Question 1

What is the difference between Nxai Pan and Makgadikgadi Pans?

Accepted Answer

Although both parks are close to each other, they offer completely different experiences. Nxai Pan  is primarily about safari in a typical Kalahari landscape. You will find plenty of elephants, predators and open plains where you can drive for hours without encountering another vehicle. Makgadikgadi Pans  is instead about the vast salt pans and the immense sense of emptiness. Safari is less the main purpose; it is the landscape itself that makes this park special.

Question 2

If you had to choose between Nxai Pan and Makgadigadi Pans, what would you do?

Accepted Answer

If we really had to choose, we would choose  Nxai Pan National Park . The atmosphere strongly resembles Central Kalahari National Park, but with considerably more elephants. You still get the feeling that you are alone in an immense landscape. Makgadikgadi is certainly still worth visiting, but for a combination of safari and a Kalahari experience, we think Nxai Pan is the finest choice.

Question 3

Can you drive across the Makgadikgadi Pans?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only when conditions are safe. After rain, the surface of the salt pan may appear hard, while there is still a thick layer of mud underneath. If you drive onto it and get stuck, there is a good chance you will not be able to get out without assistance. Therefore, always check the current conditions and only follow routes known to be safe to drive.

Question 4

Are the baobabs of Makgadikgadi worth visiting?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The famous baobabs are among Botswana’s best-known trees. Beneath some of these enormous trees are abandoned campsites where you can spend the night in the middle of nature. Although we have seen many impressive baobabs on our travels, this place remains special because of the combination of the enormous trees and the vast salt flats.

Question 5

Where can we stay in Nxai Pan?

Accepted Answer

For self-drive travellers, we recommend  South Camp  in Nxai Pan. The campsite is basic, but its location is fantastic. In particular,  campsite 2  is one of the most beautiful spots, in our opinion. From the campsite, you can reach the pan within a few minutes’ drive. If you would prefer a more comfortable stay, then  Nxai Pan Camp  by Kwando Safaris, a wonderful lodge where you will be fully looked after.

Question 6

Which animals can you see in Nxai Pan?

Accepted Answer

Nxai Pan is known for its surprisingly diverse wildlife. You may see: elephants; lions; cheetahs; bat-eared foxes; jackals; oryx; springbok; giraffes; various birds of prey. Because the landscape is so open, animals are often visible from a considerable distance.

Question 7

Why visit Nxai Pan and Makgadikgadi with Beyond Routes?

Accepted Answer

We have visited both parks several times during different trips through Botswana. This means we can honestly explain which park best suits your travel style. We advise not only on the most beautiful routes, but also on driving on sand, the current conditions on the salt pans, suitable campsites and the best accommodation. As with all our trips, we will also remain available via WhatsApp while you are travelling for practical questions, tips or help whenever needed.

Question 8

When is the best time to visit Nxai Pan and Makgadikgadi Pans?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what you would like to experience. From approximately December through March  the landscape changes completely. The first rains turn the grasslands green and attract thousands of zebras, wildebeest and other grazers to the region. Predators naturally follow their prey, and this is also a fantastic period for bird lovers. The skies are spectacular and photography is at its best. Do bear in mind that some roads may be more difficult to navigate and that the Makgadikgadi salt pans are not always safe to drive across. From May through October  the landscape is dry and typically Kalahari. The vegetation is lower, animals are often easier to find and the roads are generally easy to navigate. For many self-drive travellers, this is the most comfortable time to visit both parks.

Nxai Pans and Makgadikgadi