Maun- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Maun, the fifth-largest town in Botswana, stands as a compelling testament to the transformative power of tourism and the enduring charm of its rural landscape. With a robust population of 55,784 as recorded in 2011, this town is distinguished by its dual identity: a bustling hub of tourism and a serene riverside community where traditional lives are still very much a part of the fabric of daily existence. Affectionately regarded as the "tourism capital" of Botswana, Maun sits at the administrative heart of the expansive Ngamiland district, efficiently connected to Francistown by the A3 highway. The town serves as the strategic operational base for a myriad of safari and air-charter businesses that offer adventurers breathtaking journeys into the heart of the Okavango Delta - an unparalleled natural wonder. Once deemed a rural frontier town, Maun has witnessed remarkable growth, morphing into a lively metropolis that stretches gracefully along the Thamalakane River. Here, shopping centres, hotels, lodges, and car hire services coexist with a palpable rural ambiance. The Thamalakane River banks host an eclectic mix of wildlife and domestic animals, from the graceful red lechwe to the ubiquitous donkeys, goats, and cattle brought by the local tribesmen, portraying a unique harmony between human settlement and nature. Founded in 1915 as the tribal capital of the Batawana people, Maun narrates a history of transformation from a "Wild West" character centered around cattle ranching and hunting to becoming a thriving tourist destination. Despite its rapid development and the evolution from traditional rondavels to modern homes, Maun has retained an essence of its past, with a streetscape still frequented by local farmers and their donkeys. As a gateway to exploring the Okavango Delta or venturing into the neighboring parks via 4x4 or air transfers, Maun has positioned itself as a crucial launching pad for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Additionally, its role as a regional transshipment hub speaks to the town's pivotal position in supporting both tourism and the mineral exploration sectors in northwestern Botswana. The blend of extensive services and entrepreneurial spirit adds to the rich tapestry of experiences the town has to offer. Beyond its economic and social dynamics, Maun also boasts a notable climate, holding the record for the highest temperature ever recorded in Botswana at 44.0 °C (111.2 °F) on January 7, 2016. Its name, derived from the Seyei word 'maung', meaning 'the place of river reeds', encapsulates the essence of this enchanting town - a place where history, culture, and the allure of nature converge seamlessly, inviting travelers to explore its many wonders.