Exercise increased caution in Cameroon due to crime.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• North, Far North, Northwest and Southwest Regions, and Parts of East and Adamawa Regions due to crime and kidnapping.
• Far North Region due to terrorism.
• Northwest and Southwest Regions due to armed conflict.

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and carjacking, is common throughout Cameroon.  Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in North, Far North, Northwest, Southwest, and Parts of Adamawa and East Regions of Cameroon due to current official travel restrictions.

Read the Safety and Security section on the Country Information page.

If you decide to travel to Cameroon:

• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches, handbags, or jewelry.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, help the Embassy contact you in an emergency, and help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Cameroon.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

North, Far North, Northwest and Southwest Regions, and parts of East and Adamawa Regions – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

In the Adamawa Region north of the capital, Ngaoundere, and East Regions, there is a heightened criminal threat within 20 kilometers of the border with the Central African Republic.

Violent crime, including kidnapping by terrorists and/or kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, assault, and carjacking are serious concerns in Cameroon, especially in all these regions.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Far North Region– Level 4:  Do Not Travel

In the Far North Region, terrorists may attack with no warning, targeting local facilities and places frequented by Westerners.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Northwest and Southwest Regions – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

In Northwest and Southwest Regions, a separatist movement has led to increased levels of violence.  Armed clashes between separatists and government forces, and other acts of violence, including kidnapping for ransom and arson, have occurred.  Ongoing conflict has led to a breakdown in order, crimes of opportunity, and a significant decline in medical resources in large areas of both regions.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to the Risk Indicators.