Nata Bird Sanctuary

Nata Bird Sanctuary, located on the northern edge of Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Spanning 230 square kilometers, this community-managed sanctuary is famous for its diverse birdlife, especially during the rainy season when the pans fill with water, attracting migratory and resident birds.

Over 165 bird species can be found here, with the Greater and Lesser Flamingos being the highlight. Thousands of flamingos gather to feed and breed, turning the pans into a stunning pink spectacle. White Pelicans, African Spoonbills, and waders like Black-winged Stilts and Pied Avocets are also common sights. Raptors such as the African Fish Eagle and Martial Eagle soar overhead, enhancing the birdwatching experience.

The surrounding grasslands host wildlife like springbok, wildebeest, and zebras. The peak birdwatching season is from November to March when flamingos and pelicans are abundant. Visitors can explore the sanctuary by vehicle, with a main viewing platform offering excellent opportunities to observe the birds.

As a community-managed area, the sanctuary ensures tourism benefits local livelihoods and conservation efforts. While there’s no accommodation within the sanctuary, nearby Nata village provides lodging options and guided bird-watching tours. A visit to Nata Bird Sanctuary offers a remarkable experience of Botswana’s avian diversity and conservation commitment.