Things to Do in Campo Ma'an National Park

Forest elephants still roam Campo Ma'an National Park. This 264,000-hectare preserve in Cameroon's South Region protects one of West-Central Africa's last intact lowland rainforest ecosystems, stretching from the Ntem River to the Atlantic Ocean. Established in 2000, it's relatively young. The park covers several distinct ecosystems—from primary rainforest inland to coastal wetlands and Atlantic beaches. Campo Ma'an's biodiversity is incredible, home to forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and over 300 bird species. Many are endemic to the region. This wilderness attracts serious wildlife ensoiasts and researchers rather than casual tourists, which means you'll likely have much of it to yourself.

Dining options are basic here. Campo town has a few simple restaurants serving Cameroonian staples like ndolé, grilled fish, and plantains, while coastal villages like Ebodje offer fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. Lobster is often available. Most organized tours include meals prepared by guides or camp cooks using locally sourced ingredients and traditional preparations, and if you're camping independently, bring supplies from Kribi since local markets have limited variety and irregular schedules.

December through February works best. The dry season offers comfortable conditions for wildlife viewing, with lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and better road access throughout the park—though this period can be hot and dusty. March-April and October-November provide good wildlife viewing with occasional rains that keep dust down. Skip the wet season. May through September brings heavy rains that make roads impassable and hiking challenging, though the forest is most lush and some species are more active then.