Mefou National Park

Mefou National Park, Cameroun - Complete Travel Guide

Mefou National Park is a remarkable wildlife sanctuary located approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Cameroon, Cameroon's capital city. Established in 2000, this 1,045-hectare protected area serves as a crucial primate rehabilitation center and conservation site, housing rescued and orphaned primates including chimpanzees, gorillas, and various monkey species. The park operates as both a sanctuary for animals that cannot be returned to the wild and a breeding facility for endangered species reintroduction programs. The park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe African primates in a semi-natural environment while supporting vital conservation efforts. Beyond its primate populations, Mefou National Park features diverse ecosystems including dense tropical rainforest, savanna grasslands, and wetland areas that support a variety of bird species, reptiles, and smaller mammals. The facility combines eco-tourism with education, providing guided tours that highlight wildlife conservation challenges and successes in Central Africa.

Top Mefou National Park

Primate Sanctuary Tour

start a guided tour through the sanctuary's various enclosures to observe rescued chimpanzees, gorillas, and other primates up close. Learn about individual animal stories, rehabilitation processes, and conservation efforts while walking through forest pathways. The tour provides exceptional photography opportunities and educational insights into primate behavior and conservation challenges.

Booking Tip: Book tours in advance through the park office or local tour operators, with costs typically ranging from $20-40 per person. Morning visits (8-10 AM) offer the best wildlife viewing as animals are most active. Choose operators that contribute directly to conservation efforts.

Bird Watching

Explore the park's diverse avian population with over 100 recorded bird species including African grey parrots, hornbills, and various forest kingfishers. The varied habitats from forest canopy to wetland areas provide excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced birders. Early morning and late afternoon sessions yield the highest species counts.

Booking Tip: Bring binoculars and hire a local guide familiar with bird calls and locations for $15-25 per day. Best viewing is during dry season months (December-February) when birds are more active. Consider multi-day packages for serious birding enthusiasts.

Forest Nature Walks

Take guided walks through the park's pristine rainforest trails to discover medicinal plants, unique tree species, and smaller wildlife. These educational hikes provide insights into tropical forest ecosystems and traditional plant uses while offering chances to spot forest elephants, duikers, and various reptiles. The walks vary in difficulty from easy strolls to moderate hikes.

Booking Tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring insect repellent for comfort during 2-4 hour walks costing $10-20 per person. Rainy season walks offer lush scenery but require waterproof gear. Book with certified guides who can identify flora and fauna.

Photography Safari

Participate in specialized photography tours designed to capture the park's wildlife and landscapes with optimal lighting and positioning. Professional guides assist with finding the best vantage points for primate photography and provide insights into animal behavior for better shots. The tours cater to both amateur and professional photographers.

Booking Tip: Specialized photography tours cost $50-80 per person and include extended time at prime locations. Bring telephoto lenses and extra batteries as charging opportunities are limited. Book during dry season for clearest shots and best lighting conditions.

Conservation Education Program

Engage in hands-on conservation activities including tree planting, habitat restoration, and learning about anti-poaching efforts. Participate in feeding sessions with rescued animals and gain insights into veterinary care and rehabilitation processes. These programs provide meaningful ways to contribute to conservation while learning about wildlife protection challenges.

Booking Tip: Multi-day conservation programs range from $100-200 and include accommodation and meals. Book at least one month in advance as spaces are limited. Programs run year-round but are most comfortable during dry season months.

Getting There

Mefou National Park is accessible by road from Cameroon, approximately a 1.5-hour drive southeast via the N10 highway toward Mbalmayo. Visitors can hire private vehicles, join organized tours, or take shared taxis from Cameroon's central taxi stations, though private transport is recommended for convenience and schedule flexibility. The nearest airport is Cameroon Nsimalen International Airport, about 1 hour from the park entrance. Road conditions are generally good on main routes but can become challenging during heavy rains, particularly on the final approach roads to the park.

Getting Around

Transportation within Mefou National Park is primarily on foot along established trails and boardwalks, with guided walks being the standard method of exploration. The park provides guided tours as motorized vehicles are restricted to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for moderate hiking on forest paths. Park guides are essential for navigation and safety, and all movement within the sanctuary must be accompanied by authorized personnel to ensure both visitor safety and animal welfare.

Where to Stay

Cameroon city center

Mbalmayo town

Park eco-lodges

Cameroon hotel district

Nsimalen airport area

Local guesthouses near park

Food & Dining

Dining options near Mefou National Park are limited, with most visitors eating packed lunches during day trips or staying in nearby Cameroon where Cameroonian cuisine featuring grilled fish, plantains, and cassava-based dishes dominates local restaurants. The park occasionally offers simple meals for overnight visitors, typically featuring local ingredients and traditional preparations. Visitors should plan to bring snacks and water, especially for longer tours, as food services within the park are minimal. Nearby Mbalmayo offers basic restaurants serving local dishes, while Cameroon provides the full range of dining options from street food to international cuisine.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Mefou National Park is during the dry season from November to March when wildlife viewing is optimal, trails are more accessible, and weather conditions are most comfortable for outdoor activities. During this period, animals are more active and visible, and photography conditions are ideal with clearer skies and better lighting. The wet season from April to October brings lush vegetation and active bird life but can make trails muddy and challenging, though it offers unique opportunities to see the forest at its most busy. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round due to the equatorial climate, but humidity is lower during dry months.

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning when primates are most active and temperatures are cooler for optimal wildlife viewing experiences

Bring a good camera with telephoto lens and extra batteries as charging facilities are limited within the park

Support conservation efforts by purchasing souvenirs from the park shop, as proceeds directly fund animal care and rehabilitation programs