Nxai Pan National Park
Desert Wilderness
Nxai Pan National Park, located in northeastern Botswana, is a stunning seasonal desert landscape famous for its open grasslands, fossilised salt pans, and iconic baobab trees. Unlike the vast, dry expanses of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Nxai Pan bursts into life during the rainy season, attracting huge herds of wildlife and a spectacular predator-prey spectacle. Its combination of vast horizons, rich wildlife, and historical significance makes it an incredible year-round safari destination.
Nxai Pan is a remarkable safari destination, offering seasonal migrations, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether visiting for the thrilling predator action, ancient baobabs, or striking desert scenery, this hidden gem is a must for those seeking an off-the-beatrack experience.
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Wildlife
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Seasonal Migrations: From December to April, thousands of zebra and wildebeest migrate to Nxai Pan for fresh grazing, followed closely by lions and other predators.
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Big Cats: Home to resident prides of lions, along with cheetahs and leopards hunting on the open plains.
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Elephants & Giraffes: Large herds of elephants and some of the tallest giraffes in Botswana roam the park.
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Rare Sightings: Occasionally, brown hyenas, honey badgers, and bat-eared foxes can be spotted.
Accommodation
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Luxury Lodges & Tented Camps: Small, intimate camps with panoramic views over the open plains.
Getting there
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By Air: Charter flights from Maun or Kasane to airstrips near Nxai Pan.
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By Road: 4x4 required; the park is accessible from Maun or Nata, but deep sand can make driving challenging.
Weather & when to visit
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Wet Season (December–April): Peak wildlife season, with lush landscapes, zebra migrations, and great birding.
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Dry Season (May–October): Animals gather at waterholes, but game viewing is less dense than in the wet season.
