Salt Pans & Delta: Tour with game drives, mokoro & boat trip

Experience the Wild Heart of Botswana: Salt Pans & Delta Tour with Game Drives, Mokoro & Boat Trip

This detailed review covers an adventurous Botswana safari that takes you through the breathtaking Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Mababe Depression, and Moremi Game Reserve. We haven’t personally been on this exact trip, but from the comprehensive itinerary and traveler insights, it’s clear this experience offers a genuine look at some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife.

What we love about this tour is its combination of varied habitats—from the vast, otherworldly salt pans to lush waterways—giving a well-rounded view of Botswana’s ecological diversity. You’ll enjoy the thrill of spotting desert-adapted animals, the serenity of gliding through channels in a mokoro, and the excitement of game drives that promise sightings of big cats, elephants, and all the iconic African species. Plus, the inclusion of a boat trip in Xakanaxa Lagoon adds a peaceful, bird-filled perspective to the adventure.

One potential consideration is the overall cost—at $3,643 per person, this is a significant investment. However, given the inclusive nature of accommodation, most meals, activities, and park fees, the price reflects a high-value, all-in-one experience. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic safari that balances adventure, comfort, and wildlife discovery.

This tour will appeal most to those eager for a multi-day, immersive Botswana experience with a good mix of land, water, and desert environments. It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers looking for a well-organized journey into Botswana’s wild side.

Contents show

Key Points

Diverse Habitats: Experience salt pans, woodlands, river channels, and lush lagoons—all teeming with wildlife.
Wildlife & Birdlife: Spot desert-adapted animals, big game, and over 100 bird species.
Authentic Activities: Enjoy game drives, mokoro canoe rides, and boat safaris for varied perspectives.
Comfort & Convenience: Stay in comfortable, semi-permanent tents with en suite bush bathrooms, all included.
Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides, ensuring you get the most out of each wildlife encounter.
Value for Price: All major activities, meals, and park fees are covered, making it a well-rounded safari investment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Looking for more options in Botswana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: From Maun to Planet Baobab in Makgadikgadi

Your journey begins at Maun International Airport, where a guide from Enjanga Tours will meet you and transfer you about 40 kilometers to Planet Baobab. This quirky lodge, set amongst 17 giant baobabs, immediately sets a relaxed, authentic tone with its cozy thatched huts designed with local charm.

Staying here for one night, you’ll be centrally located near the Ntwetwe Pan, the larger salt pan of Makgadikgadi. An afternoon game drive into the Pan provides a surreal experience—think vast, shimmering salt flats and the chance to encounter semi-habituated meerkats. Guests mention that while the meerkats are used to human presence, they’re not tame, which preserves the wild feel.

Expect to see desert species like bat-eared foxes, springboks, and majestic desert-adapted elephants and lions. The guides do a great job of sharing insights into how these animals survive in such extreme conditions.

Day 2: Mababe Depression – Wilderness in the West

After an early breakfast, you’ll head northwest through Maun toward the Mababe Depression. Here, you’ll camp at a private, exclusive site, away from crowds, which enhances the feeling of being truly in the wilderness.

Game drives along river banks and through mopane woodland reveal a landscape teeming with around 100 bird species and 400 mammals. This area remains largely untouched, offering a sense of raw, wild Africa. You may spot springbok, kudus, and perhaps even large herds of desert elephants.

The Mababe Depression is also a sanctuary for birdwatchers, with many species attracted to the river and lush grasses. From personal experience, travelers note the peace and solitude here are unlike anything you’ll find in busier parks.

Days 3 & 4: Mababe to Khwai & Moremi

The journey continues through the Khwai Concession into the famous Moremi Game Reserve. The drive itself is scenic, with opportunities to stop for a picnic lunch and enjoy the landscape at a leisurely pace.

Once at Xakanaxa, in the heart of Moremi, you’ll set up camp in a location that offers incredible views of the surrounding wildlife habitat. The reserve is known for its big game sightings, including elephants, buffalos, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Big cats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs also call this area home.

The highlight here is a late afternoon boat cruise on Xakanaxa Lagoon. The open waters attract a variety of bird species, including African skimmers, saddle-billed storks, and African fish eagles. Travelers have appreciated how peaceful and scenic this cruise is, offering a different vantage point for wildlife viewing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 5: Transition to Maun and the Final Safari Leg

After breakfast, you’ll take a relaxed drive through the Khwai Concession, with a picnic lunch en route, before arriving at your final camp in Xakanaxa. Here, the lush landscape is perfect for spotting animals at close quarters, and the surrounding environment is lush and vibrant.

This day serves as a bridge from the wilderness of Moremi to the final day’s activities, setting the stage for more game viewing and the chance to reflect on your experiences.

There's plenty more to explore in Botswana

Days 6 & 7: Extended Safari in Moremi & Final Water Adventures

Over these days, you’ll capitalize on the rich wildlife population of Moremi. Expect to see elephants, hippos, and giraffes in the early mornings and late afternoons, when animals are most active.

The boat cruise along Xakanaxa Lagoon is a real highlight—an elegant way to see animals like goliath herons, wattled cranes, and the iconic African fish eagle in their natural habitat. The tranquil waters reveal the softer, bird-filled side of Botswana’s wilderness, and are often highlighted as a favorite part of the trip.

Day 8: Return to Maun

Your final morning involves a scenic drive back to Maun Airport, where you’ll catch your flight onward. While the trip concludes here, the vivid memories of salt flats, river channels, and incredible wildlife will stay with you.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of habitats—salt pans, woodlands, rivers, and lagoons—means you’re not just seeing animals but experiencing Botswana’s ecological diversity. The game drives are well-paced, with knowledgeable guides who are eager to share insights about the flora and fauna, making each sighting more meaningful.

The mokoro rides in the Khwai River are a unique feature. They provide a peaceful, almost meditative perspective on the landscape, with the chance to see animals coming to the water’s edge. Several reviewers mentioned how calming and intimate these moments felt, far from the busy roar of land safaris.

The boat safaris in Xakanaxa Lagoon are particularly appreciated for their serenity and birdwatching opportunities. Travelers often mention the stunning views and the chance to see waterfowl and wading birds up close, alongside crocodiles and hippos.

Accommodations offer a balance of comfort and authenticity, with tented camps and bush bathrooms that keep you close to nature without sacrificing convenience. The inclusion of all meals, drinks, and park fees means you won’t need to worry about additional costs, making it easier to focus on the experience.

Practical Details & Traveler Tips

The tour’s price of $3,643 reflects a comprehensive package—covering transportation, accommodation, most meals, activities, and park fees. This makes it a good value for travelers who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive safari experience. Keep in mind that this isn’t a budget trip, but the level of comfort and variety of activities justify the cost.

Transportation is primarily in dedicated safari vehicles, ensuring safety, comfort, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The group sizes tend to be small, which enhances the personalized experience and allows for flexible game viewing.

Timing is important—early mornings and late afternoons are best for wildlife activity, so be prepared for some early starts. The itinerary is well-suited for those over 8 years old, but not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with specific mobility needs.

Packing wisely means bringing comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and layers for varying temperatures. The guides recommend a camera, binoculars, and personal medication.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a full-bodied look at Botswana’s wilderness—perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure, comfort, and deep wildlife encounters. If you’re passionate about spotting big game, enjoy birdwatching, and appreciate diverse landscapes, this trip will satisfy your wanderlust.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary with all logistics taken care of, allowing them to focus on the experience and the animals. The combination of game drives, mokoro rides, and boat safaris makes this a well-rounded introduction to Botswana’s unique environment.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a more relaxed, less packed schedule, you might want to explore options that focus solely on one habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers comfortable tented accommodation, all meals, drinks (including imported wines and spirits), park fees, activities like game drives, mokoro rides, and boat trips, as well as airport transfers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 years old, mainly due to the nature of activities and the wilderness setting. It’s best for adventurous families with older kids or adult travelers.

What kind of vehicle is used for transfers and game drives?
Dedicated safari vehicles are used, which are designed for wildlife viewing and comfort during transfers and game drives.

Are all activities included?
Yes, all listed activities—game drives, mokoro rides, and boat safaris—are included in the package.

Do I need special equipment or clothing?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera. Warm clothing is recommended for early mornings and evenings, and rain gear if rain is forecasted.

Can I book this experience with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, allowing for flexible planning. Cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this Botswana safari tour offers a rich tapestry of landscapes and wildlife in a convenient, well-organized package. It balances adventure and comfort, making it a fantastic choice for wildlife enthusiasts eager to explore Botswana’s most iconic habitats. If you’re looking for a meaningful, immersive experience with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings and scenic moments, this tour can truly deliver.