Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you journey from the breathtaking landscapes of Mabuasehube through the vast expanse of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. This tour immerses you in the heart of Botswana's wild side, where you can witness majestic wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat. As you traverse the stunning terrain, the stark beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans awaits, offering a unique perspective of this otherworldly environment. The tour culminates in the vibrant town of Maun, where you will experience the enchanting Okavango Delta. Here, you can explore tranquil waterways, lush wetlands, and rich biodiversity, making this journey a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. Experience the captivating allure of Botswana, where each stop reveals the incredible diversity and charm of the region.
10-Day Desert to Delta Adventure
Start: Mabuasehube
End: Maun
Vehicle: Fully kitted 4x4 (self-drive)
Stay Style: Mostly camping with some lodge options
Route Highlights: Kgalagadi → Central Kalahari → Makgadikgadi Pans → Maun/Delta
Ideal Season: May to October (dry season, best road conditions)
Day 1–2: Explore Mabuasehube (Kgalagadi TP)
Arrive at Mabuasehube Gate (enter from Tshabong side or via Nossob)
Spend 2 nights exploring the remote pans: Mpayathutlwa, Khiding, Lesholoago, etc.
Stunning sunsets, lion calls at night, raw wilderness
Stay:
Camping
Day 3: Mabuasehube → Khutse Wilderness En Route to CKGR
Drive: ±5–6 hrs
Begin the journey toward the Central Kalahari
Overnight stop along the route (Wild camp or bush camp in pre-arranged area)
Sparse landscapes, herds of springbok and oryx
Stay:
Camping
Day 4–5: Enter Central Kalahari GR (Sunday Pan / Deception Valley)
Drive: ±5–6 hrs to Deception or Sunday Pan (4x4 only)
Spend two nights in the Deception Valley area – ideal for lion, cheetah, and bat-eared foxes
Long game drives on open pans and fossil riverbeds
Stargazing is unmatched here
Stay:
Camping
Day 6: CKGR → Makgadikgadi Pans (Nxai or Nwetwe Area)
Drive: ±6–7 hrs (via Rakops to Gweta)
Exit CKGR via Matswere Gate
Drive to Makgadikgadi area, camp near the pans or stay at Gweta
Sunset on the salt flats, possible quad biking or meerkat viewing
Stay:
Camping or chalets
Day 7: Makgadikgadi → Maun
Drive: ±2.5–3 hrs (easy tar/gravel)
Head to Maun, restock and relax
Optional village tour or local craft market visit
Begin to wind down the dusty boots
Stay:
Camping or lodge
Day 8–9: Maun & Delta Experience
Choose one or both of the following:
🛶 Full-day mokoro & walking safari into the Delta
✈️ Scenic flight over the Okavango Delta (30 or 60 minutes – unforgettable views!)
🚙 Game drive in nearby Moremi or private concession
Stay:
Camping or lodge
Day 10: Departure from Maun
Final breakfast by the Thamalakane River
Return vehicle or airport drop-off
Optional souvenir stop before flying out