Welcome to Maun.
At first glance, Maun may appear to be a traditional, sprawling African village. Donkeys and cattle wander along the roads, children play beside dusty pathways, and the pace of life feels wonderfully unhurried. When visitors ask, “Where is the CBD?” we often smile. Maun is not a neatly planned town with clearly defined districts. It stretches along the Thamalakane River, with shops, homes, businesses and even an airport all woven together.
In fact, technically speaking, Maun is still classified as a village, partly thanks to the animals that continue to roam freely through the streets. How many places can you land at an international airport and, within minutes, find yourself sharing the road with donkeys?
Is it slightly chaotic? Yes.
Is it charming? Absolutely.
There is something about Maun that captures people. Over the years, many visitors have arrived as a stopover before their safari and unexpectedly fallen in love with its character, warmth and community. Some have even arrived for a short stay and never left. It is a town full of personality, where modern life blends naturally with traditional Botswana culture.
Maun has also evolved significantly over the years. Today, visitors can find a growing selection of services, including a shopping mall with pharmacies, cafés and essential stores, alongside colourful roadside craft stalls and local markets selling handmade goods. Yet despite its growth, Maun has retained its authentic charm.
For most safari guests, however, Maun is simply the gateway to somewhere else. A glimpse from the aircraft window, a quick transfer from the airport, and then they are whisked away to the luxury lodges of the Okavango Delta. And honestly, that is completely understandable. The Delta is the reason many people travel to Botswana.
But for those travelling by road, arriving early before a safari, or simply wanting to slow down after a long journey, Maun is worth exploring. It may not yet be a destination in its own right, but it offers a fascinating introduction to Botswana and the people who call this region home.
Things to do in Maun
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1. Scenic Flights Over the Okavango Delta
For guests who are not staying overnight in the Delta, a scenic flight from Maun is one of the best ways to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of this extraordinary ecosystem.
From above, the winding waterways, palm islands and wildlife-rich floodplains reveal a completely different perspective. Depending on the season and water levels, guests may spot elephants moving through the channels, herds gathering around waterholes and the incredible patchwork of the Delta landscape.
A helicopter flight offers the added benefit of flying lower and landing in remote areas, while fixed-wing scenic flights provide an incredible overview of this vast wilderness.
2. Maun Cultural Tour
A fantastic way to understand the town beyond the safari gateway is through a cultural tour with Travel For Impact.
This three-hour experience introduces guests to the people, businesses and traditions that make Maun unique. Visitors can learn about local industries, meet community members and gain insight into everyday life in Botswana.
It is an engaging experience for guests who want to connect with the destination rather than simply pass through it.
3. Okavango Craft Brewery
More than just a place to enjoy a cold beer, Okavango Craft Brewery has a fascinating story.
Located in Maun, the brewery combines great food, local craft beer and conservation initiatives. Guests can enjoy a brewery tour, learn about their efforts to address human-wildlife conflict and discover how a local business is creating positive change.
And of course, the beer and pizza are excellent reasons to visit too.
4. Okavango Gin Distillery
Another unique local experience is the Okavango Gin Distillery.
Guests can discover the story behind Botswana’s first craft gin, learn about the inspiration behind the botanicals and enjoy a taste of a proudly local product. It is a wonderful stop for gin lovers or anyone interested in the creative businesses emerging in Maun.
5. Sunset Boat Cruise
During the higher water months, some lodges around Maun offer sunset boat cruises.
There is something special about being on the water as the sun sets over the Okavango landscape. With birdlife, changing light and the peaceful movement of the river, it is a beautiful way to experience the Delta environment without travelling deep into the wilderness.
6. Mokoro Excursions
For guests with limited time, full-day mokoro trips can be arranged from Maun into the Okavango Delta.
However, it is worth managing expectations. These are long days, with significant driving involved to reach the waterways. They offer a taste of the Delta, but they cannot compare with spending several nights inside the ecosystem.
Where possible, we recommend guests stay within the Delta itself to truly experience the magic of this unique wilderness.
7. Moremi Game Reserve Day Trips
Similarly, full-day trips into Moremi Game Reserve can be arranged from Maun, offering the chance to experience Botswana's incredible wildlife.
However, these involve long hours on the road and can be tiring. For guests who have limited time, a Maun-based day trip can work, but for a true safari experience we recommend including accommodation in a private concession or national park.
Where to Eat in Maun
1. Marc's Eatery
A favourite among visitors and locals alike, Marc's Eatery is centrally located and offers a relaxed atmosphere with a varied menu. It is a reliable choice for guests looking for good food at a mid-range price point.
2. Grays Eden
For guests looking for a more refined dining experience, Grays Eden offers one of Maun’s more premium restaurant options.
Located within one of Maun’s higher-end lodges, the restaurant provides excellent service and quality cuisine. Advance booking is essential.
3. Tandurei
Conveniently located close to Maun Airport, Tandurei is well known for serving some of the best curries in town. It is a great option for guests looking for flavourful, casual dining.
4. The Duck Café
A firm favourite for breakfast and lunch, The Duck Café is located near the airport and serves some of the best coffee in Maun. With fresh breakfast options, light meals and a relaxed atmosphere, it is an ideal stop before or after a safari.
5. Thamalakane River Lodge
For a meal with a view, Thamalakane River Lodge offers a beautiful riverside setting.
The restaurant overlooks the Thamalakane River and is particularly enjoyable in the late afternoon when guests can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
A Few More Maun Experiences
For guests with extra time, there are a few other experiences worth considering:
Birding around Maun
The waterways and surrounding areas are excellent for birding, with opportunities to spot kingfishers, herons, storks, raptors and many other species. Specialist birding guides can offer exceptional experiences for enthusiasts. Maun Educational Park has recently reopened and for a very small fee, a stroll along the riverside is particularly enjoyable.
Horseback Safaris
The area surrounding Maun is home to some outstanding horseback safari experiences, offering a unique way to explore the wilderness and get closer to nature. Thamo Telele, located approximately 30 minutes from Maun Airport, is situated on a reserve and offers horseback trails amongst beautiful plains game.
Roadside Craft Markets
Keep an eye out for local craft stalls around Maun. They are a wonderful place to purchase handmade baskets, artwork and souvenirs while supporting local artisans.
Should Guests Stay in Maun?
Our advice is simple: if Maun is purely a gateway to the Okavango Delta, that is perfectly fine. The Delta remains the star attraction.
However, for guests with a night to spare, those arriving after a long international journey, or those looking for a more authentic introduction to Botswana, Maun offers a charming and memorable experience.
It is not polished, and that is exactly why many people love it. Maun is real Botswana: welcoming, colourful, slightly chaotic and full of character.