National Park
Nxai Pan National Park
Botswana 2,578 km² (995 mi²) Est. 1992
About Nxai Pan National Park
Nxai Pan National Park is a fossil lakebed covered in grasslands that come alive during the wet season with enormous herds of zebra and springbok. The park is home to the famous Baines' Baobabs, a cluster of ancient baobab trees first painted by Thomas Baines in 1862 that remain virtually unchanged. The park links with Makgadikgadi to form part of a greater conservation area.
0
Safari Tours
3.7
Avg Rating
1/5
Big Five
34
Years Protected
Highlights
- Iconic Baines' Baobabs unchanged since 1862
- Spectacular zebra migration during the wet season
- Excellent cheetah and lion sightings on open grasslands
- Less visited than other Botswana parks
Considerations
- Very seasonal wildlife viewing, dry season can be desolate
- Limited accommodation options
- Deep sand tracks require experienced 4x4 driving
- Extreme heat in October and November
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
occasional
🐆
Leopard
Not present
🐘
Elephant
Not present
🦬
Buffalo
Not present
🦏
Rhino
Not present
Notable Species
Lion
Occasional
Cheetah
Rare
Zebra
Common
Wildebeest
Occasional
Springbok
Common
Gemsbok
Occasional
Jackal
Common
Bat-eared Fox
Common
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Located approximately 2 hours east of Maun via the Nata-Maun road. The entrance gate is well signposted. 4x4 essential within the park.
Nearest Airport
Maun Airport (MUB)
Nearest City
Nata
Drive Time
2 hours