Introduction
Maun is at the heart of Botswana’s tourist industry and is the main portal to the Okavango Delta. Tourists flock to the area to marvel at the stunning African plains, and of course, wildlife unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere. If luck is on your side, you will be able to see anything from lions, cheetahs, giraffe and hippos, all in their natural habitat; and that’s naming just a few. Although the town of Maun is too sparse and spread out to have much going for it alone, there are plenty of quality accommodation and places to eat and drink after a long day of safari. Many visitors choose to take up some of the many other activities offered; horse riding, boat cruises and scenic flights are all popular ways to take in the areas natural beauty.
Ideal car
Off-road
A 4x4 is recommended for Maun as it has the power and strength to negotiate the often bumpy and muddy terrain.
Driving in Maun
Road Driving Side
Urban Speed Limit
Rural Speed Limit
Motorway Speed Limit
Important things to note
Although not an especially dangerous area of Africa, petty crime does occur, so keep use common sense and keep your wits about you.
Don’t leave valuables in your car overnight and leave important documents locked away in your hotel wherever possible.
Driving after dark is dangerous due to wild animals roaming the poorly lit roads, so try to avoid this or plan your route carefully.
Highlights & Hotspots
One of the best ways to take in the surrounding areas is one of the many scenic flight tours, many of which operate from Maun airport. Most tours will fly with 3 or 5 passengers, and tend to last approximately an hour. Popular providers include Delta Air, Kavango Air and Helicopter Horizons.
Safaris camps and lodges are plentiful, from basic accommodation to the luxurious, where you can expect your own private Jacuzzi and pool. As well as taking in the world famous wildlife, some tour guides will take you to African villages to experience how the locals live.
The Okavango River is popular with those looking for a bit of adventure; canoeing, horse riding and excursions are all available. The area has some fantastic birds to see and an overnight stay allows you to hear the wildlife come alive at night.
Hilary’s café in Maun town centre offers daily specials and some really imaginative dishes, as well as freshly baked bread and homemade lemonade. They have a decent outdoor seating area so you can enjoy your food al fresco. Expect to pay a bit more than in the rest of Maun, but it’s worth it.
Airport Information
Maun Airport is an international airport and is conveniently just six minutes away from the town centre in a northerly direction. It mainly serves destinations in neighbouring countries such as South Africa and Namibia.
The airport is linked to the city centre by the Sir Seretse Khama Road, which goes in the general direction of the city centre.