Destination Inspiration: Maun, Botswana

Why go?

Spread over the dusty banks of the Thamalakane River, Maun still feels a bit like the wild frontier town it once was. The Batawana tribe first settled here in 1915, hunting and cattle ranching in the surrounding plains. Fast forward a century, and Maun has become Botswana’s adventure capital, bringing in travellers eager to spot wildlife and sleep under the stars.

The vast Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s best destinations for animal and bird-watching. Visitors can boat through the lush floodplains, home to hippos, Nile crocodiles and nearly 100 species of dragonfly. In a traditional canoe called a mokoro, you can slide silently through the rivers and lakes, drifting back to town at sunset.

The Moremi Game Reserve sits on the eastern edge of the delta. Here, you’ll spot leopards, lions and rhinos as you travel between safari camps through a diverse landscape of woodlands, acacia forests and lagoons.

When to go?

For the best wildlife viewing, plan a trip between July and October. This is towards the end of the dry season, when floodplains have dried up and big game heads towards the permanent waterholes.

Where to stay?

Enviro Villa – Maun, Botswana

This welcoming hotel sits by the Thamalakane River, with a private beach and a good restaurant serving traditional meals. You can spot birds and hippos from the garden – or even from your room if you opt for a water view. The host Cecelia is highly praised for her warmth and hospitality.

Otto – Maun, Botswana

Otto is an eco-friendly holiday house a few kilometres outside of Muan. The spacious building faces the river, and everything is designed with attention to both nature and style. There’s a peaceful terrace with comfy armchairs, and a firepit in the garden for late-night relaxing.

Cresta Riley’s Hotel – Maun, Botswana

Cresta Riley’s Hotel has a modern feel, the large rooms featuring an electric kettle and a flat screen TV. Guests really liked hanging at the outdoor bar, where they could spot wildlife along the river banks. There’s also a nice buffet dinner and full English/Irish breakfast served at the restaurant.