Douala is hot, humid, and busy. Arriving here with children requires a bit more planning than the average airport transfer, but it is entirely manageable with the right preparation.
Heat is the first challenge
Douala sits near the equator and temperatures hover around 28-33 degrees Celsius year-round with high humidity. The terminal has some air conditioning but it is not always effective, especially in the arrivals and baggage claim areas. Children get uncomfortable quickly in this heat.
Once you have your bags, the priority is getting into an air-conditioned vehicle as fast as possible. This is a strong argument for having a pre-booked transfer waiting outside — no standing around negotiating in the heat with tired kids.
Child seats
Child seat use is not standard in Cameroon. Taxis will not have them, and most drivers have never installed one. If you need a child seat, bring a portable travel seat or request one through your transfer provider at least 48 hours in advance.
Availability is limited. For infant seats especially, confirm the exact model and condition before relying on the provider to have one. Some families find it simpler to bring their own lightweight travel seat.
Vehicle space
Douala taxis are typically compact sedans — Toyota Corollas, Nissan Sunnys, and similar. A family of four with two large suitcases and a stroller simply will not fit in one taxi. You would need two taxis or a larger vehicle.
Pre-booked minivan transfers solve this. A standard minivan fits 2-3 large suitcases in the back, a stroller, and 4-5 passengers comfortably. The cost is 20,000-35,000 XAF to central Douala.
Terminal facilities
DLA does not have family-focused amenities. There is no kids' play area, no family bathroom, and no nursing room. Standard bathrooms are available but bring your own supplies — wipes, sanitizer, and anything you would need for a diaper change.
The terminal has a small shop area after arrivals where you can buy water and snacks. Prices are higher than in the city but reasonable.
Porters
Luggage porters are available and cost 500-1,000 XAF tip. When you are managing children and multiple bags, a porter can make the difference between a stressful exit and a smooth one. Agree on the tip before they start.
Recommended approach
Book a minivan transfer in advance. Request child seats if needed and confirm 48 hours before. When you land, clear immigration, grab your bags, and walk straight to your waiting driver. In Douala's climate, minimizing the time between landing and getting into a cool vehicle is the goal for family comfort.