Makgadikgadi Pans Wildlife Reserve
Makgadikgadi, is an area steeped in ancient tales and breathtaking vistas. Once a part of a colossal African super lake, Makgadikgadi now reveals its splendour through vast salt pans, the largest spanning an astonishing 4,900 square kilometres. These shimmering expanses, seasonally veiled in water and grass, serve as a magnetic draw for a plethora of wildlife, from majestic wildebeest and elegant zebras to the graceful presence of flamingos. Amidst this surreal salt desert, ancient baobab trees stand sentinel, bearing witness to the passage of time and the ebb and flow of life in this enchanting landscape.
highlights
Baines’ Baobabs
Nestled just 30 km from the entrance to Nxai Pan National Park, Baines’ Baobabs beckon travellers with their ancient allure. Named after the intrepid explorer Thomas Baines, these seven colossal baobab trees stand as silent witnesses to centuries past. Baines himself immortalised this scene over a hundred years ago, capturing the majestic vista overlooking Kudiakam Pan. His journey through this rugged terrain alongside fellow explorer James Chapman is a tale of perseverance amidst adversity, where they traversed deserts and faced the challenges of the unknown. Yet, amidst these trials, Baines found solace in Africa’s breathtaking beauty, a sentiment echoed in his enduring paintings and writings. Today, visitors can stand in awe beneath the shade of these magnificent giants, stepping into a world where history and nature intertwine, offering a glimpse into Southern Africa’s storied past.
Wildlife
Embark on a journey through the ever-changing landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, where wildlife sightings come alive with the rhythm of the seasons. As the lush green season blankets the terrain, witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of migrating herds, including Burchell’s zebra and blue wildebeest, painting the horizon with their majestic presence. Amongst the vibrant riverine forests, elusive leopards prowl, while the echoes of lion hunts reverberate through the air, offering glimpses of nature’s raw power in action. Keep your senses sharp, for spotted and brown hyenas add to the drama of the hunt, weaving tales of survival and instinct amidst this dynamic wilderness.
Bushman Cultural Walks
Embark on an enlightening cultural walk with the San Bushman in the Makgadikgadi. Guided by the San people, renowned for their profound knowledge of the land, guests will learn traditional survival skills, discover edible and medicinal plants, and witness age-old techniques for making fire and hunting. This immersive experience offers insight into the San’s rich cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, and unique click language, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Makgadikgadi’s vast, salt pans. Join us for a deeply moving journey into the heart of one of the world’s most ancient cultures.
Best time to visit
Makgadikgadi Pans National Park can be visited throughout the year. The actual pans attract wildlife in the rainy summer months, from December to May. However, most of the park and lodges are concentrated around the Boteti River area, which is best visited for wildlife viewing in the Dry season from June to December
