Nxai Pan: Where Ancient Lakes Meet Thriving Wildlife
Discover Botswana's hidden gem: Nxai Pan, where dramatic landscapes and thrilling wildlife encounters await in an ancient salt pan setting.
Nxai Pan, a fossil lakebed in Botswana's Makgadikgadi basin, transforms seasonally from a barren expanse to a lush grassland, attracting massive migrations of zebra, wildebeest, and predators. Explore its stark beauty, iconic baobab trees, and experience the raw African wilderness.
A brief summary to Nxai Pan
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Local tips
- Visit during the rainy season (Dec-Apr) for the best wildlife viewing, but be prepared for muddy road conditions requiring a 4x4 vehicle.
- Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season, as space is limited.
- Bring sufficient water and supplies, as there are no fuel stations or restaurants within the park.
- Don't miss the Baines' Baobabs, a cluster of ancient trees that offer a unique photo opportunity.
- Be aware that nights can be freezing in winter, so pack accordingly.
Getting There
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Road
Nxai Pan National Park is accessible via the A3 highway between Maun and Nata. The entrance gate is approximately 140 km east of Maun and 160 km west of Nata. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to sandy and potentially muddy road conditions, especially during the rainy season. Park entry fees are approximately $10 USD per person per day, plus $4.20 USD per vehicle. Payment in Botswana Pula (BWP) is also accepted. Note that credit card facilities may not be available, so it's best to have cash on hand.
Discover more about Nxai Pan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nxai Pan North Camp
4.5 km
Experience the Kalahari's raw beauty at Nxai Pan North Camp, a remote campsite in Botswana's wildlife-rich Nxai Pan National Park.
Kwando Nxai Pan Lodge
4.8 km
Experience the magic of Nxai Pan at this exclusive lodge, offering unparalleled access to Botswana's dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
South camp Nxai Pan
5.5 km
Experience Nxai Pan's wildlife spectacle from the comfort of South Camp, your gateway to Botswana's natural wonders.
Kudiakam Pan
26.3 km
Discover Kudiakam Pan: Botswana's hidden gem offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the iconic Baines' Baobabs.
Leroo La Tau
63.3 km
Luxury safari lodge on the Boteti River, offering exceptional wildlife viewing and a unique Kalahari experience in Botswana.
Gweta Lodge
63.6 km
Your comfortable base for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering wildlife encounters and cultural experiences in the heart of Botswana.
Planet Baobab
66.7 km
Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Khumaga Camp Sites
67.1 km
Experience Botswana's wild beauty at Khumaga Camp Sites, your gateway to the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and the great zebra migration.
Camp Kalahari
75.4 km
Experience the magic of the Kalahari at Camp Kalahari: Adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion in Botswana's stunning desert landscape.
San Camp
78.2 km
Experience the magic of the Makgadikgadi Pans in luxurious style at San Camp, a unique desert oasis in Botswana's Kalahari.
Jack's Camp
80.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nxai Pan National Park
23.3 km
Explore Botswana's Nxai Pan National Park: Witness massive migrations, ancient baobabs, and stunning Kalahari landscapes. A unique safari adventure awaits!
Baines Baobabs
24.4 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Baines Baobabs, home to ancient trees and breathtaking landscapes in Botswana's wilderness.
NG/47 Concessionaire
30.9 km
Discover Botswana's hidden gem: NG/47 Concessionaire, a state park offering tranquility, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
62.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, renowned for its unique salt pans and diverse wildlife encounters in Botswana.
Joy Pan Tours
63.5 km
Discover Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture with Joy Pan Tours in Gweta, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Meno-A-Kwena Tented Camp
65.6 km
Experience Botswana's wildlife at Meno-A-Kwena Tented Camp: stunning views, diverse activities, and a commitment to sustainable tourism on the Boteti River.
Aardvark
65.9 km
Discover Aardvark in Tutume, Botswana: A blend of culture, nature, and adventure in a welcoming village setting.
Flughafen
68.3 km
Your starting point for exploring the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Nxai Pan National Park in Botswana.
Boteti River Camp
68.6 km
Explore Botswana's salt pans and wildlife from Boteti River Camp, your comfortable gateway to Makgadikgadi, Nxai Pan, and the Kalahari.
Kumaga Entrance to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
68.8 km
Discover Botswana's wild heart: Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans through the Kumaga Entrance for unmatched landscapes and wildlife encounters.
CT/1 Concessionaire (hunting)
73.2 km
Experience Botswana's untamed beauty at CT/1 Concessionaire: a premier wildlife and safari destination for adventurers and nature lovers.
Green’s Baobab
77.6 km
Discover Green's Baobab in Botswana: A historical landmark where explorers left their mark on an ancient African icon.
Baobab Chapmana
84.4 km
Explore Baobab Chapmana in Tutume, Botswana - a historical landmark featuring majestic baobab trees and rich local culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wings
62.2 km
Explore the vibrant local flavors and artisanal products at Wings in Gweta, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
Saverite Gweta
63.5 km
Discover the essence of Botswana with local products at Saverite Gweta - your grocery haven in the heart of Gweta.
China Shop
63.8 km
Discover local flavors at China Shop in Gweta, a vibrant grocery destination offering a taste of Botswana's culinary delights.
TauTswana
69.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Botswana at TauTswana, a premier butcher shop in Xhumaga, specializing in locally sourced meats and culinary treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bludot Liquor Store
63.4 km
Discover Bludot Liquor Store in Gweta, Botswana – a serene bar offering excellent service and a perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation.
Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill
63.4 km
Savor the vibrant taste of Botswana at Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill, the perfect dining destination for tourists in Gweta.
Veracity
63.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Veracity Bar in Gweta, Botswana, a must-visit for all travelers.
Center Bar
68.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Center Bar in Xhumaga, where great drinks and an inviting atmosphere await every visitor.
