Botswana · Safari Guide

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park Safari Tours

Introduction

About Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Spanning almost 4,000 square kilometres in the heart of Botswana’s arid savannah, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is one of Africa’s lesser-known safari destinations. It encompasses one of the world’s largest salt flats and lush grasslands that attract thousands of animals and a rich birdlife following the rains. 

Near the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari Desert, the Makgadikgadi Pans are all that remains of an ancient lake, which transforms into a shimmering white expanse following the rains. Waterbucks and hippos can be seen wallowing in its perennial pools while predatory cats follow in hot pursuit of migratory wildebeest and one of Africa’s largest zebra populations. Flocks of flamingos gather in their thousands around the edge of Kubu Island, which is fringed by grand baobab trees. 

 Discover the surreal and otherworldly landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park during a customised Botswana safari tour, personally crafted by our Africa travel experts

Curated Safaris

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park Safaris & Tours

Explore the Enchantment of Jacks Camp in Botswana's Kalahari Desert - A 4-Day Journey
3 nights + 4 Days Safari

Explore the Enchantment of Jacks Camp in Botswana's Kalahari Desert - A 4-Day Journey

From $7,500 per person sharing

Destinations visited: Nxai Pan National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

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San Camp: Discover Kalaharis Enchantment - 4-Day Journey
3 nights + 4 Days Safari

San Camp: Discover Kalaharis Enchantment - 4-Day Journey

From $8,000 per person sharing

Destinations visited: Nxai Pan National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

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Unforgettable Family Adventure: Exploring Botswanas Okavango Delta & Kalahari
7 nights + 8 Days Safari

Unforgettable Family Adventure: Exploring Botswanas Okavango Delta & Kalahari

From $8,800 per person sharing

Destinations visited: Okavango Delta, Nxai Pan National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

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Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Jack's Camp

Jack's Camp

Rates on request

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Leroo La Tau

Leroo La Tau

Rates on request

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San Camp

San Camp

Rates on request

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Seasons & Timing

Best Time to Visit Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park rewards travellers year-round; the months our safari designers most often recommend are highlighted below. Share your dates and we'll fine-tune the timing for wildlife, weather and value.

Jan January Peak
Feb February Peak
Mar March Peak
Apr April Green
May May Green
Jun June Green
Jul July Good
Aug August Good
Sep September Good
Oct October Green
Nov November Green
Dec December Green
Peak — prime wildlife & weather Good — great value, fewer crowds Green season — lush & quiet, lowest rates
Simple & personal

How it works

  1. 1
    Describe your dream trip

    Where, when and how you love to travel — as much or as little as you know.

  2. 2
    We craft it around you

    A specialist who knows these places firsthand curates your itinerary.

  3. 3
    Confirm & start packing

    Refine it together until every day feels right — then we handle the rest.