Maun

Maun is regarded as the tribal capital of the Batawana people. Maun is situated in Botswana which borders South Africa. It was established in 1915 and has a reputation for a life like the “Wild West”, where the locals raise cattle and help with hunting operations. The word Maun means the place of short reeds. The town was first the capital for the Tawana people and later diversified after a victory over the Ndebele King. Now the town is spread across the banks of the Thamalakane River where donkeys, goats, and cattle graze & water.The little town sports normal ammenatie one would find in any town like a doctor, a filing station and alocal grocer. It even has a small airport. The town however is still very rural.

Maun is surrounded by the wetlands of the Okovango Delta, which is a perfect breeding ground for thousands of plants and animal species.The flora that grows here has medicinal and cultural purposes, which makes this area so special and majestic. Animals are a rich natural occurrence here with many species of mammals, birds, reptiles, rodents, and insects. The big 5 can all be found in these parts. Maun offers many safari trips at local reserves, guided hiking trails and most all, especially in Maun bird watching.

Having dinner and wine at sunset overlooking a local watering hole as the animals come to water and cool down after a long day in the African sun is just magical. The main attraction here is the Okovango Delta which offers boat safaris into the wetlands of the surrounding land, and secondly is the Moremi Game reserve where you can enjoy seeing all the animal and plant species.

Many lodges are situated near the Maun and tourists are encouraged to visit the local villages, accompanies by a tour guide. Helicopter flights are another way to experience the beauty of the Delta.

Traveling to Botswana you will require a valid passport but a visa is not necessary. The local currency is Pula, 1Pula = $0.91 or R1.37.

Accommodation around the Maun is pricey as the reserve are dependent on tourism, but you can experience the luxury of a private reserve and the experience is worth the cost.But you can visit Maun and check out local accommodation if you are willing to part with basic amenities like running water & electricity.

The local cuisine surrounding the Okavango Delta & Maun caters to worldly tastes from curries to steak and fine dining, there is something for everyone.