Coming home for the holidays: Christmas and New Year in Douala and Yaoundé
Updated on 23 October 2026 · 6 min read
From mid-December to early January, the diaspora comes home: Christmas with the family, New Year's Eve, weddings and village events. It is the happiest time of the year in Douala and Yaoundé, and also the busiest: flights are full, apartments and cars are booked weeks ahead, and the roads are crowded. Here is how to plan it well.
When to book
| What | When to book for December |
|---|---|
| Flights | As early as possible: prices climb from September for arrivals around 20 December. |
| Apartment | In October or November; the weeks between 15 December and 10 January fill up first. |
| Airport pickup | As soon as you have your flight number; many flights land late at night in December. |
| Car with driver | Two to four weeks ahead for the busiest days (around 24 and 31 December). |
| Visa (if you need one) | At least 4 to 6 weeks before the trip, on evisacam.cm. |
Our December dates
For arrivals between 15 December and 10 January, the deposit is refunded in full if you cancel at least 30 days before arrival; after that it is kept. Read our cancellation policy before booking.
The December rush: what to expect
- Busy airports in the evenings: allow time at passport control and for luggage.
- Traffic in Douala and Yaoundé, especially in the afternoon and before 24 and 31 December.
- Higher prices for flights, rooms and some services; everything goes faster when booked in advance.
- Long roads to the villages: if you go to the West or another region, leave early in the morning. See the road to the West.
Staying near the family
Many families like to stay close to their relatives without crowding the family home: an apartment in the same neighbourhood gives everyone space, a kitchen and quiet nights, with the family a few minutes away. Tell us where the family lives and we will suggest the closest apartment we have checked.
Getting around during the holidays
Visits to relatives, church, shopping, a day trip to the coast: a car with driver by the day avoids waiting for taxis on the busiest days, and carries the whole family. Book early for 24 and 31 December.
Holiday checklist
- Passport valid 6 months after arrival, visa, yellow fever certificate: see preparing your trip.
- Flight numbers of everyone in the family, and one contact person for the arrivals.
- Gifts: keep new goods in normal quantities, and declare anything that may be taxed.
- Cash and Mobile Money for the holidays: see money in Cameroon.
- Light clothes for Douala, a jacket for the evenings in the West.
Frequently asked questions
When should I book an apartment in Douala for Christmas?
In October or November. The weeks between 15 December and 10 January fill up first.
Are flights to Cameroon expensive in December?
Yes, prices rise from September for arrivals around 20 December. Book as early as possible.
Can I cancel a December booking?
For arrivals between 15 December and 10 January, the deposit is refunded in full if you cancel at least 30 days before arrival; after that it is kept. See our cancellation policy.
Is there a lot of traffic in Douala at Christmas?
Yes, especially in the afternoons and before 24 and 31 December. Plan extra time and book transport in advance.