Trips and Tours to Maun BotswanaBotswana's tourism capital, the perfect spot to visit the Okavango Delta

Visit Maun

Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve, and the perfect base from which to explore these two wildlife havens with our selection of tours and safaris. Hop into a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) to explore the waterways of the Okavango Delta or jump in the back of a safari truck for a game drive in search of the Big Five in Moremi Game Reserve. As Botswana’s ‘tourism capital’ Maun is the perfect place to explore the beauty of Botswana. However you want to explore Maun, you can do it with our range of tours!

What to expect on a tour to Maun

Maun is a lively where you can find a mix of modern conveniences and a rustic, safari-style atmosphere. The town has a laid-back feel, with dusty roads, donkeys wandering freely, and a combination of small shops, lodges, and bustling markets. The Thamalakane River runs through Maun, attracting birds and creating a tranquil riverside setting in certain areas.

Because Maun is a hub for safaris, you’ll likely see plenty of 4x4 vehicles and small aircrafts taking off for scenic flights over the Delta. The local culture is warm and welcoming, with a mix of traditional Batswana life and international influences due to the tourism industry. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine, explore craft markets, and learn about the region’s history at cultural centres.

While Maun itself might not be the main attraction, it offers a taste of real Botswana, with its friendly people, lively atmosphere, and easy access to some of Africa’s most stunning wildlife experiences.

What to do in Maun

A boat sailing along the Okavango Delta
Sailing along the Okavango Delta

Visit the Okavango Delta

Visiting the Okavango Delta from Maun is an unforgettable experience, offering a journey into one of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas. As the gateway to the Delta, Maun provides easy access to a range of safari options, from scenic walks to traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions. Wildlife is abundant, with elephants, hippos, lions, and a dazzling variety of bird species thriving in this lush ecosystem. The Delta’s seasonal floods transform the landscape into a watery paradise, making boat safaris and mokoro trips the best way to explore its beauty. Lodges and camps provide an intimate experience, allowing visitors to disconnect from modern life and immerse themselves in nature. Whether tracking wildlife on foot, gliding silently through the reeds, or watching the sunset over the water, the Okavango Delta offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that begins in Maun.

Leopard in Moremi

Visit the Moremi Game Reserve

Just a few hours' drive or a short scenic flight away from Maun, Moremi offers a breathtaking mix of floodplains, woodlands, and lagoons, making it a prime destination for spotting the Big Five, as well as abundant birdlife and other iconic species like wild dogs and red lechwe. The reserve, located within the Okavango Delta, provides a more intimate safari experience compared to some of Africa’s larger parks, with fewer crowds and stunning landscapes that change with the seasons. Whether exploring by 4x4, on a walking safari, or gliding through the waterways in a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), visitors can expect incredible wildlife encounters and a deep sense of immersion in nature. The journey from Maun to Moremi is an adventure in itself, transitioning from the town’s rustic charm to the untamed wilderness, where the sights and sounds of the African bush take over completely.

Aerial view of Okavango Delta
Aerial view of Okavango Delta

Take a flight over the Okavango Delta

Taking a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta from Maun is an unforgettable experience that offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. As the small aircraft lifts off, the landscape quickly transforms from Maun’s dusty roads to an intricate network of winding waterways, lush islands, and sprawling floodplains teeming with wildlife. From above, you can spot herds of elephants wading through the water, hippos lounging in lagoons, and giraffes moving gracefully among acacia trees. The ever-shifting patterns of the Delta, shaped by seasonal floods, create a mesmerizing tapestry of blues and greens that stretch as far as the eye can see. The flight, which typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, provides an unparalleled perspective on the sheer scale and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether taken at sunrise or sunset, the golden light reflecting off the water adds an extra layer of magic to an already unforgettable journey.

When is the best time to visit Maun?

The best time to visit Maun depends on what you want to experience, but generally, the dry season from May to October is ideal, especially for those planning safaris in the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve. During this time, wildlife viewing is at its best because animals gather around water sources, and the Okavango Delta is at its peak flood level, creating stunning scenery for mokoro excursions. Days are warm and sunny, while nights can be cool, especially in June and July.

For a balance of good wildlife viewing, comfortable weather, and reasonable prices, the shoulder months of April and November can also be excellent times to visit.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to visit Maun?

Botswana allows visa-free entry for many nationalities, including citizens of the U.S., UK, EU, and South Africa, for stays of up to 90 days. However, always check the latest visa requirements before traveling.

What currency is used in Maun, and can I use credit cards?

Is Maun safe for tourists?

What should I pack for my trip to Maun?

What activities can I do in Maun besides safaris?

Conclusion

Visiting Maun on a tour offers an effortless and enriching way to experience the best of Botswana’s wilderness and culture. As the gateway to the Okavango Delta, the town provides a perfect starting point for unforgettable safaris, scenic flights, and mokoro excursions, all guided by experts who enhance the journey with their deep knowledge of the region. With a mix of modern comforts and authentic African charm, Maun balances adventure with relaxation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in both wildlife and local traditions. Whether you’re exploring the nearby Moremi Game Reserve, gliding through tranquil waterways, or simply soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, a tour through Maun ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience in one of Africa’s most stunning destinations.

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