Cheap Flights To Douala

The largest city in the Cameroon and home to more than three million inhabitants, Douala boasts the highest standard of living in Africa and is hailed for its peaceful environment, highly developed infrastructure and rich resources, contributing the region's thriving economy. Records indicate that the first Europeans to discover the area were the Portuguese circa 1472. Scattered around the city are a number of historical sites, marking the city's colonial past and its origins as a slave port. The region enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, featuring warm and humid conditions which remain fairly consistent throughout the year.

This charming city is hailed for its picture postcard beaches of soft white sand, clear waters, swaying palm trees, azure blue skies and flanked by Equatorial forest vegetation. Unsurprisingly, sun seekers and water sports enthusiasts are drawn to Douala and devotees of the region proclaim that the area's beaches are among the best in the world. The city is also renowned for its array of interesting and varied attractions, including museums, vibrant and colourful markets and the local cuisine is rumoured to be the finest in the region. Visit during the month of August when the Culture Week Festival is hosted. The celebration features the youth of Cameroon travelling back to pay respects to their ancestors and parents and festivities include wrestling matches, music shows, traditional dances and sporting events.

Things To Do

This vibrant and culturally rich region boasts a plethora of activities and attractions. Revell at one of the many nightclubs or bask in the sunshine at one of the many glorious beaches.

• Kick off your shoes and hit the beach

Spend the day at Kribi Beach with its soft white sand and gently rolling waves. This is a popular beach yet never seems crowded. After spending a few hours in the sun, visit the Lobe Waterfalls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and just a few minutes walk from the beach.

• Check out the local sports

The Cameroons adore their sports and subsequently, a host of sporting events occur on a regular basis. Canoe racing is a particular favourite and spectators will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the sheer number of canoe racing events in the city.

• For a great night out

Spend the evening in Georges 5 Night Club, located in the Rue Bebey. This is the largest nightclub in Douala and the resident DJ's eclectic set ensures that the revellers dance into the small hours.

Calendar Of Events

Douala is renowned for its many festivals and events. Every conceivable type of celebration is marked by parades, ethnic costume and dance, African music and excellent food.

• Culture Week Festival: The Culture Week Festival is hosted in August and as its name suggests, spans one week. The event includes the young people of the Cameroon travelling home to honour their parents and ancestors. Festivities include sports matches, including wrestling, traditional dances and parades with participants wearing ethnic regalia.

• African Theatre Festival for Children and Young People: The African Theatre Festival for Children and Young People is hosted in November and brings together the theatrical youth of Cameroon. The event features theatre workshops and competitions.

• Ngondo Festival: Hosted in December, the Ngondo Festival is a celebration of the arts and culture of the Sawa ethnic group. Festivities include song, dance, arts and crafts workshops and competitions including canoe racing.