Hunting Calendar in East: The Thrill of Hunting Events and Traditions, Legislation & General Hunting Rules and Permits

Hunting Seasons and Regulatory Framework in the East Region The East Region of Cameroon offers one of Central Africa’s most diverse hunting experiences, with official seasons running from December to June, covering both dry and early wet periods. The Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) sets precise dates each year, accounting for ecological factors like the Congolian rainforest’s unique animal movements and migratory bird patterns. Unlike the arid North or the forested South, the East’s mix of dense rainforest, savanna corridors, and river basins creates distinct hunting zones for species like forest elephants (limited quota), bongo, giant forest hog, and yellow-backed duiker. Recent conservation measures (2022 onward) have imposed stricter seasonal closures (July–November) to protect breeding populations, particularly for bongo and sitatunga. Game-Specific Hunting Windows and Peak Activity Large-game hunting (forest buffalo, bongo) is best January–March, when animals congregate near salines and riverbanks. Small-game hunters target April–June for red river hog and blue duiker, while bird hunters focus on February–April for Congo peafowl and guinea fowl. The Dja Biosphere Reserve’s buffer zones offer exceptional opportunities but require special permits. Local events like the Lomié Hunting Festival (March) celebrate traditional Baka hunting techniques, while the Boumba-Ngoko Trophy Hunt (May) attracts international hunters for giant forest hog competitions. Avoid July–November, when torrential rains and flooded terrain make hunting impractical. Protected Species and Critical Restrictions in the East Region Absolute bans apply to forest elephants, gorillas, and mandrills, with severe penalties for violations. Female animals with offspring are off-limits year-round, and bongo hunting is restricted to males only. The entire region closes July–November to protect breeding wildlife, with additional temporary bans if MINFOF detects overhunting in specific zones like Nki National Park. Always verify current restrictions through licensed outfitters before planning expeditions. Licensing Procedures and Outfitter Partnerships Foreign hunters must secure a 90-day provisional permit (≈$2,000–5,000 depending on species) through MINFOF-approved outfitters, submitting a passport, firearm import permit, and proof of yellow fever vaccination. Locals obtain annual licenses from Bertoua or Yokadouma MINFOF offices. The East Cameroon Hunting Association facilitates access to Dja and Boumba-Ngoko hunting blocks, but independent hunting is illegal. Reputable outfitters like Safari Nyamabo provide mandatory Pygmy trackers for bongo and duiker hunts. Severe Penalties for Violations in the East Region Poaching or hunting off-season carries fines up to 20 million XAF (≈$32,500), imprisonment, and lifetime hunting bans. MINFOF rangers conduct armed patrols in Lobéké National Park, where elephant poaching remains a threat. Report illegal activities via the LAGA wildlife crime hotline. Optimal Tactics and Gear In rainforest zones, .375 H&H Magnum or .416 Rigby rifles are essential for forest buffalo, while night-vision scopes (permitted only for giant forest hog) improve success rates. For duikers, use .243 Winchester with suppressors to avoid spooking game. Waterproof gear and snake guards are mandatory due to the region’s high humidity and venomous snakes. Focus on salines near Ndélélé for bongo, and riverine forests in Boumba-Ngoko for sitatunga. Hunting Gatherings and Cultural Experiences in the East Region The Gribi Hunting Challenge (February) tests skills in tracking and marksmanship under rainforest conditions, while the Baka Bushmeat Festival (April—regulated) showcases traditional hunting methods with MINFOF oversight. The Sangha Tri-National Hunting Symposium (June) brings together hunters from Cameroon, CAR, and Congo to discuss cross-border conservation strategies.