Travel Advisory
Level 2Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased cautionin Cameroon due to risk of crime, terrorism, unrest, health, kidnapping, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Crime Violent crime, kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, and carjacking are common in Cameroon. This is especially true in the Southwest, Northwest, Far North, and North Regions; the Adamawa Region north of the capital city of Ngaoundere; and the East Region within 20 kilometers of the border with Central African Republic. There is high risk of kidnapping by non-state armed groups in the Southwest and Northwest Regions. There is high risk of kidnapping by terrorists in the Far North Region. Petty crime is common in Cameroon, especially in Yaoundé and Douala. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crimes. Unrest Civil unrest is common, with the potential for political violence. Demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. They may disrupt transportation and other essential services. Health Medical services in Cameroon are limited. Adequate trauma and ambulance services are not widely available. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your expense. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Cameroon. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Kidnappings by terrorist organizations are a significant risk in the Far North Region. Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) IEDs exist in Cameroon, especially in the Northwest, Southwest, and Far North Regions. IEDs are unmarked and are actively used by terrorists in high-risk areas in the Far North Region. Do Not Travel to the Southwest, Northwest, and Far North Regions for any reason due to risk of terrorism, unrest, crime, kidnapping, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Do Not Travel to within 20 kilometers of the borders with Central African Republic, Chad, and Nigeria for any reason due to risk of terrorism, unrest, crime, kidnapping, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Full advisory on travel.state.gov →Updated: 2026-05-14T20:00:00-04:00
