Makgadikgadi Basin: A Surreal Safari Experience
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans: Witness ancient landscapes, stunning wildlife migrations, and unparalleled stargazing in the heart of Botswana's Kalahari.
The Makgadikgadi Basin, one of the world's largest salt flats in Botswana, is a mesmerizing landscape of vast open spaces and unique wildlife. Once a super-lake larger than Switzerland, it offers a surreal safari experience, especially during the zebra and wildebeest migration.
A brief summary to Makadikadi Basin
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Local tips
- Visit during the rainy season (November to March) to witness the dramatic transformation of the pans and the arrival of migratory birds and wildlife.
- A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for navigating the park's sandy tracks and reaching remote areas.
- Bring plenty of water, food, and fuel, especially if self-driving, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Consider a guided tour or mobile camping safari for a more immersive and informative experience.
- Pack warm clothing, as nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, especially during the dry season.
Getting There
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Road
The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park can be accessed by road from Maun (approximately 190km east) or Nata (approximately 100km west). From Maun, take the A3 highway towards Nata. The main entrance, Phuphudu Gate, is located about halfway between Maun and Nata, 45km west of Gweta. From Nata, the entrance is well-marked along the A3 road. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to sandy tracks. Entrance fees are payable at the gate in Botswana Pula (BWP). For international non-residents, the fee is BWP 190 per person per day, plus BWP 75 per vehicle per day.
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Air
The closest international airport is Maun Airport (MUB), approximately 198km from the Makgadikgadi Pans. From Maun, you can take a connecting flight to a nearby airstrip or drive to the park. Several lodges have private airstrips. Charter flights can be booked through tour operators. The drive from Maun to the park takes about 3 hours. Entry fees are payable at the gate in Botswana Pula (BWP). For international non-residents, the fee is BWP 190 per person per day, plus BWP 75 per vehicle per day.
Discover more about Makadikadi Basin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jack's Camp
44.6 km
Experience the magic of a 1940s-style safari in the heart of Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans at the luxurious and iconic Jack's Camp.
San Camp
48.2 km
Experience the magic of the Makgadikgadi Pans in luxurious style at San Camp, a unique desert oasis in Botswana's Kalahari.
Camp Kalahari
50.5 km
Experience the magic of the Kalahari at Camp Kalahari: Adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion in Botswana's stunning desert landscape.
The Plot
66.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Botswana's wilderness at The Plot campground, offering tranquility and adventure near Letlhakane's top attractions.
Gweta Lodge
68.5 km
Your comfortable base for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering wildlife encounters and cultural experiences in the heart of Botswana.
MOLORI LODGE
68.7 km
Experience comfort and affordability at Molori Lodge in Letlhakane, your gateway to Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Planet Baobab
69.2 km
Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Eselbe Camp Backpackers
99.8 km
Riverside camping and backpacker haven near Nata, Botswana, offering affordable lodging and access to the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nata Bird Sanctuary.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nata Bird Sanctuary
0.0 km
Discover Botswana's avian paradise: A community-run sanctuary teeming with flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife on the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Nwetwe Pan
19.2 km
Discover Botswana's Nwetwe Pan: a seasonal spectacle of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and serene solitude in the heart of the Makgadikgadi.
Makgadikgadi Pans
27.2 km
Explore the surreal beauty and vast landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana: wildlife migrations, ancient baobabs, and stark, stunning scenery.
Makgadikgadi adventure camp
27.8 km
Your basecamp for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans and the iconic Kubu Island in Botswana.
Kubu Island
36.9 km
Explore Kubu Island: An ancient granite outcrop with baobabs in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, offering history, beauty, and stunning night skies.
Baobab Chapmana
40.8 km
Explore Baobab Chapmana in Tutume, Botswana - a historical landmark featuring majestic baobab trees and rich local culture.
Green’s Baobab
47.9 km
Discover Green's Baobab in Botswana: A historical landmark where explorers left their mark on an ancient African icon.
Orapa Game Park
50.4 km
Discover the enchanting Orapa Game Park, a wildlife haven in Botswana, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Sua Pan
54.4 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.
Aardvark
69.9 km
Discover Aardvark in Tutume, Botswana: A blend of culture, nature, and adventure in a welcoming village setting.
Central kalahari Game reserve
70.0 km
Discover the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, a sanctuary for wildlife and San culture in the heart of Botswana.
Mabaka Farm and Campsite
73.1 km
Escape to Mabaka Farm and Campsite in Letlhakane, Botswana, for a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure under the African sky.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
78.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, renowned for its unique salt pans and diverse wildlife encounters in Botswana.
Essential places to dine
Mophane Restaurant
61.1 km
Discover the flavors of Botswana at Mophane Restaurant in Orapa - where local meets global cuisine.
Executive Catering
61.2 km
Discover a culinary gem in Orapa at Executive Catering—where local flavors meet international tastes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wimpy
61.6 km
Experience mouthwatering meals at Wimpy in Orapa – your go-to fast food destination for delicious flavors and convenience.
Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments
68.4 km
Experience the comfort of home in Botswana's stunning landscapes at Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments.
Makgadikgadi Lodge
68.6 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Makgadikgadi Lodge, your gateway to Botswana's stunning salt pans and diverse wildlife.
Nxai Pan filling station
69.7 km
Discover Nxai Pan Filling Station: Your essential pit stop for adventure-filled journeys through Botswana's breathtaking landscapes.
Raffles
69.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Botswana at Raffles Restaurant in Letlhakane, where tradition meets deliciousness.
Hungry Lion Letlhakane
70.1 km
Experience delicious fried chicken at Hungry Lion Letlhakane - a top destination for fast food lovers in Botswana.
Nando's Letlhakane
71.0 km
Discover the taste of flame-grilled perfection at Nando's Letlhakane - where Portuguese flavors meet South African hospitality.
Debonairs Pizza
71.1 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Debonairs Pizza in Letlhakane - where quality meets convenience!
Hungry Lion Teemane Mall
71.1 km
Discover the irresistible taste of crispy fried chicken at Hungry Lion Teemane Mall in Letlhakane - where flavor meets convenience.
The Palm Grove
97.9 km
Experience authentic African cuisine at The Palm Grove in Nata - where flavors meet culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Safety Stores
58.6 km
Explore North Safety Stores in Orapa for quality clothing and local fashion essentials tailored to meet your diverse needs.
SPAR Orapa
61.1 km
Discover fresh produce, local flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere at SPAR Orapa, your go-to supermarket in the heart of Botswana.
kutlos art studios
61.7 km
Discover the fusion of fashion and art at Kutlos Art Studios in Orapa, where unique clothing meets local craftsmanship in a vibrant atmosphere.
Ounskay tuck shop
67.2 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Ounskay Tuck Shop, your go-to store in Letlhakane for delicious snacks and essential goods.
Mmaosa General Dealer
68.4 km
Explore the heart of Letlhakane at Mmaosa General Dealer, your local grocery store for fresh produce and authentic Botswanan goods.
China Shop
68.7 km
Discover local flavors at China Shop in Gweta, a vibrant grocery destination offering a taste of Botswana's culinary delights.
Saverite Gweta
68.7 km
Discover the essence of Botswana with local products at Saverite Gweta - your grocery haven in the heart of Gweta.
IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall
68.9 km
Explore the vibrant IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall in Letlhakane - where shopping and local culture come together!
Wings
69.5 km
Explore the vibrant local flavors and artisanal products at Wings in Gweta, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
Sefalana Shopper Letlhakane 1
69.8 km
Discover Sefalana Shopper Letlhakane, a vibrant outlet mall in Botswana offering a diverse shopping experience with local and international brands.
Choppies Letlhakane
69.9 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Choppies Letlhakane, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and Botswana essentials.
Dunns Letlhakane
70.1 km
Explore Dunns Letlhakane for trendy men's and women's clothing that brings local style and culture to your wardrobe.
SPAR Letlhakane
70.1 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and flavors at SPAR Letlhakane, the supermarket that has it all for tourists exploring Botswana.
LLK TUCKSHOP
70.2 km
Experience the local charm at LLK Tuckshop, Letlhakane's premier destination for quality tack and authentic Botswana culture.
Farmers Butchery
70.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Botswana at Farmers Butchery in Letlhakane – a supermarket that connects you with local culture and fresh produce.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Golf Club House
60.9 km
Experience the charm of Orapa at the Golf Club House, where relaxation meets the thrill of golf in a scenic setting.
Makumutu Restaurant & Bar
61.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at Makumutu Restaurant & Bar in Orapa, where local and international flavors come to life in a welcoming atmosphere.
MAKUMUTU LODGE & CAMPSITE
61.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Makumutu Lodge & Campsite in Orapa, Botswana, your gateway to unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Duck & Scrum
61.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Orapa at Duck & Scrum, where lively music and refreshing drinks create unforgettable memories.
Buuhe Pub & Grill
67.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Buuhe Pub & Grill in Letlhakane, where delicious braai and local culture come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bludot Liquor Store
68.4 km
Discover Bludot Liquor Store in Gweta, Botswana – a serene bar offering excellent service and a perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation.
Pelko Pub Zowa
68.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Pelko Pub Zowa in Letlhakane, a lively bar perfect for unwinding with drinks and entertainment.
Veracity
68.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Veracity Bar in Gweta, Botswana, a must-visit for all travelers.
Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill
68.9 km
Savor the vibrant taste of Botswana at Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill, the perfect dining destination for tourists in Gweta.
Sports BAR
68.9 km
Experience the thrill of sports and vibrant nightlife at Letlhakane's Sports Bar, where every game is a celebration.
THE HANEA PUB
69.2 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Letlhakane at The Hanea Pub, where locals and travelers unite for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Nkosho Bar
70.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local culture at Nkosho Bar in Letlhakane, Botswana's hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
LM Bar
70.7 km
LM Bar in Letlhakane offers a vibrant nightlife experience with a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
Night rider Bar
70.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Letlhakane at Night Rider Bar - a local favorite for drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere.
GNG Bar And Butchery
70.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine at GNG Bar And Butchery in Letlhakane, a must-visit for every traveler.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bowls Club
61.1 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Orapa at Bowls Club, where music, dance, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable experience.
MOKGOBELELE BAR
70.5 km
Explore Mokgobelele Bar in Letlhakane, Botswana – a lively spot for traditional drinks and local culture in a welcoming atmosphere.
Cappello
71.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cappello, Letlhakane's premier night club offering great music and a lively atmosphere.
Makgabana Club
73.0 km
Discover the heart of Letlhakane's nightlife at Makgabana Club, where local culture meets electrifying entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.
