Cameroon in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Coastal Littoral & Southwest Lowlands (Douala, Kribi, Limbe)

By December the coast enjoys its clearer season: bright, warm days and more pronounced sea breezes make walking the Limbe seafront pleasant and beach time comfortable. Douala’s urban smog clears somewhat with steadier winds and nighttime temperatures feel more bearable; coastal restaurants and bars get livelier with end-of-year visitors. Expect lower rainfall, better road conditions, and more predictable ferry timetables compared with the mid-year deluge.

Mount Cameroon Massif & Southwest Highlands (Buea, Mount Cameroon)

December is one of the best months for Mount Cameroon-cool nights, clearer skies and firmer trails create favorable summit conditions for experienced trekkers. Buea is lively with seasonal travel and local celebrations; coastal views from higher vantage points are often unobstructed. Still carry thermal layers and rain protection for sudden mountain fog and brisk summit winds.

Western Highlands (Bamenda, Bafoussam)

December keeps the dry, cool pattern with pleasant daytime temperatures and chilly but not freezing nights; mountain air feels refreshing after the rains. Year-end festivities bring local markets to life and weekend crowds increase slightly as Cameroonians travel domestically. This is prime season for highland treks and cultural visits-pack layers for night and a light waterproof just in case.

Central Plateau & Capital Region (Yaoundé, Centre)

December holds into the drier, pleasant pattern with warm days and cooler nights; holiday travel increases and services become busier. Yaoundé’s cultural calendar is active and hotels book up around festive dates, so reserve ahead. This is a convenient month for city-based itineraries and short excursions into the central plateau.

Southern & Eastern Rainforest (Dja, Boumba Bek, Campo)

December feels drier and more comfortable for travel, with warm days, fewer prolonged downpours, and improved walking conditions in the forest. Festive-season travel picks up slightly in coastal towns and safari lodges, so reserve ahead for popular camps. Early morning boat trips and guided forest walks are comfortable choices as insect pressure drops marginally and trails become more predictable.

Adamawa Plateau & Northern Cameroon (Ngaoundéré, Garoua, Maroua)

December offers clear, dry weather with comfortable daytime temperatures and crisp evenings; it’s an excellent month for long drives, markets and park visits in the north. Tourist services pick up, and many travelers schedule northern trips now to avoid the heat and rain of other months. Bring sun protection for daytime and a warm jacket for chill nights on the plateau.