Maroua - Discovering Cameroon

Travelling to Maroua

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Maroua, a pretty good destination in Cameroon (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Maroua and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Maroua, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cameroon, here's everything to know about Maroua for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Maroua

Maroua is a city in the Far North Region of Cameroon, located approximately 620 kilometers north of the capital city, Yaoundé. It is the largest city in the region and serves as the administrative capital. Maroua is a commercial hub and a popular destination for business travelers and tourists. The city is known for its vibrant markets, traditional architecture, and cultural festivals. The climate is dry and hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding 35°C, especially during the dry season (November to March). Major attractions in the area include the Mandara Mountains, the Logone River, and Lake Maga. The predominant languages spoken in Maroua are French, Fulfulde, and Arabic.

What to visit in Maroua

Certainly! Here are some of the tourist attractions in Maroua, Cameroon: 1. Fouta Djallon Plateau: This beautiful natural wonder is located just outside the city of Maroua and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The plateau is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife.
2. Lamidat de Maroua: This is the palace of the traditional chief of Maroua, known as the Lamido. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about the history and culture of the region.
3. Rhumsiki Rock Formations: These unique rock formations are located in the nearby village of Rhumsiki and are believed to be millions of years old. Visitors can hike or take a guided tour to explore the area and learn about its geological history.
4. Lake Maga: Located approximately 50 km from Maroua, Lake Maga is a beautiful freshwater lake that is popular for fishing and boating. The lake is also home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
5. Waza National Park: This popular national park is located about 100 km from Maroua and is home to a wide variety of African wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and more. Visitors can take guided safari tours to observe the animals in their natural habitats.
Overall, Maroua and its surrounding area offer a wide range of natural and cultural attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cameroon, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Maroua.

When to go on holiday to Maroua

The best time to go on holiday to Maroua is during the cooler and drier months of November to February. During this time, temperatures are generally between 20-30 degrees Celsius and there is minimal rainfall. March to May is also an option, although temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius and there may be more chance of rainfall. However, it is important to keep in mind that Maroua is a hot and dry area, so be prepared for high temperatures all year round.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Maroua

There are a few options to get to Maroua, Cameroon: 1. By air: The Maroua Salak Airport is served by a few airlines such as Camair-Co and Ethiopian Airlines. You can fly to Yaoundé or Douala and take a connecting flight to Maroua.
2. By road: Maroua is connected to major cities in Cameroon such as Yaoundé, Douala, and Ngaoundere by roads that are in relatively good condition. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to Maroua.
3. By rail: There is a rail line that connects Yaoundé to Ngaoundéré. From Ngaoundéré, you can take a taxi or bus to Maroua.
Before traveling to Maroua, make sure to check the latest travel advisories and requirements for entry into Cameroon.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Maroua, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Maroua

Maroua is located in the Far North region of Cameroon and is known for its rich culinary traditions. Here are some typical foods of Maroua: 1. Pâte de Mil (Cornmeal Porridge): It is a classic staple food made from cornmeal mixed with water to create a thick consistency. It is often served as an accompaniment to stews and sauces.
2. La Viande de Bœuf Séchée (Dried Beef): This is a popular snack made from thinly sliced and dried beef, seasoned with salt and spices. It is often served as an appetizer or with drinks.
3. Poulet DG (Chief's Chicken): This is a famous dish that originated from Maroua. It is made by frying chicken in a tomato and onion-based sauce, with added vegetables such as peppers, carrots, and plantains.
4. Le couscous camerounais (Cameroonian Couscous): Unlike the Moroccan version, this couscous is made from ground millet or sorghum and is usually served with a fragrant tomato-based stew of chicken, fish or vegetables. 5. Les beignets (Fritters): This is a popular street food in Maroua, made by frying dough balls stuffed with spiced ground meat or vegetables. 6. Le thé Touareg (Touareg Tea): This isn't food, but it is a special tea that is often served with meals in Maroua. It is made by steeping green tea leaves with mint and other spices like ginger, cinnamon or cardamom. Overall, the cuisine of Maroua reflects a blend of African and Arab influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful food culture.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cameroon here.

Is Maroua an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Cameroon, Maroua is generally considered to be more expensive for tourists. This is because the city is a commercial and administrative center with higher living costs, which can be reflected in hotel prices, transportation fees, and food prices. However, it is still possible to find affordable accommodation and dining options, especially if you plan ahead and budget accordingly. Additionally, visiting during the off-peak season may also help you save on costs.

Where to find accomodation in Maroua

The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Maroua, Cameroon are: 1. Downtown Maroua: This area is close to many shops, restaurants, and popular tourist attractions in the city.
2. Central Business District: The central business district area features popular hotels, banks and other financial institutions, restaurants, and shopping centers.
3. Kousseri Road: This road is a popular district for budget hotels and guesthouses, and is located near the airport.
4. Pitoa Street: This street is also a popular area for budget hotels and is located near the main transport hub of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Maroua here:
Booking.com

Is Maroua a safe destination for tourists?

Maroua is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is important to take precautions as with any travel destination. It is recommended to avoid going out alone at night, be aware of your surroundings, and keep valuable items secure. It is also advisable to follow the guidance of local authorities, and stay updated on any current events or security alerts.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cameroon here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Maroua.

What type of travelers will enjoy Maroua the most?

Maroua is a vibrant and bustling city located in the northern part of Cameroon. The city has a unique blend of African and Islamic cultures, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Maroua offers a lot of outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing, making it ideal for adventurous travelers.
While Maroua is suitable for all types of travelers, couples would enjoy the city's rich culture and the romantic ambiance, especially during the cultural festivals. On the other hand, young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and various entertainment options in the city.
Families can also have a great time in Maroua, as the city has several child-friendly activities such as camel rides and visiting the nearby Waza National Park. Visitors can also learn about the local culture by visiting the markets or the artisan centers to buy souvenirs.
Overall, Maroua offers something unique and exciting for everyone, regardless of their travel preferences, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Maroua

The most common modes of transportation for getting around Maroua, Cameroon are taxis and motorcycle taxis (known as "bendy" or "okada"). Buses are also available, but they can be crowded and may not have a set schedule. Taxis and motorcycle taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the side of the road. However, it is important to negotiate the fare before getting into the vehicle to avoid being overcharged.

What to see around Maroua

Certainly, there are a number of interesting places to visit within a day trip from Maroua, Cameroon. Here are some options: 1. Rhumsiki: Located about 50 kilometers from Maroua, Rhumsiki is a scenic village nestled in the hills of the Mandara Mountains. It is known for its stunning rock formations, local handicrafts, and traditional dances.
2. Mora: About 40 kilometers from Maroua, Mora is a small town that is home to a market, several mosques, and a museum showcasing the history and culture of the region.
3. Maga: Located about 80 kilometers from Maroua, Maga is a larger town that offers a range of cultural experiences, including museums, art galleries, and traditional dance performances.
4. Waza National Park: About 130 kilometers from Maroua, Waza National Park is a wildlife reserve that is home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and other animals. Visitors can take a safari tour to see the animals up close.
5. Mandara Spa: Situated about 70 kilometers from Maroua, Mandara Spa is a natural hot spring that offers therapeutic baths and massages to visitors. It is said to have healing properties due to the high mineral content of the water.
For every travel information about Cameroon you can click here.

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