Cameroon has over 20 protected areas preserving habitats from equatorial rainforest to semi-arid savanna. Here is your guide to the parks you can visit and the extraordinary wildlife that awaits.
Cameroon's network of national parks and protected areas covers approximately 20% of the country's territory, preserving habitats ranging from equatorial rainforest to semi-arid savanna. For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, these parks offer some of Africa's most rewarding and least crowded wildlife experiences.
Waza National Park (Far North)
Cameroon's most famous park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The savanna and floodplain ecosystem supports elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, warthogs, hippos, and over 370 bird species. Best visited November to May when wildlife concentrates around water sources. Accommodation available at the park lodge.
Dja Faunal Reserve (South)
UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting over half a million hectares of intact equatorial rainforest. Home to western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, bongos, and over 320 bird species. Access from Somalomo; specialist Baka pygmy guides essential.
Korup National Park (Southwest)
One of Africa's oldest rainforests, estimated at 60 million years. Protects 400+ tree species, 600+ butterfly species, and over 400 bird species. Known for accessible ecotourism infrastructure and excellent research facilities.
Bénoué National Park (Adamawa)
Protects savanna and gallery forest along the Bénoué River. Part of a larger complex with Faro and Bouba Ndjida national parks. Elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and lions. Excellent wildlife viewing December to April.
Campo Ma'an National Park (South)
Near the Equatorial Guinea border, protecting lowland rainforest, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems. Gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and sea turtles nesting on Atlantic beaches — extraordinary biodiversity in one park.
Mefou Primate Sanctuary (Near Yaoundé)
Operated by Ape Action Africa, providing sanctuary to rescued great apes. Unlike wild parks, visits guarantee primate sightings while supporting rehabilitation of animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. An excellent half-day excursion from Yaoundé.
Planning Your Park Visits
Global Bush Travel organises comprehensive national park itineraries handling all logistics — transport, accommodation, park permits, and experienced guides. We combine multiple parks into single trips or focus on specific parks based on your wildlife priorities.