The Pans of Makgadikgadi were once the centre of a great lake that has now been dry for more than two thousand years. Today, it is thought to be the largest saltpan in the world.

Makgadikgadi consists of two large saltpans, Sowa and Ntwetwe, and a number of smaller pans. After the summer rains the pans fill up to a depth of a few centimetres, alerting the fish and aquatic shrimps that have been lying muddy and dormant. Drawn by the rich food supply, the pans are a breeding ground for flamingos, pelicans, and waders (although less frequently). The grasslands of Makgadikgadi National Park are home to a large number of antelope, and consequently, these attract an impressive range of predators.

The best time to visit this area is from late January to April.