Nata Bird Sanctuary: A Community-Driven Oasis
Discover Botswana's avian paradise: a community-managed sanctuary teeming with flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife on the Makgadikgadi Pans.
The Nata Bird Sanctuary, a community-managed reserve on the northeastern fringe of the Sowa Pan, protects a vital habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. Founded in 1988 and opened in 1993, it's a prime location for viewing flamingos and pelicans, especially after the rainy season.
A brief summary to Nata Bird Sanctuary
- M773+MJ8, Nata, BW
Local tips
- Visit during the wet season (November to March) for the best birdwatching opportunities, especially to see the flamingos.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the beauty of the birds and other wildlife.
- A 4x4 vehicle is recommended during the rainy season due to potentially tricky road conditions on the pans.
- Bring cash in Botswana Pula (BWP) to pay the entrance fees.
Getting There
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Driving
From Nata village, follow the signs directing you to Nata Bird Sanctuary (M773+MJ8). The sanctuary is located about 10 km south of the village center on a well-maintained dirt road. There might be a small entrance fee at the sanctuary, which is approximately BWP 100 per person for non-residents and BWP 35 for the vehicle.
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Public Transport
From any location in the Makgadikgadi Pans, you can take a minibus taxi to Nata village. Look for taxis labeled 'Nata' at local pickup points. The fare is typically around 50 Pula (approximately $5) per person. Once you arrive in Nata, you can hire a local taxi or arrange for a guide to take you to Nata Bird Sanctuary, which is about 10 km away. Be sure to discuss the fare beforehand; it usually ranges from 100 to 150 Pula (approximately $10 to $15) for a round trip.
Discover more about Nata Bird Sanctuary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eselbe Camp Backpackers
17.5 km
Riverside camping and backpacker haven near Nata, Botswana, offering affordable lodging and access to the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nata Bird Sanctuary.
Elephant Sands Lodge
68.0 km
Experience Botswana's untamed beauty at Elephant Sands Lodge, where you can witness elephants in their natural habitat. A unique safari adventure!
Unmissable attractions to see
Nata Lodge
12.5 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans from this comfortable lodge near the Nata Bird Sanctuary, a gateway to Botswana's natural wonders.
Sua Pan
62.3 km
Experience the surreal beauty of Sua Pan, Botswana: a vast salt pan teeming with wildlife and stunning landscapes in the heart of the Kalahari.
Makgadikgadi adventure camp
71.5 km
Your basecamp for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans and the iconic Kubu Island in Botswana.
Makgadikgadi Pans
73.9 km
Explore the surreal beauty and vast landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana: wildlife migrations, ancient baobabs, and stark, stunning scenery.
Kubu Island
77.5 km
Explore Kubu Island: An ancient granite outcrop with baobabs in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, offering history, beauty, and stunning night skies.
Makadikadi Basin
95.8 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans: Botswana's ancient salt flats, a landscape of stark beauty, unique wildlife, and profound historical significance.
Essential places to dine
BOMA - Restaurant and Bar
13.2 km
Experience authentic Botswana flavors at BOMA - Restaurant and Bar in Nata, where every meal tells a story.
Pelican Lodge and Camping
13.3 km
Experience nature's serenity at Pelican Lodge and Camping in Nata, Botswana - your gateway to adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
The Palm Grove
15.7 km
Experience authentic African cuisine at The Palm Grove in Nata - where flavors meet culture.
Makgadikgadi Lodge
29.7 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Makgadikgadi Lodge, your gateway to Botswana's stunning salt pans and diverse wildlife.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
PEP Nata
14.5 km
Explore PEP Nata, a family-friendly clothing store in Nata with stylish outfits for men, women, and children at affordable prices.
Choppies
14.5 km
Explore the vibrant shopping scene at Choppies in Nata, Botswana, where local culture meets modern retail in a peaceful setting.
Nata Bakery& Café
14.5 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Nata Bakery & Café, a charming spot in Nata offering freshly baked treats and a cozy atmosphere.
SR Wholesalers
14.9 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at SR Wholesalers, the go-to grocery store in Nata for fresh produce and community vibes.
Sweets Sweets Cash & Carry
15.4 km
Discover a delicious array of local and international sweets at Sweets Sweets Cash & Carry in Nata, a must-visit grocery store for tourists.
Less Price Shop
15.5 km
Discover local treasures at Less Price Shop, your go-to general store in Nata, Botswana, offering household goods and unique souvenirs.
Fourie Butchery
15.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Botswana at Fourie Butchery, Nata's finest butcher shop deli offering locally sourced meats.
SaveWay Supermarket
16.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nata at SaveWay Supermarket, your local source for fresh produce and authentic Botswana delicacies.
Makgadikgadi Epic
23.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Epic, an unforgettable event venue in Botswana that blends culture and nature seamlessly.
Thando's supermarket
25.6 km
Explore the flavors of Botswana at Thando's Supermarket in Sowa, your gateway to local and international culinary delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crossroads Eatery and Catering
14.6 km
Experience the rich culinary offerings at Crossroads Eatery and Catering, a buffet restaurant in Nata, Botswana, perfect for indulging in local flavors.
Kwaga Surprise,Crossroads Eatery and Catering
14.6 km
Discover Kwaga Surprise in Tutume for an unforgettable barbecue experience that showcases the flavors of Botswana.
Praxis Masarira tarven
15.6 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Botswana at Praxis Masarira Tavern, a charming beer garden in Nata offering refreshing local brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
Up Industries (Pty) Ltd.
15.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Africa at Up Industries (Pty) Ltd. in Nata, where authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere await.
Crossroads catering and Eatery
15.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Botswana at Crossroads Catering and Eatery in Nata, where every dish tells a story.
