Yaounde in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Yaounde

87°F (31°C) High Temp

68°F (20°C) Low Temp

1.7 inches (43 mm) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 1.7 inches (43 mm) across the month makes it ideal for outdoor exploration and walking tours through the city's seven hills
Perfect temperatures for hiking Mount Fébé - morning temps of 68°F (20°C) are cool enough for the 3 km (1.9 mile) climb, while afternoons reach comfortable 87°F (31°C)
Harmattan winds from the north bring clearer skies and lower humidity than other months, creating excellent visibility for photography at Reunification Monument and panoramic city views
University season is in full swing, so the city buzzes with student energy - local bars, restaurants, and cultural venues are most busy, especially around Université de Cameroon I campus

Considerations

High tourist season means accommodation prices increase 25-40% compared to rainy season months, especially around Hilton and downtown business district
Dust from Harmattan winds can cause respiratory irritation for sensitive travelers and reduces air quality, particularly in busy areas like Mfoundi market
Popular attractions like Banjul and Mvog-Betsi Zoo experience peak crowds, especially weekends when local families visit

Best Activities in February

Mount Fébé Summit Hiking and Monastery Visits

February's cooler mornings make the 500m (1,640 ft) ascent of Mount Fébé manageable before the afternoon heat. The Benedictine Monastery of Mont-Fébé offers spectacular panoramic views of Cameroon's seven hills, and February's clear Harmattan skies provide the best visibility of the year. Start early at 7am when temperatures are still 68°F (20°C).

Booking Tip: Independent hiking is free, but guided cultural tours including monastery history typically cost 15,000-25,000 XAF. Book through hotel concierge or see current tour options in booking section below. Allow 4-5 hours total including monastery visit and photo stops.

Mfoundi River Valley Nature Walks

The dry season transforms typically muddy riverbank trails into accessible walking paths. February's reduced rainfall means clearer water views and active wildlife spotting - monkeys and exotic birds are more visible when vegetation is less dense. Perfect for early morning walks when humidity is lowest.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free along marked trails. Guided nature tours with bird identification typically cost 10,000-20,000 XAF for 2-3 hours. Local guides gather near Mfoundi market early morning. See booking options below for organized eco-tours.

Central Market and Artisan Quarter Cultural Tours

February's drier conditions make navigating Cameroon's sprawling Kinshasa more comfortable - less mud, better access to all vendor areas. This is peak season for local crafts as artisans prepare inventory after holiday season. The adjacent Quartier Artisanal showcases traditional Cameroonian woodcarving and textile work.

Booking Tip: Entry to markets is free, but cultural tours with translation and artisan introductions cost 8,000-15,000 XAF for 2-3 hours. Book morning tours to avoid afternoon crowds and heat. Licensed cultural guides available through tourism office.

Traditional Music and Dance Performances

February coincides with university cultural season - student groups perform traditional Beti, Ewondo, and other Cameroonian cultural dances. The cooler evenings make outdoor performances at Centre Culturel Francis Bebey more enjoyable. Local bikutsi music venues are most active during this dry season.

Booking Tip: Performance tickets typically cost 2,000-8,000 XAF depending on venue. Check Centre Culturel Francis Bebey schedule or ask at hotel concierge. Evening shows start around 7pm to avoid day heat. Some venues offer dinner-and-show packages.

Day Trips to Mbalmayo Forest Reserve

Located 50 km (31 miles) south of Cameroon, February's dry roads make this rainforest reserve accessible by standard vehicle - rainy season requires 4WD. Wildlife viewing is optimal as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. The 2-hour drive each way is comfortable in February's clear weather.

Booking Tip: Day trip tours including transport and guide typically cost 35,000-55,000 XAF per person. Book through licensed operators 3-5 days ahead as February is popular for forest excursions. See current tour options in booking section below.

Presidential Palace and Government Quarter Walking Tours

February's pleasant weather makes walking tours of Cameroon's administrative heart comfortable. While palace interior visits require advance permission, the surrounding colonial architecture and Unity Palace gardens showcase Cameroon's political history. Best photographed in February's clear, dust-filtered light.

Booking Tip: Guided historical tours cost 12,000-20,000 XAF for 2-3 hours including commentary on Cameroonian independence history. Photography restrictions apply near government buildings. Book through official tourism guides only.

February Events & Festivals

February 11

National Youth Day Celebrations

February 11th marks Cameroon's National Youth Day with parades, cultural performances, and sporting events throughout Cameroon. The main parade passes through Boulevard du 20 Mai with traditional dance groups, school bands, and athletic demonstrations. Hotels fill quickly this weekend.

Throughout February

University Cultural Festival Season

Throughout February, Université de Cameroon I and II host various cultural events, art exhibitions, and student performances showcasing Cameroon's 250+ ethnic groups. These informal festivals offer authentic cultural experiences away from tourist venues.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity and 87°F (31°C) afternoon temperatures

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off red clay soil intensifies exposure

Light dust mask or bandana - Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust that can irritate sensitive airways

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Cameroon's seven hills require substantial walking on sometimes steep, unpaved paths

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - while February is dry, brief afternoon showers still occur 10 days on average

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes are less active but still present, especially near Mfoundi River areas

Power bank and universal adapter - frequent brief power outages are common, especially during peak usage hours

Cash in small XAF denominations - many vendors don't accept large bills, and ATMs can be unreliable in some neighborhoods

Modest clothing for religious sites - covering shoulders and knees required for monastery visits and traditional ceremonies

Small daypack for hiking - Mount Fébé and nature walks require water, snacks, and camera storage for 4-5 hour excursions

Insider Knowledge

Local students return from holiday break in early February, so popular student areas like Ngoa-Ekellé come alive with cheap eats and nightlife - prices drop significantly compared to tourist zones

Book accommodations before January 25th - National Youth Day on February 11th creates a booking surge as domestic travelers visit the capital

Best exchange rates are found at authorized foreign exchange bureaus in Centre Ville, not at hotels or airport - rates can vary by 5-8%

Tap water is technically safe but inconsistent - locals drink bottled water, and most restaurants automatically serve bottled water with meals

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating walking distances and elevation changes - Cameroon's hills are steeper than they appear, and 87°F (31°C) afternoon temperatures make walking exhausting without proper planning

Scheduling outdoor activities during midday heat - locals rest between 12-3pm when temperatures peak, plan museum visits or indoor cultural sites during these hours

Not carrying small bills - vendors rarely have change for large denominations, and this creates unnecessary frustration at markets and for tips