Maun Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transport options in Maun, Botswana.


Introduction to Maun

Maun, located in Okavango-Chobe in Botswana, is the fifth-largest town in the country and the gateway to the Okavango Delta. It is a bustling city with modern amenities, surrounded by ancient traditions and picturesque landscapes. Home to over 50,000 people, Maun has a rich history and cultural heritage, which is evident in its museums and historical landmarks. The town’s natural beauty attracts thousands of tourists each year, who come to explore the Okavango Delta and its scenic surroundings.

List of Places to Visit in Maun

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nhabe Museum

The Nhabe Museum is a cultural and historical museum that showcases the life and times of the Batswana and their traditions. The museum displays a wealth of artifacts, including traditional clothing, hunting equipment, musical instruments, and pottery.

Baines’ Baobabs

Baines’ Baobabs is a cluster of seven trees that were named after the British explorer, Thomas Baines. These majestic trees are over 1,000 years old and are a popular tourist attraction.

Natural Attractions of Maun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland deltas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The delta’s winding waterways, lagoons, and islands are home to a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, including crocodiles, hippos, elephants, and lions.

Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve is situated in the eastern part of the Okavango Delta and covers an area of 4,871 km². It is one of the most beautiful reserves in Africa and offers visitors the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maun

Thamalakane River Walk

The Thamalakane River Walk is a scenic route along the Thamalakane River, which is located just a few kilometers from Maun. The route is approximately 5 km long and takes around 2 hours to complete. The trail is flat, making it ideal for both hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Maun: Activities and Tours

Mokoro Tour

A mokoro tour is a unique way to explore the Okavango Delta’s waterways. A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe that is propelled by a pole. The tour takes you through the delta’s winding channels, allowing you to get up close to the wildlife.

Scenic Flight

A scenic flight is an excellent way to see the Okavango Delta from above. The flight takes you over the delta’s winding waterways, providing breathtaking views of the landscape and its wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maun

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Nhabe Museum and Baines’ Baobabs
Day 2 Go on a mokoro tour of the Okavango Delta
Day 3 Explore Moremi Game Reserve
Day 4 Take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta
Day 5 Hike the Thamalakane River Walk
Day 6 Relax at a local bar and try some traditional Botswana food
Day 7 Visit a local crafts market and buy some souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Maun

Must-Try Dishes

Seswaa

Seswaa is a traditional Batswana meat stew made with beef or goat meat. The meat is boiled until it is very tender and then shredded. It is usually served with pap, a type of maize porridge.

Morogo

Morogo is a type of spinach that is commonly eaten in Botswana. It is usually boiled and then mixed with a bit of oil and salt. It is often served with pap or rice.

Local Beverages

Palm Wine

Palm wine is a traditional African alcoholic beverage made from the sap of various species of palm trees. It is commonly consumed in Botswana and is known for its sweet, slightly tangy flavor.

Stoney Ginger Beer

Stoney Ginger Beer is a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Botswana. It has a strong, spicy ginger flavor and is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Maun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Maun Lodge

Maun Lodge is a popular hotel located in the heart of Maun. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.

Island Safari Lodge

Island Safari Lodge is a nature lover’s dream. The lodge is located on the banks of the Thamalakane River, and many of the rooms overlook the water. The lodge offers a range of activities, including game drives, mokoro tours, and scenic flights over the delta.

What to Buy in Maun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Crafts Market

Maun’s crafts market is a great place to find souvenirs and local products. The market features a wide range of goods, including traditional clothing, pottery, and carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Maun

The Batswana people are a friendly and welcoming people, and visitors to Maun will feel at home in no time. Botswana has a conservative culture, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully.

Best Time to Visit Maun

The best time to visit Maun is between May and September. During this time, the weather is dry and cool, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maun

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly
  • Try the local food and drink

Don’t:

  • Take photos without permission
  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their culture

Safety and Health

Safety in Maun

Maun is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in Maun

Visitors to Maun should take precautions to prevent malaria, which is prevalent in the area. It is recommended to take antimalarial medication and wear insect repellent. Visitors should also ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations.

Getting to Maun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Maun

Maun International Airport is the main airport in the area and is located just outside the town center.

Bus Stations Near Maun

There are several bus companies that operate services to Maun, including Intercape and Seabelo.

Other Options

Many visitors choose to self-drive to Maun, which is possible from both South Africa and Namibia. It is recommended to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, as many of the roads are unpaved.

How to Get Around in Maun

The best way to get around Maun is by car. There are several car rental companies in the area, including Avis and Hertz. Taxis and minibusses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Maun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kasane

Kasane is a popular tourist destination located in northern Botswana. It is situated near the Chobe National Park and is known for its wildlife and outdoor activities.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the most famous natural wonders of the world, straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Visitors can take a day trip from Maun to see the falls.

Conclusion

Maun is a vibrant and exciting town with plenty to offer visitors. Its rich culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures make it an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic African experience. Whether you want to explore the Okavango Delta, hike the Thamalakane River Walk, or relax at a local bar and try some traditional Botswana food, Maun has something for everyone.