5 Must Visit Markets in Cameroon

Cameroon’s markets are a great place to experience its people, and thousands pour in every day looking for the best bargain. The markets sell everything from fresh food to household appliances and hardware. Here are 5 markets in Cameroon that are fun to explore.

* Marché a Bafoussam

Bafoussam is the capital of the Western Region of Cameroon, which is a major food producer. A lot of the food produced here goes to Bafoussam before being transported to other regions. The town is a centre for imported secondhand clothes and shoes, known locally as okrika, and this makes shopping here cheaper than in most urban centres.

* Makenene Market

This market runs 24/7, but you have less than 30 minutes to shop if you’re travelling by bus. Makenene serves passengers along the Yaoundé–Bamenda highway and offers fruit, grilled food, loud music and quick booze. Make sure you stick to your bus so you don’t get left behind.

* Kumba Main Market

Kumba is the most important trading town in the English-speaking region of Cameroon. This hub facilitates imports from Nigeria and plays a big part in cocoa, rubber and palm oil exports. The market is one of the oldest and most famous in the country. It’s also a great place to buy food and clothes.

* Bamenda Main Market

This market is the centre of activity along Bamenda’s Commercial Avenue. There are shops selling cosmetics, clothes, food, shoes, bags, jewellery, electronics and lots of other items. It’s also the place to go if you want your hair braided. You can walk to Bamenda food market from here.

* Marché des Fleurs Douala

This market sells handcrafted art, souvenirs, locally made fabric and fresh flowers. Located around the Douala International Airport, it’s perfect for tourists who want to buy memorabilia to take home.