Background

South Camp: Your Gateway to Nxai Pan's Wildlife Spectacle

Experience Nxai Pan's wildlife spectacle from the comfort of South Camp, your gateway to Botswana's natural wonders.

4.5

South Camp in Nxai Pan National Park offers a quintessential Botswana camping experience. Situated near the park's entrance, it provides access to the mesmerizing Nxai Pan, known for its dramatic seasonal transformations and abundant wildlife.

A brief summary to South camp Nxai Pan

Local tips

  • Book your campsite in advance, especially during peak season (December to April).
  • A 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the sandy tracks within the park.
  • Bring sufficient water and supplies, as availability within the park is limited.
  • Be aware of wildlife and take necessary precautions, as the campground is unfenced.
  • Carry cash in Botswana Pula (BWP) for park fees and small purchases.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach South Camp, start from the A3 highway between Maun and Nata. Approximately 140 km east of Maun or 65 km west of Gweta, look for the turnoff to Nxai Pan National Park. From the A3, it's about 37 km on a sandy track to the first entrance gate. After registering, continue another 35 km to the second gate. South Camp is located 1.5 km from the second gate. A 4x4 vehicle is essential due to the sandy conditions. Park entrance fees are P190 per adult per day for foreign nationals, plus P75 per vehicle. Ensure you have sufficient fuel, as the nearest fuel station is in Gweta.

Unlock the Best of South camp Nxai Pan

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about South camp Nxai Pan

Nestled on the southern edge of the expansive Nxai Pan, South Camp serves as a convenient and well-equipped base for exploring the wonders of Nxai Pan National Park. This campsite, located not far from the second entrance gate, offers a shaded respite amidst the arid landscape. Nxai Pan itself is an ancient lake bed, once part of the vast Makgadikgadi system, and now a haven for wildlife, especially during the rainy season. South Camp features 10 campsites, each accommodating a maximum of 6 people and 3 vehicles. Shared ablution facilities provide hot showers and flush toilets, a welcome luxury in the bush. A small convenience store at the reception offers limited supplies, beverages, and toiletries. Keep in mind that the campground is unfenced, so be alert and aware of your surroundings. During the rainy season (December to April), Nxai Pan transforms into a lush grassland, attracting massive herds of zebra, wildebeest, and springbok. This is the best time to witness the great zebra migration and the birth of young animals, which in turn attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. In the dry season, the waterholes become focal points, offering excellent game viewing opportunities as animals congregate to quench their thirst. South Camp provides easy access to the park's main attractions, including the iconic waterhole near the entrance, where elephants, giraffes, and numerous bird species can be observed. A visit to the famous Baines' Baobabs, a cluster of ancient trees painted by Thomas Baines in 1862, is also a must. Whether you're a seasoned self-driver or prefer guided game drives, South Camp offers an immersive and unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Botswana's wilderness.

Popular Experiences near South camp Nxai Pan

Popular Hotels near South camp Nxai Pan

Select Currency