Kumaga Entrance: Gateway to Makgadikgadi's Wonders
Discover Botswana's wild heart: Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans through the Kumaga Entrance for unmatched landscapes and wildlife encounters.
The Kumaga Entrance, also known as Xhumaga, provides access to the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in Botswana, offering a chance to witness the vast salt flats, diverse wildlife, and dramatic seasonal transformations. It's a prime spot for game drives along the Boteti River and experiencing the Kalahari's unique beauty.
A brief summary to Kumaga Entrance to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
- GGH9+43J, Xhumaga, BW
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 6 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6:30 pm
Local tips
- A 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the sandy roads within the park.
- Bring your own drinking water, as the borehole water at Kumaga has a strong sulfur smell.
- Book your campsite well in advance, especially during peak season (July to October).
- Consider visiting during both the wet and dry seasons to witness the contrasting landscapes and wildlife behaviors.
- Be aware that there is limited or no fuel available in the immediate vicinity.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Maun, take the A3 towards Nata. The turnoff to the main entrance of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is approximately 160 km east of Maun. From Gweta, the turnoff is about 45 km west. Once you reach the turnoff, follow the signs to Kumaga. Note that the last stretch is a gravel road. Park entrance fees are payable at the gate. As of July 2025, expect to pay BWP 190 per person per day for international visitors, plus BWP 75 per vehicle per day. Ensure you have sufficient fuel, as there are no fuel stations in the immediate vicinity.
-
Ferry
If the Boteti River is flowing, you will need to cross it via a small ferry. The ferry can usually only take one vehicle at a time. There may be a small fee for the ferry crossing, payable in cash. Check local conditions beforehand, as the river may be dry, allowing you to drive across the riverbed.
Discover more about Kumaga Entrance to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Khumaga Camp Sites
1.9 km
Experience Botswana's wild beauty at Khumaga Camp Sites, your gateway to the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and the great zebra migration.
Leroo La Tau
5.7 km
Luxury safari lodge on the Boteti River, offering exceptional wildlife viewing and a unique Kalahari experience in Botswana.
Boteti River
38.7 km
Experience Botswana's dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife along the Boteti River, a vital artery connecting the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Pans.
Kudiakam Pan
46.2 km
Discover Kudiakam Pan: Botswana's hidden gem offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the iconic Baines' Baobabs.
San Camp
64.0 km
Experience the magic of the Makgadikgadi Pans in luxurious style at San Camp, a unique desert oasis in Botswana's Kalahari.
Camp Kalahari
64.1 km
Experience the magic of the Kalahari at Camp Kalahari: Adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion in Botswana's stunning desert landscape.
South camp Nxai Pan
65.4 km
Experience Nxai Pan's wildlife spectacle from the comfort of South Camp, your gateway to Botswana's natural wonders.
Kwando Nxai Pan Lodge
69.0 km
Experience the magic of Nxai Pan at this exclusive lodge, offering unparalleled access to Botswana's dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
Jack's Camp
69.5 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.
Nxai Pan North Camp
71.9 km
Experience the Kalahari's raw beauty at Nxai Pan North Camp, a remote campsite in Botswana's wildlife-rich Nxai Pan National Park.
Gweta Lodge
82.5 km
Your comfortable base for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering wildlife encounters and cultural experiences in the heart of Botswana.
Planet Baobab
88.0 km
Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Unmissable attractions to see
Boteti River Camp
0.4 km
Explore Botswana's salt pans and wildlife from Boteti River Camp, your comfortable gateway to Makgadikgadi, Nxai Pan, and the Kalahari.
Meno-A-Kwena Tented Camp
26.5 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.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
30.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, renowned for its unique salt pans and diverse wildlife encounters in Botswana.
Baines Baobabs
47.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Baines Baobabs, home to ancient trees and breathtaking landscapes in Botswana's wilderness.
Flughafen
47.9 km
Your starting point for exploring the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Nxai Pan National Park in Botswana.
Nxai Pan National Park
51.8 km
Explore Botswana's Nxai Pan National Park: Witness massive migrations, ancient baobabs, and stunning Kalahari landscapes. A unique safari adventure awaits!
Haina veld Game Farms
61.0 km
Explore accessible Kalahari wilderness: wildlife encounters, San culture, and stunning desert landscapes on the border of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
NG/47 Concessionaire
66.8 km
Discover Botswana's hidden gem: NG/47 Concessionaire, a state park offering tranquility, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.
Nxai Pan
68.8 km
Explore Botswana's Nxai Pan: Witness dramatic wildlife migrations, iconic baobabs, and vast landscapes in this unique national park.
Green’s Baobab
74.5 km
Discover Green's Baobab in Botswana: A historical landmark where explorers left their mark on an ancient African icon.
Baobab Chapmana
76.3 km
Explore Baobab Chapmana in Tutume, Botswana - a historical landmark featuring majestic baobab trees and rich local culture.
Joy Pan Tours
82.5 km
Discover Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture with Joy Pan Tours in Gweta, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Aardvark
87.7 km
Discover Aardvark in Tutume, Botswana: A blend of culture, nature, and adventure in a welcoming village setting.
Tolankwe Conservancy
87.7 km
Discover Botswana's hidden gem: Explore diverse wildlife and support sustainable tourism at Tolankwe Conservancy near Maun.
Nwetwe Pan
87.8 km
Discover Botswana's Nwetwe Pan: a seasonal spectacle of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and serene solitude in the heart of the Makgadikgadi.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TauTswana
1.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Botswana at TauTswana, a premier butcher shop in Xhumaga, specializing in locally sourced meats and culinary treasures.
TOP BAR, HARDWARE, BUTCHERY, SALON AND BOTTLE STORE
63.9 km
Explore the vibrant community hub of Rakops with shopping, dining, and local culture all in one place.
Wings
81.6 km
Explore the vibrant local flavors and artisanal products at Wings in Gweta, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
Saverite Gweta
82.6 km
Discover the essence of Botswana with local products at Saverite Gweta - your grocery haven in the heart of Gweta.
China Shop
83.0 km
Discover local flavors at China Shop in Gweta, a vibrant grocery destination offering a taste of Botswana's culinary delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Center Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Center Bar in Xhumaga, where great drinks and an inviting atmosphere await every visitor.
Moselewapula Bar and General Dealer
77.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of Botswana at Moselewapula Bar and General Dealer, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere in Mawala, Xhumo.
Bludot Liquor Store
82.1 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
82.7 km
Savor the vibrant taste of Botswana at Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill, the perfect dining destination for tourists in Gweta.
Veracity
82.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Veracity Bar in Gweta, Botswana, a must-visit for all travelers.
