Background

Nata Bird Sanctuary: A shimmering expanse of avian paradise

Discover Botswana's avian paradise: A community-run sanctuary teeming with flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife on the Makgadikgadi Pans.

A question is required

The Nata Bird Sanctuary, a community-run reserve on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans, offers a unique opportunity to witness thousands of flamingos and other waterbirds in their natural habitat. It's a must-see for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

A brief summary to Nata Bird Sanctuary

  • Makgadikgadi Nata, BW

Local tips

  • Visit during the wet season (November to March) for the best birdwatching opportunities, especially to witness the flamingo breeding season.
  • Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the beauty of the birds and the vast landscapes.
  • A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season, to navigate the roads within the sanctuary.
  • Bring cash in Botswana Pula (BWP) to pay the entrance and vehicle fees at the gate.
  • Consider booking a guided tour with Nata Lodge or a local operator for an enriched experience and to learn more about the sanctuary's ecosystem.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    From the town of Nata, head south on the A3 for approximately 10 km. Look for signs directing you to the Nata Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located about 10 km from the village center. The roads are generally accessible, but a 4x4 is recommended during the rainy season. Entrance fees are BWP 100 per person for non-residents, BWP 70 for Botswana residents, and BWP 50 for citizens. There is an additional vehicle fee of BWP 35 for non-residents and BWP 30 for citizens. It is advisable to bring cash in Botswana Pula (BWP) to pay at the entrance gate.

  • Public Transport

    From any location in the Makgadikgadi Pans, 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 in Nata, 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.

Unlock the Best of Nata Bird Sanctuary

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Nata Bird Sanctuary

Nata Bird Sanctuary, established in 1992, is a 230-square-kilometer protected area located on the northeastern fringe of the Sowa Pan in Botswana. This community-managed project, overseen by the Kalahari Conservation Society, stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts that directly benefit local communities. The sanctuary's landscape encompasses grasslands and pans, offering easy access for self-drivers and pleasant camping facilities. The best time to visit is during the wet season (November to March) when the pans fill with water, attracting a multitude of migratory and resident birds. This is when the sanctuary truly comes alive, with vibrant colors and sounds of birds in full display. The sanctuary is home to over 165 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, ducks, geese, ostriches, spoonbills, and eagles. The most famous residents are the Greater and Lesser Flamingos, with up to 250,000 individuals gathering to breed after the rains. Other commonly sighted species include African Spoonbills, Yellow-billed Storks, Chestnut-banded Plovers, Great White Pelicans, and Pink-backed Pelicans. Raptors like the African Fish Eagle and Martial Eagle can also be seen soaring overhead. Aside from the avian attractions, the sanctuary also supports a variety of mammal species, including kudu, oryx, springbok, red hartebeest, eland, impala, zebras, jackals, and more. Lucky visitors might even spot a shy bat-eared fox or a hippo. Visitors can explore the sanctuary by vehicle, with a main viewing platform providing excellent opportunities to observe the birds and the vast landscape. The roads are generally well-maintained, but a 4x4 vehicle is recommended during the rainy season due to the black cotton soil that can become treacherous. The Nata Bird Sanctuary is not only a haven for wildlife but also a shining example of community-based conservation, where tourism directly benefits the local communities and contributes to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.

Popular Experiences near Nata Bird Sanctuary

Popular Hotels near Nata Bird Sanctuary

Select Currency