Nata Bird Sanctuary

About this place

Nata Bird Sanctuary is a community-managed reserve at the northeastern edge of Sua Pan, part of the Makgadikgadi system in Botswana. It lies at the mouth of the Nata River delta and is known for huge flocks of flamingos, when the shallow water after rain turns into a wide pink scene. Planning began in 1988 and it opened in 1993, covering 230 square kilometres, of which 45 percent lies within the pan. People from four villages, Nata, Sepako, Maposa and Manxotae, moved about 3,500 cattle to adjacent land so it could be set up, and built a network of dirt roads. It won a Tourism for Tomorrow award in its first year. About 165 bird species have been recorded, led by greater and lesser flamingos, whose numbers are reported at around 250,000 a year, along with great white pelicans and other water birds. A raised wooden platform looks out over the white pan to the horizon. Kudu, gemsbok, zebras and other animals live here too, though in limited numbers. It lies about 15 km from Nata village, and birds are best seen after the rainy season when water sources are full, though you may not see flamingos in a dry year. Dirt roads can be hard in the rains, so ask at the gate before you enter. Bring binoculars, water and a hat, as shade is scarce and the light on the salt is harsh.