Arusha to Maasai Mara National Reserve

Updated: March 13, 2024 12:01 PM

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Arusha to Maasai Mara National Reserve

Language

The official language of Tanzania is Swahili, but English is also widely spoken. In the Maasai Mara National Reserve, you will likely be able to get by with either language.

Currency

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). You can exchange currency at banks, hotels, and forex bureaus. It is also possible to use US dollars in some places, but you will get a better exchange rate if you use TZS.

Distance

The distance from Arusha to the Maasai Mara National Reserve is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles). The drive takes about 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

How to Reach

There are a few different ways to get from Arusha to the Maasai Mara National Reserve:

• By car: This is the most convenient way to travel, but it is also the most expensive. You can rent a car in Arusha and drive yourself, or you can hire a driver.
• By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Arusha and the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, and the fare is around $20-$30.
• By plane: There are no direct flights from Arusha to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. However, you can fly from Arusha to Nairobi, Kenya, and then take a connecting flight to the Maasai Mara.

Expenses

The cost of your trip will vary depending on your travel style and the time of year you visit. However, here are some general estimates:

• Accommodation: Budget-friendly options start at around $20 per night, while mid-range options start at around $50 per night. Luxury lodges can cost up to $1,000 per night.
• Food: Food is relatively inexpensive in Tanzania. You can expect to pay around $5-$10 per meal at a budget-friendly restaurant. Mid-range restaurants will cost around $15-$25 per meal, while luxury restaurants can cost up to $50 per meal.
• Activities: Activities in the Maasai Mara National Reserve vary in price. A game drive will typically cost around $50-$100 per person. A hot air balloon ride will cost around $400-$500 per person. And a walking safari will cost around $200-$300 per person.

Best time to go

The best time to visit the Maasai Mara National Reserve is during the dry season, from June to October. During this time, the weather is clear and the animals are more concentrated around the water sources. However, it is important to note that the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so prices will be higher and crowds will be larger.

What to Eat

Tanzanian cuisine is a mix of African, Indian, and Arabic influences. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Ugali: A cornmeal porridge that is eaten with a variety of stews and sauces.
• Nyama choma: Grilled meat, usually beef or goat.
• Pilau: A rice dish cooked with spices and meat.
• Chipsi mayai: French fries with eggs.
• Mandazi: Fried dough balls.

Where to Go

In addition to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, there are a number of other places to visit in the area, including:

• Lake Manyara National Park: A beautiful park with a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and hippos.
• Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a large concentration of wildlife.
• Olduvai Gorge: A archaeological site where some of the earliest human remains have been found.
• Serengeti National Park: One of the most famous national parks in the world, known for its large herds of wildebeest and zebra.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Arusha to the Maasai Mara National Reserve:

• Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania? Yes, most visitors to Tanzania will need to obtain a visa. You can apply for a visa online or at your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
• What vaccinations do I need to visit Tanzania? You should be up to date on your routine vaccinations, and you may also need to get vaccinated against yellow fever and malaria. Consult your doctor for more information.
• What is the best way to get around Tanzania? The best way to get around Tanzania is by car or bus. You can rent a car in Arusha or Dar es Salaam, or you can take a bus between major cities.
• What should I pack for a trip to Tanzania? Be sure to pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, and a hat and sunscreen. You may also want to bring a raincoat, as it can rain during the rainy season.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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