Nwetwe Pan: A Shimmering Oasis in the Kalahari
Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Botswana's Nwewe Pan: a seasonal spectacle of wildlife and shimmering landscapes in the heart of the Kalahari.
Nwetwe Pan, a vast seasonal lake in Botswana's Makgadikgadi region, transforms into a vibrant ecosystem during the rainy season, attracting diverse wildlife and offering stunning landscapes. Its remote location provides a unique and serene experience for adventurous travelers seeking natural beauty and solitude.
A brief summary to Nwetwe Pan
- BW
Local tips
- Visit during the wet season (November to April) to witness the lake's transformation and the influx of wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the variety of species is remarkable.
- Pack a picnic and plenty of water, as there are no facilities nearby.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions; mornings and evenings can be particularly beautiful.
Getting There
-
Car
The most practical way to reach Nwetwe Pan is by a 4x4 vehicle due to sandy and rough road conditions. From accommodations in the Makgadikgadi Pans area, head towards the Nata-Makgadikgadi road. Continue until the turnoff to Nwetwe Pan, following signs and tracks. A GPS or reliable map is advisable. Note that there may be no formal parking area.
-
Public Transport
Public transport is limited. Take a bus from Maun or Nata to the entrance of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. From there, hire a local taxi or arrange a private shuttle to Nwetwe Pan. Negotiate the fare in advance; expect to pay around 500-800 BWP for a round trip. Confirm the return time with the driver.
-
Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour from Maun or Kasane that includes transportation to Nwetwe Pan. Prices range from 1500-3000 BWP per person, depending on the tour's length and inclusions. This option includes vehicle transport, a guide, and sometimes meals.
Discover more about Nwetwe Pan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jack's Camp
25.6 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
29.0 km
Experience the magic of the Makgadikgadi Pans in luxurious style at San Camp, a unique desert oasis in Botswana's Kalahari.
Camp Kalahari
31.4 km
Experience the magic of the Kalahari at Camp Kalahari: Adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion in Botswana's stunning desert landscape.
Gweta Lodge
53.0 km
Your comfortable base for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering wildlife encounters and cultural experiences in the heart of Botswana.
Planet Baobab
54.7 km
Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.
The Plot
81.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Botswana's wilderness at The Plot campground, offering tranquility and adventure near Letlhakane's top attractions.
MOLORI LODGE
84.0 km
Experience comfort and affordability at Molori Lodge in Letlhakane, your gateway to Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Kudiakam Pan
84.9 km
Discover Kudiakam Pan: Botswana's hidden gem offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the iconic Baines' Baobabs.
Khumaga Camp Sites
88.4 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
89.1 km
Luxury safari lodge on the Boteti River, offering exceptional wildlife viewing and a unique Kalahari experience in Botswana.
Unmissable attractions to see
Makadikadi Basin
19.2 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans: Botswana's ancient salt flats, a landscape of stark beauty, unique wildlife, and profound historical significance.
Nata Bird Sanctuary
19.2 km
Discover Botswana's avian paradise: A community-run sanctuary teeming with flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife on the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Baobab Chapmana
22.8 km
Explore Baobab Chapmana in Tutume, Botswana - a historical landmark featuring majestic baobab trees and rich local culture.
Makgadikgadi Pans
29.6 km
Explore the surreal beauty and vast landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana: wildlife migrations, ancient baobabs, and stark, stunning scenery.
Green’s Baobab
30.3 km
Discover Green's Baobab in Botswana: A historical landmark where explorers left their mark on an ancient African icon.
Makgadikgadi adventure camp
43.3 km
Your basecamp for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans and the iconic Kubu Island in Botswana.
Kubu Island
55.2 km
Explore Kubu Island: An ancient granite outcrop with baobabs in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, offering history, beauty, and stunning night skies.
Aardvark
55.4 km
Discover Aardvark in Tutume, Botswana: A blend of culture, nature, and adventure in a welcoming village setting.
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
60.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, renowned for its unique salt pans and diverse wildlife encounters in Botswana.
Orapa Game Park
61.2 km
Discover the enchanting Orapa Game Park, a wildlife haven in Botswana, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Sua Pan
71.2 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.
Nxai Pan National Park
84.8 km
Explore Botswana's Nxai Pan National Park: Witness massive migrations, ancient baobabs, and stunning Kalahari landscapes. A unique safari adventure awaits!
Central kalahari Game reserve
85.4 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.
Baines Baobabs
86.2 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Baines Baobabs, home to ancient trees and breathtaking landscapes in Botswana's wilderness.
Kumaga Entrance to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
87.8 km
Discover Botswana's wild heart: Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans through the Kumaga Entrance for unmatched landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Essential places to dine
Mophane Restaurant
72.3 km
Discover the flavors of Botswana at Mophane Restaurant in Orapa - where local meets global cuisine.
Executive Catering
72.5 km
Discover a culinary gem in Orapa at Executive Catering—where local flavors meet international tastes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wimpy
73.0 km
Experience mouthwatering meals at Wimpy in Orapa – your go-to fast food destination for delicious flavors and convenience.
Makgadikgadi Lodge
79.2 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Makgadikgadi Lodge, your gateway to Botswana's stunning salt pans and diverse wildlife.
Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments
83.7 km
Experience the comfort of home in Botswana's stunning landscapes at Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments.
Nxai Pan filling station
85.2 km
Discover Nxai Pan Filling Station: Your essential pit stop for adventure-filled journeys through Botswana's breathtaking landscapes.
Raffles
85.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Botswana at Raffles Restaurant in Letlhakane, where tradition meets deliciousness.
Hungry Lion Letlhakane
85.5 km
Experience delicious fried chicken at Hungry Lion Letlhakane - a top destination for fast food lovers in Botswana.
Nando's Letlhakane
86.3 km
Discover the taste of flame-grilled perfection at Nando's Letlhakane - where Portuguese flavors meet South African hospitality.
Hungry Lion Teemane Mall
86.3 km
Discover the irresistible taste of crispy fried chicken at Hungry Lion Teemane Mall in Letlhakane - where flavor meets convenience.
Debonairs Pizza
86.4 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Debonairs Pizza in Letlhakane - where quality meets convenience!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Saverite Gweta
53.2 km
Discover the essence of Botswana with local products at Saverite Gweta - your grocery haven in the heart of Gweta.
China Shop
53.3 km
Discover local flavors at China Shop in Gweta, a vibrant grocery destination offering a taste of Botswana's culinary delights.
Wings
53.8 km
Explore the vibrant local flavors and artisanal products at Wings in Gweta, a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
North Safety Stores
70.2 km
Explore North Safety Stores in Orapa for quality clothing and local fashion essentials tailored to meet your diverse needs.
SPAR Orapa
72.4 km
Discover fresh produce, local flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere at SPAR Orapa, your go-to supermarket in the heart of Botswana.
kutlos art studios
72.6 km
Discover the fusion of fashion and art at Kutlos Art Studios in Orapa, where unique clothing meets local craftsmanship in a vibrant atmosphere.
Ounskay tuck shop
82.4 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Ounskay Tuck Shop, your go-to store in Letlhakane for delicious snacks and essential goods.
Mmaosa General Dealer
83.8 km
Explore the heart of Letlhakane at Mmaosa General Dealer, your local grocery store for fresh produce and authentic Botswanan goods.
IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall
84.4 km
Explore the vibrant IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall in Letlhakane - where shopping and local culture come together!
Sefalana Shopper Letlhakane 1
85.2 km
Discover Sefalana Shopper Letlhakane, a vibrant outlet mall in Botswana offering a diverse shopping experience with local and international brands.
Choppies Letlhakane
85.3 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Choppies Letlhakane, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and Botswana essentials.
LLK TUCKSHOP
85.4 km
Experience the local charm at LLK Tuckshop, Letlhakane's premier destination for quality tack and authentic Botswana culture.
Dunns Letlhakane
85.6 km
Explore Dunns Letlhakane for trendy men's and women's clothing that brings local style and culture to your wardrobe.
SPAR Letlhakane
85.6 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and flavors at SPAR Letlhakane, the supermarket that has it all for tourists exploring Botswana.
Farmers Butchery
85.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Botswana at Farmers Butchery in Letlhakane – a supermarket that connects you with local culture and fresh produce.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bludot Liquor Store
52.8 km
Discover Bludot Liquor Store in Gweta, Botswana – a serene bar offering excellent service and a perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation.
Veracity
53.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Veracity Bar in Gweta, Botswana, a must-visit for all travelers.
Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill
53.4 km
Savor the vibrant taste of Botswana at Kwa Ga Xhubus Bar and Grill, the perfect dining destination for tourists in Gweta.
Makumutu Restaurant & Bar
70.1 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
70.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Makumutu Lodge & Campsite in Orapa, Botswana, your gateway to unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Golf Club House
72.2 km
Experience the charm of Orapa at the Golf Club House, where relaxation meets the thrill of golf in a scenic setting.
Duck & Scrum
73.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Orapa at Duck & Scrum, where lively music and refreshing drinks create unforgettable memories.
Buuhe Pub & Grill
82.6 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
84.1 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Pelko Pub Zowa in Letlhakane, a lively bar perfect for unwinding with drinks and entertainment.
Sports BAR
84.4 km
Experience the thrill of sports and vibrant nightlife at Letlhakane's Sports Bar, where every game is a celebration.
THE HANEA PUB
84.6 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Letlhakane at The Hanea Pub, where locals and travelers unite for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Nkosho Bar
85.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local culture at Nkosho Bar in Letlhakane, Botswana's hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
LM Bar
86.1 km
LM Bar in Letlhakane offers a vibrant nightlife experience with a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
Night rider Bar
86.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Letlhakane at Night Rider Bar - a local favorite for drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere.
GNG Bar And Butchery
86.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine at GNG Bar And Butchery in Letlhakane, a must-visit for every traveler.
