Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Pickup & Transfer: Guests are collected from their accommodation in Maun or Kasane and transported to Planet Baobab.
• Journey to Ntwetwe Pan: Travel through expansive grasslands and past iconic baobab trees to reach the edge of Ntwetwe Salt Pan.
• Guided Walk: Accompanied by a guide, explore the salt pan's lunar landscape, learning about the unique adaptations of Kalahari Desert species.
• Meerkat Interaction: Engage with the local meerkat colonies, observing their behaviors and survival strategies.
• Camping Setup: Set up camp in the middle of the salt pan, experiencing a night under the stars.
• Meals: Enjoy a BBQ dinner prepared by the guide.

Day 2: Sunrise and Departure

• Sunrise Experience: Wake up to the Kalahari sunrise, with the salt pan stretching out before you.
• Stone Tool Exploration: Discover ancient stone tools scattered across the pan's surface, with insights into their historical significance.
• Return Journey: Pack up camp and return to Maun or Kasane, concluding the safari.

Accommodation

Overnight stays are in bedrolls beneath the open sky on the salt pan, providing an immersive wilderness experience. This setup offers a budget-friendly alternative to traditional lodges.

Meals

The safari includes a BBQ dinner on the first night and breakfast on the second morning, prepared by your guide. Additional meals and beverages are typically not included.

Transportation

Transfers from Maun or Kasane to Planet Baobab and to Ntwetwe Pan are provided. The journey to the pan involves traversing remote areas, enhancing the adventure's authenticity

• Visas and related costs
• Drinks, tips, laundry, telephone calls and other items of a personal nature
• International flights and arrival and departure taxes
• Meals not listed on the itinerary
• Travel and personal accident insurance

1. Operational Period

• This experience is only available from 1 June to 31 October each year.
• Outside of this period, the salt pans may not be accessible or safe due to seasonal conditions.

2. Pickup & Transfers

• Pickup locations: Maun or Kasane.
• You will first be transferred to Planet Baobab, a lodge near the edge of Ntwetwe Pan.
• Departure time from Planet Baobab is around 14:00.
• Transfers include drives across grasslands, with opportunities to view wildlife en route.
• Total driving times may vary depending on your location, but expect several hours on sandy roads.

3. Activities & Experiences

• Overnight on the pan: Sleeping on bedrolls under the stars in a remote desert landscape.
• Meerkat encounter: Meet habituated meerkats and observe their behavior in the wild.

4. Physical Considerations

• The environment is arid and sandy, so comfortable, breathable clothing is recommended.
• Warm clothing is essential for nighttime; desert temperatures can drop significantly.

5. Safety & Health

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
• Limited or no cellular coverage in the pan.
• There may be wild animals in the area, so follow your guide’s instructions carefully.
• Not suitable for people with serious mobility issues due to walking on uneven surfaces.

6. Accommodation & Meals

• Sleeping is on bedrolls on the salt pan, not in tents or lodges.
• Meals are usually provided: dinner on the pan and breakfast the next morning.
• Facilities are basic and rustic, emphasizing an authentic wilderness experience.

7. Weather Considerations

• Nights can be very cold, even in winter months.
• Rain is rare but can make parts of the pan inaccessible.
• Bring layered clothing and waterproof gear just in case.

8. What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Warm layers for nighttime
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Camera or binoculars for wildlife and panoramic views
• Water bottle
• Optional: snacks, small flashlight, personal toiletries

Clothing

• Lightweight, breathable clothes (for daytime heat)
• Warm layers (nights can get very cold)
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (protection from sun and insects)
• Comfortable walking shoes / boots
• Sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing at camp)
• Hat or cap (sun protection)
• Sunglasses

Camping Essentials

• Sleeping bag (check if the tour provides one; some do)
• Small backpack/daypack for essentials
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, wet wipes, sunscreen, lip balm)
• Towel

Health & Safety

• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Personal medications (if needed)
• Basic first aid kit
• Hand sanitizer

Electronics & Photography

• Camera / smartphone with extra memory cards
• Portable charger or power bank
• Binoculars (for wildlife spotting)

Food & Drink

• Most tours provide meals, but check if you need snacks
• Refillable water bottle

Optional Items

• Notebook or journal (to capture the experience)
• Lightweight binoculars
• Travel pillow

💡 Tips:

• Avoid bright or flashy clothing; neutral colors blend in with the environment.
• Pack as lightly as possible – space is limited in safari vehicles and at the camp.
• Confirm with your tour operator whether bedding and some basic toiletries are provided.