Travel Vaccines and Advice for Cameroon

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Cameroon. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Cameroon: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

Polio is still present in some parts of Africa. A single booster dose of polio vaccine may be recommended for Cameroon.

There is a risk of contracting the dengue or malaria while in Cameroon. Both mosquito-borne diseases are potentially life-threatening. Be sure to use mosquito repellents and consider taking a antimalarial medication.

There is a threat of meningitis due to the country’s location in Africa. Travelers should receive a meningitis vaccine, especially if visiting between December and June.

Traveler’s diarrhea is a risk for those visiting Cameroon. Make sure to include a traveler’s diarrhea kit on your packing list.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

Cholera is active in certain regions of Cameroon. The CDC recommends that those who plan on traveling to areas of active cholera transmission get vaccinated. Vaccination is the best way to prevent contracting cholera.

The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!

A passport and visa are required for entry to Cameroon. All travelers must also have proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Cameroon Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Cameroon?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Cameroon and U.S. State Department

If your visit to Cameroon is longer than four weeks, individuals must also show proof of a polio vaccination.

The climate in Cameroon is very diverse.

The south is very hot and dry from November to February, and the rainy season lasts from June to October.

Temperatures in the North are more diverse. The rainy season is from May to October. Inland, the grasslands tend to be much cooler than coastal regions and experience regular rainfall.

The best months to visit Cameroon are January through April.

Travelers should exercise a high level of caution when visiting Cameroon. The Boko Haram terrorist group is active and targets foreign residents, tourists, and government leaders in northern regions. Boko Haram is also responsible for dozens of suicide bombings in the North and Far North region.

The State Department warns U.S. citizens to avoid traveling to the north and far north regions, parts of eastern Cameroon, and the Adamawa regions. These areas experience a high level of violent crime and terrorist threats.

Travelers should also exercise extreme caution when traveling within 60 miles of bordering countries. While visiting, monitor security messages from the embassy for updates.

The Dja Faunal Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the largest and best protected rain forests in Africa as 90% of the area is undisturbed. It is home to 107 mammal species, including 5 that are threatened. The Dja Faunal Reserve is often noted for its biodiversity, and primate habitats. For travelers who seek to witness the untouched natural beauty of Africa, the Dja Faunal Reserve is a must-see.

Cameroon is not your average destination and requires a bit extra travel preparation. Make sure you bring the following items with you:

• Insect repellent to help ward off mosquitoes and ticks. There is a risk of contracting Zika in Cameroon. Take appropriate precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
• A rain jacket and umbrella. Especially if you are traveling to Cameroon during the rainy season.
• A pair of good walking boots for hikes. There are numerous beautiful hiking trails available to tourists. Hiking boots are highly encouraged as some of these trails can be treacherous and muddy.
• Electrical adapters. There are both French and UK plugs throughout Cameroon.
• Cool cotton garments are great for the heat in Cameroon. It important to dress modestly when attending religious sites.
• Water purification tablets if you plan on camping or visiting remote areas.

All Americans visiting Cameroon should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.

Once in Cameroon, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:

U.S. Embassy Yaounde
Avenue Rosa Parks
Yaounde, Cameroon
Phone: (237) 22220-1500
Fax: (237) 22220-1500 x4531

Visit the Embassy to Cameroon website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.