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Waza National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Discover Cameroon's Waza National Park: a haven for lions, elephants, giraffes, and diverse birdlife in a stunning savanna landscape.

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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 designated a national park in 1968, it offers a unique safari experience in West Africa.

A brief summary to Waza National Park

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Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for optimal wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
  • Hire a local guide for your safari to enhance your experience and ensure safety.
  • Bring your own 4x4 vehicle, as they are not available for rent in the park or nearby.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Maroua, the nearest major town, Waza National Park is approximately 120 km away. Hire a 4x4 vehicle or join a guided tour in Maroua to reach the park. The drive offers scenic views of Cameroon's northern landscape. Be cautious of potholes on the road. Upon arrival at the park entrance, an entry fee is required. Expect to pay around 10,000 XAF (approximately $17 USD) for international visitors. It is advisable to travel with a local guide or as part of an organized tour for safety and convenience.

  • Public Transport

    From Maroua, take a shared taxi heading towards Waza. Confirm with the driver that they will drop you off at the park entrance. The shared taxi ride from Maroua to Waza will take about 2-3 hours and cost approximately 2,000-5,000 CFA Francs. From Bamenda Highlands, take a bus or shared taxi to Maroua, which will take approximately 10-12 hours and cost around 5,000-10,000 CFA Francs. Once in Maroua, you can find shared taxis heading towards Waza.

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Discover more about Waza National Park

Waza National Park, situated in the Department of Logone-et-Chari in Cameroon's Far North Region, is a captivating protected area that showcases the beauty of the Sahel-Sudano environment. Spanning approximately 1,700 square kilometers (660 sq mi), the park was founded in 1934 as a hunting reserve before gaining national park status in 1968. In 1979, UNESCO recognized its ecological significance by designating it a Biosphere Reserve. The park's landscape is characterized by a mix of savanna grasslands, acacia forests, and floodplains, creating diverse habitats for a wide array of species. Waza lies within the Sudano-Sahelian zone, experiencing a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when animals congregate around water sources. Waza National Park is home to over 30 species of mammals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, cheetahs, and various antelopes. The park is known as one of the last strongholds for lions in West Africa and hosts large elephant herds, especially during the dry season. Birdlife is equally impressive, with over 379 documented species, including the kori bustard and ostrich. Visitors can enjoy game drives, birdwatching, and photography tours. A guide is required for exploring the park, whether on a driving or walking safari. While lodging isn't available inside the park, the nearby village of Waza and the town of Maroua offer accommodation options. Waza National Park faces challenges such as illegal hunting and habitat degradation, but conservation efforts are ongoing to protect its biodiversity. The park also maintains a close relationship with local communities, involving them in conservation programs and contributing to the local economy through tourism.

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