Quad biking on the Makgadigadi pans

Upon your arrival in Maun, your adventure begins with a seamless transition to the domestic terminal for a scheduled flight to Jack's Camp. Nestled in the heart of the Kalahari, Jack's Camp welcomes you with an enchanting landscape, surrounded by desert palms and Kalahari acacia, creating an oasis of tranquillity on a low grassland knoll.
The camp's central hub is a romantic canvas pavilion, adorned with low spires and finials, its eaves dancing with a fluttering valance.

Having settled into your tent, the adventure continues as you join your guide for tea before embarking on an exploration into the grasslands, bathed in the warm hues of the beautiful evening light.

Embark on a captivating morning expedition to meet some of the Kalahari's most intriguing inhabitants—the meerkats. Thanks to an ongoing habituation program, guests have the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these captivating creatures, understanding their social dynamics and witnessing their interactions with the environment. While not tame, the meerkats are accustomed to our non-threatening presence, and on chilly mornings, you might even find one seeking warmth by snuggling up to you or using your head as a sentry lookout post.

Afternoon tea heralds the next exploration, as you set out to encounter unique desert species such as springbok, gemsbok, red hartebeest, and the elusive brown hyena—creatures adapted to surviving in arid landscapes where both food and water are scarce.

Embark on an exhilarating adventure after an early breakfast, wrapping a kikoi around your head in the iconic style of Jack Bousfield. Mounted on quad bikes, the journey across Ntwetwe Pan to The Lost Island of Baobabs promises an extraordinary experience, leading you to a unique campsite for the next two nights nestled in the heart of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.

As the sun begins its descent, arrive at The Lost Island of Baobabs, where the staff has skilfully set up camp. A cauldron of water hangs from a tree, ready for a refreshing shower. The dining table is elegantly set, and the drinks tray awaits, while your bedrolls, adorned with hot water bottles and duvets, are arranged on elevated platforms in a five gazillion-star bedroom.

Indulge in an early breakfast before embarking on an enthralling journey to Kubu Island, a granite extrusion adorned with baobabs that stands as one of the most visually stunning spots in Botswana. This extraordinary landscape is rich with intriguing details, such as ancient walling, remnants of trade, and Bushmen beads left behind from bartering pursuits for the coveted salt that blankets the surrounding pans.

Climb to the summit for an awe-inspiring view of the vast Sowa pan, where a picnic lunch amidst boulders and baobabs awaits.

After this mesmerizing day, return to camp for a final night under the stars. Reflect on the myriad wonders of the Makgadikgadi Pans, carrying with you the memories of Kubu Island's enchanting landscapes and the secrets it holds. It is a fitting conclusion to a journey filled with exploration, discovery, and the boundless beauty of the Botswana wilderness.

Embark on the final leg of your desert adventure as you traverse the vast expanse of the Pans once more on quad bikes. The journey back to Jack's Camp promises a blend of exhilarating quad biking and a reflective exploration of the stark yet mesmerizing landscape of the Makgadikgadi Pans.

As you return to Jack's Camp, you bring with you the echoes of the desert's secrets, the memories of breath taking vistas, and the unique encounters with the wildlife that calls this arid expanse home. The comfort of Jack's Camp awaits, offering a haven amidst the wilderness where you can unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of your desert expedition.

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a drive through the bush towards a traditionally built Bushmen village, a place where the community gathers during the day. While these huts provide shelter from the harsh Kalahari environment, it's important to note that they are not the community's permanent accommodations.
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the elders of the community in a traditional manner, establishing a connection with the rich cultural heritage of the Bushmen. The focus of this immersive experience is to offer a gentle introduction to the Kalahari and the Bushmen way of life.

Following this enriching encounter, indulge in one last lunch at Jack's Camp before bidding a fond farewell in preparation for your onward journey. The memories of your time at Jack's Camp, filled with desert adventures, cultural insights, and the unique encounters with the Kalahari's inhabitants, will undoubtedly stay with you as you continue your exploration of this captivating region.