Nestled in the heart of Botswana, Makgadikgadi National Park is one of Africa’s most unique wilderness areas. Covering approximately 4,900 square kilometers, the park is part of the greater Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the world’s largest salt flats. A stark yet mesmerizing landscape, it transforms dramatically with the seasons—from an arid, white salt pan in the dry months to a lush, wildlife-rich wetland after the rains.
Renowned for its second-largest zebra migration in Africa, spectacular birdlife, and remote, untouched scenery, Makgadikgadi offers an exceptional off-the-beaten-path experience for 4×4 enthusiasts and overlanders looking to explore Botswana’s wild side.
A Brief History
Makgadikgadi National Park’s origins are deeply rooted in geological transformations dating back thousands of years. The area was once part of an ancient super lake, Lake Makgadikgadi, which dried up over time, leaving behind the vast salt pans.
The park was officially established in 1992, separating it from the surrounding Nxai Pan National Park and other conservation areas. Historically, the Makgadikgadi Pans have been home to San Bushmen, who have adapted to its harsh conditions for millennia, relying on traditional knowledge to survive in this extreme environment.
Things to Do in Makgadikgadi National Park
Despite its remote nature, Makgadikgadi offers a wide variety of activities for adventurous travelers:
- Game Drives: The park is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and large herds of elephants, particularly near the Boteti River.
- Zebra Migration Viewing: Every year, thousands of zebras and wildebeests migrate between the Boteti River and the salt pans, making for a spectacular wildlife event.
- Quad Biking on the Pans: In the dry season, travelers can embark on thrilling quad biking adventures across the vast salt flats.
- Bush Walks with San Bushmen: A cultural experience offering insight into the survival skills and traditions of Botswana’s indigenous people.
- Birdwatching: Seasonal rainfalls attract flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds, making it a paradise for bird lovers.
- Camping Under the Stars: With minimal light pollution, the park is one of the best places to experience the Milky Way in all its glory.
The Boteti River: A Lifeline that Dried for Nearly 20 Years
One of the most fascinating aspects of Makgadikgadi National Park is the Boteti River, which serves as a critical water source for wildlife in the area. Historically, the river was fed by the Okavango Delta, but due to climate variations, it dried up in the early 1980s and remained dry for almost two decades.
However, in 2009, an extraordinary event occurred—the river began to flow again! This resurgence transformed the ecosystem, attracting large numbers of wildlife back to the region and making the Boteti a prime game-viewing destination once more. Today, travelers visiting Makgadikgadi National Park can see elephants, zebras, and hippos gathering at its banks, particularly in the dry months.
The Kumaga Ferry Crossing
For visitors entering the park from the western side, the Kumaga Ferry is a unique part of the experience. This small but essential ferry transports vehicles across the Boteti River, providing a rustic and adventurous entry into the park. While there is a bridge further upstream, the ferry remains a popular option for travelers seeking a more traditional African safari experience.
Accommodation Options
Makgadikgadi National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Here’s a breakdown of the top choices:
1. Jack’s Camp (Luxury)
- Overview: An exclusive and historic camp offering a blend of opulent safari tents and classic 1940s-style décor. Guests enjoy guided walks with San Bushmen, quad biking, and stunning sunset views over the salt pans.
- Cost: From R36,700 per person per night (all-inclusive).
- Contact: www.naturalselection.travel
2. Camp Kalahari (Mid-Range)
- Overview: A stylish yet affordable camp offering authentic safari experiences with guided game drives, zebra migration sightings, and cultural interactions.
- Cost: From R13,800 per person per night.
- Contact: www.naturalselection.travel
3. Leroo La Tau (Luxury)
- Overview: Overlooking the Boteti River, this lodge provides an incredible setting to watch wildlife congregate around the riverbanks.
- Cost: From R16,200 per person per night.
- Contact: www.desertdelta.com
4. Kumaga Campsite (Budget)
- Overview: Located inside the park, this campsite is perfect for self-drive overlanders who want a more rugged experience. It offers basic facilities but provides an immersive wilderness setting.
- Cost: From R255 per person per night for SADC members
- Contact: Bookings through the SKL Group of Camps https://sklcamps.com/campsites/kumaga/
5. Kubu Island (Budget)
- Overview: Kubu Island is situated in the southwestern part of Sua Pan, one of the larger pans within the Makgadikgadi Pans area. Kubu Island is known for its giant baobab trees, rounded pebbles, prehistoric artifacts, and a semi-circular stone wall.
- Cost: From R130 per person per night for SADC members
- Contact: Bookings through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) or email – kubu.island@btcmail.co.bw
6. Planet Baobab (Budget/Mid-Range)
- Overview: Situated outside the park, this quirky and vibrant lodge offers a mix of thatched chalets and camping facilities, with access to guided tours and excursions.
- Cost: From R1,500 per night for a chalet, R280 per night for camping.
- Contact: www.planetbaobab.co.bw
Final Thoughts
Makgadikgadi National Park is a true hidden gem in Botswana, offering a mix of adventure, wildlife, and raw natural beauty. Whether you’re an overlander looking for a challenging 4×4 experience, a nature enthusiast chasing Africa’s second-largest zebra migration, or simply seeking the tranquility of an ancient salt pan under a starlit sky, this park has something to offer.
For those planning a visit, the combination of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable wildlife encounters make Makgadikgadi one of Botswana’s must-see destinations.
Here are 10 of the most frequently asked questions about Makgadikgadi National Park:
1️⃣ Where is Makgadikgadi National Park located?
Makgadikgadi National Park is in Botswana, situated in the northeastern part of the country. It forms part of the Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world.
2️⃣ What is the best time to visit Makgadikgadi National Park?
- Dry season (May – October): Best for game viewing, as animals gather around water sources.
- Wet season (November – April): Ideal for birdwatching and witnessing the zebra and wildebeest migration.
3️⃣ What wildlife can be seen in Makgadikgadi National Park?
- Common wildlife: Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards, giraffes, and elephants.
- Seasonal: Large herds of zebras and wildebeests during the annual migration.
- Birdlife: Flamingos (in the wet season), ostriches, and numerous raptors.
4️⃣ Can you self-drive in Makgadikgadi National Park?
Yes, but a 4×4 vehicle is essential, as the terrain can be sandy and challenging, especially in the rainy season.
5️⃣ What are the accommodation options in and around the park?
- Lodges & Camps: Jack’s Camp, Leroo La Tau, and Camp Kalahari.
- Public Campsites: Kumaga Camp (inside the park).
- Nearby Accommodations: Planet Baobab and Gweta Lodge (outside the park).
6️⃣ What activities are available in Makgadikgadi National Park?
- Game drives (self-drive or guided)
- Walking safaris with San Bushmen
- Quad biking (dry season)
- Zebra migration viewing (wet season)
- Birdwatching, especially flamingos in the Nata Bird Sanctuary
7️⃣ Is there a zebra migration in Makgadikgadi?
Yes! The Makgadikgadi zebra migration is Africa’s second-largest land migration, where thousands of zebras move between the Boteti River and the salt pans, depending on the season.
8️⃣ Are there any predators in the park?
Yes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas roam the park, especially near the Boteti River area.
9️⃣ Do I need a permit to enter Makgadikgadi National Park?
Yes, you need a park entry permit, which can be obtained at the park gates or from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) offices in Botswana.
🔟 Is Makgadikgadi National Park part of the Okavango Delta?
No, but it is part of the greater Kalahari ecosystem. However, it is not connected to the Okavango Delta directly.
