Maun itself is often seen as the gateway to the Okavango Delta and surrounding wildlife areas. It does have some interesting places to visit and serves as a crucial hub for exploring the region. Here are the 10 notable places in and around Maun:
1. Okavango Delta
The crown jewel of Maun, the Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest inland deltas. It’s a unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife—elephants, lions, hippos, and rare birds. From Maun, travelers can embark on mokoro (dugout canoe) trips, scenic flights, or game drives to explore its labyrinth of waterways, grasslands, and islands.
This watery wilderness offers both serenity and adventure, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. Whether camping under the stars or staying in a luxury lodge, the Delta promises unforgettable encounters with untouched African beauty.
2. Moremi Game Reserve
Located northeast of Maun, Moremi Game Reserve is one of Africa’s most diverse and wildlife-rich reserves. Covering part of the Okavango Delta, it combines savanna, forest, and wetlands. Visitors can spot the Big Five, along with wild dogs, leopards, and hundreds of bird species. Moremi offers guided safaris, self-drives, and fly-in lodges. Its relative remoteness ensures a more exclusive and less crowded safari experience. From Maun, it’s a gateway to unforgettable game viewing, dramatic landscapes, and immersive encounters with Botswana’s pristine nature.
3. Maun Wildlife Educational Park
A small yet important conservation space near the Thamalakane River, this park is great for families and those wanting to learn about Botswana’s fauna. The park hosts animals like warthogs, antelopes, and crocodiles in a semi-natural environment. It’s ideal for a relaxed visit or picnic, with shaded paths and educational signage. It also serves as a rehabilitation center for injured or orphaned animals. The park is easy to access from central Maun and offers a chance to get closer to wildlife without venturing deep into the bush.
4. Nhabe Museum
Nhabe Museum offers insight into the history, culture, and crafts of the Ngamiland region. Located in a former colonial building, it houses exhibits on tribal life, early European explorers, and the area's rich archaeological heritage. Local art and crafts are displayed and sold, supporting community artisans. The museum is small but informative and helps visitors better understand the traditions and resilience of the people living alongside the Okavango. Entry is affordable, and it’s a perfect cultural stop before heading out on a wilderness safari.
5. Thamalakane River
The Thamalakane River flows through Maun, shaping the town’s layout and lifestyle. It offers a scenic backdrop for sundowner cruises, birdwatching, and riverside dining. The river is particularly lively in the evening, with locals and tourists gathering to enjoy the peaceful flow and sunset views. Many lodges and campsites line its banks, offering canoe access and guided boat tours. It’s a perfect place to relax after a busy safari or to spot wildlife like hippos and kingfishers from your veranda.
6. Scenic Flights Over the Delta
From Maun Airport, visitors can take scenic light aircraft flights over the Okavango Delta. These 45–60 minute flights offer a breathtaking aerial view of the delta’s winding channels, lush islands, and wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see herds of elephants or giraffes moving through the bush from above. Pilots provide commentary, and the experience is both thrilling and deeply peaceful. Ideal for photographers or those with limited time on the ground, a flight offers a bird’s-eye perspective of one of Africa’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
7. Makgadikgadi Pans (Day Trips)
Though not in Maun itself, day trips to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans can be arranged from the town. These vast, shimmering salt flats were once a great lake and now host migratory wildlife like zebras and flamingos in the wet season. The landscape is otherworldly—open, flat, and reflective, especially at sunrise or sunset. Quad biking, cultural interactions with San Bushmen, and overnight camping under star-strewn skies make for a truly unique experience. It’s a stark contrast to the lush Okavango and shows Botswana’s ecological diversity.
8. Maun Craft Centre
Located in the center of town, the Maun Craft Centre showcases handmade goods from local artists. Visitors can browse and buy wood carvings, woven baskets, jewelry, and textiles—all reflecting the region’s traditions. The center also includes a café serving local snacks and drinks. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs while directly supporting the local economy. Informal demonstrations sometimes allow visitors to see the crafts being made. Friendly staff often share stories behind the crafts, adding cultural richness to your visit.
9. Crocodile Camp
This riverside lodge is a popular stop for travelers looking for a blend of nature and comfort. Even if you’re not staying overnight, the restaurant and bar are open to visitors and offer superb views of the Thamalakane River. As the name suggests, crocodile sightings are common! The camp often hosts cultural nights, live music, and community events. It’s a great place to enjoy a local beer, watch the sunset, and meet both locals and fellow travelers. Ideal for those seeking relaxation without leaving Maun.
10. Old Bridge Backpackers
A legendary spot on the Maun travel circuit, Old Bridge is more than a lodge—it’s a vibrant social hub for backpackers, overlanders, and adventurous travelers. Located on the river, it offers budget accommodation, guided trips, a lively bar, and a rustic restaurant. It's also a launching point for mokoro excursions and day trips. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with stunning views of the Thamalakane and frequent wildlife sightings. Whether you're staying overnight or just stopping for a drink, it’s a must-visit venue in Maun’s travel scene.
