Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari
Stretching across seven countries, the Kalahari is one of Africa’s most prominent features. Unlike a classic sand desert, it is dotted with trees and crossed with rivers. It is home to Botswana’s aboriginal inhabitants, the San. The wonder of the Kalahari lies first in its magnificent solitude, vast skies and silence. Turn 360 degrees and you will see the horizon stretching away in all directions
The Kalahari sands cover an enormous area of Africa, sands are blown from as far away as Asia to settle across the African continent. The name 'Kalahari' is most commonly used in reference to the Kalahari Desert, found across much of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. Unlike the vast sand sea of the Sahara, the Kalahari is made up of a diverse mix of environments: ragged mountains, great rivers, open savannah, arid acacia bush and vast salt pans all come together under the blanket of 'The Kalahari'.
You may find it surprising to learn that the Kalahari is home to an extraordinary species diversity. Enormous bull elephants roam the expanses of the Kalahari, and the largest lions ever recorded, the Black-maned Kalahari Lions, are found here. Besides the large mammals, head to the Kalahari to interact with meerkats who den in the sands and hunt the scrub in search of scorpions.
The San people of the Kalahari are Africa's original inhabitants. Guests at camps in the Makgadikgadi area of Botswana have the opportunity to meet the San and learn more about their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle. An incredible privilege, and an experience that will live long in the memory.
Nxai Pan Camp
Nxai Pans, Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari, Botswana
Nxai Pan is situated on a fascinating fossil pan of the same name, overlooking beautiful grasslands so typical of this area. The game viewing is excellent, and the camp offers a true contrast to the Okavango Delta and other areas of Botswana.
Camp Kalahari
Makgadikgadi Pans, Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari, Botswana
Run by Uncharted Africa Safaris, the simple and rustic little Camp Kalahari is found in the incredible Makgadikgadi Pans, and offers guests the chance to explore the vast and ever-changing moonscape of the pans by vehicle, on horseback or on foot.
Jack’s Camp
Makgadikgadi Pans, Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari, Botswana
Jack's Camp was set up by the legendary African character Jack Bousfield, who was one of the great explorers and adventurers of the continent. There are just ten tents and this intimate camp is one of only two permanent camps in the Makgadikgadi.
Meno A Kwena
Boteti River, Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari, Botswana
Located on cliffs overlooking the Boteti River, Meno A Kwena is a unique camp which harks back to the authentic safari experience of the past. The traditional style is combined with modern facilities, as well as superb river views.
San Camp
Makgadikgadi Pans, Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari, Botswana
The newly refurbished and classically elegant San Camp comprises just six canvas tents set widely spaced apart in a most dramatic location, The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, thus creating an oasis of civilization in a fascinating environment.
Uncharted Africa Riding Safari
Makgadikgadi Pans, Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari, Botswana
Experience some of Africa's most diverse and unique environments on horseback. From the barren Magadikgadi salt pans to the sprawling woodlands of the Kalahari plains, Uncharted Africa Riding Safari is a truly unforgettable way to explore Botswana.