Maun

Maun: Gateway to the Okavango Delta

Botswana's Tourism Capital

Maun serves as Botswana's bustling tourism capital and essential gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Okavango Delta, combining rustic African frontier charm with modern safari hospitality. This vibrant town provides unparalleled access to Africa's premier wildlife adventures while retaining its authentic "Wild West" atmosphere where traditional cattle herders share dusty streets with safari-bound adventurers.

Key Attractions

  • Okavango Delta - UNESCO World Heritage site with unique inland delta system
  • Moremi Game Reserve - Botswana's first national park protecting pristine wetlands
  • Chief's Island - Wildlife sanctuary within the Delta
  • Scenic flight operations - Aerial views of the Delta's channels and islands
  • Thamalakane River - Scenic river activities and wildlife viewing
  • Maun Educational Park - Local education and conservation center

Safari Experiences

Maun offers unique mokoro (dugout canoe) expeditions through Delta channels, game drives to Moremi and private concessions, walking safaris, scenic flights over the Delta, mobile camping safaris, boat excursions, night drives, cultural village tours, and river cruises. The region provides access to Big Five wildlife, over 400 bird species, and seasonal zebra/wildebeest migrations.

Tourism Infrastructure

Maun International Airport (MUB) ranks as Africa's 2nd busiest for aircraft movements with direct flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Gaborone. The extensive charter network connects to Delta lodges, while self-drive options require 4WD for Delta access.

Cultural Heritage

Founded in 1915 as the Batawana tribal capital, Maun features diverse ethnic groups including Hambukushu, Bayei, and Bakgalagadi. The living cattle culture exists alongside modern tourism, with traditional villages offering authentic cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit

May-October optimal for dry season with peak wildlife viewing July-October when Delta floods peak. Wet season (November-March) offers lush landscapes, excellent birding, and lower prices but with afternoon thunderstorms.