a giraffe walking across a dry grass field

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