Makgadikgadi Pans

The Makgadikgadi pans cover some 10 000 square kilometers in salt. Some pans are enormous, whist others the size of a small swimming pool.

These pans are the remnants of the once great Lake Makgadikgadi that existed some 2 million years ago, and presumed to have dried up around 1 500 years ago. The lake was 80 000 square kilometers in extent, and up to 55 meters deep, making it the largest inland sea in Africa.

Although named Pans, the Makgadikgadi section of the park is mainly grassland, with only a small area of salt pan. The rains, which occur from November to March, attract thousands of water birds. Pelicans and flamingos, which migrate from as far away as East Africa, flock to the salty waters to filter the newly released nourishment, whist the grasslands also attract wildlife by the thousands as herds of grazers begin to habit the open plains with the arrival of the fresh grasses.

At the Gutsa Pan, you will find Green's Baobab, which was inscribed by the 19th century hunter and trader Joseph Green. Fifteen kilometers to the south-east by rough track is the enormous Chapman's Baobab, which measures 25 meters around and historically served as a beacon in a country of few landmarks. It's thought that this tree was also used as a post office by passing explorers, traders and travelers, many of whom left inscriptions on its trunk.

Near the south-western corner of Sua Pan is Kubu Island, an ancient 20-metre high scrap of rock with its ghostly Baobabs, surrounded by a sea of salt.

We look forward to showing you this remarkable area. We have our own 4 x 4, and will tailor make a trip to suit your requirements. For groups of more than four guests, we will use two vehicles as well as an accompanying 4 x 4 trailer.

Our service is personalised. Transfers to and from your B & B, Guesthouse, Lodge, Hotel or Airport can be arranged, should you not be staying with us at "Ebubeleni".

For more information please feel free to contact us at info@ebubeleni.com. We can facilitate your arrangements and take you on that Safari of a Lifetime.