The Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana have been described as a desolate expanse of beauty, formed by what was once a massive, 30 metre deep, ancient lake some five million years ago. What remains is a series of the largest pans in the world; the Ntwetwe, Sowa and Nxai pans, each covered by a layer of glistening salt - a highlight of any safari.

The Makgadikgadi Pans are a less frequented holiday destination in Botswana and make for a hauntingly beautiful vacation, particularly during the rainy season (January – April). As the rain arrives, herds of zebra, wildebeest and other antelope make their way northwards to the Nxai Pan and are followed closely by the migration of predators, such as lion, cheetah and hyena. The Pans thus form part of the route of one of Africa's last remaining migrations.

As the game move northwards, the pans are transformed into an oasis for a vast array of water birds, including flamingo, pelican, duck, geese and a variety of crane, that peck up the surfacing shrimp and fish. Sowa in particular is an expansive breeding ground for flamingos, where they are sighted in their thousands.

Towards the south-western end of Sowa is Kubu Island – a holiday highlight - famous for its huge baobab trees that punctuate the landscape.

After the rains, the waters gradually recede, leaving a semi-desert of salt pans, set against a vast open sky. Makgadikgadi Pans are an attractive vacation option for those seeking something a little unusual and for bird lovers in particular. A variety of safari tours and accommodation is available.