Nxai Pan National Park
Experience Nxai Pan: Baobabs and Wildlife in Botswana
Overview
Nxai Pan National Park is a spectacular destination located in the northern part of Botswana, covering an area of over 2,500 square kilometers. This unique park is named after the Nxai Pan, a vast salt pan that transforms into a lush grassland during the rainy season, attracting a wide range of wildlife. The history of the park dates back to the 18th century, with evidence of early human habitation and the presence of the San people. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes, making it a prime location for game viewing. The park’s plant life is equally impressive, with a variety of acacia trees, baobabs, and unique grasses that have adapted to the harsh desert conditions. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and diverse wildlife, Nxai Pan National Park promises to be a breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty and wildlife of Africa
Things to Do
Nxai Pan National Park offers a wide range of activities that cater to every traveler’s interests and preferences. Here are some of the top things to do in the park:
Game Drives: Take a guided game drive and explore the park’s diverse landscapes while spotting some of the incredible wildlife that calls Nxai Pan National Park home. Witness herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, as well as predators such as lions and hyenas.Â
Bird Watching: The park is a bird lover’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds to spot. From the majestic Kori bustard to the colorful lilac-breasted roller, there is no shortage of unique and beautiful bird species to observe.
Cultural Tours: Learn about the San people’s rich history and culture with a guided cultural tour. Visit traditional villages and meet the friendly locals to get a glimpse of their way of life.
Photography: Nxai Pan National Park offers breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, making it a perfect location for photography enthusiasts. Capture the majestic elephants, lions, and giraffes, or the stunning sunsets over the salt pan.Â
Stargazing: The clear and unpolluted night skies above Nxai Pan National Park are a sight to behold. Stargaze and marvel at the beauty of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies under the African night sky.
Guided Walks: Take a leisurely guided nature walk and explore the unique flora and fauna of the area. Learn about the different plant species, such as the baobab and acacia trees, and observe smaller animals such as meerkats and mongooses up close.Â
Self-Drive Safaris: Explore the park at your own pace with a self-drive safari. Follow the designated trails and enjoy the freedom of discovering the park’s wildlife and landscapes on your own.
What to See
Nxai Pan: The park is named after the vast Nxai Pan, a salt pan that transforms into a lush grassland during the rainy season, attracting a wide range of wildlife. The pan is a must-see destination and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
Baines Baobabs: These iconic baobab trees were named after the explorer Thomas Baines, who painted them during his travels in the 19th century. The trees are a popular attraction and provide a stunning backdrop for photographs.
Kudiakam Pan: This permanent waterhole is a hub for wildlife, making it a prime location for game viewing. Watch as herds of elephants, zebras, and other animals come to drink and cool off in the water.
Nxai Caves: Explore the ancient Nxai Caves, which were used by early humans and provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area. The caves are also home to a wide variety of bat species.
Ancient Rock Art: The park is home to a number of ancient rock art sites, created by the San people thousands of years ago. These intricate paintings provide insight into the culture and beliefs of the earliest inhabitants of the area.
Salt Pans: Nxai Pan National Park is home to a variety of salt pans, which provide a unique and otherworldly landscape. Explore the vast expanses of these salt pans and marvel at their stunning beauty.
Wildlife: The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes,, making it a prime location for game viewing. Witness these majestic animals in their natural habitats and learn about their behaviors and lifestyles.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nxai Pan National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, when the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more concentrated around the water sources. The dry season offers the best game viewing opportunities, as the animals gather around the permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. It is also a great time for bird watching, as many species are in breeding plumage, and the migrant species are present.
The wet season, from November to April, is less popular but still offers a unique and beautiful experience. During this time, the park transforms into a lush green oasis, attracting large herds of grazers, which disperse throughout the park. The wet season is also the calving season for many species, so you may have the opportunity to witness the newborn animals. However, the roads may be difficult to navigate during the wet season, and some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.
Getting there
By Air:Â The easiest and most convenient way to get to Nxai Pan National Park is by air. The closest airport is Maun International Airport, which is serviced by daily flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other major cities in Southern Africa. From Maun, you can take a chartered flight to the Nxai Pan airstrip, which is located within the park. Several tour operators offer fly-in packages that include accommodation, meals, and activities.
By Road:Â If you prefer to drive, you can reach Nxai Pan National Park by road. The park is located approximately 150 km from Maun, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the condition of the roads. From Maun, you will need a 4×4 vehicle to navigate the sandy and sometimes muddy roads. Alternatively, you can join an organized tour that includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Nxai Pan CampÂ
Nxai Pan Camp offers comfortable mid-range accommodation near Nxai Pan National Park. The camp features tented rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving delicious meals, and a viewing deck overlooking the expansive salt pans. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and cultural experiences.
Baines’ Baobabs CampÂ
Baines’ Baobabs Camp offers mid-range accommodation in a stunning location near the famous baobab trees of Nxai Pan National Park. The camp features comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving local and international cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and stargazing.
Â
Luxury Accommodation:
Nxai Pan Luxury CampÂ
Nxai Pan Luxury Camp offers exclusive luxury accommodation near Nxai Pan National Park. The camp features luxurious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining tent serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and cultural experiences led by expert guides.
Kalahari Plains
Camp Kalahari Plains Camp offers luxurious accommodation in a remote and pristine location near Nxai Pan National Park. The camp features stylish tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining tent serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, bush walks, and stargazing.
Other Attractions in Botswana
Okavango Delta
Chobe National Park
Moremi Game Reserve
Makgadikgadi Pans
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
Tsodilo Hills
Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
Tuli Block
General Knowledge Base
General information about Nxai Pan National Park, Botswana.
Nxai Pan National Park covers an area of over 2,500 square kilometers.
Baines Baobabs are named after the explorer Thomas Baines, who painted them during his travels in the 19th century. These iconic baobab trees provide a stunning backdrop for photographs.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October, when the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more concentrated around the water sources.
The history of the park dates back to the 18th century, with evidence of early human habitation and the presence of the San people.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes.
Kudiakam Pan is a permanent waterhole and a hub for wildlife, making it an excellent location for game viewing.
Kudiakam Pan is a permanent waterhole and a hub for wildlife, making it an excellent location for game viewing.
The park is home to a variety of salt pans, which provide a unique and otherworldly landscape.
