Makadikadi Basin, Makgadikgadi Pans Travel Guide

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Explore the surreal beauty of Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pan: vast salt flats, unique wildlife, and ancient history in the heart of the Kalahari.

The Makgadikgadi Pan in Botswana, one of the largest salt flats in the world, is what remains of the ancient Lake Makgadikgadi, which was once larger than Switzerland. Today, it's a surreal landscape of expansive, seemingly lifeless plains that seasonally transform into a refuge for wildlife.

A brief summary to Makadikadi Basin

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Makadikadi Basin.

The best time to visit for wildlife viewing is during the rainy season (November to April) when the pans fill with water and attract migratory animals.
A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for exploring the pans, especially during the wet season when roads can be challenging.
Bring plenty of water, food, and fuel, as facilities within the national park are limited.
Consider visiting both Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and Nxai Pan National Park for a more comprehensive experience of the area.
Respect the environment and wildlife by sticking to designated tracks and avoiding disturbance to breeding colonies of flamingos.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

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Explore Makadikadi Basin on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Makadikadi Basin, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The most common way to access Makgadikgadi Pan is by 4x4 vehicle. The main entrance to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is located approximately halfway between Maun and Nata, 45km west of Gweta on the A3 highway. Another entrance is at Xhumaga, about 48km southwest of the park. From the A3, follow the signs to the park entrance gates. Note that roads within the park can be sandy and corrugated, requiring a 4x4 vehicle. Entrance fees are payable at the gate. For international non-residents, the fee is BWP190 (approximately €14 or $15 USD) per person per day, plus BWP75 (approximately €5 or $6 USD) per vehicle per day.
Flying

It is possible to fly into one of the airstrips near the park's western boundary via a chartered flight from Maun or Kasane. From the airstrip, you will need to arrange transportation to your accommodation or to explore the pans. Charter flights are typically booked through tour operators as part of a safari package. There are no scheduled flights to Makgadikgadi Pans.

Discover more about Makadikadi Basin

The Makgadikgadi Pan, located in northeastern Botswana, is a vast and mesmerizing landscape shaped by the remnants of a prehistoric super-lake. Once larger than Switzerland, Lake Makgadikgadi began drying up tens of thousands of years ago due to tectonic shifts and climate change, leaving behind a series of expansive salt pans. Today, the Makgadikgadi Pans cover approximately 6,200 square miles (16,058 sq km) and consist of numerous individual pans separated by sandy desert, the largest being Sua (Sowa), Ntwetwe, and Nxai Pans.Despite its harsh and seemingly barren environment, the Makgadikgadi Pan is far from lifeless. During the rainy season (typically November to April), the pans transform into shallow lakes, attracting a wealth of wildlife. This includes the second-largest zebra and wildebeest migration in Africa, as well as flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. The surrounding grasslands also support diverse species, such as springbok, oryx, and various predators.Beyond its natural wonders, the Makgadikgadi Pan also holds historical and archaeological significance. Archaeological discoveries have revealed evidence of prehistoric human habitation dating back to the Stone Age. The pans also feature unique geological formations, such as Kubu Island, a rocky outcrop adorned with ancient baobab trees and the ruins of prehistoric settlements.Visitors to the Makgadikgadi Pan can experience the stark beauty and solitude of this unique environment through various activities. These include game drives, guided walks, quad biking, and cultural encounters with local Bushmen communities. Stargazing is also exceptional due to the complete lack of light pollution.