Maun, Botswana

• Maun is the main jumping-off point for trips to the Okavango Delta, which means the town of about 85,000 people sees a steady flow of tourists heading in and out. It sits at 945 meters (3,100 feet) along the Thamalakane River, and the vibe is more frontier town than polished safari destination. You'll see backpackers, budget travelers, and people on expensive lodge packages all mixed together.
• Most people in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants speak English, so getting around is straightforward. The town is small enough that you'll run into the same travelers at different spots, which makes it easy to meet people if you're traveling alone. Things are pretty laid-back here - cafes are fine with you sitting for hours with a laptop or book.
• Botswana has lower crime rates than many African countries, and the safari industry is professional and well-established. That said, watch your stuff at the bus station and in markets - petty theft happens. Police are generally reliable if you need them.
• Not much happens after 10pm except at a few lodge bars and local pubs. If you need a taxi after dark, arrange it ahead of time rather than trying to flag one down - partly because there aren't many around, partly because wildlife on the roads makes night driving risky. May through October is when most people visit since it's dry season and animals are easier to spot around water sources.

English is common in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and with safari operators. Setswana is the national language. Emergency services and police have English speakers. Knowing a few Setswana phrases helps.

• Dress modestly when visiting villages or traditional areas - skirts or pants below the knee, no crop tops or revealing clothing. In Maun itself, casual Western clothing is fine, though very tight or short outfits will get you some stares.
• Greetings matter here. Say 'dumela' (hello) before you ask someone a question or start a conversation - jumping straight into 'where's the bathroom?' without greeting first comes across as rude. People communicate in a polite, indirect way, so being loud or aggressive doesn't go over well.
• Ask before photographing people, especially kids. A lot of locals would rather you didn't take their picture, so don't push it if they decline.
• Most people in tourist spots speak English. Knowing a few Setswana phrases - 'dumela' (hello), 'kea leboga' (thank you), 'ee' (yes), 'nnyaa' (no) - gets you better responses from locals.
• The country is fairly conservative. Keep public affection low-key. LGBTQ+ travelers should know that same-sex relationships were only decriminalized in 2019, so attitudes are still mixed - being discreet is probably wise.

• Taxis are the main way to get around - look for blue-background number plates. There's no central dispatch, so get driver numbers from your hotel or save cards from drivers you like. Rides within town run BWP 20-50. Sharing taxis with strangers going different places is normal here.
• Combis (minibus taxis) run ten routes from the bus station. Route 1 goes north to the airport and camps. Fares are BWP 8-15, and they get packed during rush hours, so keep an eye on your stuff.
• Most hotels offer airport shuttles for around BWP 100 for the 5km trip. Book through your accommodation - it's easier and safer than trying to arrange something at the airport.
• You can rent a car (BWP 500-800/day for a 4x4), but don't drive after dark. Animals on the roads make it genuinely dangerous. Do your activities during daylight and park somewhere secure and well-lit.
• Central areas are fine to walk during the day, and the riverside is pleasant. Don't walk alone after sunset. The town spreads out more than it seems, so you'll end up taking transport for most things anyway.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Maun with local guides and curated experiences.