How to get to Ngaoundere

Ngaoundere is a colourful administrative centre and a vital transport hub in the heart of Cameroon, often referred to as the "gateway" to the north of the country. If you are planning to travel to Ngaoundere to see the Lamido Palace or enjoy the climate of the Adamawa Plateau, it will be useful to know about the variety of logistical solutions available. The question of how to reach the city is easily solved: it accepts domestic flights, serves as a railway terminus, and is connected to other regions by bus services.

Air travel is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the region, especially if you value your time. The city is served by its own Ngaoundere Airport (NGE), which handles domestic flights and connects this part of the country with other major hubs in Cameroon. The airport is located quite close to the city limits, so the transfer to your hotel will not take much time.

Since the passenger flow at the local air hub is low, the number of flights may be limited. As an alternative, experienced travellers sometimes choose to fly to the neighbouring city of Garoua, located approximately 220 kilometres away. When planning a trip to Ngaoundere, it is worth checking the schedule in advance to choose the optimal connecting route.

Rail transport is one of the most popular and atmospheric ways to get to Ngaoundere. The city is a crucial transport hub and the terminus of a railway line that runs through a significant part of the country. The station here serves as the main gateway for those arriving from the southern regions and is always full of life.

The key route connects Ngaoundere with the capital, Yaoundé. The night train is particularly famous, allowing you to cover the distance between the cities while saving daylight hours for excursions. A trip on this route is considered an adventure in itself: as you move, you can observe how the dense tropical forests gradually give way to the picturesque savannahs of the Adamawa Plateau. Travellers are advised to take care of tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel in a sleeper car with higher comfort.

Bus services connect the city with the northern regions, offering travellers the opportunity to enjoy scenic views of the savannah along the way. One of the most sought-after routes leads from Garoua: buses usually cover the distance of about 280 kilometres in 4–5 hours. If you are departing from the more distant Maroua, be prepared for a journey lasting 8–10 hours, which will allow you to see the changing landscapes of northern Cameroon over nearly 500 kilometres.

For those planning a trip from neighbouring Nigeria, there is a route from the city of Yola. Although the distance is about 350 kilometres, the travel time can vary significantly due to border crossing procedures and road conditions. Most intercity bus services depart early in the morning, so it is recommended to purchase bus tickets in advance at the bus stations.

Travelling by car to the Adamawa Plateau is an opportunity to see how the landscape changes from dry northern plains to green hills. The most comfortable and popular route leads from the city of Garoua: covering 280 kilometres on an asphalt road usually takes about 4–5 hours. If you are departing from Maroua, the journey will be almost 500 kilometres and will require about 8 hours, so experienced drivers recommend leaving at dawn to arrive before dark.

There is also a cross-border route from the Nigerian city of Yola, stretching about 350 kilometres, but the travel time here depends heavily on the speed of passing customs control at the border. In Cameroon, collective taxis ("brousses") are widely common and travel between cities faster than buses, while renting an SUV with a driver will allow you to safely and comfortably navigate the famous winding roads on the approach to Ngaoundere.

Preparing for a trip to Ngaoundere requires taking local specifics into account, as this city differs noticeably from the southern regions of the country in both climate and cultural traditions. To ensure your trip to Cameroon and your exploration of the Adamawa Plateau are as comfortable as possible, we have compiled several important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate. Since the city is located at a high altitude, it is cooler here than on the coast. It can be hot during the day, but evenings and nights can be quite fresh, so be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater. Also, consider the conservative nature of the region: clothing should be modest, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting the city centre.
2. Transport within the city. The most common and affordable way to get around is by motorcycle taxi. It is fast and convenient, but always agree on the price of the trip in advance, before getting on the motorcycle. Ordinary yellow taxis are also available, but they more often operate as shared taxis, picking up other passengers along the way.
3. Financial matters. The main currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). Bank cards are accepted only in rare large hotels, so cash is vitally necessary. It is best to exchange currency (Euros are preferred) at official banks. There are ATMs in the city, but they may not work or accept certain foreign cards, so keep a reserve of cash.
4. Health and Hygiene. Drink exclusively bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. Although the climate here is milder, the risk of malaria remains, so use repellents and sleep under a mosquito net. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into the country and may be checked.
5. Language Barrier. Although English is one of the official languages of the country, French dominates in this region. Locals also speak the Fulfulde language. Knowing basic phrases in French ("Bonjour", "Merci", "Combien ça coûte?") will significantly facilitate communication in markets and on transport.
6. Local Etiquette. Greetings play a huge role here. Before asking a passerby or a seller a question, be sure to say hello and ask how they are doing. When eating with your hands (which is common in traditional establishments) or passing items, use only your right hand—using the left is considered offensive.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph people without their explicit permission, especially women and religious leaders. It is also strictly forbidden to photograph government buildings, military facilities, and police officers. This can lead to serious trouble and confiscation of equipment.
8. Planning a Visit to the Palace. If you want to visit the famous Lamido Palace, try to schedule it for Friday. On this day, a ceremonial procession traditionally takes place, when the ruler (Lamido) accompanied by his retinue heads to the mosque—this is one of the most striking cultural spectacles in the city.

Following these simple rules will help you show respect to the local residents and avoid awkward situations. Ngaoundere is a hospitable city that gladly reveals its secrets to travellers ready to embrace its measured pace of life.