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Waza National Park: A Cameroon Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore Cameroon's Waza National Park: a biodiverse haven with elephants, lions, giraffes, and stunning savanna landscapes.

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Waza National Park, located in the Far North Region of Cameroon, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse wildlife and savanna ecosystems. Established in 1934 as a hunting reserve and later gaining national park status in 1968, it offers an authentic African safari experience with elephants, giraffes, lions, and diverse bird species.

A brief summary to Waza National Park

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Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November-April) for optimal wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
  • Hire a local guide or join an organized tour for safety and to enhance your understanding of the park's ecosystem.
  • Bring appropriate clothing for hot days and cooler evenings, and wear sturdy shoes for walking safaris.
  • Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals during game drives and walking safaris.
  • Carry sufficient water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
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Getting There

  • Road

    Waza National Park is accessible by road from Maroua, the nearest major town, approximately 120 kilometers away. Most visitors arrive in Maroua by air, as the town has an airport with connections to Yaoundé and Douala. From Maroua, hire a 4x4 vehicle or join a guided tour to reach the park. The journey can be rugged, but the drive offers scenic views of Cameroon's northern landscape. It is advisable to travel with a local guide or as part of an organized tour for safety and convenience, given the park's remote location. Park entrance fees for international visitors are around 10,000 XAF (approximately $17 USD) per adult.

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Discover more about Waza National Park

Waza National Park, a jewel of Cameroon's Far North Region, presents a captivating blend of savanna grasslands, acacia forests, and seasonal floodplains across 1,700 square kilometers. Founded in 1934 as a hunting reserve, it evolved into a national park in 1968 and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1979, underscoring its ecological significance. The park's diverse terrain supports over 30 mammal species, including lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and various antelopes. Birdlife is equally impressive, with over 379 documented species, such as the kori bustard and ostrich. The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April) when animals gather around water sources. Visitors can explore the park through guided game drives and walking safaris, encountering iconic species and diverse birdlife. Waza's conservation efforts face challenges from illegal hunting and habitat degradation, highlighting the importance of protecting this vital area. The park's remote location near the Chad border offers an authentic safari experience away from crowded tourist destinations.

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