Makgadikgadi Pans Botswana ☎ +27 21 424 1037 Last Updated: 10/30/2024 | |
The Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana are among the largest salt flats in the world, sprawling across approximately 12,000 square kilometers. They are remnants of an ancient lake, Lake Makgadikgadi, which once covered a significant part of southern Africa. When the lake dried up thousands of years ago, it left behind a vast, shimmering expanse of salty terrain punctuated by sandy islands, ancient baobabs, and clusters of palm trees. | |
The region is part of the larger Kalahari Basin and experiences seasonal changes that create two distinct environments: a dry season where the pans resemble an arid desert, and a wet season, typically from November to March, when rains transform the landscape into temporary wetlands. During the wet season, the pans attract large flocks of flamingos and pelicans, as well as herds of zebras and wildebeests that migrate to feed on fresh vegetation, creating one of Africa’s lesser-known but impressive wildlife spectacles. One of the iconic sites here is Kubu Island, a rocky outcrop with ancient baobabs and significant spiritual and historical significance to the local people. The stark, lunar-like landscapes, the isolation, and the diverse wildlife make the Makgadikgadi Pans an extraordinary destination for those interested in nature, photography, and the unique beauty of Botswana’s wild places. |
Nxia Pan National Park Place » Outdoors Nxai Pan National Park is a stunning area in northeastern Botswana, adjacent to the Makgadikgadi Pans. It covers around 2,580 square kilometers and is named after the Nxai Pan, one of the fossilized salt pans in the region that dates back thousands of years. Unlike the barren salt flats of Makgadikgadi, Nxai Pan is covered with grasslands, dotted with small acacia trees, and surrounded by sandy savanna. 19 views 💖 1Botswana | |
Botswana Place » City Botswana is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. It is bordered by South Africa to the south and southeast, Namibia to the west and north, Zimbabwe to the northeast, and Zambia to the north. The capital and largest city is Gaborone. 63 views 💖 1Botswana |