Things To Do
in Maun
Maun, Botswana sits on the edge of the Okavango Delta and serves as the gateway to one of Africa's most iconic wilderness regions. This small town is rich with safari operators, friendly locals, and a relaxed, traveler-friendly vibe. Life here revolves around riverfront views, wildlife excursions, and Tswana culture, all wrapped in a warm, desert-meets-river atmosphere.
Maun blends practical tourist infrastructure with authentic Botswana charm, making it an ideal base for delta adventures and short city explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning mokoro ride through the serene waterways of the Okavango Delta, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of nature awakening. As the sun rises, watch for elephants and other wildlife drinking at the water's edge while your guide shares insights about the ecosystem. Enjoy a light breakfast on a secluded island, soaking in the tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking safari through the delta, where you can get up close to the flora and fauna while learning about their significance. Engage with local guides who will introduce you to traditional tracking methods and how to identify animal signs. As the sun begins to lower in the sky, return to your camp for a refreshing drink and a chance to relax before dinner.
As twilight settles over the delta, gather around a campfire for a traditional meal prepared by local chefs. Share stories and experiences with fellow travelers under a canopy of stars, while listening to the call of distant wildlife. End your night with a night walk or drive to experience the nocturnal life of the delta, spotting elusive creatures like leopards and hyenas.
Start your day with a visit to the Maun Educational Centre, where you can learn about the rich culture and history of Botswana's indigenous people. Engage with local artisans and observe traditional crafts being made, from basket weaving to beadwork, while gaining insight into their significance. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, sampling dishes like porridge and boerewors.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby village of Shorobe and participate in a community project, helping with conservation efforts or school initiatives. This hands-on experience will allow you to connect with locals and understand their daily lives. As you work, enjoy the stunning landscape of the surrounding area, dotted with acacia trees and open savannah.
Return to Maun and take a leisurely stroll along the Thamalakane River, where you can watch the sunset paints the sky in shades of orange and pink. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling local delicacies while listening to traditional music performances. Cap off your evening with a nightcap at a local bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to world-class Okavango Delta experiences from a compact base
- Friendly, traveler-oriented vibe with strong safari culture
- Limited nightlife and broad urban amenities compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal malaria risk and variable road conditions in the delta
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Ee" - Yes
- "Aowa" - No
- "Salibonane" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Maun
Visit one of these nice places.
Open-air views along the Thamalakane River as the sun sinks, casting warm colors over the water and palm-fringed banks.
A vantage point near the historic bridge where walkers and boats pass, offering opportunities for silhouettes and river reflections.
Gentle riverside scenery with reeds, wildlife activity, and early morning light ideal for nature photography.
Bird’s-eye views of the delta’s channels and papyrus beds; book with a licensed operator for dramatic wide-angle shots.
Food in Maun
Maun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked, shredded beef seasoned simply with salt and onion, typically served with pap (bogobe) and morogo. A Botswana staple found across local eateries.
Must-Try!
Maize porridge served with the leafy greens morogo; a quintessential pairing that showcases Tswana comfort food.
Wild spinach leaves sautéed with peppers or onions and served alongside meat or pap; a flavorful, vegetarian-friendly option when meat is limited.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and quick street snacks. Look for grilled corn, locally made biltong, and samosas sold by friendly vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet with a friendly 'Dumela' when meeting people. A handshake is common; use polite language with elders and shopkeepers.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional settings or villages. Respect boundaries around wildlife and sacred sites.
Dress modestly in town and at local markets; leave hats and loud behavior for conservative settings. Remove shoes when entering homes if invited.
Safety
Tipping in Maun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service. In tourist areas, 10-15% at restaurants and a small amount for guides and boat crews is typical. Carry small local or US dollar notes for tips, given in cash where possible.
Most lodges, restaurants, and tour operators accept cash (Botswana pula) and cards (Visa/Mastercard). ATMs are available in Maun, but card acceptance can vary at smaller vendors. Have a mix of cash and card as a backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot with afternoon showers; lush delta vegetation and abundant birdlife. Mosquitoes are common, so insect repellent and malaria precautions are important. Pack light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sun protection.
Cooler and dry, with pleasant days and chilly nights. Wildlife concentrates near water sources, making game viewing easier. It can be windy and dusty; bring a light jacket and sunglasses.
Spring and autumn offer moderate weather with good birding opportunities and fewer crowds. River levels can vary, affecting delta activity and boat operations.
Maun at Night
Hiking in Maun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside hike along the Thamalakane; suitable for a relaxed morning walk with birding opportunities and river scenery.
Short guided hikes near the delta’s edge, often combined with wildlife and island visits; best done with a local guide for safety and navigation.
Airports
How to reach Maun by plane.
Primary air hub for Maun; served by domestic and regional flights, including transfers to the Okavango Delta and surrounding camps.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous group forming the cultural heart of the region; English and Setswana are commonly spoken in town.
Smaller communities with rich traditions found in and around the delta and northern regions.
A steady flow of tourists and safari operators contributing to a cosmopolitan, lodge-focused economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region follows common Southern African football culture with local leagues and informal games around town.
Occasional rugby matches and social games; popular among expats and visitors who join local clubs.
Played in school and community grounds, especially during dry seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as morogo with pap, salads, and vegetable curries. When in doubt, ask for the Botswana-style morogo and pap pairing or other vegetable-forward dishes.