Nata Bird Sanctuary, Makgadikgadi Pans Travel Guide

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Discover a community-driven birding paradise in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, home to flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife.

The Nata Bird Sanctuary, a community-managed reserve on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans, is a haven for birdlife, especially flamingos, and other wildlife. Founded in 1988, it showcases successful community-based conservation efforts in Botswana.

A brief summary to Nata Bird Sanctuary

M773+MJ8, Nata, BW

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nata Bird Sanctuary.

Visit during the wet season (November to March) for the best birdwatching opportunities, especially to see flamingos.
Enquire about track conditions before entering, as a 4x4 vehicle is essential during the rainy season.
Bring binoculars and a camera to fully appreciate and capture the diverse birdlife and wildlife.
Consider staying at Nata Lodge or camping near the entrance for convenient access to the sanctuary.

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Explore Nata Bird Sanctuary on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

From Nata village, head southeast on the A3 highway. After approximately 15 km, you will find the entrance to the Nata Bird Sanctuary on your left. The roads within the sanctuary are generally well-maintained, 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 also a vehicle fee of BWP 35 for non-residents and BWP 30 for citizens. Payment is accepted in cash (Pula).
Taxi

From Nata village, hire a local taxi for a round trip to the Nata Bird Sanctuary. Negotiate the fare beforehand; expect to pay between BWP 100 to BWP 150. The taxi will take you to the sanctuary entrance, located approximately 15 km southeast of Nata. Entrance fees are BWP 100 per person for non-residents, BWP 70 for Botswana residents, and BWP 50 for citizens. There is also a vehicle fee of BWP 35 for non-residents and BWP 30 for citizens. Ensure the taxi driver is aware of the entrance fee payment process.

Discover more about Nata Bird Sanctuary

Nata Bird Sanctuary, established in 1988 and opened in 1993, is a 230-square-kilometer protected area located on the northeastern fringe of the Sowa Pan. This community-run project is a testament to successful conservation, driven by the local communities of Nata, Sepako, Maposa, and Manxotae. These communities benefit directly from the sanctuary's income through development projects.The sanctuary protects the northeastern slice of Sua (Sowa) Pan, which is part of the larger Makgadikgadi Salt Pans network. This network comprises several adjoining pans with grasslands and sand ridges. The Sowa Pan fills with water after the rainy season due to the influent flow from the Nata River, attracting a multitude of waterbirds to breed.The Nata Bird Sanctuary is renowned as one of only three nesting places for flamingos in Africa. It hosts over 165 bird species, including large flocks of greater and lesser flamingos, great white pelicans, and pink-backed pelicans. The best time to visit is during the wet season (roughly November to March) when the pans fill with nutrient-rich waters, attracting a host of waterbirds. However, the sanctuary is also worth visiting during the dry season (April to October). Aside from birds, the sanctuary is also home to various animals, including wildebeest, ostrich, jackals, bat-eared foxes, zebra, kudu, oryx, springbok, red hartebeest, eland, and impalas.Visitors can explore the sanctuary through unguided drives, taking in the vast landscapes and abundant wildlife. A raised wooden platform provides excellent views of the Sowa salt pan and its birdlife. Nata Lodge, located near the sanctuary entrance, offers accommodation and guided drives into the sanctuary.