Sua Pan: Botswana's Sparkling Salt Flat
Discover Sua Pan: A surreal salt landscape in Botswana, teeming with birdlife and ancient history, offering a unique Kalahari experience.
Sua Pan, also known as Sowa Pan, is a vast, shimmering salt flat in Botswana, part of the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt pan systems in the world. This expansive landscape transforms into a seasonal lake, attracting diverse wildlife, especially flamingos, and offering surreal, breathtaking views.
A brief summary to Sua Pan
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Local tips
- Visit during the rainy season (December to April) for the best chance to witness large flamingo flocks and a transformed landscape.
- A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if venturing onto the pan itself, as conditions can be challenging and unpredictable.
- Bring plenty of water, food, and sun protection, as facilities are limited and the sun can be intense.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the area's ecology, history, and cultural significance.
- Be aware that driving on the pans can be dangerous even in the dry season. Stick to established tracks and avoid driving off-road.
Getting There
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Car
From the A3 highway (between Nata and Gweta), watch for signs indicating Sua Pan. Turn onto the dirt tracks leading towards the pan. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to potentially rough road conditions. Be aware that road conditions on the pan itself can vary greatly depending on the season and recent rainfall; exercise caution and stick to established tracks. There are no entrance fees to access Sua Pan itself, but some areas like the Nata Bird Sanctuary may have fees.
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Public Transport
Take a long-distance bus to Nata from major cities like Gaborone or Francistown. From Nata, hire a taxi or arrange a local shuttle to Sua Pan. Confirm the taxi or shuttle cost beforehand, as prices can vary. The journey from Nata to Sua Pan is approximately 30 kilometers and takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on road conditions. Expect to pay around 300-500 BWP for a roundtrip taxi from Nata to Sua Pan.
Discover more about Sua Pan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Plot
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Victoria Falls Destinations
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Eselbe Camp Backpackers
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Riverside camping and backpacker haven near Nata, Botswana, offering affordable lodging and access to the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nata Bird Sanctuary.
MOLORI LODGE
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Experience comfort and affordability at Molori Lodge in Letlhakane, your gateway to Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Jack's Camp
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San Camp
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Camp Kalahari
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kubu Island
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Makgadikgadi adventure camp
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Your basecamp for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans and the iconic Kubu Island in Botswana.
Makgadikgadi Pans
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Makadikadi Basin
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Nata Bird Sanctuary
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Nwetwe Pan
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Nata Lodge
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Mabaka Farm and Campsite
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Essential places to dine
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The Palm Grove
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Pelican Lodge and Camping
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Nxai Pan filling station
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Executive Catering
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Mophane Restaurant
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Wimpy
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Makgadikgadi Epic
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Saverite
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Nata Bakery& Café
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Choppies
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PEP Nata
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SR Wholesalers
72.3 km
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Fourie Butchery
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SaveWay Supermarket
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Ounskay tuck shop
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IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall
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Mmaosa General Dealer
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Farmers Butchery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Crossroads catering and Eatery
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THE HANEA PUB
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Noche Lounge
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Adventure Bar
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Nkosho Bar
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Top Centre Bar
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LM Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Makgabana Club
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Cappello
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Bowls Club
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