A long layover in Maun is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Maun Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Maun, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Botswana vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Maun is roughly 30 minutes from MUB via Airport Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in BWP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Maun Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Airport Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Maun, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Maun:
Start with Mochaba Curios and Crafts. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Nhabe Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MUB, check out Maun Airport Souvenir Stalls or Aircraft Spotting & Delta Views to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Maun Layover
For food in Maun, local travelers recommend The Old Bridge Backpackers. If you have time for a second stop, Tshilli Farm Restaurant & Bar is another popular pick.
Back at MUB, Maun Airport Cafe is the go-to. Maun Airport Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MUB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Maun itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MUB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Maun itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Botswana that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MUB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MUB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Maun exploring the streets or relaxing at MUB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.