4-Day Makgadikgadi Pans Safari with Private Sleep-Out and Kubu Island

4 Days Round trip from Maun Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Track zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, elephant, and predators on game drives in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
02 Fly by private helicopter over the salt pans to a fully set-up private sleep-out camp
03 Savor a fireside dinner and stargaze from a comfortable star bed in the heart of the pans.
04 Explore Kubu Island’s unique geology and ancient artifacts, with possible flamingo viewing if water levels allow

Discover Botswana's otherworldly Makgadikgadi Pans on an exclusive 4-day safari that combines classic game viewing with breathtaking salt-pan scenery. Stay at Leroo La Tau on the Boteti River, where wildlife gathers at the water's edge, and head out on guided drives to track elephants, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and predators at first light. The adventure peaks with a private helicopter flight into the vast pans for a remote sleep-out under the stars, followed by an excursion to remarkable Kubu Island to explore its geology and ancient artifacts. Round off your journey with private sundowners by the waterhole and a visit to the Khumaga community for a glimpse of rural life.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Maun, Makgadikgadi Pan

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival at Leroo La Tau and Boteti River Safari

Arrive at our private Leroo La Tau airstrip, where you will be welcomed by your specialist guide, renowned for their expertise and hospitality.
Check into your room at your leisure and witness the majestic wildlife of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, often seen at the waterhole in front of the lodge.
Later, head out on an afternoon game drive to explore the Boteti River valley and witness the spectacular congregation of zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and elephants.
Conclude the day with sundowners.
Enjoy a private dinner while discussing the adventures awaiting you with your private guide.

Day 02

Morning Safari and Private Salt Pans Sleep-Out

Begin the day with an early morning game drive, tracing the movements of lions and experiencing the tranquil African dawn.
Return to the lodge for lunch.
Prepare for your journey to the salt pans by packing a small overnight bag.
Your private helicopter will be ready for an unforgettable flight over the expansive pans, culminating at a private sleep-out camp set up by our incredible camp staff.
Enjoy chilled Gin & Tonics and immerse yourself in the solitude of this remote landscape.
Savor an exceptional dinner cooked on the fire by our bush-chef.
Spend the night stargazing from your comfortable star bed, enveloped by the vastness of the universe.

Day 03

Kubu Island Excursion and Return to Leroo La Tau

Wake up to sunrise tea or coffee and explore the moon-like landscape before a light breakfast.
The helicopter will be ready and waiting to take you on an excursion deeper into the pans, landing at Kubu Island to explore its fascinating geology and ancient artifacts.
Enjoy a light picnic on the island.
You may possibly visit the flamingo migration, water levels in the pan areas permitting.
Return to Leroo La Tau with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
Relax and reflect on the day's adventures with private sundowners by the waterhole.

Day 04

Final Game Drive and Khumaga Community Visit

Conclude your journey with a morning game drive.
This is followed by a visit to the Khumaga community, offering insights into local rural life.
Freshen up at the lodge before departing for your next Desert & Delta Safaris adventure.
Freshen up at the lodge before your flight transfer to the next location on your Desert & Delta Safaris adventure.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Maun 2 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

A specialist private guided host for the full duration of your stay
Private activities throughout
A private helicopter transfer to and from the salt pans sleep-out with an adventure add-on to Kubu Island
A private sleep-out on the salt pans

What's Not Included

Helicopter Transfers: Standard packages use 4x4 vehicles to reach the salt pans sleep-out location. Upgrading to a scenic helicopter flight over the pans incurs an extra per-person charge
Nxai Pan Entry Upgrades: Private, unscheduled day trips to Nxai Pan National Park or specialized private vehicle hires must be requested and paid for separately
Premium Beverages: While local beers, house wines, and soft drinks are complimentary, imported premium spirits, cellared wines, and champagne are excluded
Curio Shop Purchases: Any safari gear, local crafts, or souvenirs bought at the lodge's boutique shop
Staff Gratuities: Tips for your private field guide, spotter, and the general lodge hospitality staff are at your discretion

What to bring

If you are staying 3+ nights and heading onto the open salt flats, night temperatures can drop to 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) so pack the following
Thermal base layers: One set of merino wool or synthetic thermal tops and bottoms for sleeping
Winter headwear and gloves: A thick fleece beanie and insulated gloves for desert winds
Windproof outer shell: A heavy jacket or down parka for the campfire and early morning drive
Face shield or buff: A lightweight neck gaiter to cover your mouth and nose from fine dust
Dust-friendly colors: 3-4 sets of shirts and trousers in khaki, tan, beige, or olive green, avoid white and dark blue or black
Layered clothing: Lightweight T-shirts for hot afternoons (over 30°C / 86°F) with long-sleeve shirts for sun and bug protection
Sturdy trail footwear: Closed-toe walking shoes or light trainers, hiking boots only if you want ankle support on uneven salt crusts
Sun hardware: A wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap and polarized sunglasses

Know before you go

Note: itineraries are based on the ultimate exclusivity.
The trips can be amended according to budget or specialist requests.
Valid: 15 June - 31 October (when the salt pans are accessible for sleep-outs).
Fantastic for private families or small groups of up to 6 travellers (larger groups on special request).
Meerkat sightings are not guaranteed.
Subject to availability of the sleep-out.
For more information on the salt-pans sleep-out and what to bring or prepare, please see our Salt Pans Sleep-Out Factsheet.
Additional requests can be added accordingly.