Makgadikgadi Pans: A Shimmering Wonderland
Explore Botswana's ancient salt pans: Witness dramatic seasonal transformations and unique wildlife in the heart of the Kalahari.
The Makgadikgadi Pans in northeastern Botswana are the remains of a super-lake that existed thousands of years ago. Today, they form one of the largest salt pan systems in the world, offering a unique landscape of vast, shimmering white plains. During the rainy season, the pans transform into a lush grassland, attracting diverse wildlife.
A brief summary to Makgadikgadi Pans
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Local tips
- A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for exploring the pans, especially during the rainy season.
- Visit during the dry season for quad biking and stargazing on the vast salt pans.
- The rainy season offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially for spotting flamingos.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as shade is scarce on the pans.
- Consider combining your trip with a visit to Nxai Pan National Park for a diverse safari experience.
Getting There
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Self-Drive
The Makgadikgadi Pans are located between Maun and Francistown. From Maun, take the A3 highway east. Depending on your destination within the pans, you can enter through various access points. Phuphudu Gate is convenient when coming from Maun or Nxai Pan. From the A3, follow the signs to your chosen campsite or lodge. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the sandy tracks within the park. Entrance fees to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park for international visitors are BWP 190 per person per day, plus BWP 75 per vehicle per day. These fees are payable at the gate in cash.
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Air Transfer
The most convenient way to reach the Makgadikgadi Pans is by flying into Maun International Airport (MUB). From Maun, you can take a connecting charter flight to a local airstrip near your chosen lodge or camp. Many lodges have their own airstrips or share one with nearby properties. The flight from Maun to the Makgadikgadi Pans takes approximately 45 minutes. Prices for a private taxi transfer from Maun Airport to Makgadikgadi Pans start from $50.
Discover more about Makgadikgadi Pans
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jack's Camp
43.3 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
48.7 km
Experience the magic of the Makgadikgadi Pans in luxurious style at San Camp, a unique desert oasis in Botswana's Kalahari.
Camp Kalahari
49.2 km
Experience the magic of the Kalahari at Camp Kalahari: Adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion in Botswana's stunning desert landscape.
Planet Baobab
52.1 km
Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Gweta Lodge
53.4 km
Your comfortable base for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering wildlife encounters and cultural experiences in the heart of Botswana.
Eselbe Camp Backpackers
75.1 km
Riverside camping and backpacker haven near Nata, Botswana, offering affordable lodging and access to the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nata Bird Sanctuary.
The Plot
89.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Botswana's wilderness at The Plot campground, offering tranquility and adventure near Letlhakane's top attractions.
MOLORI LODGE
92.3 km
Experience comfort and affordability at Molori Lodge in Letlhakane, your gateway to Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Kudiakam Pan
99.1 km
Discover Kudiakam Pan: Botswana's hidden gem offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the iconic Baines' Baobabs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Makgadikgadi adventure camp
25.9 km
Your basecamp for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans and the iconic Kubu Island in Botswana.
Makadikadi Basin
27.2 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans: Botswana's ancient salt flats, a landscape of stark beauty, unique wildlife, and profound historical significance.
Nata Bird Sanctuary
27.2 km
Discover Botswana's avian paradise: A community-run sanctuary teeming with flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife on the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Nwetwe Pan
29.6 km
Discover Botswana's Nwetwe Pan: a seasonal spectacle of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and serene solitude in the heart of the Makgadikgadi.
Baobab Chapmana
36.8 km
Explore Baobab Chapmana in Tutume, Botswana - a historical landmark featuring majestic baobab trees and rich local culture.
Green’s Baobab
41.0 km
Discover Green's Baobab in Botswana: A historical landmark where explorers left their mark on an ancient African icon.
Kubu Island
42.4 km
Explore Kubu Island: An ancient granite outcrop with baobabs in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, offering history, beauty, and stunning night skies.
Sua Pan
51.3 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.
Aardvark
52.9 km
Discover Aardvark in Tutume, Botswana: A blend of culture, nature, and adventure in a welcoming village setting.
Joy Pan Tours
53.5 km
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Orapa Game Park
77.1 km
Discover the enchanting Orapa Game Park, a wildlife haven in Botswana, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nata Lodge
80.5 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans from this comfortable lodge near the Nata Bird Sanctuary, a gateway to Botswana's natural wonders.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
82.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, renowned for its unique salt pans and diverse wildlife encounters in Botswana.
Central kalahari Game reserve
93.3 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
96.4 km
Escape to Mabaka Farm and Campsite in Letlhakane, Botswana, for a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure under the African sky.
Essential places to dine
Makgadikgadi Lodge
50.8 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Makgadikgadi Lodge, your gateway to Botswana's stunning salt pans and diverse wildlife.
The Palm Grove
73.5 km
Experience authentic African cuisine at The Palm Grove in Nata - where flavors meet culture.
BOMA - Restaurant and Bar
77.6 km
Experience authentic Botswana flavors at BOMA - Restaurant and Bar in Nata, where every meal tells a story.
Pelican Lodge and Camping
77.7 km
Experience nature's serenity at Pelican Lodge and Camping in Nata, Botswana - your gateway to adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Mophane Restaurant
87.5 km
Discover the flavors of Botswana at Mophane Restaurant in Orapa - where local meets global cuisine.
Executive Catering
87.5 km
Discover a culinary gem in Orapa at Executive Catering—where local flavors meet international tastes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wimpy
88.0 km
Experience mouthwatering meals at Wimpy in Orapa – your go-to fast food destination for delicious flavors and convenience.
Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments
91.8 km
Experience the comfort of home in Botswana's stunning landscapes at Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments.
Nxai Pan filling station
93.0 km
Discover Nxai Pan Filling Station: Your essential pit stop for adventure-filled journeys through Botswana's breathtaking landscapes.
Raffles
93.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Botswana at Raffles Restaurant in Letlhakane, where tradition meets deliciousness.
Hungry Lion Letlhakane
93.3 km
Experience delicious fried chicken at Hungry Lion Letlhakane - a top destination for fast food lovers in Botswana.
Nando's Letlhakane
94.5 km
Discover the taste of flame-grilled perfection at Nando's Letlhakane - where Portuguese flavors meet South African hospitality.
Debonairs Pizza
94.6 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Debonairs Pizza in Letlhakane - where quality meets convenience!
Hungry Lion Teemane Mall
94.6 km
Discover the irresistible taste of crispy fried chicken at Hungry Lion Teemane Mall in Letlhakane - where flavor meets convenience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
China Shop
53.4 km
Discover local flavors at China Shop in Gweta, a vibrant grocery destination offering a taste of Botswana's culinary delights.
Saverite Gweta
53.6 km
Discover the essence of Botswana with local products at Saverite Gweta - your grocery haven in the heart of Gweta.
Wings
54.7 km
Explore the vibrant local flavors and artisanal products at Wings in Gweta, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
Makgadikgadi Epic
57.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Epic, an unforgettable event venue in Botswana that blends culture and nature seamlessly.
Thando's supermarket
65.7 km
Explore the flavors of Botswana at Thando's Supermarket in Sowa, your gateway to local and international culinary delights.
Less Price Shop
73.6 km
Discover local treasures at Less Price Shop, your go-to general store in Nata, Botswana, offering household goods and unique souvenirs.
Sweets Sweets Cash & Carry
73.7 km
Discover a delicious array of local and international sweets at Sweets Sweets Cash & Carry in Nata, a must-visit grocery store for tourists.
SR Wholesalers
73.9 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at SR Wholesalers, the go-to grocery store in Nata for fresh produce and community vibes.
Nata Bakery& Café
74.2 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Nata Bakery & Café, a charming spot in Nata offering freshly baked treats and a cozy atmosphere.
Choppies
74.2 km
Explore the vibrant shopping scene at Choppies in Nata, Botswana, where local culture meets modern retail in a peaceful setting.
PEP Nata
74.2 km
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SaveWay Supermarket
74.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nata at SaveWay Supermarket, your local source for fresh produce and authentic Botswana delicacies.
Fourie Butchery
74.3 km
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North Safety Stores
84.9 km
Explore North Safety Stores in Orapa for quality clothing and local fashion essentials tailored to meet your diverse needs.
SPAR Orapa
87.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Veracity
53.5 km
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Bludot Liquor Store
53.5 km
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Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill
53.7 km
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Up Industries (Pty) Ltd.
73.4 km
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Crossroads catering and Eatery
73.5 km
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Praxis Masarira tarven
73.5 km
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Crossroads Eatery and Catering
75.7 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
75.8 km
Discover Kwaga Surprise in Tutume for an unforgettable barbecue experience that showcases the flavors of Botswana.
Golf Club House
87.4 km
Experience the charm of Orapa at the Golf Club House, where relaxation meets the thrill of golf in a scenic setting.
Duck & Scrum
88.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Orapa at Duck & Scrum, where lively music and refreshing drinks create unforgettable memories.
Makumutu Restaurant & Bar
88.5 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
88.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Makumutu Lodge & Campsite in Orapa, Botswana, your gateway to unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Buuhe Pub & Grill
90.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Buuhe Pub & Grill in Letlhakane, where delicious braai and local culture come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Pelko Pub Zowa
92.0 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Pelko Pub Zowa in Letlhakane, a lively bar perfect for unwinding with drinks and entertainment.
Sports BAR
92.2 km
Experience the thrill of sports and vibrant nightlife at Letlhakane's Sports Bar, where every game is a celebration.
