, spices, and palm oil that is then wrapped in banana or plantain leaves and cooked.
4. Achu Soup: A delicious soup made from cocoyam that is mashed and rolled into balls, then served accompanied with a soup made from meat, fish, or vegetables.
5. Waterfufu: This is a meal made from cassava that is grated and then cooked into a smooth dough or paste that is then used to make balls or dumplings. It is usually served with a soup or a stew made from meat, fish or vegetables.
6. Bobolo: Bobolo is a traditional steamed bread made from cassava flour and wrapped in banana leaves before cooking. It is often served with fish dishes or stews made from meat and vegetables.
7. Nkui: This is a traditional yellow soup made from palm nuts, meat, fish, and spices. It is usually served with rice or fufu.
8. Mbanga soup: This is a soup made from palm oil, crayfish, meat or fish, and smoked fish. It is usually served with fufu, plantains or other starchy accompaniment.
9. Koki beans: This dish is similar to koki, but the beans are substituted for the black-eyed peas. It is served with plantains or other starchy accompaniments.
I hope this helps you in planning your trip and trying out the local cuisine in Sangmélima, Cameroon!
You can find general info about typical foods in Cameroon here.

Is Sangmélima an expensive destination for tourists?

Sangmélima is a relatively affordable destination in comparison to popular tourist destinations. The cost of living is not very high and the prices of accommodations, food, and transportation are generally reasonable. However, prices can vary depending on the level of luxury you prefer.
Keep in mind that if you are traveling from another country, you will need to budget for the cost of flights and visas, as well as any necessary vaccinations and travel insurance. Additionally, if you plan to participate in any activities or tours, there may be additional costs.
Overall, Sangmélima is a budget-friendly destination for tourists wishing to explore Cameroon.

Where to find accomodation in Sangmélima

The best areas to find accommodation in Sangmélima, Cameroon are usually around the city center or close to important landmarks such as the Dja Faunal Reserve, the Boumba Bek National Park, or the Sanaga River. Other popular areas for tourism-related accommodation include near the markets, restaurants, and public transportation hubs. It's recommended to choose an area that is convenient for your specific travel needs, as well as offers a safe and comfortable environment.
You can check hotel prices at Sangmélima here:
Booking.com

Is Sangmélima a safe destination for tourists?

Sangmélima is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Cameroon. However, like any other travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and take the necessary safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, stay aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure. It's also recommended to stay up-to-date on any travel advisories issued by your home country or international authorities. Overall, most tourists have a safe and enjoyable experience in Sangmélima.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cameroon here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sangmélima.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sangmélima the most?

Sangmélima is a great destination for travelers who love nature and adventure. The town is surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and wildlife reserves, making it a perfect place for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and game drives. Thus, it is ideal for families with kids who love nature.
Moreover, Sangmélima is also a great place for couples who love to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. They can discover the natural beauty of the surroundings together and create unforgettable memories.
However, young people who are looking for party destinations may not find Sangmélima as the right place to hang out. The town is more oriented towards eco-tourism, and there are very few opportunities for nightlife and fun activities.

How to get around Sangmélima

To move around Sangmélima in Cameroon, you can use various modes of transportation such as taxi, moto-taxi (motorcycle taxi), bus, and private car rentals. Taxis are a popular mode of transport, and they are readily available along the main roads. Moto-taxis are also widespread, and you can hail them down from anywhere. Buses operate on specific routes and are mostly used for long-distance travel. Private car rentals are another option, and they provide more flexibility and convenience for getting around.

What to see around Sangmélima

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Sangmélima, Cameroon: 1. Ekom Nkam Waterfalls - This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The waterfall is located in the heart of a lush rainforest, and it makes for an amazing and scenic sight.
2. Campo Ma'an National Park - This national park is located just 30 minutes from Sangmélima and offers visitors a chance to see a variety of wildlife animals such as gorillas, chimpanzees, monkeys, and elephants.
3. Dja Faunal Reserve – This large protected area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity, and is home to animal species such as western lowland gorillas and forest elephants.
4. Lobeke National Park – Located near the border with Congo and the Central African Republic, this park is known for its diverse flora and fauna which includes primates, duikers, and leopards.
5. Bafia – A small town with a crafts market popular for its art and pottery.
6. Kribi – A fishing town with beaches and relaxing atmosphere.
7. Yaounde – The capital city of Cameroon located 170 km north of Sangmélima. It has plenty of cultural and historic landmarks to be visited.
For every travel information about Cameroon you can click here.

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