Cameroon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, has several types of ports for various needs. Here are the main types of ports in Cameroon:
- Seaports: Seaports are crucial for maritime trade and passenger transportation. Cameroon has several seaports, including:
- Port of Douala: Douala is the largest and busiest seaport in Cameroon, handling a significant portion of the country’s imports and exports. It deals with various cargo types, including containers, bulk goods, and petroleum products.
- Port of Kribi: Located south of Douala, Kribi Port is a newer facility designed to handle containerized cargo, bulk goods, and oil products. It serves as an alternative port to Douala and supports the country’s growing trade activities.
- Oil and Gas Terminals: Given Cameroon’s significant oil reserves, it has specialized terminals for the export and import of petroleum products. These terminals are crucial for the country’s energy sector and international trade.
- Fishing Ports: Fishing is an important industry in Cameroon, and there are ports dedicated to fishing activities along the coast. These ports support the fishing industry and the processing of seafood products.
- Tourist Ports: With the rise of tourism in Cameroon, there may be ports catering specifically to tourist activities, such as boat tours and recreational boating along the coast and rivers.
List of Largest Ports in Cameroon
| Port Name | Types of Cargo Ships | Monthly Arrivals |
|---|---|---|
| Port of Douala | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 300-400 |
| Port of Kribi | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 150-200 |
| Port of Limbé | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 100-150 |
| Port of Tiko | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 50-100 |
| Port of Douala-Bonabéri | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 200-250 |
| Port of Garoua | Bulk carriers, Container ships | 50-100 |
| Port of Kribi | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 150-200 |
| Port of Limbé | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 100-150 |
| Port of Tiko | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 50-100 |
| Port of Douala-Bonabéri | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 200-250 |
| Port of Kribi | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 150-200 |
| Port of Limbé | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 100-150 |
| Port of Tiko | Container ships, Bulk carriers | 50-100 |
| Port of Douala-Bonabéri | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 200-250 |
| Port of Garoua | Bulk carriers, Container ships | 50-100 |
Major Ports in Cameroon
The ports of Cameroon, particularly the Port of Douala, Port of Kribi, and Port of Limbe, play a vital role in facilitating maritime trade and supporting the country’s economic development. These ports serve as crucial gateways for importing and exporting goods, connecting Cameroon to international markets and contributing to regional trade dynamics. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and logistics capabilities, Cameroon’s ports are poised to further enhance their efficiency and competitiveness in the global maritime trade landscape.
1. Port of Douala
City Location: Douala
Latitude: 4.0511° N
Longitude: 9.7679° E
Overview:
The Port of Douala is the largest and busiest port in Cameroon, serving as a vital gateway for international trade in Central Africa. Situated on the Wouri River estuary, it handles diverse cargo types, including containers, petroleum products, and agricultural goods. With modern facilities and efficient operations, it plays a crucial role in the regional economy. The port is connected to major highways and railways, facilitating seamless transportation of goods across the country and neighboring regions.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bonabéri | 7 | N3 |
| Yabassi | 82 | N3 |
| Edea | 59 | N3 |
| Nkongsamba | 150 | N3 |
| Bafoussam | 290 | N3 |
| Yaoundé | 264 | N3 |
| Buea | 313 | N3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (0 km)
- Bonabéri Railway Station, Bonabéri (7 km)
- Edea Railway Station, Edea (59 km)
- Yabassi Railway Station, Yabassi (82 km)
- Nkongsamba Railway Station, Nkongsamba (150 km)
2. Port of Kribi
City Location: Kribi
Latitude: 2.9409° N
Longitude: 9.9207° E
Overview:
The Port of Kribi is one of the newest and most modern ports in Cameroon, strategically located on the Gulf of Guinea. Designed to accommodate large vessels, it specializes in container shipping and bulk cargo, serving as a crucial trade hub for Central Africa. With state-of-the-art facilities and efficient operations, it aims to become a key player in the region’s maritime industry. The port is well-connected to major highways, enhancing its accessibility and connectivity.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Edea | 118 | N3 |
| Mbalmayo | 204 | N9 |
| Yaoundé | 230 | N9 |
| Douala | 303 | N3 |
| Bafia | 278 | N9 |
| Buea | 407 | N3 |
| Limbe | 431 | N3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Kribi Railway Station, Kribi (0 km)
- Edea Railway Station, Edea (118 km)
- Mbalmayo Railway Station, Mbalmayo (204 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (230 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (303 km)
3. Port of Limbe
City Location: Limbe
Latitude: 4.0120° N
Longitude: 9.2185° E
Overview:
The Port of Limbe, located on the southern coast of Cameroon, is a key maritime facility serving the southwestern region. Primarily handling exports of agricultural products such as cocoa and palm oil, it contributes significantly to the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to Douala and Kribi, it plays a vital role in the regional trade network. The port is well-connected to major highways, facilitating the transportation of goods to and from the interior regions.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Buea | 19 | N3 |
| Tiko | 20 | N3 |
| Mutengene | 21 | N3 |
| Bafoussam | 259 | N8 |
| Yaoundé | 317 | N3 |
| Douala | 330 | N3 |
| Kumba | 38 | N8 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Limbe Railway Station, Limbe (0 km)
- Buea Railway Station, Buea (19 km)
- Tiko Railway Station, Tiko (20 km)
- Mutengene Railway Station, Mutengene (21 km)
- Kumba Railway Station, Kumba (38 km)
4. Port of Tiko
City Location: Tiko
Latitude: 4.0747° N
Longitude: 9.3682° E
Overview:
The Port of Tiko, located near Limbe, serves as an important maritime facility for the southwestern region of Cameroon. Specializing in the export of agricultural products, particularly bananas and palm oil, it contributes significantly to the local economy. Despite its smaller size, it plays a vital role in facilitating trade with neighboring countries. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the interior regions.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Limbe | 20 | N3 |
| Mutengene | 21 | N3 |
| Buea | 22 | N3 |
| Douala | 70 | N3 |
| Kumba | 47 | N3 |
| Bafoussam | 285 | N3 |
| Yaoundé | 343 | N3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Tiko Railway Station, Tiko (0 km)
- Limbe Railway Station, Limbe (20 km)
- Mutengene Railway Station, Mutengene (21 km)
- Buea Railway Station, Buea (22 km)
- Kumba Railway Station, Kumba (47 km)
5. Port of Edea
City Location: Edea
Latitude: 3.8000° N
Longitude: 10.1333° E
Overview:
The Port of Edea, situated on the Sanaga River, is an important inland port in Cameroon. Serving the central region of the country, it primarily handles the transportation of goods such as petroleum products, cement, and agricultural produce. Despite being an inland port, it plays a crucial role in the country’s trade network, particularly for goods destined for the interior regions. The port is well-connected to major highways, facilitating the movement of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Douala | 85 | N3 |
| Yaoundé | 125 | N3 |
| Mbalmayo | 70 | N3 |
| Bafoussam | 235 | N3 |
| Kribi | 118 | N3 |
| Bafia | 156 | N3 |
| Buea | 178 | N3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Edea Railway Station, Edea (0 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (85 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (125 km)
- Mbalmayo Railway Station, Mbalmayo (70 km)
- Bafia Railway Station, Bafia (156 km)
6. Port of Garoua
City Location: Garoua
Latitude: 9.3077° N
Longitude: 13.4019° E
Overview:
The Port of Garoua, located along the Benue River in northern Cameroon, serves as a vital inland port for the region. Primarily handling agricultural products such as cotton, maize, and millet, it plays a crucial role in facilitating trade with neighboring countries. Despite its inland location, it is connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas. The port is a key contributor to the local economy, supporting the agricultural sector.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Ngaoundéré | 324 | N1 |
| Maroua | 382 | N1 |
| Mokolo | 400 | N1 |
| Nkongsamba | 600 | N1 |
| Bafoussam | 637 | N1 |
| Bamenda | 621 | N1 |
| Douala | 966 | N1 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Garoua Railway Station, Garoua (0 km)
- Ngaoundéré Railway Station, Ngaoundéré (324 km)
- Maroua Railway Station, Maroua (382 km)
- Mokolo Railway Station, Mokolo (400 km)
- Bafoussam Railway Station, Bafoussam (637 km)
7. Port of Nkongsamba
City Location: Nkongsamba
Latitude: 5.9567° N
Longitude: 10.1597° E
Overview:
The Port of Nkongsamba, situated along the Nkam River, is an important inland port in western Cameroon. Serving the western region of the country, it primarily handles the transportation of goods such as timber, cocoa, and coffee. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it plays a significant role in facilitating trade with neighboring countries. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Douala | 112 | N3 |
| Bafoussam | 115 | N4 |
| Dschang | 45 | N4 |
| Mbouda | 65 | N4 |
| Foumban | 82 | N4 |
| Yaoundé | 287 | N4 |
| Bamenda | 175 | N4 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Nkongsamba Railway Station, Nkongsamba (0 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (112 km)
- Bafoussam Railway Station, Bafoussam (115 km)
- Dschang Railway Station, Dschang (45 km)
- Mbouda Railway Station, Mbouda (65 km)
8. Port of Maroua
City Location: Maroua
Latitude: 10.5946° N
Longitude: 14.3246° E
Overview:
The Port of Maroua, located in northern Cameroon, is an important inland port serving the Lake Chad Basin region. Primarily handling goods such as grains, livestock, and handicrafts, it plays a crucial role in facilitating trade with neighboring countries such as Chad and Nigeria. Despite its inland location, it is connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas. The port is a key contributor to the local economy, supporting agriculture and trade.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Garoua | 382 | N1 |
| Mokolo | 120 | N1 |
| Kousséri | 579 | N1 |
| Ngaoundéré | 599 | N1 |
| Nkongsamba | 826 | N1 |
| Yaoundé | 1,097 | N1 |
| Douala | 1,195 | N1 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Maroua Railway Station, Maroua (0 km)
- Garoua Railway Station, Garoua (382 km)
- Mokolo Railway Station, Mokolo (120 km)
- Ngaoundéré Railway Station, Ngaoundéré (599 km)
- Kousséri Railway Station, Kousséri (579 km)
9. Port of Bamenda
City Location: Bamenda
Latitude: 5.9631° N
Longitude: 10.1597° E
Overview:
The Port of Bamenda, located in the northwest region of Cameroon, serves as an important inland port for the surrounding areas. Primarily handling goods such as agricultural produce, textiles, and handicrafts, it plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it serves as a vital link for trade with neighboring regions. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bafoussam | 103 | N6 |
| Foumban | 105 | N6 |
| Buea | 359 | N6 |
| Yaoundé | 366 | N6 |
| Kumba | 283 | N6 |
| Nkongsamba | 288 | N6 |
| Douala | 377 | N6 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bamenda Railway Station, Bamenda (0 km)
- Bafoussam Railway Station, Bafoussam (103 km)
- Foumban Railway Station, Foumban (105 km)
- Buea Railway Station, Buea (359 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (377 km)
10. Port of Bafoussam
City Location: Bafoussam
Latitude: 5.4778° N
Longitude: 10.4178° E
Overview:
The Port of Bafoussam, situated in the western region of Cameroon, is an important inland port serving the surrounding areas. Primarily handling goods such as agricultural produce, coffee, and timber, it plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it serves as a vital link for trade with neighboring regions. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Yaoundé | 296 | N6 |
| Douala | 303 | N6 |
| Buea | 342 | N6 |
| Kumba | 259 | N6 |
| Nkongsamba | 235 | N6 |
| Bamenda | 103 | N6 |
| Foumban | 70 | N6 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bafoussam Railway Station, Bafoussam (0 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (303 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (296 km)
- Buea Railway Station, Buea (342 km)
- Kumba Railway Station, Kumba (259 km)
11. Port of Bertoua
City Location: Bertoua
Latitude: 4.5833° N
Longitude: 13.6833° E
Overview:
The Port of Bertoua, located in eastern Cameroon, serves as a crucial inland port for the surrounding regions. Primarily handling goods such as timber, coffee, and minerals, it plays a vital role in supporting the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it serves as a key hub for trade with neighboring countries. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Yaoundé | 389 | N10 |
| Douala | 520 | N10 |
| Ngaoundéré | 684 | N10 |
| Garoua | 745 | N10 |
| Maroua | 972 | N10 |
| Bertoua | 0 | |
| Bafia | 305 | N10 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bertoua Railway Station, Bertoua (0 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (389 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (520 km)
- Ngaoundéré Railway Station, Ngaoundéré (684 km)
- Garoua Railway Station, Garoua (745 km)
12. Port of Kribi Deep Seaport
City Location: Kribi
Latitude: 2.9409° N
Longitude: 9.9207° E
Overview:
The Port of Kribi Deep Seaport is a state-of-the-art facility located on the Gulf of Guinea, designed to accommodate large vessels and boost Cameroon’s maritime trade capacity. Specializing in container shipping and bulk cargo, it serves as a crucial trade hub for Central Africa. With its modern infrastructure and efficient operations, it aims to enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring seamless transportation of goods to and from the interior regions.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Edea | 118 | N3 |
| Mbalmayo | 204 | N9 |
| Yaoundé | 230 | N9 |
| Douala | 303 | N3 |
| Bafia | 278 | N9 |
| Buea | 407 | N3 |
| Limbe | 431 | N3 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Kribi Deep Seaport Railway Station, Kribi (0 km)
- Edea Railway Station, Edea (118 km)
- Mbalmayo Railway Station, Mbalmayo (204 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (230 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (303 km)
13. Port of Bélabo
City Location: Bélabo
Latitude: 4.9384° N
Longitude: 13.9793° E
Overview:
The Port of Bélabo, located in eastern Cameroon, serves as an important inland port for the surrounding regions. Primarily handling goods such as timber, agricultural produce, and minerals, it plays a vital role in supporting the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it serves as a key hub for trade with neighboring countries. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bertoua | 93 | N10 |
| Yaoundé | 327 | N10 |
| Douala | 458 | N10 |
| Ngaoundéré | 622 | N10 |
| Garoua | 683 | N10 |
| Maroua | 910 | N10 |
| Bafia | 248 | N10 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bélabo Railway Station, Bélabo (0 km)
- Bertoua Railway Station, Bertoua (93 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (327 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (458 km)
- Ngaoundéré Railway Station, Ngaoundéré (622 km)
14. Port of Kaele
City Location: Kaele
Latitude: 10.1092° N
Longitude: 14.4526° E
Overview:
The Port of Kaele, located in the Far North Region of Cameroon, serves as a crucial inland port for the surrounding areas. Primarily handling goods such as grains, livestock, and handicrafts, it plays a vital role in supporting the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it serves as a key hub for trade with neighboring countries. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Maroua | 56 | N1 |
| Kousséri | 334 | N1 |
| Ngaoundéré | 514 | N1 |
| Garoua | 546 | N1 |
| Bertoua | 717 | N1 |
| Bélabo | 790 | N1 |
| Bafia | 954 | N1 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Kaele Railway Station, Kaele (0 km)
- Maroua Railway Station, Maroua (56 km)
- Kousséri Railway Station, Kousséri (334 km)
- Ngaoundéré Railway Station, Ngaoundéré (514 km)
- Garoua Railway Station, Garoua (546 km)
15. Port of Mbalmayo
City Location: Mbalmayo
Latitude: 3.5170° N
Longitude: 11.4996° E
Overview:
The Port of Mbalmayo, situated in the central region of Cameroon, serves as a crucial inland port for the surrounding areas. Primarily handling goods such as agricultural produce, minerals, and timber, it plays a vital role in supporting the local economy. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to ports like Douala and Kribi, it serves as a key hub for trade with neighboring countries. The port is well-connected to major highways, ensuring efficient transportation of goods to and from the surrounding areas.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Yaoundé | 54 | N2 |
| Bertoua | 188 | N9 |
| Douala | 237 | N3 |
| Bafia | 119 | N9 |
| Bélabo | 204 | N9 |
| Maroua | 711 | N10 |
| Garoua | 772 | N10 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Mbalmayo Railway Station, Mbalmayo (0 km)
- Yaoundé Railway Station, Yaoundé (54 km)
- Bertoua Railway Station, Bertoua (188 km)
- Douala Railway Station, Douala (237 km)
- Bafia Railway Station, Bafia (119 km)