Cameroon in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Cameroon

32°C (90°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

85mm (3.3 inches) Rainfall

68% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather - March is the driest month with only 85mm (3.3 inches) of rain across 8 days, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities
Optimal wildlife viewing - Animals congregate around water sources during the dry season, offering exceptional game viewing in parks like Waza and Bénoué National Parks
Harmattan winds bring clear skies and excellent visibility - perfect for photography at Mount Cameroon and the volcanic crater lakes
Comfortable temperatures of 21-32°C (70-90°F) with lower humidity (68%) make hiking and outdoor exploration much more pleasant than wet season months

Considerations

Dust from Harmattan winds can irritate eyes and respiratory systems, particularly problematic for those with allergies or asthma
Water levels are lowest, making some waterfalls like Ekom Nkam less impressive and limiting certain river-based activities
Higher accommodation prices as March falls during peak tourist season when European visitors escape winter

Best Activities in March

Mount Cameroon Hiking Expeditions

March offers the clearest conditions for scaling West Africa's highest peak at 4,095m (13,435 ft). Dry weather means better trail conditions and spectacular views from the summit. The Harmattan winds provide exceptional visibility across the Atlantic coast. Early morning starts at 5am help avoid afternoon heat.

Booking Tip: Book certified mountain guides 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed operators. Expect to pay 85,000-120,000 CFA (140-200 USD) for 2-3 day treks including guide, porter, and basic camping equipment. Look for guides certified by the Mount Cameroon Inter-communal Ecotourism Board.

Northern Cameroon Safari Tours

March is peak game viewing season in Waza and Bénoué National Parks. Animals concentrate around remaining water sources, making wildlife spotting easier. Dry conditions mean better road access and clearer photography. Temperatures are manageable for early morning and late afternoon game drives.

Booking Tip: Book through registered tour operators 3-4 weeks ahead, especially for Waza National Park. Full-day safari packages typically range 45,000-75,000 CFA (75-125 USD) including park fees, guide, and 4WD transport. Confirm vehicle condition and park permit validity.

Crater Lake Photography Tours

March's clear Harmattan conditions provide perfect lighting for photographing the volcanic crater lakes around Barombi Mbo and Lake Nyos. Low humidity reduces haze, while stable weather patterns mean consistent lighting throughout the day. Ideal for both amateur and professional photographers.

Booking Tip: Local guides charge 15,000-25,000 CFA (25-40 USD) per day for crater lake circuits. Book transportation separately - expect 30,000-50,000 CFA (50-85 USD) for day trips from Buea or Bamenda. Verify guide knowledge of geology and safety protocols around Lake Nyos.

Douala City Cultural Experiences

March's pleasant weather makes exploring Cameroon's economic capital comfortable. Lower humidity means walking tours through Akwa district and Bonanjo markets are enjoyable. Cultural festivals often occur during dry season, and the city's nightlife scene peaks with comfortable outdoor evening temperatures.

Booking Tip: City walking tours cost 12,000-20,000 CFA (20-35 USD) for half-day experiences. Book through established cultural centers or hotels rather than street operators. Include visits to Douala Yaounde and traditional Kampala for authentic cultural immersion.

Limbe Beach and Botanical Garden Tours

March combines perfect beach weather with optimal conditions for exploring West Africa's oldest botanical garden. Sea temperatures remain warm at 27°C (81°F) while reduced rainfall means botanical garden trails are accessible. Black sand beaches are comfortable for relaxation during cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Combined beach and botanical garden tours typically cost 18,000-30,000 CFA (30-50 USD) including transport from Douala. Book with eco-tourism certified operators who support local conservation efforts. Best experienced as day trips from Douala or overnight stays in Limbe.

Traditional Village Homestays

March's dry conditions make rural road access reliable for reaching traditional villages in the West and Northwest regions. Comfortable temperatures and clear skies enhance cultural immersion experiences. Many villages prepare special dry season foods and traditional ceremonies during this period.

Booking Tip: Arrange village homestays through certified community tourism networks. Expect 20,000-35,000 CFA (35-60 USD) per person per night including meals and cultural activities. Book minimum 2 weeks ahead through regional tourism offices to ensure proper community preparation.

March Events & Festivals

Early to Mid March

Ngondo Festival

Traditional water festival of the Sawa people celebrated along the Wouri River in Douala. Features traditional boat races, cultural dances, and ancestral ceremonies. The festival involves blessing of waters and predictions for the coming year through ancient divination rituals.

Throughout March

Dry Season Cultural Celebrations

Various ethnic groups across Cameroon hold traditional ceremonies during the dry season, including harvest celebrations and ancestral honor ceremonies. These vary by region but are most common in northern provinces where agricultural cycles align with weather patterns.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

High SPF sunscreen (50+) and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 9 and Harmattan winds can be deceiving about sun intensity

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid synthetic fabrics which trap heat in 32°C (90°F) temperatures

Light jacket for early morning game drives when temperatures drop to 21°C (70°F) around 6am

Dust mask or bandana - Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust that can irritate respiratory systems

Sturdy hiking boots for Mount Cameroon treks and waterproof day pack for 1,095m (3,593 ft) elevation changes

Eye drops and saline nasal spray - dry Harmattan air commonly causes irritation

Insect repellent with DEET - dry season doesn't eliminate all mosquitoes, especially near water sources

Portable water filter or purification tablets - reliable for refilling during long hiking expeditions

Power bank and solar charger - rural areas have limited electricity access

Cash in small CFA franc denominations - rural villages and national parks rarely accept cards or large bills

Insider Knowledge

Book domestic flights with Camair-Co at least 3 weeks ahead - March is peak season and routes to Garoua for northern safaris fill quickly

Carry exact change for park entrance fees - Waza National Park charges 5,000 CFA but rarely has change for larger bills

Start Mount Cameroon climbs on weekdays - weekend groups create crowded trail conditions and limited hut space

Restaurant prices increase 15-20% during March peak season - eat at local 'chop bars' for authentic meals at 1,500-3,000 CFA instead of hotel restaurants

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating Harmattan dust effects - many tourists don't pack eye protection or respiratory aids, leading to uncomfortable conditions

Booking accommodation last-minute - March is peak season and quality lodges near national parks book solid 4-6 weeks ahead

Scheduling Mount Cameroon climbs without acclimatization - jumping straight from sea level to 4,095m (13,435 ft) without spending a day in Buea causes altitude issues