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Waza National Park: A Cameroon Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore Cameroon's Waza National Park: a biodiverse haven for elephants, lions, giraffes, and birdlife in a stunning Sudano-Sahelian landscape.

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Waza National Park, located in the Far North Region of Cameroon, is a 1,700 square kilometer protected area renowned for its diverse wildlife and Sudano-Sahelian landscapes. Established as a hunting reserve in 1934 and later granted national park status in 1968, Waza offers an authentic African safari experience with its thriving populations of 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 to April) for optimal wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
  • Hire a local guide for a safer and more informative safari experience.
  • Bring your own 4x4 vehicle, as they are not available for rent in or near the park.
  • Pack appropriate clothing for hot days and cooler nights, especially during the dry season.
  • Bring local currency (CFA Francs) for park entrance fees and other expenses.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Maroua, the nearest major town, drive approximately 120 km north to Waza National Park. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Follow the paved road towards Chad, and the park entrance is located just off the main road near the village of Waza. Be cautious of wildlife and local traffic along the way. Ensure you have enough fuel, as gas stations can be sparse. There are no car rentals in the park, so visitors must bring their own four-wheel-drive vehicle. There are no parking fees, but park entrance fees are approximately 10,000 XAF (about $17 USD) for international visitors.

  • Public Transport

    From Garoua, take a bus to Waza. Buses depart frequently from the Garoua bus station. The journey typically takes about 3 to 4 hours and costs around 2,000 to 3,000 CFA francs. Confirm with the driver that the bus stops at Waza National Park. From the Waza bus station, arrange for a taxi or shared vehicle to reach the park entrance, which is about 10 kilometers away. Expect to pay around 1,000 to 2,000 CFA francs for the taxi.

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Discover more about Waza National Park

Waza National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, stands as one of Cameroon's premier wildlife destinations, offering a captivating glimpse into the Sahel-Sudano ecosystem. Spanning 1,700 square kilometers in the Far North Region, the park was initially established in 1934 as a hunting reserve before being designated a national park in 1968 to protect its diverse wildlife and savanna ecosystems. The park's terrain is characterized by a mix of savanna grasslands, acacia forests, and floodplains, creating habitats for over 30 species of mammals and 379 documented bird species. Waza is known for its healthy lion prides and large elephant herds, especially during the dry season when they congregate around watering holes. Other notable species include giraffes, leopards, cheetahs, antelopes, and various bird species like the kori bustard and ostrich. Birdwatchers can also spot species such as the marabou stork, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and northern carmine bee-eater. While Waza National Park is a haven for wildlife, it faces challenges such as illegal hunting and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect its delicate ecosystems and biodiversity. The best time to visit Waza National Park is during the dry season, from November to April, when temperatures are cooler and animals are easier to spot as they gather near water sources.

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