Here are more reasons to add Botswana to your Bucket list. Add an extra day or two to your Safari itinerary and explore Maun, Botswana’s gateway to the Okavango Delta.
Maun is a little touristy town – a village if you will, full of diverse cultures and always buzzing with activity.
- ACCOMODATION AND TRANSPORT
Overnight in Maun for your complete Botswana experience. Finding a perfect place to stay in Maun is the easiest and most places have Airport transfers (taxies/cabs are also easily accessible) so no need to worry about missing your flights or getting stranded in town. Follow Discover Africa for your Maun Accommodation recommendations.
- STREET FOOD AND MARKETS
Tswii is a water lily root mixed with pounded beef. A tantalizing indigenous dish. I also recommend some fresh Okavango bream and locals have amazing delectable recipes. Another dish that screams Botswana is our Beef. Last but not least, Phane. Phane is a worm from Mophane tree and you can nibble on it as an uncooked as snack or make some mouthwatering Phane stew. All these dishes are never complete without some maize meal or mabele (pounded sorghum meal). We also a special thick alcoholic beverage made out of fermenting sorghum grains, Mberere and it’s a must try
This will also give you a chance to interact with the locals and learn more about our culture.
In New Mall from Maun Airport, you will without a doubt spot a few Free Markets in town where you can buy some souvenirs. You definitely need something artsy and authentic that will always remind you of your home away from home, Botswana.
- SUNDOWNERS
Maun has a lot of amazing spots for sunset fanatics. The Golden Hour is truly magical here. You will never go wrong with Crocodile Camp and Spa after a nice relaxing Mokoro ride or Boat Cruise along the Mighty Thamalakane River. Both activities can be booked upon arrival at the Lodge. If Lady luck is on your side, you might spot a hippo or two, even a few crocodiles. But if the Okavango Delta or Moremi Game Reserve is your next stop then that should be the least of your worries. Old Bridge Backpackers is also one of the most amazing places to spot some stunning sun set over a few drinks.
- SCENIC FLIGHTS
Booking a Scenic Flight directly from Local Tour Operators will add more flavor to your Safari. Exploring the Delta from a different perspective. We have a couple of Operators who offer scenic flights over the Okavango Delta at very affordable rates. They usually take 2 to 3 hours so you will still have plenty of time to explore Maun. Reputable ones include Helicopter Horizons and Mack Air.
Picture by Helicopter Horizons
- ELEPHANT HAVENS WILDLIFE FOUNDATION
This is an Elephant orphanage situated along the banks of Gomoti River, on the edge of the Okavango Delta. It provides a safe sanctuary for young elephant orphans and later on re-introduce them into the wilderness. You can book a day trip with local Mobile Safari Operators to spend some time with these gentle giants and broaden your scope on their handling.
Picture by Tlhalefang Charles
- DAY TRIPS INTO THE OKAVANGO DELTA AND MOREMI GAME RESERVE
Booking a Day Trip into the Okavango or Moremi is not a train smash. You can also book a Day Trip to Boro for some therapeutic Mokoro Rides. Most Lodges provide these services so you can just pre book the activities with your accommodation.
- SAFETY
Maun is absolutely safe but just like any other place you just need to be a little cautious. There are a couple of Police Posts in town in cases of any unfortunate events. Locals are also extremely friendly and always willing to assist where possible.
Maun is very ideal for Backpackers and travelling on Budget.
