Elephant Kingdom to the Vast Makgadikgadi

After breakfast, bid farewell to Chobe and journey southward toward the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, home to one of the largest salt flats in the world. Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. In the afternoon, set out to explore the vast, otherworldly expanse of the salt pans. During the dry season, the pans create a mesmerizing white landscape, while the wet season transforms them into a breeding ground for flamingos and migratory birds. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as meerkats, springboks, zebras, and the elusive brown hyena. As dusk approaches, experience the magic of a Makgadikgadi sunset—an ethereal spectacle as the sky turns into a canvas of vibrant colors. Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner under a blanket of stars.

Begin your day with a morning nature walk led by San Bushmen, the indigenous people of the Kalahari. Learn about their traditional survival skills, medicinal plants, and age-old storytelling traditions. This cultural encounter provides a profound understanding of life in this challenging environment. Later, embark on an exciting quad bike excursion (season permitting) across the vast salt flats, feeling the wind in your hair as you explore this unique landscape. Alternatively, spot wildlife along the grassy edges of the pans and enjoy bird-watching opportunities. In the evening, gather around a campfire for stargazing—Makgadikgadi’s remote location offers one of the clearest night skies, where you can marvel at countless constellations and the Milky Way arching overhead.

After breakfast, set out for the renowned Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest inland deltas. Upon arrival at your luxury tented camp, you’ll be welcomed with refreshing drinks and a warm smile from the lodge staff. In the afternoon, glide through the peaceful waterways on a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) safari. Paddled by an experienced guide, this intimate experience allows you to silently approach hippos, crocodiles, and various aquatic birds. The serene setting provides an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the delta’s beauty and diverse flora. Return to camp as the sun sets over the delta, followed by a sumptuous dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.

On your final day, rise early for a morning game drive through the Okavango Delta’s diverse habitats. Search for lions, elephants, lechwes, and perhaps the elusive African wild dogs. The morning light offers excellent photography opportunities as the wilderness comes alive. After the drive, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at camp. Pack your belongings and bid farewell to the delta as you begin your journey back to Gaborone. Reflect on the incredible landscapes and wildlife encounters you’ve experienced during your 6-day Botswana safari. Arriving in Gaborone in the late afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport or your onward destination, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.