Thamalakane River Lodge sits beside the Thamalakane River on the outskirts of Maun, a setting that feels more like the bush than the town centre. It is a favourite with travellers who want a quieter, greener place to rest before or after a Delta trip, and with those who value birdlife and river views. The Thamalakane is fed by the Okavango floods, so the water level in front of the lodge changes with the season, which is part of the charm. The property offers rooms or chalets, a restaurant and a pool, and it caters to guests of all kinds, from first-time safari-goers to experienced overland travellers. We could not verify an official website, so the booking link goes to its Expedia page. It suits couples, independent travellers and small families who want a calm base with some atmosphere. The trade-off is distance: you are a short drive from the centre of Maun, so plan transfers and check whether your operator collects from the lodge, which most do for a Maun-area address.
Location and getting around: the lodge is outside the town centre along the river, so you will usually travel by taxi or arranged transfer to the airport and the shops. This is easy to organise, but you should ask when you book. Day-trip operators generally pick up from lodges in the Maun area, but confirm the pickup point and time the day before.
Rooms and routine: expect comfortable rooms or chalets in a garden setting by the water, with birdsong at dawn and a restful evening atmosphere. Meals are served on site, which is convenient when you do not want to drive into town after dark. Bring repellent for evening mosquitoes and a hat for the hot afternoons. Ask whether river-facing rooms are available. Breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking depend on the rate, so check the Expedia listing.
Who it suits: couples and independent travellers who want a more natural setting than a town hotel, as well as anyone with an early Delta departure who prefers to sleep somewhere quiet. If you would rather be in the middle of town for shops and restaurants on foot, Cresta Riley’s is a better match. Book ahead for the dry season, June to October, when Maun fills up, and be ready for heat and rain in the wet months from November to March.
Why stay here
- ✓Riverside setting
- ✓Garden grounds
- ✓Swimming pool
- ✓On-site restaurant
- ✓Bar
- ✓Rooms or chalets
- ✓Birdwatching on the river
- ✓Operator pickups in the Maun area
Good questions
Is Thamalakane River Lodge in the centre of Maun?+
No, it is on the Thamalakane River outside the town centre. Plan taxis or transfers for shopping and the airport.
Do tour operators collect from the lodge?+
Most Maun operators pick up from lodges in the area, but confirm the pickup point with your operator.
Is there water in the river all year?+
The Thamalakane is fed by the Okavango flood, so levels change with the season. The flood arrives around the dry winter months.
