Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive

Experience an unforgettable road trip through the stunning Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive! This 301km drive starts in the city of Maun in Botswana, and takes you through the small towns of Xhumaga and Makgadikgadi Pans National Park before returning to Maun. The best time of year to drive this route is during the dry season, from June to August, when the roads are in the best condition. Be aware that some parts of the route may only be accessible with a 4WD and that road closures can occur due to seasonal weather conditions. Despite this, the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive is suitable for all drivers and can be completed in two days. Make sure to take in the amazing scenery and wildlife along the way for an incredible experience that can be done on a moderate budget. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

Maun, Botswana, is a vibrant and bustling town that serves as the gateway to the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive. Its location, just a few kilometers away from the Okavango Delta, makes it a great starting point for an incredible journey. Visitors to Maun can explore the town's bustling markets, interesting museums, and traditional villages. There is also a nearby game reserve and national park, offering plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. If you plan to travel to Maun by air, the closest international airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (IATA: GBE). It is located about 20km away and there are car rentals available for those who wish to explore the area further. Even if you're just passing through Maun on your way to the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive, there is still plenty to do, see, and experience. The town serves as an ideal base for a range of activities, including quad biking, hot-air ballooning, and even a boat cruise along the river. For those wishing to explore some of Botswana's most spectacular scenery, the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive is the perfect road trip. Starting in Maun, you will be treated to views of the Okavango Delta, the rolling hills of the Kalahari, and the Makgadikgadi salt pans, home to some of Africa's most iconic wildlife. Maun is an ideal destination for those looking to begin an unforgettable journey. With its vibrant culture, unique wildlife, and proximity to the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive, it is a great place to start your adventure.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Maun to Xhumaga – a journey of 140km that will take you fewer than 2 hours. On the way, you’ll be able to take in the stunning scenery of Botswana's wilderness and enjoy some of the most interesting attractions along the way. A 4WD car is recommended for this route. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery! Visit the picturesque Thamalakane River, which is a popular spot for bird watching. The village of Nxamasere is a great place to explore and learn about the culture of the area. You can also visit the Xhumaga Game Reserve for some incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. For the more adventurous, there is the unique experience of the Mababe Depression, a vast salt pan with a variety of wildlife. Finally, the Xhumaga lookout point provides stunning views of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go explore this amazing route from Maun to Xhumaga!

Get ready for an amazing road trip from Xhumaga, Botswana to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park! This trip is a mere 1 km long and will take you fewer than 1 hour to complete. However, the route requires a 4WD, so make sure you have the right vehicle. Also, bear in mind there may be no gas stations along the way and some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so plan accordingly. As you drive, you can enjoy the unique landscape of the region and look out for some of the most interesting places to visit. These include the mystical Sua Pan which has been featured in several documentaries, the beautiful Boteti River and the awe-inspiring Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Makgadikgadi Pans National Park to Maun. This 160 km journey through the heart of Botswana will take you approximately 3 hours and requires a 4WD. Along the route, you will be able to admire the breathtaking views of the pans, savannas, and forests. Keep an eye out for the wildlife that may be seen along the way. Make sure to refuel at the start of this stage as there may be a lack of gas stations along the route. Some sections of the road may be narrow, so drive carefully. Make sure to take some memorable pictures of the area and don’t forget to explore the local attractions such as the Ntwetwe Pan, the Kuke salt pan, or the Sua Pan. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.

Maun, Botswana is the ideal ending point for the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive. The town has a number of attractions and activities that make it a great place to spend some time after a long drive. The Maun Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to explore. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The sanctuary also has a number of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching. You can also take a guided tour of the sanctuary, which will provide you with more information about the local wildlife. The Maun Museum is also worth visiting. The museum has a variety of artifacts and displays that provide insight into the culture and history of Botswana. You can also learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the traditional way of life of the people in the area. For those looking for a more adventurous activity, the Maun National Park is a great option. The park offers a variety of activities, from hiking and game viewing to whitewater rafting and crocodile safaris. The closest international airport to Maun is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (IATA: GBE). From here, it's a short drive to the town. At the end of the Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive, Maun is the perfect place to explore and relax. With its wildlife sanctuary, museum, and national park, there's something to do for everyone.

Before you set off

The Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive is an enthralling 301km journey that starts and concludes in Maun, Botswana. This Road Trip is an adventure of a lifetime where travelers can immerse themselves in the stunning vistas of vast salt pans and encounter a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Maun: This bustling town is not only the beginning point of the journey but also a central hub for Safaris and the gateway to the renowned Okavango Delta. Maun is often referred to as the tourism capital of Botswana and offers amenities and services to prepare for the Road Trip.
• Xhumaga: Also known as 'Makgadikgadi Village', this quaint settlement offers a glimpse into the day-to-day lives and culture of Botswana's people. It's an ideal spot to learn about the region's history and interact with local communities.
• Makgadikgadi Pans National Park: This park is home to one of the largest salt flats on the planet, spanning a staggering 12,000 square kilometers. In addition to its geological wonders, the park is a sanctuary for a variety of species including migratory flamingos, zebra herds, and the impressive wildebeest migration.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal period for embarking on this Road Trip is during the dry season, between June and August. During these months, the weather is more conducive to wildlife viewing, and the salt pans are often dry, making them easier to traverse.

Potential Risks:

• A 4WD vehicle is recommended, if not essential, for navigating some of the more challenging sections of the route.
• Botswana's climate can be unpredictable, and heavy rains may occasionally render certain parts of the journey impassable. Always check the weather forecast and Road conditions before setting out.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The entire Trip can be comfortably completed within two days, but many travelers choose to extend their stay to fully experience the vastness and serenity of the pans.
• This Road Trip is accessible to drivers of varying experience levels, with well-marked paths and the option to join guided tours.
• The Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive is known for offering adventurers a unique blend of excitement and affordability, making it a popular choice among those seeking both thrill and value.

A good choice for:

The Makgadikgadi Pans Safari Drive is an extraordinary opportunity to delve into the heart of Botswana's wilderness. From the enigmatic beauty of the salt flats to the thrilling encounters with indigenous wildlife, this Road Trip promises a captivating and enriching experience that will leave lasting impressions. Don't miss out on the chance to explore this remarkable facet of Botswana's natural majesty.