Situated along the banks of the Thamalakane River in the North-West District of Botswana, Maun serves as the administrative centre for Ngamiland. The name Maun originates from the San language, meaning “the place of reeds”. Maun is a frontier town and is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve, with most tourists entering these destinations through this buzzing town.
Although classified as one of the fastest growing towns in Botswana Maun still retains much of its village feel. The town is not considered scenic and reed and mud hut infrastructures as well as donkey carts and livestock dominate the picture. Despite having numerous hotels, lodges and bed & breakfasts, accommodation options are generally quite basic and more suited to a pre- or post-safari overnight. Maun serves as the administrative headquarters for the safari industry in the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve and surrounding wildlife areas. Maun Airport is one of the busiest airports in southern Africa, with most travellers connecting directly to smaller charter aircraft off international flights.
For self-drivers, Maun is an important stopover for refuelling, stocking up on supplies and securing park permits, and has several mechanics for vehicle maintenance.
