Traveling from Cameroon to Nigeria opens up a gateway to West Africa’s vibrant cultures, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to Nigeria’s buzzing cities, like Lagos and Calabar, or seeking thrilling overland adventures, there are multiple routes and modes of transport to match your taste for exploration.

This guide walks you through the best ways to travel from Cameroon to Nigeria and vice versal—by land, sea, air, and even motorcycle—based on my real journeys, insights, and firsthand experiences from other travelers.

I’ve been to Nigeria five times—and I’d go back in a heartbeat!

How can you travel from Cameroon to Nigeria?

• Introduction
• By Land
• By Water (Ocean)
• By Air
• By Motorcycle
• Travel Documents and Preparation
• Cultural Tips and What to Expect
• Conclusion
• Bonus Tips

By Land: Cross the Border from Cameroon to Nigeria on an Overland Adventure

Traveling from Cameroon to Nigeria by road is one of the most immersive and adventurous options. It’s ideal for those who want to experience the changing scenery, interact with locals, and observe the cultural transitions between two neighboring nations.

The journey usually starts from Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, heading eastward to Calabar. From there, you can proceed to Ikom and eventually reach the Nigerian-Cameroon border. Once across, you’ll land in Cameroon’s English-speaking Southwest Region, where communication is smoother for English speakers.

Expect to board either shared taxis or buses from companies like Afrique con Plc, and be prepared for rough patches of road. It’s not uncommon to stop at multiple unofficial checkpoints and face demands for bribes—a sad but often-accepted part of the journey. Fortunately, most of these “fees” are already included in the drivers’ fares.

Once in Cameroon, travelers can continue to cities like Kumba, Buea, Douala, or Yaoundé, depending on your itinerary. English is widely spoken in Mamfe, Kumba and Buea whcih are the first cities you will see, making the journey less intimidating for non-French speakers. However, Douala and Yaounde are the largest French cities.

I have not used the road personally so cannnot give detail. But a few friends who used it said, it was great.

🧳 Pro Tip: Bring local currency for border fees, keep your passport, visa, and yellow fever card handy, and stay patient through the customs process.

By Sea: Sail the Gulf of Guinea to Calabar

Want a breezier alternative to road travel? Taking a boat from Cameroon to Nigeria is a scenic and sometimes faster option. You can sail out of ports like Limbe, Tiko, or Idenau, heading toward Calabar, Nigeria’s coastal city known for its history and hospitality.

In 2019, I took a small flying boat from Idenau to Calabar. The journey lasted 3 hours, with the boat dropping us at a quiet creek, far from immigration. We were left to search for the immigration office ourselves. There was no shelter and minimal safety measures beyond basic life jackets. Still, the ocean was calm under the afternoon sun, even though the return trip at dawn, with waves and tides, felt risky and unsettling.

Contrast that with my 2017 voyage from Bota Walf in Limbe, which involved a larger, overnight boat that took roughly 10 hours. Despite a longer travel time, it felt safer and docked closer to immigration services in central Calabar. Even so, the night journey wasn’t free of fear, especially when the boat rocked violently in rough waters.

⛵ Pro Tip: Check schedules in advance, travel light, and be ready for unpredictable conditions. Booking early is essential during festive periods.

By Air: From Douala or Yaoundé to Lagos

If you’re after speed and convenience, flying from Cameroon to Nigeria is your best bet. Flights from Douala International Airport or Yaoundé land at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.

But don’t expect a smooth landing into paradise. At Lagos Airport, I was immediately approached by customs officers asking for “search fees.” Even using an airport trolley cost 200 Naira, and I hadn’t yet exchanged currency. Thankfully, a generous local offered me a free trolley.

The airport lacked WiFi and air conditioning, so dressing light is essential. The chaos of immigration and transport can overwhelm even seasoned travelers. I attempted to use Uber, but none were allowed into the airport. After two frustrating hours, I caved and paid 7000 Naira for a 10-minute ride.

📶 Pro Tip: Buy a local SIM card at the airport. I got an MTN SIM for 1000 Naira and 7GB of data for 2500 Naira.

By Motorcycle: For the Fearless Overlander

Traveling from Cameroon to Nigeria by motorcycle is not just transportation—it’s an adventure. Popular with overlanders and thrill-seekers, this route offers breathtaking views and an up-close connection with rural West Africa.

Routes like Bamenda to Enugu or Limbe to Calabar pass through scenic hills, lush forests, and bustling border towns like Ekok or Mfum. However, it’s not for the faint-hearted. You’ll need solid riding skills, proper gear, and well-maintained bikes.

Many overlanders recommend joining communities like iOverlander to connect with fellow bikers and find tips on the best gear and border updates. You’ll also need your passport, visa, bike permit, and insurance. Flexibility is key, as weather and road conditions may shift suddenly.

🏍️ Pro Tip: Avoid night travel. Stick to daylight riding and always wear your safety gear.

Final Thoughts about traveling from Cameroon to Nigeria

From the crowded tarmac of Lagos Airport to the serene waves near Calabar, every journey from Cameroon to Nigeria offers its own kind of adventure. Whether you’re traveling by road, boat, plane, or motorcycle, this journey is more than a border crossing—it’s a tale of resilience, connection, and discovery.

So pack your bags (lightly), prep your documents, and choose your route wisely. No matter how you get there, your trip from Cameroon to Nigeria will leave you with stories to last a lifetime.

✈️ Have you traveled from Cameroon to Nigeria before? Share your story in the comments or tag us on social media!

Keep exploring my older posts for tips on traveling to other countries—I’ve shared insights from several unforgettable journeys.