Meerkats on the Makgadikgadi
Down in the Makgadikgadi Pans, and accessible from both Jack's and San Camp, is a very special, habituated clan of meerkats, which have been studied by scientists for years. Guests to Jack's and San are able to visit and observe quietly.
Area
Makgadikgadi and the Kalahari
Type
Active
Wildlife & Nature
Grade
Once-in-a-lifetime
Who
Adults
Teens
Young Kids
Duration
1-2 Hours
Early in the morning, and after a hearty breakfast, you will be taken by game drive vehicle to a sunny spot dotted with holes. As the sun's warmth increases, little heads begin to pop out of the holes, and the meerkats, adults first, venture out. Keep completely still, and they will come out and stand on the raised little mounds over their burrows, turning to face the sun so it can warm them.
After the adults come the babies as they gather into a creche, watched over by their guardians. The babies, squeaking, romp and play with each other, sometimes copying the adults by trying to stand on their hind legs.
As the meerkats become more habituated to your presence, they will approach you closely, perhaps giving a quick sniff. The researchers will be close by, observing, and they and your guides are more than happy to answer questions about the meerkat clan. It's a fascinating experience to be able to observe the meerkats unafraid and up close—well worth visiting!
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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View TourFamily Fun in Botswana
This thrill seekers safari through Botswana is perfect for families with teenagers. With activities galore, the whole family will get out and about on an active exploration of some of the most incredible and scenic areas that Botswana has to offer. Watch wildlife from a game vehicle or on foot and gallop on horseback through the beautifully eerie Makgadikgadi Pans before rounding off your adventure at the mighty Victoria Falls for a grand finale.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationNxai Pan Camp
Nxai Pan is situated on a fascinating fossil pan of the same name, overlooking beautiful grasslands so typical of this area. The game viewing is excellent, and the camp offers a true contrast to the Okavango Delta and other areas of Botswana.
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View AccommodationSan Camp
The newly refurbished and classically elegant San Camp comprises just six canvas tents set widely spaced apart in a most dramatic location, The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, thus creating an oasis of civilization in a fascinating environment.
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View AccommodationMeno A Kwena
Located on cliffs overlooking the Boteti River, Meno A Kwena is a unique camp which harks back to the authentic safari experience of the past. The traditional style is combined with modern facilities, as well as superb river views.
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View AccommodationJack’s Camp
Jack's Camp was set up by the legendary African character Jack Bousfield, who was one of the great explorers and adventurers of the continent. There are just ten tents and this intimate camp is one of only two permanent camps in the Makgadikgadi.
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View AccommodationCamp Kalahari
Run by Uncharted Africa Safaris, the simple and rustic little Camp Kalahari is found in the incredible Makgadikgadi Pans, and offers guests the chance to explore the vast and ever-changing moonscape of the pans by vehicle, on horseback or on foot.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceWalking with the Kalahari Bushmen
The San interpret the signs of the bush like no one else, all senses build a picture of their world. Beyond this, on the hunt, San tap into the spirit world, entering the minds of their quarry. This natural understanding has to be seen to be believed.
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