5-Days Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour

5-Days Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour

The 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour will take you through unique areas filled with wildlife and rich cultures. Over these five days, you will visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) in Botswana is popular for its vast, remote desert landscapes, abundant wildlife, and excellent opportunities for viewing predators like lions and cheetahs, especially during the summer green season from December to April. It's also known for incredible stargazing, a large number of migratory plains animals, and the opportunity to learn about the San (Bushmen) people who inhabit the area. The reserve is famous for its Kalahari black-maned lions, cheetahs, and large herds of gemsbok and springbok that migrate during the summer. Other animals include leopards, hyenas, honey badgers, and various bird species.

You will also explore the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana are largely uninhabited by humans, described as a "vast, lifeless land," making them a destination for wildlife viewing, particularly meerkats and migratory animals like zebras and wildebeest during the wet season. The pans are the largest salt pans on Earth, offering surreal, lunar-like landscapes of white sand and salt. Covering an enormous area comparable to Portugal, the pans are characterized by their vast, featureless terrain devoid of human presence.

Throughout the 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour, you will observe various animal species and learn about local traditions. You will see elephants, lions, and different antelope while participating in cultural activities. Each day will be filled with activities, including game drives and interactions with local communities. Prepare for a time that connects you with nature and creates lasting memories as you explore these remarkable places in Botswana.

 


Tour Highlights

  • Game drives in Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
  • Spotting black-maned lions and cheetahs.
  • Cultural interactions with local San communities.
  • Scenic views of Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.
  • Unique wildlife sightings: meerkats and zebras.
  • Stargazing in the clear desert night.
  • Exploring ancient Kubu Island's baobab trees.
  • Quad biking across the expansive salt pans.

Detailed Itinerary Day By Day

Day 1: Arrival in Maun and Transfer to Central Kalahari

Your 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour begins in Maun, the gateway to Botswana’s wild areas. After arriving, you will be welcomed and transferred to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Once there, you will settle into your accommodation and get ready for your first game drive. The reserve is known for its wildlife, including Kalahari lions and springboks. As the sun sets, you will witness the changing colours of the desert, creating a beautiful setting for your first night in this unique area.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Exploring Central Kalahari

On the second day of your 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour, you will take part in morning and afternoon game drives. The Central Kalahari is home to various wildlife, such as elephants, cheetahs, and a wide range of bird species. Your guide will share information about the plants and animals, enhancing your understanding of the reserve. During the day’s heat, you may visit a local San community, learning about their traditions and ways of life. In the evening, you will return to camp and share stories around the fire, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Travel to Makgadikgadi Pans

Day three of your 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour takes you to the Makgadikgadi Pans. After breakfast, you will travel through Botswana’s varied terrain, reaching the salt pans by midday. This area is different from the Kalahari, featuring unique wildlife like meerkats and zebras. In the afternoon, you can take a quad biking tour across the pans, giving you a chance to see the area from a different perspective. As the day draws to a close, enjoy the sunset over the vast expanse, capturing memorable moments.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans

On the fourth day of your 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour, you will explore the Makgadikgadi Pans further. Early morning game drives may reveal wildlife such as wildebeest and various bird species drawn to the seasonal rains. You will also visit Kubu Island, known for its ancient baobab trees. In the afternoon, relax at your lodge or participate in a guided nature walk, learning about the local plants. As evening approaches, you will gather for a traditional dinner, reflecting on the day’s activities.


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Departure from Maun

The final day of your 5-Day Central Kalahari & Makgadikgadi Botswana Safari Tour will be a mix of emotions. After breakfast, you will have some time to take in the surroundings for the last time. You may choose to go on one last game drive or enjoy some quiet moments. Late in the morning, you will begin your journey back to Maun. Upon arrival, you will have an opportunity to shop for local crafts and souvenirs before departing. As you leave Botswana, you will carry cherished memories of the wildlife, cultures, and activities from your time in these remarkable areas.

 


Accommodation

Meal Plan

Breakfast & Lunch

Cost Includes

  • Park fees and conservation levies
  • All scheduled game activities (drives, boat safaris, mokoro excursions)
  • Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicles
  • Bottled water during game drives and transfers
  • Full board accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guides
  • Driver allowances and park fees
  • Inter-camp light aircraft transfers
  • All mentioned activities (excluding optional experiences)

Cost Excludes

  • Botswana Visa (where applicable)
  • International and domestic commercial flights
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Optional activities
  • Laundry services
  • Travel insurance
  • Beverages beyond the provided water
  • Tips for staff and guide

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