Mefou National Park: A Primate Haven in the Heart of Cameroon

Discover Mefou National Park in Cameroon, a sanctuary for rescued primates and a haven of biodiversity, just a short drive from Yaoundé.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Cameroon
Mefou National Park

Mefou National Park is a unique gem in Cameroon, offering visitors an unparalleled experience of wildlife conservation and natural beauty. Located just a short drive from the bustling capital city of Yaoundé, this park is a sanctuary for rescued primates, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and mandrills. The park is managed by the Ape Action Africa organization, which is dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of these incredible animals. As you wander through the lush forest trails, you'll have the chance to observe these primates in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. The park's educational tours provide fascinating insights into the lives and behaviors of its residents. Knowledgeable guides share stories of each primate's journey to recovery and the ongoing efforts to protect them from threats such as poaching and habitat loss. This makes Mefou National Park not just a place for wildlife viewing, but also a learning experience that highlights the importance of conservation. In addition to the primates, the park is home to a variety of other wildlife and plant species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. Bird watchers will delight in the opportunity to spot colorful and rare bird species darting through the canopy. For those interested in botany, the park's diverse flora offers a rich tapestry of Cameroon's native plant life. A visit to Mefou National Park is both an adventure and a chance to contribute to the noble cause of wildlife preservation.

Local tips in Mefou National Park

Visit early in the morning when the animals are most active and the weather is cooler.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing suitable for the tropical climate.
Carry insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
Bring a camera with a good zoom lens for capturing close-up shots of the primates.
Respect the park rules and do not feed or disturb the animals.
Consider making a donation to Ape Action Africa to support their conservation efforts.

Fichier:Singe dans le Park de la Mefou7.jpg — Wikipédia

Fichier:Leptonychia subtomentosa-NMNH-03381061.jpg — Wikipédia

When is the best time to go to Mefou National Park?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Cameroon Reunification Monument

Explore the Cameroon Reunification Monument, a stunning cultural landmark in Yaoundé that celebrates national unity and rich history.

Parc de la Méfou (Ape Action Africa)

Explore Parc de la Méfou, a wildlife refuge dedicated to primate conservation, where nature and education come together in a breathtaking setting.

Unmissable attractions to see

Basilica of Mary Queen of Apostles

Explore the captivating beauty and spiritual essence of the Basilica of Mary Queen of Apostles in Yaoundé, a true gem of Cameroon's architectural heritage.

Site Touristique D'EBOGO

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Ebogo, a hidden gem in Cameroon offering unforgettable natural adventures.

NATURO PARC (YAOUNDE)

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Naturo Parc, an enchanting tourist attraction in the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Ecotouristique Goshen

Explore Ecotouristique Goshen in Mbalmayo for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Cameroon’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Vimli

Explore Vimli, a serene tourist attraction in Mbalmayo, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility in beautiful surroundings.

mont abega

Discover the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity of Mont Abega, a serene tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Mont Akoa Ndoue

Experience the breathtaking views and serene nature at Mont Akoa Ndoue, an iconic attraction in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Site touristique YOLA

Experience the authentic charm of Mbalelon at Site Touristique YOLA, where culture meets the serene beauty of Cameroon.

Concentré

Explore Concentré, a hidden gem in Yaoundé, where nature meets culture in a breathtaking tourist attraction.

Le Paix Hill

Explore Le Paix Hill in Yaoundé: A peaceful retreat with stunning views, cultural experiences, and a taste of local life amidst lush greenery.

Miséricorde divine guide touristique

Explore the serene beauty and architectural splendor of Miséricorde Divine, a spiritual haven in the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Palfa dior

Explore the vibrant art and culture of Cameroon at Palfa Dior in Yaoundé, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking local craftsmanship.

Essential places to dine

Istanbul Turkish Restaurant

Savor authentic Turkish cuisine at Istanbul Turkish Restaurant in Yaoundé – where every bite takes you on a flavorful journey.

Boukarou Lounge

Discover Boukarou Lounge: A vibrant culinary destination in Yaoundé offering authentic Cameroonian dishes with modern flair.

Le Safoutier Restaurant

Experience culinary excellence at Le Safoutier Restaurant in Yaoundé's Hilton Hotel—where local flavors meet international cuisine.

The Famous

Experience authentic Cameroonian cuisine at The Famous Restaurant in Yaoundé - where flavors meet tradition.

Restaurant Kajazoma

Discover authentic Cameroonian cuisine at Restaurant Kajazoma in Yaoundé - where tradition meets taste in an unforgettable dining experience.

Bois d'ebene

Discover the rich flavors of Cameroon at Bois d'ebene in Yaoundé - a culinary gem offering authentic dishes in a vibrant setting.

La Salsa Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cameroonian cuisine at La Salsa Restaurant in Yaoundé - a culinary delight awaits!

Chez Wou

Discover exquisite Chinese cuisine at Chez Wou in Yaoundé, where every dish promises an authentic taste experience amid elegant surroundings.

La Pizzeria, Yaoundé

Experience the authentic taste of Italy at La Pizzeria in Yaoundé – where every slice tells a story.

سوبر ماركة ومطعم ماهيما

Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Mahima Restaurant in Yaoundé – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.

Restaurant LES CASCADES DU MFOUNDI, Yaoundé

Discover authentic Cameroonian cuisine at Restaurant Les Cascades du Mfoundi in Yaoundé – where flavor meets culture.

Platinium Cafe

Experience vibrant dining at Platinium Cafe in Yaoundé, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

Etok koss, Yaoundé

Discover the rich flavors of Cameroon at Etok Koss in Yaoundé—where local cuisine meets international flair in a welcoming atmosphere.

Restaurant Italien-Chef Marcello

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Italien-Chef Marcello in Yaoundé - where every dish tells a story.

Route 66 Bar & Grill Bastos Yaounde

Savor authentic American flavors at Route 66 Bar & Grill - where delicious cuisine meets vibrant ambiance in Yaoundé.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Parc de la Méfou (Ape Action Africa)

Explore Parc de la Méfou, a wildlife refuge in Cameroon dedicated to primate rehabilitation and conservation, offering a unique nature experience.

Marché nkolmefou

Discover the essence of local culture and flavor at Marché Nkolmefou, a vibrant grocery store in the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon.

AFIRI Shop

Discover authentic local crafts and souvenirs at AFIRI Shop in Mbalmayo, a unique shopping experience that showcases the region's rich culture.

JOINVENTURESS LTD OFFICIAL

Explore unique Cameroonian craftsmanship at JOINVENTURESS LTD, a boutique in Yaoundé offering handcrafted treasures for every traveler.

ETHNICGENERATION

Explore the vibrant charm of ETHNICGENERATION, where every gift tells a story of Cameroonian culture and artistry.

shoupi shop

Experience the warmth and flavor of Cameroon at Shoupi Shop, a cozy coffee retreat in the heart of Yaoundé.

MINI BROCANTE RIVER SIDE

Explore unique handmade crafts and antiques at MINI BROCANTE RIVER SIDE, a charming riverside store in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Olive shop (OL)

Explore the Olive Shop in Yaoundé for a unique selection of local olive oils and gourmet products that embody the essence of Cameroonian culinary heritage.

JOELO FASHION

Explore unique styles and local fashion at Joelo Fashion, the premier clothing store in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

FOLS STORE

Discover the essence of Cameroonian fashion at FOLS STORE, where modern style meets local craftsmanship in the heart of Yaoundé.

Marché Nfoundi

Discover the vibrant Marché Nfoundi, where local fashion meets culture in a colorful shopping experience in Cameroon.

Boutique paroissiale Notre Dame du Rosaire

Explore Boutique paroissiale Notre Dame du Rosaire in Mbalmayo for unique gifts and cultural treasures that capture the essence of Cameroon.

Boutique djimi

Explore the vibrant shopping scene at Boutique Djimi, where local craftsmanship meets modern retail in the heart of Yaoundé.

Abou Market

Explore the vibrant Abou Market in Yaoundé, a yarn lover's paradise showcasing a colorful array of local textiles and crafts.

Kamdem

Discover Kamdem in Mfou, where local culture meets unique shopping experiences in the heart of Cameroon.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Nana Blaise Bar

Discover Nana Blaise Bar, a lively beer hall in Mefou Akono, where local culture meets refreshing drinks and vibrant nightlife.

Ndolo Guinness Bar, Yaoundé

Discover the vibrant Ndolo Guinness Bar in Yaoundé, where locals and tourists unite for a drink and a lively night out in Cameroon.

Sous Manguier Bar

Discover the lively ambiance of Sous Manguier Bar in Yaoundé, where local flavors and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.

STADE BAR

Discover Stade Bar in Mbalmayo, where vibrant nightlife meets local culture, perfect for enjoying drinks and socializing with friends.

Boutique grand mere

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Yaounde at Boutique Grand Mere, where delightful drinks and friendly vibes await every traveler.

Piano Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Piano Bar, a lively spot filled with music and crafted cocktails perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Friendship Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere of Friendship Bar in Yaoundé, where refreshing drinks and friendly faces await you in a vibrant setting.

Le ZOLO

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Yaoundé at Le ZOLO, a lively bar offering an array of delightful drinks and local ambiance.

Explosif bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Yaoundé at Explosif Bar, where lively music and friendly faces create unforgettable moments.

Namou Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere, local culture, and delicious drinks at Namou Bar in Yaoundé, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Buuh Bar

Unwind in the heart of Yaoundé at Buuh Bar, where refreshing drinks and vibrant nightlife await.

Carrefour Ekok1

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrefour Ekok1, a local bar in Yaoundé offering a warm atmosphere and a selection of refreshing drinks.

Manger bar

Discover Manger Bar in Yaoundé, where vibrant nightlife meets a cozy atmosphere and a diverse drink selection for every taste.

Brazaville Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Yaoundé at Brazaville Bar, where local flavors and friendly vibes create an unforgettable experience.

Cantine

Explore authentic local flavors and culinary traditions at Cantine, a must-visit restaurant in the heart of Ntoumou.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Mefou National Park

Discover Mefou National Park with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Mefou National Park

- HelloMbote
  [m-boh-teh]
- GoodbyeNkwa
  [n-kwah]
- YesEe
  [eh]
- NoAa
  [ah]
- Please/You're welcomeMpe
  [m-peh]
- Thank youSiyeh
  [see-yeh]
- Excuse me/SorryNjai
  [n-jai]
- How are you?Wuli
  [woo-lee]
- Fine. And you?Nyam
  [nyam]
- Do you speak English?Wuli a lingala?
  [woo-lee ah lin-gah-lah]
- I don't understandNkozela
  [n-ko-zeh-lah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA njo mbangi, mpe
  [ah n-joh m-bang-ee, m-peh]
- I don't eat meatA ko nyama
  [ah koh nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Ngonda!
  [n-gohn-dah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseA njo mbangi, mpe
  [ah n-joh m-bang-ee, m-peh]
- Help!Ngonde!
  [n-gohn-deh]
- Go away!Swe nde!
  [s-weh n-deh]
- Call the Police!Wuli a polis!
  [woo-lee ah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Wuli a dokita!
  [woo-lee ah doh-kee-tah]
- I'm lostA nyama wuli
  [ah nyah-mah woo-lee]
- I'm illA nyama mandi
  [ah nyah-mah mahn-dee]
- I'd like to buy...A njo toku...
  [ah n-joh toh-koo]
- I'm just lookingA ko nde
  [ah koh n-deh]
- How much is it?Mena nde?
  [meh-nah n-deh]
- That's too expensiveDzamen me nde
  [dzah-men meh n-deh]
- Can you lower the price?Wuli a nyama me nde?
  [woo-lee ah nyah-mah meh n-deh]
- What time is it?Mangatika me nde?
  [mahn-gah-tee-kah meh n-deh]
- It's one o'clockMena melo me nde
  [meh-nah meh-loh meh n-deh]
- Half past (10)Mena melo me nde na mbeli
  [meh-nah meh-loh meh n-deh nah m-beh-lee]
- MorningMbaa
  [m-bah]
- AfternoonMelema
  [meh-leh-mah]
- EveningMeka
  [meh-kah]
- YesterdayMandu
  [mahn-doo]
- TodayNde
  [n-deh]
- TomorrowMbele
  [m-beh-leh]
- 1Melo
  [meh-loh]
- 2Me
  [meh]
- 3Mbia
  [m-bee-ah]
- 4Mbe
  [m-beh]
- 5Mvou
  [m-voo]
- 6Mfoum
  [m-foom]
- 7Mvondi
  [m-von-dee]
- 8Mvondo
  [m-von-doh]
- 9Mvouza
  [m-voo-zah]
- 10Mbeli
  [m-beh-lee]
- Where's a/the...?Wuli mbe...
  [woo-lee m-beh]
- What's the address?Wuli mena nde?
  [woo-lee meh-nah n-deh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Wuli a nyama mbe...
  [woo-lee ah nyah-mah m-beh]
- When's the next (bus)?Wuli mbe na nde...
  [woo-lee m-beh nah n-deh]
- A ticket (to ....)Mena nde...
  [meh-nah n-deh]

History of Mefou National Park

Mefou National Park, located near the bustling city of Yaoundé in Cameroon, was established in the early 2000s as part of the country's efforts to protect its rich biodiversity and natural heritage. The park covers an area of approximately 1,000 hectares and is managed by the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife in collaboration with various conservation organizations.
Before its establishment as a national park, the area now known as Mefou National Park was inhabited by indigenous communities such as the Ewondo and Bassa people. These communities practiced sustainable land use, relying on the forest for hunting, gathering, and small-scale agriculture. Their deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna played a crucial role in the conservation of the ecosystem.
One of the primary missions of Mefou National Park is to serve as a sanctuary for primates, particularly those rescued from the illegal pet trade and bushmeat markets. The park is home to the Ape Action Africa (AAA) project, which focuses on the rehabilitation and reintroduction of rescued gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates back into their natural habitat. This initiative has significantly contributed to the preservation of endangered species in the region.
Mefou National Park boasts a rich biodiversity, including a variety of primates, reptiles, birds, and plant species. The park's dense, tropical rainforest ecosystem provides a unique opportunity for researchers and ecologists to study the interactions between different species and their environment. It is also an important site for conservation education, raising awareness about the importance of protecting Cameroon's natural heritage.
In recent years, Mefou National Park has become a popular destination for eco-tourism, attracting visitors from around the world. The park offers guided tours and educational programs that highlight the region's cultural heritage, including traditional practices, folklore, and the historical relationship between the local communities and the forest. These initiatives aim to promote sustainable tourism that benefits both the environment and the local economy.

Mefou National Park Essentials

Mefou National Park is located approximately 45 kilometers from Yaoundé, the capital city of Cameroon. The easiest way to reach the park is by car, which takes about an hour. Visitors can either rent a car or hire a taxi from Yaoundé. Public transportation options are limited, but there are occasional buses and minibuses (bush taxis) that travel to Mfou town, from where you can take a local taxi to the park.
Within Mefou National Park, walking is the primary mode of transportation as it allows you to fully appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife. For longer distances, local guides often provide transportation services. If you plan to explore the outskirts of the park or nearby towns, hiring a taxi or renting a car is advisable. Bicycling is another option but be mindful of the rough terrains.
The official currency in Cameroon is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Credit cards are not widely accepted in and around Mefou National Park, so it is essential to carry cash. ATMs are available in Yaoundé, but they are scarce near the park. Make sure to withdraw enough money before heading to Mefou National Park.
Mefou National Park is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid traveling alone at night and keep your belongings secure. While the park itself is safe, some areas of Yaoundé have higher crime rates, particularly for crimes targeting tourists. Avoid the neighborhoods of Briqueterie and Mvog-Ada after dark.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Yaoundé, about an hour away. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Yaoundé where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly and wear comfortable, durable clothing suitable for hiking. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting local communities. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient; public transport can be crowded and slow. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A slight nod or bow of the head is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Mefou National Park like a local, consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the park's flora and fauna. Visit the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are most active. Engage with the local communities, as they are often willing to share their knowledge and stories about the area. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the park's conservation efforts and the work being done to protect endangered species.

Mefou National Park: A Primate Haven in the Heart of Cameroon

Local tips in Mefou National Park