Douala is the capital of the coastal region and the economic capital of Cameroon. With an area of 923km and a population of about 3,500,000 inhabitants, making Douala not only the largest city and most populated but also the richest city of the CEMAC zone. Here are some beautiful and attractive places you should visit in Douala.
The Pongo Monkey island is located in the littoral region near Edéa and is bordered by the Sanaga river. The association papaye has the mission to protect the animals of the region. Tourists, researchers can live a unique experience in the company of chimpanzees. The island also offers opportunity to walk aboard canoes of the Atlantic Ocean and relax on its wonderful beaches. A visit to Pongo Monkey Island generates the necessary resources for the protection and survival of the animals. If you are coming from Douala, after two-hour drive in a bush taxi or personal car, you are welcome to visit this refuge for a full day. It is best to arrive with your own snacks, water and even some fuel for the small boat that will bring you across the river, fruits and honey are welcome for the chimpanzees too. Once on the island you can speak with the volunteers that will explain their activities before returning by boat to Marien-berg (a town within Edéa). you can equally have some rest in beautiful hotels such as Radisson Colon (hotel and casino) it is 18.1miles from Monkey Island, Marriott Panama Hotel which is 18.6milles from monkey island. And also Hotel Coral suites. These hotels have many facilities and offer everything you need for your journey.
Located in the littoral region precisely in the Sanaga Maritime division, the Douala-Edéa reserve was created in 1932. It covers an area of 160,000 habitats it is the area by Excellence of the Cameroonian mangrove and aquatic animals. It provides a natural and appropriate context for eco-tourism and has an exceptional biodiversity.
It is home to elephants, several spices of primates, antelopes, elephants, sea turtles, dolphin, crocodiles, many fish species, birds and many other animals and plant species. With an area of 2,715.12square kilometers the means of transport to get there is by train which takes (2hr 13m) from Douala and the fastest means of transport is by car which takes approximately 56min from Douala.
Also known as « La pagoda », King Bell Palace is located in Douala Cameroon precisely at Bonanjo “Ancient Plateau Joss » in the Douala District Council”. The palace was built in 1905 by the Germans for “king Auguste manga Ndumbe” also known as King Bell. The palace is an iconic building in Douala known for its unique architecture and its historical significance. Currently the palace is still owned by Bell royal family although it has not been well preserved. Despite the fact that it is not particularly beautiful, this building has a significant history. The King Bell palace is the symbol of the rich history and culture heritage of the bell dynasty which ruled the kingdom of Douala from 1792 to 1914.
The palace is a popular touristic attraction in Douala and visitors can explore its grounds and learn about its history.