Nature and Urban Blend in the City. 6 Tourist Spots in Yaoundé, the Capital of Cameroon

Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon in Central Africa. As the country's second most populous inland city after Douala, Yaoundé has developed as a hub for logistics and trade since the colonial era.

Even today, the center of Yaoundé is very lively, dotted with museums that convey Cameroon’s history. There are also charming parks where you can enjoy a leisurely picnic.

Drive a little further and you’ll enter lush forest areas, where a sanctuary for primates awaits! You’ll surely be soothed by the sight of animals living freely.

Here are 6 carefully selected tourist spots in Yaoundé.

1. Mefou National Park (Mefou Sanctuary)

On the way from Yaoundé’s airport to the city center, there is the Mefou Sanctuary. Contrary to the hustle and bustle of central Yaoundé, the surrounding area is overgrown with trees, giving off a jungle-like atmosphere. As a sanctuary rich in nature, it is a popular spot for tourists visiting Yaoundé.

Within the park, chimpanzees, mandrills, gorillas, and mainly other primates are cared for and protected. Guided tours are popular, offering interesting insights from specialists on Yaoundé’s nature and primates. Because it faithfully recreates the nature of Africa, be careful as it becomes very muddy after rain.

Depending on the season, you may even see adorable baby chimpanzees. Watch them gently from afar so as not to scare them.

2. Blackitude Museum

The Blackitude Museum is located in the center of Yaoundé and is a museum where you can learn about the ethnic history of Cameroon. Established in 2000 as a private museum, it boasts an enormous collection of over 2,070 items. Among the exhibits are also handicrafts from neighboring countries such as Gabon and Nigeria. You will find intriguing items on display such as African-style textiles with vivid colors, colorful ornamental objects, and clay figurines.

Guided tours are also popular, where guides explain the works in detail. As Cameroon’s official languages are English and French, it is relatively easy for Japanese visitors to understand. The museum’s guides are reputed to be very friendly. Since the museum is compact, it is pleasant for tourists to tour efficiently.

3. Sainte Anastasie Forest Park

Located along a main road in central Yaoundé, Sainte Anastasie Forest Park is a quiet park often called an urban oasis.

Even though it is in the middle of Yaoundé, the sound of the wind rustling the trees and the beautiful chirping of birds fills the air soothingly. Despite the harsh heat of Yaoundé under the blazing sun, a small stream flows within the park, making it feel very cool. Listen carefully to the gentle sound of flowing water.

The park, which is often used for wedding anniversary photoshoots, is beautiful with various flowers such as hibiscus, violets, and geraniums in full bloom. It’s also a great spot to capture beautiful photos as a memento of your trip. There are even displays of roses, much loved by the Japanese.

Sainte Anastasie Forest Park is perfect for a picnic with lunch. There is also a restaurant within the park, so you can be well satisfied.

4. National Museum of Yaoundé

When sightseeing in Yaoundé, getting to know the history and culture in advance can deepen your understanding. For that reason, the National Museum of Yaoundé is a recommended tourist spot. It is located in a section of the government district in Yaoundé.

It clearly exhibits Cameroon’s history, culture, and traditional performing arts through a wealth of materials. The exhibits about Cameroon, which has a history of being colonized by various European powers such as Britain, France, and Germany, are very impressive.

Additionally, many artistic monuments are displayed at the entrance, making for great photo opportunities as a memento of your trip. With its unique African design, be sure to capture it with your camera.

Name: Musée national du Cameroun
Address: Musée National du Cameroun, 75058 Yaoundé
Official/Related Website URL: https://momaa.org/directory/musee-national-du-cameroun/

5. Yaoundé Peace Cathedral

Located in the southern part of Yaoundé, the Yaoundé Peace Cathedral has become one of the standard tourist spots in Yaoundé due to its modern appearance.

The cathedral, towering on a hill, features a large triangular roof that stands out, and the contrast between its pure white walls and brown roof is very stylish.

The interior is spacious and employs distinctly African color schemes, giving it a warm atmosphere. There are also monuments created with imagery related to biblical stories. They are quite realistic, so be sure to take a close look during your Yaoundé tour.

6. Reunification Monument

Built in 1974, the Reunification Monument is an iconic symbol of Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon. It is a unique piece of architecture reflecting Cameroon’s history, which has been tossed by colonial rule and divided governance. It was built in commemoration of the unification of British Cameroon (West Cameroon) and French Cameroon (East Cameroon) in 1961.

The uniquely designed Reunification Monument is especially impressive with its towering, soft-serve ice cream-like shape! Its swirling, distinctive form has become a classic spot for photographs. The interior is shaded and cool. Moreover, sculptures depicting Africa’s history have been applied, so be sure to check them out.

Standing beside it is the “Family Statue.” A young man holding a blazing torch is embraced by children, creating an air that is both dignified and heartwarming.

If you are touring Yaoundé, be sure to stop by this monument that conveys Cameroon’s history.

◎ Summary of Tourist Spots in Yaoundé

We have introduced 6 tourist spots in Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon.

The center is a bustling urban area filled with buildings, but a short drive will take you into lush forest areas. Would you like to explore the many charms of Yaoundé?

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Nature and Urban Blend in the City. 6 Tourist Spots in Yaoundé, the Capital of Cameroon