1-Day Makgadikgadi Pans Safari with Meerkats and Flamingos

1 Day Round trip from Makgadikgadi Pans Challenging pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the seemingly endless salt pans and moon-like landscapes of Makgadikgadi
02 Spot migrating birds, including photogenic lesser flamingos, when seasonal waters fill the pans
03 Experience game drives, guided walking safaris, and visits to meerkat colonies
04 Witness large herds of herbivores on lush grasslands after the summer rains
05 Enjoy gorgeous sunrises and sunsets in a sustainable luxury safari setting

The Makgadikgadi Pans are unlike anywhere else in Botswana, offering a striking contrast to time spent in the Okavango Delta or Chobe. This unique destination combines seemingly endless salt pans, moon-like landscapes, and remarkable wildlife experiences, from game drives and guided walking safaris to visits with meerkat colonies. In the summer rains, the pans transform into lush grasslands that attract large herds of herbivores, while seasonal waters draw huge numbers of migrating birds, including photogenic lesser flamingos. With sustainable luxury, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, and exceptional guiding, the Makgadikgadi Pans deliver a truly memorable safari experience.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Shared

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Cities Maun, Makgadikgadi Pan

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Makgadikgadi Pans Wildlife and Salt Pan Experience

You can experience the Makgadikgadi Pans through activities ranging from game drives to guided walking safaris. Unique experiences include sleeping out on the pans under the stars and visiting meerkat colonies. When the summer rains transform the pans into lush grasslands, they attract large herds of herbivores. When the pans temporarily fill with water, they also attract huge numbers of migrating birds, with lesser flamingos being the most obvious and photogenic examples.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Makgadikgadi Pans 2 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All drinks
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What's Not Included

Accommodation
Alcoholic beverages
Hot air balloons
Internal flights
International flights
Laundry
Premium alcoholic beverages
Spa treatments
Tips and gratuities

What to bring

Pack neutral, earth-toned clothing such as khaki, green, and beige.
Bring warm jackets or fleeces for early mornings and evenings.
Prepare for hot afternoons.
Bring SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Bring a sun hat.
Bring sturdy closed-toe shoes.
Bring a small pair of binoculars.

Know before you go

Campsite setup: You will sleep in comfortable, walk-in canvas tents. Most setups feature camp beds with real linens, a small bucket shower filled by staff, and a private bush toilet.
Unfenced wilderness: Because campsites lack fences, wild animals frequently walk right through camp. You must zip your tent at all times and stay inside after dark.
Digital detox: Mobile camps are completely off-grid. Prepare to be disconnected, with no WiFi or cell service.
Early starts: Days begin early with pre-sunrise wake-up calls, around 5:30 AM, to catch predators at their most active.
Game drives: You will spend hours bouncing along uneven tracks in open 4x4 safari vehicles.
Camp life: You return to camp for hot meals prepared by the support crew, swapping stories around the campfire.

Logistics