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Pont sur le Wouri: A vital artery of Douala

Experience the iconic Pont sur le Wouri in Douala: a historic bridge offering stunning views and a taste of local Cameroonian culture.

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The Pont sur le Wouri, also known as the Bonabéri Bridge, is a vital road and rail bridge in Douala, Cameroon, connecting Bonabéri to the rest of the city. Inaugurated in 1955, it was once the longest concrete bridge in Africa and remains an iconic landmark, offering stunning views and a glimpse into local Cameroonian culture.

A brief summary to Pont sur le wouri

  • 3MCV+WWJ, Bonabéri, CM

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for the best photography opportunities and stunning views of the Wouri River.
  • Explore the nearby markets in Bonabéri to experience local culture and cuisine.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the bridge and exploring the surrounding areas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in Bonabéri, follow the main roads towards the Wouri River. The bridge is easily visible and accessible from most parts of Bonabéri. Look for signs directing you to 'Pont sur le Wouri'. No costs are associated with walking onto the bridge.

  • Public Transport

    From the center of Douala, take a local bus heading towards Bonabéri. Many buses cross the bridge. Ask the driver to drop you off near the bridge entrance in Bonabéri. The typical bus fare within Douala is around 200-300 FCFA. From Tiko, you can take a local bus or moto-taxi heading towards Limbe. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Bonabéri junction. Upon arrival, exit the bus and walk towards the left fork that leads to Bonabéri. Continue walking straight for about 3 kilometers. Look for signs that will lead you to Pont sur le Wouri, which is at coordinates 4.0723401 latitude, 9.6947734 longitude. The bridge will be visible from the road.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Douala and Bonabéri. Simply tell the driver you want to go to 'Pont sur le Wouri' in Bonabéri. A short taxi ride within Bonabéri should cost approximately 500-1000 FCFA, depending on the distance and traffic. From Douala International Airport (DLA), a taxi to the bridge would cost around 4000-6000 FCFA and take approximately 15-20 minutes.

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Discover more about Pont sur le wouri

The Pont sur le Wouri is more than just a bridge; it's a symbol of connection and progress in Douala, Cameroon. Spanning the Wouri River, this impressive concrete structure facilitates the movement of people and goods between Bonabéri and the rest of Douala, playing a crucial role in the region's economy. Built between 1951 and 1954 by French companies, the bridge was a significant engineering achievement for its time. Upon its inauguration on May 15, 1955, it stood as the third-longest bridge in Africa and the longest concrete bridge on the continent. The bridge is 1,830 meters long and originally had one vehicle lane in each direction, a central railway track, and two sidewalks. Today, the Pont sur le Wouri continues to be a vital transportation link and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Walking across the bridge offers panoramic views of the river, the bustling city, and the surrounding lush landscapes. The bridge is especially enchanting at sunset, when the sky's vibrant colors reflect off the water, creating a magical atmosphere. The area around the bridge is also lively, with markets and cafes offering a taste of local culture and cuisine. In recent years, a second bridge, the Second Pont sur le Wouri, was constructed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve transportation in the region. This new bridge, opened in 2017, features five traffic lanes, a railway line, and pedestrian walkways, further enhancing connectivity and economic growth. Despite the presence of the new bridge, the original Pont sur le Wouri remains an important landmark and a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the local community.

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