Soccer, the king of sports
As is often the case in Africa, soccer is a veritable religion in Cameroon. While the country's flagship clubs have a strong following, it's the Indomitable Lions, the national team, who create a veritable fervor at every outing. Players such as Roger Milla (named by the Confederation of African Football as the best African footballer of the 20th century), Thomas N'Kono, Joseph-Antoine Bell, Jean Manga Onguéné, Patrick Mboma (all of whom won the African Ballon d'Or in their day), Omam Biyik and, more recently, Rigobert Song, the late Marc-Vivien Foé and Samuel Eto'o Fils (President of the Cameroon Football Federation since 2021) have put Cameroon firmly on the map of African soccer legends. With a quarter-final appearance at the 1990 World Cup, a gold medal at the Sydney Olympics (2000) and 5 African Nations Cups (1984, 1988, 2000, 2002 and 2017), the Indomitable Lions have one of the continent's most impressive records. This did not prevent the immense popular disappointment of the CAN 2022, organized in the country, when André Onana's team-mates lost to Egypt in the semi-finals.
Swimming, lounging and water sports
The coastline of the Gulf of Guinea is ideal for idleness, particularly in the south and around the seaside resort of Kribi, with the beaches of the fishing village of Londji or Grand Batanga, for example, forming Cameroon's famous riviera. A dream spot, where fine sandy beaches lined with coconut palms stretch as far as the eye can see, and frankly ideal for putting down your suitcases in a luxurious hotel and enjoying the pool or in a straw hut for a bit of idleness between two swims and a grilled fish. Finally, after a bit of snorkeling, kayaking or paddle-boarding, head for the Lobé Falls, especially between September and November during the rainy season.
Fishing. In Cameroon, fishing can be done at sea or in the river, as the country has a large number of lakes and rivers (notably the Bénoué and Logone in the north of the country) and a coastline teeming with fish in the south. You can set off in the company of a traditional fisherman, aboard a pirogue, as in the village of Ebodjé, where you throw your hook into the Likodo River before gliding out to sea to try and reel in a barracuda. For sport fishing (big game), you'll have to climb aboard a modern, fully-equipped boat in the marina of Douala or Kribi, to catch swordfish or marlin.
Beautiful walks
The east, north and far north (where access is permitted) of Cameroon are playgrounds for hikers. But also for climbing enthusiasts in search of climbing spots. Mount Cameroun, a paradise for hikers and visiting climbers, offers spectacular views. The Dja Faunal Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a wealth of flora and fauna, as does the Bénoué National Park, one of the country's oldest protected areas. To the west, Korup National Park, one of Africa's oldest tropical rainforests, is also home to a wealth of biodiversity. Please note, however, that it is advisable to contact a local agency before setting off on your adventure.
Tennis and golf in sight
Former tennis champion and last French winner of the French Open, Yannick Noah has made a name for himself in his homeland. Many hotels are now equipped with tennis courts. You can play tennis at the Noah Country Club in Yaoundé, before taking advantage of the swimming pool or basketball courts. As for lovers of the little white ball, they can head for the 18-hole courses at the Golf Club de Yaoundé or the Golf-Club de Likomba in Limbé, for example.
