Cameroon - Shisong, Kumbo - more Info
MEETING and DROP-OFF
We'll meet at Douala International Airport in the late afternoon of Sunday 12th May (some flexibility, by arrangement). We'll spend the first night acclimatising in Douala before traveling overland by real local public transport the next day. Be prepared for a long but unforgettable 10-hour journey in a minibus for the first part on paved roads, then (old!) cars on unpaved dirt roads (with stops, of course!)
The Drop-off time is in the morning of Sunday 26th May. We will travel from Shisong the day before, arriving in the evening. Accommodation in Douala that night is included.
VISA AND PASSPORT
A valid passport with at least six months validity is required. UK citizens (and most others) require a visa. Three-month tourist visas are available and will cost around £60. You should make sure you leave enough time to apply for these and you will need a letter of invitation (Green Care will supply this and The Conservation Volunteers will assist in the process as necessary).
MONEY
The currency in Cameroon is the Cameroon Franc (CFA).
FOOD
We try to use local produce on our holidays. In Cameroon, a local cook will prepare food and we will also visit local cafes and restaurants. There will be plenty of opportunities to experience tasty local cuisine, and the cook is also familiar with some Western dishes. When working, villagers will supplement lunches with local dishes. Please ensure to notify us of any special dietary requirements.
HEALTH
The best up-to-date information on health issues can be found at the NHS 'Fit For Travel' website.
We require you to have a tetanus jab before working on the project. The most common complaints are sunburn and insect bites. Please see the "Health Advice for Travellers" leaflet enclosed with your joining pack.
The Conservation Volunteers does its utmost to ensure that all projects on International Conservation Holidays operate within strict health and safety guidelines. However, if you are uneasy with any aspect of health and safety on the project, please talk to the leader or other person responsible for the project. If in doubt, do not continue to work in these conditions.
RISK ASSESSMENT
We take health and safety seriously. All our projects are subject to a detailed assessment of associated risks and threats. View a summary of the Risk Assessment for this project.
WEATHER
This is the rainy season, so you can probably count on at least one good rain-shower a day. Bring lightweight waterproofs or a big umbrella. The area is known for its cool, pleasant climate.
CULTURE
The culture in this part of Shisong is very friendly and welcoming - everything is done with a smile, and expect a lot of hand shaking whenever you walk through the village! Cameroonians socialise with their friends by enjoying a beer or cold drink in the bars or by going for a walk in the surrounding hills and forests. Sports also play a big part in rural life - football and basketball are the big favourites.
LANGUAGE
The official languages of Cameroon are English and French. There are also several African languages spoken in the country. Our holiday will be in the English speaking area, so do not worry about not being able to understand people or not being able to communicate without any knowledge of French.
TIME ZONE
Cameroon is in the same time zone as the UK; Standard time zone: UTC/GMT +1 hour. No daylight saving time in 2007
PHONE
International country code: +237 (Cameroon)
