Things to do in Makgadikgadi Pans
Discover the best attractions and experiences Makgadikgadi Pans has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient landscapes and time-worn landmarks that define the Makgadikgadi's desert heritage.
Kubu Island
A dramatic granite island in the Makgadikgadi Pan known for its ancient baobabs and surreal, otherworldly scenery.
Makgadikgadi Pan
One of the world's largest salt pans, offering vast horizons and a sense of timeless desert solitude.
Baines' Baobabs
Iconic ancient baobab trees along the waterways, popular for sunrise photography.
Museums
Local culture is best understood through small collections and guides at lodges and community centers.
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We're currently working on adding museums recommendations for Makgadikgadi Pans. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites in the remote pans are sparse but can be explored through local communities.
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We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Makgadikgadi Pans. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Wilderness areas that showcase the makings of desert life and wildlife.
Nxai Pan National Park
Seasonal waterholes attract zebra, wildebeest and predators; a classic desert safari experience.
Makgadikgadi Pan National Park
Encompassing vast salt pans and surrounding savannahs, a dramatic stage for desert wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Rural settlements in the Makgadikgadi region around the pans.
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We're currently working on adding neighborhoods recommendations for Makgadikgadi Pans. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to experience the vast salt pans without a guide.
Sunrise over Makgadikgadi Pan
Watch the flat horizon glow as the sun rises over the white salt flats.
Stargazing on the pans
Clear desert skies reveal a spectacular Milky Way on cloudless nights.
Birdwatching along Boteti River
Seasonal wetlands draw a variety of water birds and flamingos.
Gastronomy
Dishes and bush cuisine reflect Botswana’s desert landscapes.
Bush dinner under the stars
Outdoor charcoal-cooked meals beneath the desert night sky.
Botswana Braai evenings
Open-fire grills featuring game meats and hearty sides.
Seswaa and Morogo tasting
A simple Botswana staple brought to the campfire table.
Nightlife
Evenings in the camps offer intimate, culturally-rich experiences.
San cultural night performances
Traditional songs, dance and storytelling by local guides.
Campfire drum circles
Dancing and drumming around a warm evening fire.
Entertainment
Live performances and storytelling complement the safari.
Traditional Botswana music shows
Live performances by camp artists featuring local rhythms.
Storytelling evenings
Narratives about desert legends and local history around the campfire.
Sports
Active ways to explore the pans and surrounding savannah.
Quad biking on Makgadikgadi Pan
Ride across the flat salt flats for an exhilarating desert view.
Camel riding across the pans
Slow-paced explorations with sweeping desert horizons.
4x4 desert safaris
Rugged vehicle safaris across the pans and edge dunes.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and unique experiences beyond the main routes.
Overland camping on the pans
Spend a night under a billion stars on the salt flats.
Kubu Island overnight excursion
Reach the granite island by 4x4 and camp among ancient baobabs.