Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) - Nxai Pan National Park
Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) is a camp near Nxai Pan National Park.
- Location
- Nxai Pan National Park, Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans, Botswana, Southern Africa
- Coordinates
- -20.118006, 24.764671
- Activities
- camp
PlnrScore: 21/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
169 species observed within 20 km, 21 mammals, 83 birds.
- African baobab (Plantae, 34 observations)
- Steenbok (Mammalia, 15 observations)
- Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 14 observations)
- Gemsbok (Mammalia, 13 observations)
- African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 13 observations)
- Common Ostrich (Aves, 12 observations)
- Kori Bustard (Aves, 11 observations)
- Black-backed Jackal (Mammalia, 11 observations)
- Northern Black Korhaan (Aves, 11 observations)
- Pied Crow (Aves, 10 observations)
Best Time to Visit Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1)
The best months to visit Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) are April, August, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Great, temperature 24.6°C, rainfall 125.2mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 67.6%
- February: Great, temperature 25.56°C, rainfall 73.7mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 60.6%
- March: Great, temperature 24.85°C, rainfall 40.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 58.3%
- April: Great, temperature 23.43°C, rainfall 7.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 49.9%
- May: Great, temperature 20.44°C, rainfall 1.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 40.2%
- June: Great, temperature 17.44°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 41.4%
- July: Great, temperature 17.15°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 36.4%
- August: Great, temperature 21.01°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 30.5%
- September: Great, temperature 25.4°C, rainfall 0.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 27.5%
- October: Great, temperature 28.31°C, rainfall 3.2mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 27.6%
- November: Great, temperature 28.03°C, rainfall 34mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 43.2%
- December: Great, temperature 26.38°C, rainfall 108.2mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 57.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the optimal time to visit Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) for wildlife viewing and experiencing the iconic trees?
The dry season (May-October) is excellent for wildlife viewing in nearby Nxai Pan National Park, as animals congregate around water sources. However, the wet season (November-April) transforms the landscape into a lush green, attracting migratory birds and offering stunning photographic opportunities of the baobabs against vibrant skies.
What amenities and facilities can I expect at Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1), and what should I bring?
Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) is a wilderness campsite, meaning facilities are extremely basic, typically offering just a long-drop toilet and a designated camping area. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing all their own water, food, cooking equipment, fuel, and waste disposal bags.
How do I book a stay at Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) and what are the typical costs involved?
Bookings for Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) are highly sought after and must be made well in advance, typically through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) or a licensed tour operator. Costs include daily park entry fees for Nxai Pan National Park, camping fees per person per night, and vehicle entry fees.
What safety precautions should I take when camping at Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) given its remote wilderness location?
As a remote wilderness campsite, safety at Baines Baobabs requires vigilance due to the presence of wild animals, including elephants and predators. Always keep food secured, never walk alone at night, and be prepared for emergencies with a satellite phone or reliable communication device, as there is no cell service.
What makes Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) a unique and memorable safari experience compared to other camps?
The primary draw of Baines Baobabs (Campsite 1) is its direct proximity to the cluster of ancient baobab trees famously painted by explorer Thomas Baines in 1862, offering a unique historical and photographic opportunity. Camping here provides an unparalleled sense of isolation and vastness, with breathtaking views over the Nxai Pan salt pans and spectacular stargazing away from any light pollution.