The Thamalakane River runs through Maun town, giving the settlement its surprisingly pleasant character. In the late afternoon, the sandy banks attract small groups of antelope — impala most commonly, and sometimes kudu — and you may spot hippos wallowing in the deeper pools along the main course. Crocodiles are present; swimming is not advised.
Most of the lodges and camps along the river have terraces or bars facing the water, which makes for excellent sundowner territory. Watching the light change over the riverbanks with a cold drink in hand is the most civilised way to end a day in Maun. Several operators offer canoe or motorboat excursions on the river itself, which give a taste of what the delta proper offers without the flight costs.
The stretch of river near the Riley's Hotel area has several spots where you can sit and watch the bird life: kingfishers, herons, Egyptian geese, and African fish eagles are all reliable sightings. The drive along the riverbank road also turns up vervet monkeys and the occasional monitor lizard.