Yaoundé Airport (YAO)

Common Complaints

• Disorganized and Inefficient Processes: Travelers frequently report a highly frustrating and disorganized experience, especially on departure. This includes multiple, seemingly random checkpoints, officials asking for documents repeatedly (even yellow fever certificates when *leaving* the country), and a lack of clear signage.
• Limited Airside Amenities: Beyond security, there are very few options for shopping or dining, with only a small bar available.
• Unreliable or Non-existent Public WiFi: While some airport information mentions free Wi-Fi, traveler reviews indicate that Wi-Fi in the main terminal is often unavailable or slow in the executive lounge.
• Departure Tax Confusion: The process for paying the mandatory CFA10,000 departure tax is often unclear and adds to traveler frustration.
• Taxi Touts and Fare Negotiation: While taxis are available, travelers are advised to negotiate fares beforehand due to the presence of touts.
• Lack of Air Conditioning: An older review noted the lack of air conditioning, leading to hot and humid conditions in the terminal.

Overall, Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport presents a challenging experience for many travelers, primarily due to procedural inefficiencies and limited amenities beyond basic infrastructure. Travelers should be prepared for potential disorganization, particularly during security and immigration processes, and plan accordingly for limited options post-security.