7-Day CKGR, Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans

Depart Maun and journey deep into the legendary Central Kalahari Game Reserve, crossing vast wilderness landscapes en route to Deception Valley. Along the way, enjoy a refreshment stop before continuing into one of Africa’s last great untamed ecosystems. After settling into camp and enjoying lunch, head out on your first game drive through the valley, known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. As the sun sets over the Kalahari, return to camp for a traditional bush dinner around the campfire and a memorable night beneath the stars.

Rise early for a thrilling morning game drive through some of the reserve's most iconic areas, including Sunday Pan, Passarge Valley, and Leopard Pan. Search for predators such as cheetah and lion while admiring immense herds of antelope and the unique desert-adapted wildlife of the Kalahari. Bird enthusiasts can look forward to sightings of Secretary Birds, Kori Bustards, Ostriches, and impressive vulture species. After a midday break at camp, venture out once more to experience the magic of Deception Pan at sunset before returning for another evening around the fire.

Begin the day with a final Kalahari game drive in search of resident lions, cheetahs, and elusive leopards. Following breakfast, bid farewell to the Central Kalahari and enjoy a scenic transit game drive toward the remarkable Makgadikgadi Pans. Keep your camera ready as wildlife sightings may continue throughout the journey. Upon arrival, settle into camp before heading out to explore the vast salt pans, where endless horizons and spectacular sunsets create unforgettable photographic opportunities. End the day with campfire stories under Botswana's star-filled skies.

Wake to the sounds of the African wilderness and set out on an early morning game drive through the diverse habitats of Makgadikgadi National Park. Explore open plains, river channels, seasonal pools, and lagoons that support an array of wildlife throughout the year. After time to relax at camp, continue your exploration during an afternoon safari drive. Back at camp, immerse yourself in authentic Botswana culture through optional traditional activities such as bushcraft demonstrations, fire-making techniques, or local cooking experiences before enjoying dinner around the campfire.

After breakfast, break camp and travel toward the beautiful landscapes of Nxai Pan National Park. Enjoy your final views of the Makgadikgadi Pans before entering a region renowned for its rich wildlife and striking scenery. Following a light lunch, set out to explore the area’s waterholes, grasslands, and seasonal pans in search of elephants, antelope, predators, and a variety of bird species. Return to camp in the late afternoon to relax and reflect on the day's sightings as the African wilderness settles into evening.

Start the day with an early morning game drive when wildlife is most active and the soft morning light transforms the landscape into a photographer's dream. Return to camp for brunch and some leisure time before setting out again in the late afternoon to continue exploring Nxai Pan's diverse ecosystems. Keep watch for large herds, fascinating birdlife, and predators moving across the plains. As the day draws to a close, enjoy a classic African sundowner while watching the sun disappear below the horizon before heading back to camp for dinner.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before embarking on a final game drive through Nxai Pan. Early morning conditions offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with hundreds of species inhabiting the region throughout the year. Continue tracking wildlife and soaking in the beauty of Botswana's iconic wilderness one last time. After the morning safari, begin the journey back to Maun in time for your onward flight. Leave with incredible memories, stunning photographs, and a deep connection to the landscapes, wildlife, and warm hospitality that make Botswana truly unforgettable.