Makgadikgadi Pans National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Botswana

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a breathtakingly expansive salt pan area in Botswana, offers unique wildlife experiences and unparalleled landscapes.

National Park1,498,000

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,498,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a breathtakingly expansive salt pan area in Botswana, offers unique wildlife experiences and unparalleled landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is located in the northeast of Botswana and encompasses a portion of one of the largest salt flats in the world. The park offers a striking contrast between lush grasslands during the wet season and stark, shimmering salt flats in the dry months. It hosts a diverse range of wildlife including zebras, wildebeests, and the rare brown hyena, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The park's landscape also supports migratory bird species, making it a birdwatcher's haven, especially during the wet season when flamingos flock to the pans. Established in 1992, the park aims to protect the unique ecosystem and cultural history of the area, including ancient Baobab trees and fossil remains. Visitors can explore the vast open spaces on guided 4x4 safaris, enjoy night skies unobstructed by artificial light, and learn about the ecology and history of this otherworldly environment.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Kubu Island, a granite rock island filled with Baobab trees.✦ Spectacular zebra and wildebeest migrations in the wet season.✦ Panoramic views of the serene and extensive salt flats.✦ Flamingo congregations during the rainy season.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park fees are required, can be paid at the main entrance.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Gweta, Botswana
⌖ 32.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gweta, Botswana

Gweta invites adventure seekers to explore vast landscapes and vibrant culture. With quad biking over salt pans and wildlife walks with meerkats, it's a desert town with unique experiences.

Dry Season (May to October)
Explore Town