Catalytic decomposition of methane is an alternative route for steam reforming to produce hydrogen. For this process, Ni-based and Co-based catalysts are well known for their activity. This paper presents the synthesis and characterization of Ni/Ce-SiO2 and Co/Ce-TiO2 catalysts prepared by the sol-gel method. Several techniques such as XRD, H-2-TPR, SEM/EDS and HRTEM were employed for catalysts characterization. The effect of a fixed amount of Ni or Co supported on mixed supports (Ce-SiO2 or Ce-TiO2) on the CH4 decomposition reaction was tested. Based on the results, it is concluded that, metal and supports, as well as the route of synthesis play an important role in the catalytic activity for this reaction. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.