Is Yaounde Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon, is relatively safe during the day, with bustling markets and numerous people around. However, take special caution while traveling at night, sticking to well-lit areas and avoiding traveling alone whenever possible. Street crime, including robberies, muggings, and pickpocketing, is prevalent, particularly in crowded areas. Always maintain vigilance over your possessions and avoid displaying valuable items. Occasionally, there might be political unrest, so be alert of announcements from your embassy. While locals are generally friendly and helpful, instances of harassment targeted towards female travelers have been reported. Take precautions, and always trust your instincts.
Safety rating
Yaounde is currently ranked #2 safest place in Cameroon for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 2 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.
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How safe is Yaounde?
Safety at night:Unsafe
Yaounde, like many big cities, has areas that are less safe at night. It is generally not advisable to walk alone after dark, particularly in less crowded areas. While most locals are hospitable, incidents of pickpocketing and petty theft can occur. Always ensure to use reliable transport services during the night hours, and if possible, avoid walking alone.
Public transportation:Moderate
Public buses and taxis are the primary means of public transportation in Yaounde. While most travelers find them very affordable and convenient, it is important to stay alert. Use officially marked taxis and keep an eye on your belongings while on public transportation. Nighttime transportation can be less reliable, make sure to plan accordingly. There is some risk in using public transportation, but with proper precautions, it can be a feasible option.
Street harassment:Moderate
In Yaounde, street harassment can occur, particularly around crowded areas or popular markets. Most commonly, this may take the form of persistent vendors, catcalling, or unsolicited comments. But although this can make you uncomfortable, the majority of people are genuinely friendly and will respect your personal space. Always trust your gut instinct, avoid late-night or overly secluded areas, and maintain a confident demeanor.
Petty crimes:High
Yaoundé, like any other large city, has its share of petty crimes such as pick pocketing, bag snatching and small scale scams, especially in crowded markets, public transportation, and other popular tourist areas. It's advisable to remain vigilant and keep all personal belongings secure at all times. However, violent crime is not as common and incidences of petty thefts do not consistently occur.
Is Yaounde worth visiting?
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