what they said. I did axles without removing the bearing or brakes. I did have to drop the exhaust mid-pipe about 1" on the left side. here's a good diy:
Pelican Technical Article: Replacing Boxster CV Joints and Boots / Axle Replacement - 986 / 987
ps, be careful using aftermarket axles - I had issues with mine - cv didn't have the same range of motion, used poor quality boots, was unfinished and prone to rust, and dust shield didn't fit transmission flange. I had much better luck buying a used, low-mileage oem axle from a wrecker.
regarding cam covers - don't remove, just retorque to spec (follow bentley to torque in appropriate order) as well as change spark plug tubes. 99% chance will fix any leaks.