8 safari lodges
    Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans, Botswana
    Quiet
    Malaria: Low

    Safari in Nxai Pan National Park

    Adjacent to Makgadikgadi Pans, Nxai Pan is characterized by its fossilized pans and acacia woodlands, offering excellent wildlife viewing, especially during the green season. It's known for its large herds of zebra and wildebeest, which migrate here, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs, and is also home to the iconic Baines' Baobabs.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for the Okavango Delta floods and wildlife. November to March for birding and green season rates.
    Species
    82
    Big Five
    4/5
    Lodges
    8
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1992

    Nxai Pan National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    4 of 5 found in Nxai Pan National Park

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Nxai Pan National Park

    Sign in to report

    82 species recorded in Nxai Pan National Park10 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Nxai Pan National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Nxai Pan National Park

    Botswana offers exceptional safari experiences year-round, but the 'best' time depends on your priorities. For classic big game viewing and predator action, we unequivocally recommend the dry season...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal crisp air.

    This is calving season, so we see many young animals, especially impala and wildebeest, which in turn attracts predators. Birding is exceptional with migratory species in full plumage.

    We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

    Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

    We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Central Kalahari Game Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

    With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

    We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

    Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

    We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    May

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

    The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

    We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Linyanti Concession

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

    We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

    This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

    We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

    Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

    We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    September

    peak

    Dry Season

    September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

    This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

    We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    October

    high

    Shoulder Season

    October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

    We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

    This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

    We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    December

    low

    Green Season

    December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

    Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

    We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal crisp air.

    This is calving season, so we see many young animals, especially impala and wildebeest, which in turn attracts predators. Birding is exceptional with migratory species in full plumage.

    We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

    Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

    We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Central Kalahari Game Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

    With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

    We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

    Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

    We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    May

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

    The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

    We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Linyanti Concession

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

    We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

    This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

    We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

    Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

    We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    September

    peak

    Dry Season

    September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

    This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

    We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    October

    high

    Shoulder Season

    October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

    We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

    This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

    We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    December

    low

    Green Season

    December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

    Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

    We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    January brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush, vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal crisp air.

    This is calving season, so we see many young animals, especially impala and wildebeest, which in turn attracts predators. Birding is exceptional with migratory species in full plumage.

    We love exploring the Central Kalahari Game Reserve this month, where the usually arid pans burst with life and offer incredible predator sightings.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Rains continue, often in short, intense bursts, leaving the air fresh and the vegetation dense. Temperatures remain warm, making for comfortable safari conditions between showers.

    Predators are active, taking advantage of the abundant young prey. The zebra migration is often still in full swing across the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, a truly magnificent sight.

    We recommend focusing on the Kalahari parks to witness the zebra migration and the incredible interactions between predators and their vulnerable young.

    Nxai Pan National Park
    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Central Kalahari Game Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season

    The rains begin to lessen towards the end of March, but the landscape remains wonderfully green and vibrant. Days are warm, and the air is often clear after the last of the seasonal downpours.

    With water still widely available, wildlife is dispersed, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Birdlife remains phenomenal, and the Okavango Delta's water levels start to rise.

    We find March perfect for photography, with dramatic skies and lush backdrops, especially in the southern Okavango Delta as it begins to fill.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    April

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    April marks a beautiful transition as the rains largely cease, and the bush slowly begins to dry out. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings, making for very pleasant weather.

    Water levels in the Okavango Delta are noticeably rising, attracting more animals to its fringes. Game viewing improves as the vegetation thins, and migratory birds prepare to depart.

    We love April for its excellent value and the chance to experience both the lushness of the green season and the beginnings of the dry season's concentrated wildlife.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    May

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The dry season is firmly setting in, with clear, sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures. Nights become noticeably cooler, requiring an extra layer for early morning game drives.

    The Okavango Delta is now at its highest water levels, creating stunning waterways for mokoro excursions. Wildlife starts to concentrate around permanent water sources, improving sightings.

    We recommend May for those seeking the magic of the Delta's floodwaters without the peak season crowds, offering superb game viewing and beautiful scenery.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Linyanti Concession

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    June brings classic dry season weather: clear, sunny days, virtually no rain, and mild temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, sometimes chilly, perfect for safari activities.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are increasingly drawn to the shrinking water sources. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common in Chobe and Linyanti, and predators are active.

    We find June to be an ideal month for traditional game drives and water-based activities in the Delta, as the conditions are perfect and wildlife is abundant.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is characterized by dry, sunny, and pleasant weather. Days are warm, and nights are cool, offering perfect conditions for spending long hours on safari.

    This is prime game viewing. Wildlife concentrations around waterholes are at their peak, making for consistent and spectacular sightings, especially of large herds and their predators.

    We consider July one of the best months for a classic Botswana safari, particularly for those focused on big game and predator action in the Delta and Chobe.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    August is very dry and warm, with virtually no rain. The bush is sparse, offering excellent visibility. Mornings are cool, quickly warming up to pleasant daytime temperatures.

    Wildlife viewing remains phenomenal, with animals congregating at permanent water sources. Predator sightings are frequent as they stalk the concentrated herds. Elephant numbers in Chobe are immense.

    We recommend August for serious wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize intense game viewing and don't mind the higher prices and busier lodges.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    September

    peak

    Dry Season

    September is the hottest and driest month of the dry season, with temperatures soaring, especially in the afternoon. Water is extremely scarce, intensifying wildlife interactions.

    This is arguably the most dramatic month for wildlife viewing. Animals are desperate for water, leading to incredible predator-prey dynamics around the remaining waterholes. Elephant herds are colossal.

    We advise September for those seeking the raw, intense drama of the African bush, where every waterhole is a stage for survival.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park
    +1

    October

    high

    Shoulder Season

    October is incredibly hot and dry, often with the first pre-rain thunderstorms building in the afternoons, bringing a sense of anticipation. Humidity starts to rise.

    Wildlife remains concentrated around water, offering excellent viewing despite the heat. The first rains can trigger some animal movements, and migratory birds begin to return.

    We suggest October for experienced safari-goers who appreciate the intense wildlife action and don't mind the heat, often finding it a rewarding challenge.

    Okavango Delta
    Moremi Game Reserve
    Chobe National Park

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The first significant rains arrive, breaking the dry spell and transforming the parched landscape into a vibrant green. Days are warm and humid, with refreshing afternoon showers.

    This is the start of the calving season and the zebra migration to the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans. Birdlife explodes with the arrival of migratory species. Wildlife disperses with new water sources.

    We love November for witnessing the rebirth of the bush, the arrival of new life, and the spectacular zebra migration, offering a different kind of safari magic.

    Makgadikgadi Pans National Park
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta

    December

    low

    Green Season

    December is warm and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms that bring life to the bush. The air is fresh and clean after the rains, and the landscape is brilliantly green.

    Calving season is in full swing, providing excellent opportunities to see young animals and the predators that follow them. Birding is outstanding, with many species in breeding plumage.

    We recommend December for birding enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery and vibrant new life.

    Central Kalahari Game Reserve
    Nxai Pan National Park
    Okavango Delta
    Planning & reference

    We love the stark, expansive beauty of Nxai Pan, a place where the horizon stretches endlessly and the silence is profound. The iconic Baines' Baobabs are a must-see, their ancient forms standing as timeless sentinels, especially captivating at sunrise or sunset. For a truly unique experience, we recommend visiting during the green season when the zebra migration transforms the pans into a vibrant spectacle.

    Gate Times

    Nxai Pan National Park generally operates from sunrise to sunset, typically around 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, though exact times vary seasonally. We recommend confirming current gate times with your tour operator or the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, as these can shift. All permits and bookings for park entry and camping must be secured in advance; spontaneous visits are not practical or usually permitted.

    Tipping

    Tipping is an important part of the safari economy in Botswana, and we recommend budgeting for it. For your safari guide, a customary tip is around USD 10-20 per person per day, given directly to them at the end of your stay. For general camp staff, a communal tip box is often available, and we suggest USD 5-10 per person per day. This is shared among housekeepers, chefs, and other support staff. Always tip in local currency (Botswana Pula) or US dollars, and ensure it's done discreetly and respectfully.

    Dress Code

    We advise packing practical, comfortable clothing in neutral colours like khaki, olive, brown, or grey. These colours blend into the environment and are less likely to disturb wildlife. Layers are essential, as mornings and evenings can be cool, especially during the dry season, while midday temperatures are warm. A light jacket or fleece, long-sleeved shirts for sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes or sandals for camp are key. We also recommend a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection on game drives.

    Photography

    Nxai Pan offers incredible photographic opportunities, particularly the vast open pans and the iconic Baines' Baobabs. We recommend bringing a camera with a good zoom lens (at least 300mm) to capture wildlife from a respectful distance. Always avoid using flash photography at night, as it can disorient and distress animals. Drones are strictly prohibited within Botswana's national parks and protected areas without special permits, which are rarely granted for tourists. Respect wildlife by keeping noise levels down and never attempting to 'stage' a shot by disturbing animals.

    Etiquette

    Safari etiquette is crucial for both your safety and the well-being of the wildlife. We strongly advise staying inside your vehicle unless your guide explicitly instructs otherwise, especially during game drives. Keep noise levels to a minimum to avoid disturbing animals and other visitors; loud conversations or music are inappropriate. Never feed any animals, as this can alter their natural behaviour and lead to dependency. Always follow your guide's instructions, as they are experts in animal behaviour and park regulations. Leave no trace-carry out everything you carry in.

    What to Bring

    Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
    High-SPF sunscreen
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Good quality binoculars (8x42 or 10x42)
    Camera with a long zoom lens and spare batteries
    Power bank for charging electronics
    Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing (long sleeves and trousers)
    Warm fleece or jacket for cool mornings/evenings
    Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
    Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
    Reusable water bottle
    Small backpack for day trips

    Temperature

    24.6°C

    76°F · Range: 19.88–30.1°C

    Rainfall

    125.2 mm

    Wet season · 16 rainy days

    Humidity

    67.6%

    Sunshine

    11 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.94 m/s

    17.8 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Nxai Pan National Park Reviews