Africa > Cameroon > Douala (DLA)
The Car or no Car advice for Douala can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Douala ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Douala ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Douala?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
Arrival and first impressions ✈️
Douala International Airport (DLA) handles most international arrivals into Cameroon. It is close to the city centre in distance terms, but traffic congestion can make short journeys unpredictable. There is no rail or metro link from the airport, and transfers are handled by taxis or private cars.
Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive by international standards, although fares are often negotiated rather than metered. For short stays focused on business or central Douala, taxis alone can be sufficient.
Getting around without a car 🚕🚌
Douala does not have a metro or tram system. Public transport relies on:
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Shared taxis
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Minibuses
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Motorcycle taxis (locally known as bendskins)
These are cheap and widely used by locals, but they can feel chaotic to visitors. Routes are informal, stops are flexible, and comfort levels vary. For confident travellers, this can be part of the experience; for others, it can be tiring.
Walking is possible only in very limited areas, as distances are large, pavements are inconsistent, and heat and humidity are significant factors ☀️🌴.
When a rental car becomes useful 🚗
Renting a car in Douala gives you control and flexibility, especially if:
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You plan to visit beaches west of the city, such as Kribi or Limbe
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You want to explore beyond the urban core
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You are staying longer than a few days
However, most rentals are with a driver, which is very common in Cameroon. Self-drive is possible, but driving standards, road conditions, and informal traffic rules can be challenging for newcomers.
Conclusion: should you rent a car in Douala?
For short urban stays, taxis are usually enough. However, should you rent a car in Douala if you plan regional travel or want comfort and predictability? Yes—ideally with a driver. This strikes the best balance between independence, safety, and local knowledge in Cameroon’s busiest city 🌍🚗.
