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Maun
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Discover Maun, Botswana: Your Gateway to the Okavango Delta, a vibrant town with rich culture, modern amenities, and unparalleled access to stunning wildlife adventures.

Maun, a bustling town in Botswana, serves as the gateway to the dazzling Okavango Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming locals, Maun is a focal point for tourists looking to explore the rich wildlife and stunning landscapes of the delta. Whether you're setting off on a safari or embarking on a mokoro canoe adventure, Maun provides the perfect starting point for an unforgettable journey into nature.
Read more about Maun
The town itself is a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm. You can find everything from cozy lodges and luxury hotels to local markets selling handmade crafts and fresh produce. The Thamalakane River runs through Maun, offering scenic spots for picnics and bird watching. Maun's airport is a hub for charter flights, making it easy to reach remote camps in the delta and other national parks in Botswana.
Beyond its role as a travel hub, Maun has its own unique attractions. The Nhabe Museum offers insights into the local culture and history, while the Maun Wildlife Educational Park is a great place to learn about the region's flora and fauna. For those interested in community-based tourism, there are opportunities to visit nearby villages and experience traditional ways of life. All these elements combine to make Maun a destination in its own right, not just a stopover on the way to the Okavango Delta.

When is the best time to visit Maun?

Best: May–July · 29–32°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January3667
February3775
March3669
April3530
May (best)323
June (best)290
July (best)310
August360
September380
October4019
November4034
December3765

Getting to and around Maun

How to get there

Maun is accessible by air and road. The Maun International Airport (MUB) serves as the primary gateway, with regular flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Gaborone. Major airlines such as Air Botswana and South African Airways operate flights to Maun. By road, Maun can be reached via the A3 highway from Francistown or Gaborone. The drive offers scenic views but can be long and tiring, so ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry enough fuel and supplies.

Transportation

In Maun, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and local minibuses known as combis. Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or booked through your accommodation. For more freedom to explore, consider renting a car; several car rental agencies operate in Maun. Combis are a budget-friendly option for short trips within the town but can be crowded and less comfortable. Many lodges and safari companies offer shuttle services to various attractions.

Best attractions in Maun

Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta, offers visitors a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and cultural experiences. From exhilarating safaris to witness the diverse wildlife in Moremi Game Reserve, to mokoro rides through the peaceful waterways of the delta, visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of the African wilderness. The cultural village tours provide insight into the traditional lifestyles of the local people, while the bustling markets offer a chance to sample local cuisine and crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to take a scenic flight over the delta for a bird's eye view of this breathtaking landscape.

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Best landmarks in Maun

Maun offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural and natural landmarks to explore. From the vibrant Maun Craft Market where local artisans showcase their traditional crafts to the iconic Thamalakane River with its picturesque sunset cruises, there is something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Moremi Game Reserve, home to a diverse array of wildlife including elephants, lions, and hippos. For a taste of history, the Nhabe Museum offers insight into the region's past through its exhibits on traditional Botswana life. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Maun's landmarks promise a memorable experience for all.

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Explore Maun on the map

Plan your Maun trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Maun

Maun boasts a vibrant dining scene, offering a unique fusion of local flavors and international cuisine. From traditional Botswanan dishes like seswaa and bogobe to gourmet dining experiences, visitors can explore a wide range of culinary delights. Enjoy delicious meals overlooking the Thamalakane River, savor fresh seafood caught from the Okavango Delta, or mingle with locals at bustling markets serving up street food favorites. Whether you're looking for a fine dining experience or a casual meal under the stars, Maun has something to satisfy every palate.

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Best bars in Maun

Maun's nightlife scene offers a unique blend of traditional African music and modern entertainment, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere for visitors. From cozy bars serving locally brewed beers to energetic nightclubs with live DJs spinning international hits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to dance under the stars at open-air venues or mingle with locals and fellow travelers at popular hotspots. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Maun's nightlife scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.

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Best nightclubs in Maun

Maun's nightlife scene offers a unique blend of traditional African music and modern entertainment, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere for visitors. From cozy bars serving locally brewed beers to energetic nightclubs with live DJs spinning international hits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to dance under the stars at open-air venues or mingle with locals and fellow travelers at popular hotspots. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Maun's nightlife scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.

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Best shops in Maun

Maun offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a variety of local markets, craft stalls, and shops selling traditional handicrafts, artwork, and souvenirs. Visitors can explore the bustling Maun Craft Market for authentic African crafts, or browse the local boutiques for handmade jewelry and clothing. Don't miss the opportunity to haggle for unique treasures such as beaded jewelry, wooden carvings, and traditional textiles. The vibrant shopping scene in Maun provides a glimpse into the local culture and offers the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Botswana.

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Maun essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and major shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Maun, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading into remote areas. Exchange facilities are available at the airport and in town.
Safety
Maun is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Notable areas to be cautious of include the Old Bridge neighborhood, which has experienced incidents of petty theft targeting tourists. Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded places. Avoid displaying valuables and use hotel safes for important documents and money.
Emergency Situations
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance, 998 for fire emergencies, and 997 for medical emergencies. Maun has a hospital and several clinics for medical care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation if necessary. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting local communities. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Botswana is predominantly Christian, traditional beliefs are also practiced. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Dumela' (hello). A handshake is common, and it's polite to ask about someone's well-being. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as seswaa (pounded meat) and pap (maize porridge). Accept food offerings graciously and avoid wasting food, as it is considered disrespectful.
Local Tips
To experience Maun like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss a visit to the Nhabe Museum to learn about the area's heritage. For a unique experience, take a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) trip in the Okavango Delta. This offers a serene way to explore the delta's waterways and wildlife.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloDumela[doo-meh-lah]
GoodbyeTsamaya sentle[tsah-mah-yah sehn-tleh]
YesEe[eh]
NoNnyaa[n-yah]
Please/You're welcomeKe kopa[keh koh-pah]
Thank youKe a leboga[keh ah leh-boh-gah]
Excuse me/SorryKe kopa tshelete[keh koh-pah tshay-leh-teh]
How are you?O kae?[oh kah-eh]
Fine. And you?Ke tsogile. Le wena?[keh tsoh-gee-leh. leh weh-nah]
Do you speak English?O bua Setswana?[oh boo-ah set-swah-nah]
I don't understandGa ke itse[gah keh eet-seh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe kopa go bona menu[keh koh-pah goh boh-nah meh-noo]
I don't eat meatGa ke itse nyama[gah keh eet-seh nyah-mah]
Cheers!Hlala pha[lah-lah pah]
I would like to pay, pleaseKe kopa go dira thepa[keh koh-pah goh dee-rah teh-pah]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Boitumelo![boy-too-meh-loh]
Go away!Tswela pele![tsway-lah peh-leh]
Call the Police!Bula Polase![boo-lah poh-lah-seh]
Call a doctor!Bula ndlovu![boo-lah n-dloh-voo]
I'm lostKe tshwerwe[keh tshwehr-weh]
I'm illKe a bolawa[keh ah boh-lah-wah]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Ke kopa go rekela...[keh koh-pah goh reh-keh-lah...]
I'm just lookingKe a bonela fela[keh ah boh-neh-lah feh-lah]
How much is it?E e leng?[eh eh leh-ng]
That's too expensiveKe e le mahala[keh eh leh mah-hah-lah]
Can you lower the price?O ka rekela sepe?[oh kah reh-keh-lah seh-peh]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Ke nako mang?[keh nah-koh mah-ng]
It's one o'clockKe nako ya kwa[keh nah-koh yah kwah]
Half past (10)Bo kete (10)[boh keh-teh (10)]
MorningBontle[bohn-tleh]
AfternoonKgotsa[koh-t-sah]
EveningMosu[moh-soo]
YesterdayNako ya gae[nah-koh yah gah-eh]
TodayNako e tee[nah-koh eh teh-eh]
TomorrowNako ya gompieno[nah-koh yah gohm-pee-eh-noh]
1Lefatsheng[leh-fah-tsheng]
2Bobedi[boh-beh-dee]
3Boraro[boh-rah-roh]
4Bone[boh-neh]
5Botswe[boh-tsway]
6Boroka[boh-roh-kah]
7Bosele[boh-seh-leh]
8Bono[boh-noh]
9Boraro le le nne[boh-rah-roh leh leh n-neh]
10Lese diaropa[leh-seh dee-ah-roh-pah]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Kae...?[kah-eh...?]
What's the address?Leina la kae?[leh-ee-nah lah kah-eh?]
Can you show me (on the map)?O ka nna o leka sepe (ka map)?[oh kah nah oh leh-kah seh-peh (kah map)?]
When's the next (bus)?Ene le kae (bus) e e nne?[eh-neh leh kah-eh (bus) eh eh n-neh?]
A ticket (to ....)Thepa (go ....)[teh-pah (goh ....)]

History of Maun

The Founding of Maun

Maun, often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Okavango Delta,' was founded in 1915. It was established as the tribal capital of the Batawana people, a subgroup of the Tswana. The name 'Maun' is derived from 'maung,' which means 'the place of short reeds.' The founding of Maun marked an important moment in Botswana’s history, as it became a central hub for trade and transport in the region.

The Arrival of European Explorers

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Maun saw the arrival of various European explorers and missionaries. Notably, David Livingstone, the famous British explorer, passed through the area in his travels. These encounters brought new technologies and ideologies but also led to significant cultural exchanges and tensions.

The Role in the Okavango Delta

Maun’s proximity to the Okavango Delta has always played a crucial role in its history. The Delta, one of the world's largest inland deltas, attracts wildlife and tourists alike. Historically, the Batawana people utilized the Delta for fishing, hunting, and agriculture. The area’s rich biodiversity and natural resources have made it a focal point for both local livelihoods and conservation efforts.

The Growth of Tourism

In the late 20th century, Maun transformed into a thriving tourist destination. The establishment of safari lodges and tour companies turned the city into a bustling gateway for visitors exploring the Okavango Delta. This boom in tourism has significantly contributed to the local economy, providing jobs and fostering international interest in Botswana’s natural beauty.

Modern Development

Recent years have seen considerable development in Maun. Infrastructure improvements, such as paved roads and upgraded airport facilities, have made the city more accessible. While maintaining its traditional charm, Maun has also embraced modernity, with new hotels, restaurants, and cultural centers showcasing the blend of past and present.

Maun in Photos

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Cities near Maun

The closest cities to Maun, if you have time for more than one stop.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Maun, Botswana

Discover Maun like never before with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease.

  • Comprehensive information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • High-quality images and detailed descriptions
  • Local tips and curated advice
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More about the Evendo app

Explore Maun effortlessly with Evendo, your free, all-in-one travel guide. Discover attractions, book hotels and tours, and experience the best of Botswana.

  • Maps and contact details for easy planning
  • Booking options for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
  • History and travel essentials for Maun
  • Easy navigation through the app and city
  • 'Near me' feature to discover nearby attractions
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Maun, Botswana - the gateway to the Okavango Delta and a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. With Evendo, your trip to Maun will be unforgettable. Our app provides detailed information on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. Whether you're planning a visit to the iconic Moremi Game Reserve or looking to experience local culture at Nhabe Museum, Evendo has you covered.

Relish in the local flavors at famous restaurants such as The Red Monkey Lodge and Bon Arrivee, or enjoy a night out at the buzzing Duck Inn. Each location in our app comes with rich information, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy for you to plan and organize your trip.

Evendo also simplifies booking hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences, eliminating the need for multiple searches. Our app features the history of Maun, essential travel tips, easy navigation, and a 'Near me' feature to help you discover what's around you. The curated local advice ensures you experience Maun like a true local. And the best part? Evendo is 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs.

Join thousands of travelers who trust Evendo for their adventures. Download Evendo today and make the most of your journey to Maun and beyond.

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