Glimpse of Cameroon and Central African Republic

Cameroon—vibrant, diverse, and full of life. From the buzzing streets of Yaoundé to misty highlands and roaring waterfalls, this journey takes us deep into the heart of the country. We’ll explore lively markets, visit historic sites, and venture into the forests to meet communities whose traditions have stood the test of time. Along the way, we stop at a chimpanzee sanctuary, where these incredible primates thrive in their natural habitat. Every turn reveals something new—whether it’s the scent of spices in a bustling market or the rush of cool mist from a hidden waterfall.
Then, the adventure takes a wilder turn in the Central African Republic, where nature reigns supreme. We’ll stand at the edge of the mighty Boali Falls, glide down the Oubangui River by pirogue, and wander through the colonial-era town of Zinga. Deeper into the jungle, we meet the Baka people, whose way of life is woven into the rhythms of the forest. This is a journey for the bold—those who seek the thrill of the unknown, the beauty of the untamed, and the stories that can only be found off the beaten path.

Highlights:
♦ Boali Falls – a breathtaking 60-meter-high waterfall surrounded by lush forest in the Central African Republic.
♦ Pongo Songo Chimpanzee Sanctuary – a rare chance to observe rescued chimpanzees thriving in their natural habitat.
♦ Oubangui River – one of Central Africa’s great lifelines, flowing through vast wilderness and vibrant riverside communities.
♦ Ekom Nkam Waterfall – one of Cameroon’s most stunning waterfalls, famously featured in the 1984 Tarzan movie.
♦ Baka Community Visit – an immersive experience with the Baka people, learning about their forest-based traditions and way of life.

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Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrival in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Welcome to Yaoundé, Cameroon’s lively capital, known as the “City of Seven Hills” for its rolling landscapes and green surroundings. Upon arrival, our driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have some free time to unwind or explore the city. We recommend a visit to the National Museum, housed in the former presidential palace, where you can get a fascinating introduction to Cameroon’s rich history and diverse cultures. -/-/-

Day 2. Yaoundé - Batoufam - Fombot
Today promises to be an exciting journey as we explore the heart of Cameroon. We begin with a visit to the iconic Reunification Monument in Yaoundé, which commemorates the 1961 reunification of French and British Cameroon, marking the formation of modern Cameroon. This historic site symbolizes national unity after years of division, offering a glimpse into the country's complex history. Next, we travel to the Batoufam Chefferie, where we will learn about the chief’s significant role in the traditional governance and cultural life of the Batoufam people. While we may not meet the chief directly, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of his influence and the cultural practices that guide the community. The Batoufam people are known for their impressive wooden masks, each one crafted with symbolic meaning and used in ceremonies that honor ancestors and spirits. Afterward, we visit the serene Metche Waterfalls, a natural wonder where the local communities may perform spiritual ceremonies. Waterfalls like these are often regarded as sacred sites where offerings are made to ancestral spirits believed to dwell in the waters Finally, we conclude the day with a drive to Fombot, where we will check into our hotel and rest after a long but fulfilling day. B/-/-

Day 3. Fombot – Foumban - Bafoussam
Today, we delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Foumban region. We begin by visiting the newly constructed Foumban Museum, an impressive space that showcases the history, art, and traditions of the region. The museum offers a fascinating look into the royal history of the area, as well as artifacts and exhibits related to the Batoufam people and their cultural significance. Afterward, we explore the local market, where you can shop for handmade goods, including jewelry, textiles, and crafts that reflect the region’s artistic heritage. In the afternoon, we visit the Bororo Muslim villages, where we’ll learn about the unique lifestyle of this community. The Bororo people, a subgroup of the Fulani, are traditionally nomadic herders, and their faith and communal traditions are central to daily life. They live in simple, circular homes and rely heavily on cattle for sustenance and trade. Women are skilled in weaving, while men are known for their expertise in livestock management. Visiting these villages provides a glimpse into a traditional and peaceful way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. B/-/-

Day 4. Bafoussam - Ekom Nkam - Douala
Today, we journey to one of Cameroon’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Ekom Nkam Waterfall. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, this powerful waterfall plunges over 80 meters into a rocky basin below. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in the country, having served as a filming location for the movie Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan. After taking in the beauty of Ekom Nkam, we continue our journey toward Douala, Cameroon’s largest city and economic hub. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening after a day of adventure. B/-/-

Day 5. Douala - Pongo Songo Chimpanzee Sanctuary - Kribi
We begin the day with a drive to Marienberg, a small riverside town with historical significance. Here, we visit the Marienberg Church, a colonial-era structure that stands as a reminder of the early missionary presence in Cameroon. From Marienberg, we board a boat and travel along the river to Pongo Songo, a sanctuary dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of rescued chimpanzees. These chimpanzees, victims of poaching and illegal wildlife trade, are cared for in a natural environment where they can live freely. The sanctuary plays a vital role in conservation, offering visitors a rare chance to observe these intelligent primates in their habitat. After our visit, we continue by road toward Kribi, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and relaxing atmosphere. B/-/-

Day 6. Kribi - Lobe Waterfalls - Douala
We start the day with a visit to Kribi’s bustling fish market, where local fishermen bring in their fresh catch from the Atlantic. This lively market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Kribi’s coastal communities, with a variety of seafood on display. Next, we head to the spectacular Lobe Waterfalls, one of Kribi’s most famous natural attractions. These 30-meter-high waterfalls are unique because they cascade directly into the Atlantic Ocean, one of the few places in the world where a river flows straight into the sea. The Lobe River, which feeds the falls, is an essential resource for local communities, and the site holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. We will take a boat ride on the river for a closer view of the falls and the surrounding lush rainforest. After enjoying the beauty of Lobe Falls, we take some free time to relax on Kribi’s sandy beaches and swim in the warm waters of the Atlantic. The town’s laid-back vibe and scenic coastline make it the perfect spot to unwind before we begin our journey back to Douala. B/-/-

Day 7. Douala - Bangui (Central African Republic)
Today, we take a flight from Douala to Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic. The schedule will determine whether we have some free time in Douala before departure or in Bangui upon arrival. If time allows in Douala, you can explore the city’s vibrant streets, visit local markets, or enjoy a relaxed meal before heading to the airport. If we have free time in Bangui, you can take a short walk through the city, visit a local café, or simply unwind after the journey.
Regardless of the schedule, today serves as a transition between two incredible destinations as we prepare for the next leg of our adventure. B/-/-

Day 8. Bangui - Zinga - Mbaiki
After breakfast, we head to the port and board a simple traditional pirogue for a scenic journey down the Oubangui River to Zinga. The trip takes about four hours, offering stunning views of the river’s lush surroundings and glimpses of local river life.
Zinga is a small town, stretching just one kilometer in length and 300 meters in width. Once an important ferry port, it remains a key stop for boats traveling between Bangui and Brazzaville. Zinga’s French colonial history is reflected in the remnants of a 6-kilometer-long railway, built in the 1920s to connect Zinga and Mongo. Though it was never fully operational, it stands as a testament to the region’s past and has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. After exploring Zinga, we continue to the small town of Mbaiki, where we settle in for the night, surrounded by the quiet charm of this riverside community. B/-/-

Day 9. Mbaiki - Baka Village - Bangui
Today, we visit a Baka village, where we gain insight into the unique lifestyle and traditions of one of Central Africa’s most well-known indigenous forest communities. The Baka people are traditionally semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers, living in the dense rainforests of the region. Their survival skills are deeply connected to nature, relying on hunting, fishing, and gathering wild fruits, honey, and medicinal plants.
The Baka have an extensive knowledge of the forest, using herbal remedies for medicine and building small, dome-shaped huts called mongulu, made from leaves and branches. Though modernization has influenced some aspects of their way of life, many Baka still maintain their deep spiritual and cultural ties to the forest. As part of our visit, we will be treated to a traditional dance performance, an essential part of Baka culture. Their music is characterized by polyphonic singing, rhythmic drumming, and intricate body movements, often mimicking the sounds and energy of the natural world. These dances are used for storytelling, spiritual rituals, and celebrations, offering a rare and mesmerizing experience. Then we will begin our journey back to Bangui by car, traveling through the scenic landscapes of the Central African Republic. B/-/-

Day 10. Bangui - Boali Waterfalls - Bangui
Today, we take a day trip to the Boali Waterfalls, located about 80 kilometers from Bangui. The waterfalls are one of the most impressive natural sites in the Central African Republic, with water cascading over rocky cliffs into deep pools below. The site is also home to the Boali Hydroelectric Plant, which uses the water from the falls to generate electricity for Bangui and surrounding areas. On arrival, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the falls, take photos, and enjoy a hike around the area. The falls provide an excellent vantage point to observe the power of nature and the local efforts in harnessing hydroelectric energy. In the afternoon, we return to Bangui. B/-/-

Day 11. Departure
Transfer to airport for departure (not included in the price). B/-/-

Note: Some hotels in this region do not have option for TWIN rooms. If you are two people travelling together, that means in some of the hotels you will have to share one bed (2-3 overnights in total). In such cases, you can check at check-in if there is availability to get another room for this particular nights only. Alternatively, you can add the single room supplement for the whole duration of the trip. 

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Price Includes:
accommodation according to the description (9 nights in standard hotels and one night in a basic bungalow or a Catholic missionary guesthouse in Mbaiki)
transportation as per program
arrival airport transfer
meals according to the description (B-breakfast; L-lunch; D-dinner)
English-speaking local guide
Penguin Travel tour leader at min. 10 people

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Not Included:
international flights
flight ticket Douala - Bangui
departure airport transfer (can be arranged with the local guide on the spot for additional fee)
invitation letters and visa fees
drinks and meals not mentioned in the program
entrance fees (80-90 EUR)
tips and personal expenses

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Additional Services:
Supplement pp. at 4-5 participants - 320 EUR

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Gallery

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