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Safari Game Hunting In Cameroon’s Diverse Landscapes

July 4, 2024
Safari Game Hunting In Cameroon’s Diverse Landscapes

Often overlooked compared to its more popular neighbors, Cameroon is a gem for game hunting enthusiasts. The country’s diverse landscapes, from dense rainforests to sprawling savannahs, provide the perfect backdrop for a wide variety of game species.

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Cameroon Offers a Unique and Thrilling Experience for Game Hunters

Cameroon, known for its rich cultural diversity and stunning landscapes, covers 183,569 square
miles and is home to 27.2 million people. Officially bilingual in French and English, Cameroon is bordered by Nigeria, Chad, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo, with a beautiful coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The country is divided into ten regions, each offering unique experiences and opportunities. With the Central African CFA franc (XAF) as its currency, Cameroon operates under a republic with a presidential system, and its capital city is Yaoundé.

  • Size: 183,569 square miles
  • Population: 27.2 million
  • Official Languages: French and English
  • Location: Bordered by Nigeria, Chad, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo. It also has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Regions: Adamawa, Centre, East, Far North, Littoral, North, Northwest, South, Southwest, and West.
  • Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
  • Government: Republic with a presidential system
  • Capital City: Yaoundé
Cameroon landscapes
Hunting in Cameroon is a melting pot of moments and adventures culminating in an unforgettable hunting safari.

Climate & Topography

Cameroon’s landscape is as diverse as its wildlife, featuring coastal plains, mountains, rainforests, and savannahs. The climate ranges from tropical along the coast to semiarid and hot in the north. This diversity supports a wide range of game species and offers varying hunting conditions throughout the year.

Cameroon’s unique topography includes:

  • Coastal Plains: The coastal regions are characterized by mangrove forests and coastal savannahs, providing habitats for waterfowl and other coastal species.
  • Mountain Ranges: The central and western parts of Cameroon are home to several mountain ranges, including Mount Cameroon, an active volcano that stands as the highest peak in West Africa.
  • Rainforests: The southern and eastern regions are covered by dense rainforests, offering a habitat for species such as bongo and forest elephants.
  • Savannahs: The northern regions are dominated by vast savannahs, home to species like the Lord Derby eland and roan antelope.
Red River Hog Africa Hunts
Hunting the unique Red River Hog in Cameroon

African Safari Hunts in Cameroon

Cameroon’s game hunting laws require non-residents to be accompanied by a licensed professional hunter and hosted by a licensed outfitter. Ensure your hunting safari is booked with a legitimate and licensed provider.

Why Choose to Hunt in Cameroon?

Cameroon is an ideal hunting destination for several reasons:

  • Diverse Game Species: From savannah species like the Lord Derby eland to forest-dwelling species like the bongo.
  • Untouched Wilderness: Vast areas of pristine hunting grounds.
  • Cultural Experience: Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

Cameroon offers a hunting experience that is both challenging and rewarding. The country’s variety of ecosystems means hunters can pursue a wide range of species within relatively short distances. This diversity, combined with the opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of local communities, makes Cameroon a compelling destination for game hunting.

Popular Game Hunting Destinations

Cameroon is divided into several hunting zones, each offering unique experiences:

  • North Region: Known for its savannah and species like the Lord Derby eland, roan antelope, and buffalo. This region’s open landscapes make it ideal for spotting and tracking game.
  • East Region: Dense rainforests home to species like the bongo, forest elephant, and sitatunga. Hunting in this region is challenging due to the thick vegetation, requiring patience and skill.
  • Adamawa Region: Rolling hills and forests providing habitats for species like giant forest hogs and various duikers. This region offers a mix of forest and open terrain, providing diverse hunting opportunities.

Each of these regions provides a distinct hunting experience, from the open savannahs of the north to the dense, humid rainforests of the east. Understanding the unique characteristics of each region can help hunters choose the best destination based on their preferences and the species they wish to pursue.

Traveling to Cameroon for a Hunting Safari

Visitors to Cameroon typically arrive at Douala International Airport or Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport. American citizens can obtain a visa for entry. Your outfitter will typically arrange transportation from the airport to your hunting destination.

Cameroon is accessible via several international flights, with major airlines providing service to Douala and Yaoundé. Once in Cameroon, your outfitter will handle most of the logistics, including transportation to the hunting grounds. This often involves travel by road to more remote areas, which can be an adventure in itself, offering a glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes and local communities.

Best Time to Hunt in Cameroon

The optimal hunting season in Cameroon is during the dry months from December to May. During this period, the weather is more predictable, and game is more concentrated around water sources, making tracking easier.

The dry season offers several advantages for hunters:

  • Easier Movement: Less vegetation and drier conditions make it easier to move through the bush.
  • Concentrated Game: Animals are more likely to congregate around water sources, increasing the chances of successful sightings and hunts.
  • Pleasant Weather: Cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings provide comfortable hunting conditions.

However, hunters should be prepared for the varying climates across different regions. The northern savannahs can be hot during the day, while the rainforest regions in the south may still experience occasional rains and high humidity.

Essential Hunting Gear and Preparation

When preparing for a hunting safari in Cameroon, consider the following:

  • Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing for the hot climate, and warmer layers for the cooler nights.
  • Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable boots suitable for varied terrain.
  • Equipment: Binoculars, a reliable rifle with appropriate caliber, and other hunting essentials.
  • Health Precautions: Vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis are recommended.

In addition to the standard hunting gear, consider packing the following items to enhance your experience:

  • Insect Repellent: Essential for protecting against mosquitoes and other insects.
  • First Aid Kit: A basic kit with bandages, antiseptics, and any personal medications.
  • Waterproof Gear: In case of unexpected rain, especially in the rainforest regions.
  • Navigation Tools: GPS or a reliable map, especially if you plan to explore the hunting grounds independently.

Popular Game Hunting Species in Cameroon

Hunting The Lord Derby's Eland

Cameroon is home to a remarkable variety of game species, each offering unique hunting challenges.

The Big Game

  • Lord Derby Eland: The largest antelope, known for its impressive size and spiral horns. Hunting the Lord Derby eland requires patience and endurance, as these animals are known for their elusive nature and can cover large distances quickly.
  • Bongo: A striking forest antelope with vivid markings, challenging to hunt due to its elusive nature. Bongo hunts often involve tracking through dense rainforest, making for a physically demanding but rewarding experience.
  • Forest Elephant: Smaller than the savannah elephant but equally challenging and dangerous to hunt. These elephants are adept at moving quietly through the forest, making them a difficult target.
  • Buffalo: Both savannah and forest species are present, each requiring different hunting strategies. The savannah buffalo is often found in open grasslands, while the forest buffalo requires tracking through thick vegetation.

Plains and Forest Game

  • Roan Antelope: Found in the savannah regions, known for their speed and agility. These antelopes are often found in herds, requiring careful approach and strategy.
  • Sitatunga: A swamp-dwelling antelope that requires careful stalking in dense vegetation. Sitatunga hunts often take place near water, adding an additional layer of challenge.
  • Giant Forest Hog: The largest wild pig species, found in dense forests. These animals are known for their strength and aggression, making them a formidable quarry.

Each species presents its own set of challenges, requiring hunters to adapt their techniques and strategies. Understanding the behavior and habitat of each game species is crucial for a successful hunt.

The Thrill of Cameroonian Hunting Adventures

Hunting in Cameroon offers an unparalleled adventure, from the thrill of tracking elusive game to the satisfaction of a successful hunt under the African sky. The country’s vast and varied landscapes provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable hunting experience.

Cameroon’s diverse environments not only support a wide range of game species but also offer hunters a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the country. Whether you are stalking a bongo through the rainforest or tracking a Lord Derby eland across the savannah, each hunt is a unique and exhilarating adventure.

Plan Your Ultimate Game Hunting Adventure in Cameroon Today

Cameroon, with its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, stands out as a prime destination for game hunting. The country’s diverse game species, combined with the thrill of the hunt, make it a must-visit for hunting enthusiasts.

As your next step, consider booking your Cameroon hunting trip with one of our reputable outfitters to ensure a safe and rewarding hunting adventure in Cameroon. The thrill of the hunt awaits, offering an experience that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Embrace the adventure and discover the wild beauty of Cameroon, where every hunt is a journey into the heart of Africa.