The art market surrounding the Royal Palace is among the most authentic craft markets in Cameroon. Unlike the tourist markets of Douala or Kribi, where much of the stock is imported from elsewhere, the goods sold here are largely made locally by artisans whose workshops line the nearby streets. You can buy bronze sculptures, carved wooden masks, beaded jewellery, embroidered textiles, pottery, and leather goods — often negotiating directly with the person who made them.
Quality varies considerably. The best pieces are genuinely excellent; there is also plenty of mass-produced material targeting the tourist trade. Taking time to walk into the workshops rather than just browsing the stalls helps you find the better work and gives you a chance to see the craft process. Early morning is the best time to visit, when the market is most active and before tour groups arrive from Bafoussam.