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Safaris in Waza National Park
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Waza National Park guide
Overview
Waza National Park lies in Cameroon’s Far North region, close to the borders with Nigeria and Chad. First protected as a hunting reserve in 1934 and declared a national park in 1968, it covers about 1,700 km² of Sahelian savannah, acacia woodland and seasonal floodplains, and is a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Waza was once one of West and Central Africa’s best-known game parks, famous for large herds gathering at its waterholes in the dry season. Insecurity in the region has reduced visitor numbers to almost nothing, and wildlife has been under heavy pressure.
Wildlife
The park has historically been home to elephant, giraffe, lion, roan antelope, kob, topi, warthog and ostrich. Large flocks of waterbirds use the floodplains when they are flooded. Current wildlife numbers are uncertain.
Key wildlife
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: Feb–Apr. Also good: Nov–Jan, May.
Peak Good Quieter
The dry season, from about November to May, is traditionally the time when animals gather near water. The park becomes difficult to access in the rainy season. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention.
Getting There
The nearest city is Maroua, which has Maroua Salak Airport (MVR). The park lies north of Maroua on the road towards Kousséri.
Fees & Access
Entrance fees
We have not been able to find a current official fee for Waza National Park. Fees are set by Cameroon’s Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife; confirm the current rate before you travel.
Gate hours
Confirm with the park authority before travel
Health
Malaria risk: High. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials before you go.
Fees and gate times change. Check the latest rates with the park authority before you travel.
Safety and Advisories
Cameroon’s Far North region has been affected by armed groups, kidnappings and attacks for many years. Several governments currently advise against all travel to the region. Check your own government’s current travel advisory for Cameroon before making any plans, and follow it. We do not give travel advice beyond what official advisories say.
Location
Where is Waza National Park?
Good to know
Waza National Park FAQs
Can you visit Waza National Park?
Cameroon’s Far North region has been affected by armed groups and kidnappings for many years, and several governments advise against all travel there. Check your own government’s current travel advisory and follow it.
What wildlife lives in Waza National Park?
Waza has historically been home to elephant, giraffe, lion, roan antelope, kob, topi and ostrich, but current numbers are uncertain.
When is the best time to visit Waza?
The dry season from about November to May is traditionally best, when animals gather near water. The park is difficult to access in the rains.
How much are Waza park fees?
We have not found a current official fee. Confirm the rate with Cameroon’s Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife before you travel.
Where is Waza National Park?
It lies in Cameroon’s Far North region, north of Maroua, near the borders with Nigeria and Chad.
Is Waza a malaria area?
Yes. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention before you travel.
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