Tau Pan Camp, Kalahari Desert Travel Guide

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Experience the Kalahari's Soulful Big: Remote luxury, stunning views, and unique wildlife encounters at Botswana's Tau Pan Camp.

Tau Pan Camp is a remote and exclusive safari camp located within Botswana's Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Overlooking the vast Tau Pan, it offers incredible views and a chance to experience the Kalahari's unique beauty and wildlife.

A brief summary to Tau Pan Camp

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tau Pan Camp.

The best time for game viewing is during the green season (December to May) when animals congregate on the pans after the rains.
Take advantage of the guided nature walks with Bushman trackers to learn about the Kalahari's unique flora, fauna, and survival techniques.
Don't miss the opportunity to stargaze from the sleep-out deck for an unforgettable view of the Milky Way.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Central Kalahari Game Reserve

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Explore Tau Pan Camp on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tau Pan Camp, mapped for you.

Getting There

Air Transfer

The most common way to reach Tau Pan Camp is by a 40-minute light aircraft flight from Maun Airport (MUB) to Tau Pan Airstrip. From the airstrip, it's a short 10-minute game drive to the camp. This transfer is typically arranged by the camp as part of the safari package. Contact Tau Pan Camp or your booking agent for specific pricing as it is usually included in the overall package.
Self-Drive (Dry Season Only)

Self-driving to Tau Pan Camp is possible, but only recommended for experienced off-road drivers with a 4x4 vehicle during the dry season (May-October). Road conditions are extremely challenging and can vary significantly depending on the time of year. Ensure you have sufficient fuel, water, and supplies, as there are no facilities within the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Park entrance fees are approximately P75.00 (about $6 USD) per vehicle under 3500kg, payable in cash at the gate. Check current road conditions with local authorities before travel. Note: There are no fuel stations or repair services available within the reserve.

Discover more about Tau Pan Camp

Tau Pan Camp, the first semi-permanent camp inside the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, offers an unparalleled safari experience in one of Africa's largest and most remote conservation areas. Perched on an ancient sand dune, the camp overlooks the expansive Tau Pan, providing breathtaking views of the Kalahari's stark beauty. 'Tau' means lion in Setswana, and the camp is named for the prides of black-maned Kalahari lions that frequent the area.The camp comprises nine environmentally-adapted en-suite tents, including a family tent, set on raised decks to maximize the panoramic views. Each tent features a king-sized bed, a living area, a writing desk, and both indoor and outdoor showers. The main area is built around a fireplace, creating a cozy gathering spot for guests to observe wildlife at the nearby waterhole. A telescope is available for guest use, and the camp also includes a bar, lounge, curio shop, and dining area.Activities at Tau Pan Camp include game drives in 4x4 vehicles, guided nature walks with Bushman trackers, day trips to Deception Valley and other notable pans, and stargazing. The summer rains, from December to April, bring the Kalahari to life, attracting thousands of springbok, gemsbok, and migrating zebra and wildebeest. This abundance of plains game, in turn, attracts predators such as cheetahs, Kalahari black-maned lions, and black-backed jackals.