A hotel website lets travelers check availability, view rooms and book directly, without going through a third-party platform that takes a commission. In Cameroon, many hotels rely entirely on Booking.com or Facebook, which cuts into their margins and their own visibility.
Why a hotel needs its own website
Booking platforms like Booking.com typically charge 15 to 20% commission on every reservation. A dedicated website lets you capture direct bookings — commission-free — while still using those platforms for initial visibility. It’s also the only place where you fully control your property’s image.
The essential elements of a hotel website
- Room presentation with photos and amenities
- Availability calendar and clear rates in FCFA
- Online booking system or a direct WhatsApp button
- Location and distance to points of interest (airport, city center)
- Services offered: restaurant, pool, wifi, parking, shuttle
- Customer reviews highlighted for reassurance
Do you need a full booking engine?
For a small property, a request form or a WhatsApp button is often enough to manage bookings. For a hotel with dozens of rooms, a booking engine connected to an availability calendar prevents double bookings and saves the team considerable time.
Targeting international guests and the diaspora too
A bilingual French-English site reaches international travelers and the Cameroonian diaspora planning a trip home. It’s a simple detail that significantly widens your potential customer base.
How MboaGeek supports hotels
We design hotel websites with room presentation, online or WhatsApp booking, and a bilingual version to reach international guests. Check out our e-commerce website in Cameroon page if you want to integrate online payment directly on your site.
Frequently asked questions
Does a website replace Booking.com?
No, the two complement each other: Booking.com brings initial visibility, then your site captures direct bookings without commission.
Does a small hotel need a complex booking engine?
Not necessarily. A simple form or a WhatsApp button is often enough for a small property.
Want to cut your commissions on booking platforms? Contact MboaGeek for a free quote.