Maun, located in the heart of Botswana, is a bustling town that serves as the gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of Africa's most breathtaking wildlife reserves. Maun, known as Botswana's adventure capital, provides guests with a unique combination of urban convenience and accessibility to spectacular natural surroundings. Whether you're seeking thrilling safaris, cultural experiences, or a tranquil retreat, Maun stands as a beacon for all types of adventurers. With its rich cultural backdrop and numerous attractions, this charming town is an essential stop for anyone exploring Botswana.
Population: Approximately 50,000 in 2024.
Economy: Maun's economy thrives on tourism, primarily driven by its role as the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Additionally, agriculture and local crafts contribute to the livelihoods of its residents.
Landmarks: Famous for the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and the Nxai Pan National Park.
Botswana
Maun's history is as diverse as its landscape. Originally a small village of the Batawana people, the town has evolved into a bustling hub thanks to its strategic location and growing tourism industry. The history of Maun is deeply intertwined with the rich cultural heritage of Botswana’s indigenous communities, including the Tswana people who have inhabited the region for centuries. Colonial influences are also evident, as Maun became a focal point during Botswana’s colonial era, contributing to its growth and development. Today, the town reflects a blend of traditional values and modern influences, offering visitors a glimpse into Botswana's past and present.
Maun, a town in northern Botswana, with a population of around 50,000, is a melting pot of cultures, with its population comprising predominantly Tswana people, alongside various ethnic groups from across Botswana and beyond. As the gateway to the Okavango Delta, Maun attracts a diverse mix of locals and expatriates, contributing to its vibrant community. The citizens of Maun are known for their hospitality and cultural richness, providing visitors with a warm and welcoming experience.
Okavango Delta - © Wynand Uys
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Okavango Delta is a sprawling oasis of lush waterways, lagoons, and islands. The Delta's seasonal floods create a rich mosaic of habitats that support an incredible diversity of wildlife. Visitors can explore this unique ecosystem on traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) trips, which offer a serene way to glide through the channels and spot animals like hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species. For a more immersive experience, opt for a guided walking safari on one of the Delta’s islands, where you can observe the flora and fauna up close.
Situated on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve is a premier safari destination known for its rich biodiversity. Covering a mix of floodplains, woodlands, and savannah, Moremi offers some of the best game viewing in Botswana. The reserve is famous for its large populations of elephants, lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Visitors can embark on game drives through the diverse landscapes, enjoy boat safaris along the Xakanaxa Lagoon, or experience the thrill of a night drive to spot nocturnal wildlife. The reserve also features several well-appointed camps and lodges that provide a blend of luxury and wilderness.
Nxai Pan National Park, part of the Kalahari environment, is known for its stunning salt pans and seasonal species migrations. The park’s landscape is characterized by expansive, flat salt pans that contrast with the surrounding grasslands and acacia trees. During the rainy season, Nxai Pan transforms into a verdant haven that attracts large herds of zebra and wildebeest, making it an excellent destination for witnessing the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration.
Lions in Moremi Game Reserve - © Andreas Vonlanthen
Maun’s cuisine is a flavorful journey through Botswana traditions. These dishes offer a rich taste of Maun’s culinary heritage, showcasing the diversity and depth of Botswana cuisine.
Vetkoek - © The Citizen
This festival is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of San (Bushmen) art and culture. The Kuru Art Project features art exhibitions, cultural performances, and craft markets that highlight the unique heritage of the San people. Attendees can view traditional San artwork, including paintings and beadwork, and participate in workshops to learn about San craft techniques. The festival also includes storytelling sessions and cultural demonstrations that offer insights into the San way of life.
Celebrated on September 30th, Botswana Day marks the country’s independence from British rule in 1966. In Maun, this national holiday is observed with patriotic events, including parades, traditional dances, and cultural performances. The day is a celebration of Botswana’s national pride and unity, with activities that showcase the country’s history, achievements, and cultural heritage. It’s a lively and festive occasion that brings the community together in celebration of their shared identity.
This festival takes place to celebrate the diverse cultures within Maun and the wider Botswana region. It features traditional music, dance, and culinary displays from various ethnic groups. The festival aims to promote cultural understanding and appreciation by offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Botswana customs and practices. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and enjoy authentic performances and local cuisine.
Kuru Art Project - © Kuru Art Official Facebook
Maun offers a range of activities that cater to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. These activities highlight Maun’s appeal as a destination for both thrilling adventures and cultural exploration.
Maun offers a variety of shopping experiences that cater to different tastes and interests. Shopping in Maun provides an opportunity to take home a piece of Botswana’s culture and support local artisans.
Observing wild animals during Wildlife Safaris in Moremi Game Reserve - © Jan Ludwig Tiedemann
Maun experiences a semi-arid climate, making the weather a crucial factor for travelers planning their visit. Understanding the seasonal patterns can help you choose the best time to explore this vibrant destination.
Maun’s summer months are hot and wet, with daytime temperatures ranging between 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F). The region also experiences occasional thunderstorms, especially from November to February, which bring welcome relief from the heat. The Okavango Delta swells during this period, making it a prime time for birdwatching and viewing lush landscapes.
Winter is the dry season, with cooler temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). This season is ideal for wildlife safaris, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. While nights can be chilly, the days remain pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.
Wet season in Maun - © Ulrico Zampa
Maun offers convenient ATM and banking services for tourists, with several ATMs located throughout the town, including the airport and shopping areas. Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards, though it's wise to carry some cash as ATMs in remote areas can be less reliable. While major hotels and restaurants generally accept credit cards, smaller businesses and local markets often prefer cash payments.
Hide away in the gentle hills of Tochigi Prefecture, Mashiko is more than a stop on a map, it’s a living gallery of clay, craft, and community. Known worldwide for its Mashiko-yaki pottery, this charming rural town draws travelers seeking hands-on creativity and a slower pace of life. Here, kiln smoke curls into blue skies, and artisan shops spill treasures onto narrow streets. Only a few hours from Tokyo, Mashiko offers the perfect escape for lovers of traditional Japanese culture, authentic local food, and countryside landscapes.
Population: Approximately 22,000 in 2020.
Economy: Mashiko’s economy thrives on its renowned pottery industry, attracting both domestic and international buyers. Tourism plays a vital role, fueled by pottery fairs, local crafts, and cultural events.
Landmarks: Famous for the Mashiko Pottery Museum, Pottery Street, and the Saimyoji Temple.
Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go feels like a scene from an old Japanese folktale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, wooden homes with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snow. Here, each season paints the village in new colors: spring blossoms, green summer paddies, golden autumn leaves, and glistening winter snow.
Population: Approximately 60,000 in 2020.
Economy: Shirakawa-go’s economy blends heritage preservation with sustainable tourism. While agriculture, especially rice farming, remains part of local life, tourism is now the main economic driver.
Landmarks: Famous for Ogimachi Village, Wada House, and Shiroyama Viewpoint.
Fuji-shi, or Fuji City, is a vibrant gateway to Japan’s most iconic peak, Mount Fuji. Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, this coastal city blends scenic beauty with rich traditions. From its bustling streets to the peaceful banks of the Fuji River, every corner offers a postcard-worthy view of the mountain. Just an hour from Tokyo by train, Fuji-shi is ideal for travelers seeking authentic Japanese city life with nature close at hand.
Population: Approximately 245,000 in 2019.
Economy: Fuji-shi is a major hub in Shizuoka Prefecture’s manufacturing sector, known for its paper and pulp production. The city also benefits from the logistics and transport industries due to its location along the Tōkaidō corridor.. Fishing at Tagonoura Port, tea production in nearby plantations, and tourism linked to Mount Fuji further diversify the local economy.
Landmarks: Famous for Mount Fuji viewing points, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, and Tanuki Lake.
Nestled in the far west of An Giang Province, Châu Đốc is where the Hậu River bends toward the Cambodian border. This riverside city is a blend of cultures, faiths, and flavors. Here, Vietnamese, Khmer, Cham, and Chinese communities live side by side, shaping a rich tapestry of daily life. For travelers, Châu Đốc offers more than stunning river views. It’s a city of floating markets, sacred temples, and bustling border trade.
Population: Approximately 100,000 in 2019.
Economy: Chau Doc’s economy thrives on cross-border trade, aquaculture, and agriculture, especially rice and fish farming. Tourism also plays a key role, fueled by its cultural diversity and proximity to Cambodia.
Landmarks: Famous for the Sam Mountain, Ba Chua Xu Temple, and the Chau Doc Floating Market.
Tucked away on the southeastern edge of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is a dazzling mosaic of emerald waters, hidden beaches, and towering limestone karsts. Often called the “quiet sister” of Halong Bay, it offers the same breathtaking scenery without the tourist crowds. Here, over 300 islets and unspoiled coves create a paradise for kayakers, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic cultural encounters. This is where the rhythm of the sea shapes daily life, and where travelers can slow down to embrace Vietnam’s coastal charm.
Population: As a part of Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is home to a small population, primarily concentrated in Viet Hai village, which has a population of around 300 people.
Economy: Lan Ha Bay’s economy is closely tied to tourism, fishing, and aquaculture. The bay attracts visitors with its scenic beauty, supporting hotels, boat tours, and local services. Fishing and seafood farming, especially oysters and squid, provide income for coastal communities. Eco-tourism and sustainable aquaculture are increasingly promoted to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Landmarks: Famous for the Monkey Island, Dark & Bright Cave, and the Nam Cat Island.
Hai Phong, known as the City of Red Flamboyant, blends coastal beauty, historical depth, and vibrant urban life. Sitting on Vietnam’s northeast coast, this dynamic port city opens the door to famous attractions like Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay. Stroll along tree-lined boulevards, admire French colonial architecture, or wander through bustling markets alive with local flavors.
Population: Approximately 2 million in 2022.
Economy: Hai Phong is one of Vietnam’s key economic hubs, driven by its strategic position as a major seaport in the north. The city’s economy thrives on shipping, logistics, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and fisheries. Tourism and hospitality also play a growing role, supported by Hải Phòng’s coastal attractions and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Ky Co Beach, Do Son Beach, and the Tam Bac Lake & Flower Street.