Established
1992
Size
3,900 km²
Elevation
890–920 m
Ecosystem
Salt Pan, Grassland
Best Time
March – April (migration), June – October (dry)
Entry Fee
$30 per adult/day
About Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
The Makgadikgadi Pans are one of the world's largest salt flats — a vast, surreal landscape that transforms seasonally from a blinding white moonscape into a green paradise teeming with wildlife. During the wet season, the pans host one of Africa's last great zebra migrations as over 30,000 zebra and wildebeest stream onto the grasslands. The pan edges are home to habituated meerkat colonies that have become one of Botswana's most beloved wildlife experiences — the tiny creatures climb onto visitors' heads and shoulders as lookout posts.
What Makes It Special
World's largest salt flats
Habituated meerkat colonies
Zebra mega-migration
Darkest night skies in Africa
San Bushmen heritage
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
MarAprJunJulAug
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
MaySepOct
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
NovDecJanFeb
Where to Stay
Jack's Camp
Ultra-LuxuryLegendary 1940s-style desert camp offering meerkat interactions, quad biking, and San cultural experiences.
From $1,500/night / night
Camp Kalahari
LuxuryRelaxed tented camp with vintage safari charm and all the signature Makgadikgadi experiences.
From $800/night / night
Leroo La Tau
Mid-RangeClifftop lodge overlooking the Boteti River with game viewing from your deck.
From $400/night / night
Safari Packages
4-Day Makgadikgadi Meerkat & Desert Safari
Habituated meerkat encounters, quad biking on salt pans, and San Bushmen walks
6-Day Makgadikgadi & Okavango Combined
Desert salt pans meet lush Delta waterways — Botswana's ultimate contrast