Douala Airbnb Market Analysis 2026: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Littoral Region, Cameroon
Is Airbnb profitable in Douala in 2026? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon to uncover income potential. This 2026 STR market report for Douala, based on AirROI data from February 2025 to January 2026, reveals key trends in the niche market of 24 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Douala, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Douala Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.
Key Douala Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Douala (2026)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Douala is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Douala is typically December, while May often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Douala across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $1,160+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $798 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $365 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $172, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Douala
Douala Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2026)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Douala STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Septembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while May experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Douala:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 57%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 43% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 24%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 15% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Douala
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Douala (2026)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Douala involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Douala typically peaks in December and dips lowest during August. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $102+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $66 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $54 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $36 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Douala
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Douala (2026)
Peak Season (December, September, July)
- Revenue averages $735 per month
- Occupancy rates average 38.0%
- Daily rates average $59
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $427 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 25.9%
- Daily rates hold near $60
Low Season (February, March, April)
- Revenue drops to average $0 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 0.0%
- Daily rates adjust to average $57
Seasonality Insights for Douala
- The Airbnb seasonality in Douala shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Douala's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $801, occupancy reaching a high of 41.8%, and ADRs peaking at $67.
- Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $0, occupancy could drop to 0.0%, and ADRs may adjust down to $53.
- Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Douala.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
- Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
- Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
- Regularly analyze your own performance against these Douala seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Douala (2026)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Douala? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Akwa | Central business district of Douala, bustling with activity and known for its markets. Ideal for tourists and business travelers due to its accessibility and vibrancy. | Douala Art Museum, Marché de la Cité des Antilles, La Nouvelle Liberte, Akwa Market, Palace Hotel |
| Bonanjo | Administrative and residential district known for its beautiful parks and commercial activities. Attracts both business professionals and families looking for a quieter stay near the city center. | La Galerie, Parc de la Rive Droite, Villa Njo-Njo, Lebled Cultural Center, Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral |
| Bonapriso | Popular residential neighborhood with a mix of expatriates and locals. Offers a vibrant community feel with restaurants, cafes, and close proximity to the city’s attractions. | Lumière Restaurant, Moungo River, Bonapriso Market, Parc des Princes, Local Art Galleries |
| Dikolo | More residential and less commercial, providing a homely feel. Great for travelers looking for a quieter stay while still being close to urban facilities. | Local cafes, Small Artisans Market, Nearby parks |
| Wouri | Famous for its port, it's a hub of trade and activity. Attracts business travelers, and those looking to experience local commerce and culture. | Port of Douala, Doves Market, Musee Maritime, Beach Front |
| Deido | Cultural melting pot and vibrant neighborhood that showcases the heart of Douala with its music and food scene. Ideal for tourists wanting an authentic experience. | Deido Beach, Local food markets, Artisan shops, Cultural festivals |
| Bonanjo Park | A serene green space that attracts visitors looking for relaxation and leisure activities. Great area for families and nature lovers. | Bonanjo Park, St. Joseph's Cathedral, Local fitness centers, Children's playgrounds |
| Limbe | Close location to Douala, known for its beaches and natural beauty. Attracts tourists seeking a getaway from the city hustle with vibrant coastal culture. | Limbe Wildlife Centre, Black Beach, Botanic Gardens, Mount Cameroon |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Douala (2026)
While Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Douala to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Douala (2026)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Doualabased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
"Chez Ebène": Refined and spacious apartment
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Villa Bonapriso with pool
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Stylish 1Bedrom flat 5mins from Airport- Bonapriso
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Amazing Pool, Generator and Fast Internet
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Furnished apartment High Standing Bonamoussadi
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
"Chez Anaya": a central location in Bonapriso
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Douala (2026)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Douala based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nina | 2 | $12,687 | 38 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Medine | 3 | $9,682 | 11 | 4.78/5.0 |
| Gloria | 1 | $7,282 | 1 | Not Rated |
| Carole | 1 | $5,911 | 20 | 4.85/5.0 |
| Steve-Péguy | 1 | $4,856 | 6 | 4.67/5.0 |
| Maturin | 2 | $4,541 | 12 | 4.70/5.0 |
| Lévi Junior | 1 | $3,903 | 2 | Not Rated |
| Sammy Gervais | 1 | $2,602 | 1 | Not Rated |
| Clarice | 1 | $2,038 | 4 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Lavoisier | 2 | $1,977 | 6 | 3.33/5.0 |
Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Douala.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Douala STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Douala. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsDouala Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2026): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Douala
- The Douala Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 24 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Douala, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (87.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
Douala Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Douala
- The dominant room capacity in Douala is 1 bedroom listings, making up 58.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 87.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Douala, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- With over half the market (58.3%) consisting of studios or 1-bedroom units, Douala is particularly well-suited for individuals or couples.
Douala Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Douala
- The most common guest capacity trend in Douala vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (50%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
- Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Douala STR market, accounting for 79.2% of listings.
- A significant 50.0% of listings cater specifically to 1-2 guests, highlighting strong demand from couples and solo travelers in Douala.
- On average, properties in Douala are equipped to host 3.2 guests.
Douala Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Douala
- The most common availability pattern in Douala falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 95.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 100.0% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Douala (58.3%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
Douala Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
16 listings
66.7% of total
2 Nights
4 listings
16.7% of total
3 Nights
3 listings
12.5% of total
30+ Nights
1 listings
4.2% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Douala is 1 Night, adopted by 66.7% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (83.4%) of the Douala Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 66.7% of Douala hosts use this setting.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Douala.
Douala Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
1 listings
4.2% of total
Flexible
14 listings
58.3% of total
Moderate
4 listings
16.7% of total
Firm
3 listings
12.5% of total
Strict
2 listings
8.3% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Douala
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Douala is Flexible, used by 58.3% of listings.
- The market strongly favors guest-friendly terms, with 75.0% of listings offering Flexible or Moderate policies. This suggests guests in Douala may expect booking flexibility.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (8.3%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 58.3% market standard in Douala.
- Given the high prevalence of Flexible policies (58.3%), offering this can enhance booking appeal, especially during shoulder seasons.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 8.3% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Douala.
Douala STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2026)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Douala
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Douala is 14 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during January (average 23 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in April (average 0 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (12 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (0 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (14 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Douala.
- During April, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (0 days avg.).
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 12 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Douala averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Douala (2026)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Douala
- Essential amenities in Douala that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Kitchen, Free parking on premises, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Wifi, First aid kit, Cooking basics are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
- Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Douala: Air conditioning, Kitchen, Free parking on premises, TV.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises, TV.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Wifi or First aid kit to increase appeal.
- Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
- Regularly check competitor amenities in Douala to stay competitive.
Douala Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Douala
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Douala consists of predominantly international visitors (96%), with top international origins including United States, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking French or English.
- Domestic travelers account for 3.6% of guests.
- Key international markets include France (42.9%) and United States (16.1%).
- Top languages spoken are French (43.8%) followed by English (38.4%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus marketing internationally, particularly towards travelers from United States.
- Offer listing details and communication support in French.
- Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
- Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
- Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.
Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison
How does the Douala Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Douala II | 14 | $290 | $79.34 | 24% |
| Douala I | 57 | $262 | $67.98 | 26% |
| Douala V | 131 | $185 | $46.88 | 26% |
| Douala III | 19 | $84 | $29.75 | 28% |