Botswana · Makgadikgadi Salt Pans & Nxai Pan National Park

Planet Baobab

About

Planet Baobab

Planet Baobab is a truly unique safari lodge located in the "Baobab Capital of the World," where ancient baobab trees stand sentinel over the vast, lunar-like landscape of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana. This quirky desert oasis offers an unforgettable experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the remote beauty of the Kalahari Desert and interact with its fascinating wildlife and local culture. It's a place where adventure meets comfort, offering a blend of basic yet Afro-chic accommodation and exciting activities. The lodge is celebrated for its distinctive character, having been voted one of the top 10 most extraordinary places to stay in the world by Lonely Planet. Guests can sleep in traditional Bakalanga Huts, cool off in the largest swimming pool in the Kalahari, and enjoy delicious pan-African cuisine. The "funkiest bar in Africa" provides a vibrant gathering spot for travelers and locals alike, making Planet Baobab a memorable and authentic African experience that few will encounter but all will cherish.

Highlights

  • Voted one of the top 10 most extraordinary places to stay in the world by Lonely Planet
  • Located in the Baobab Capital of the World, amidst 4000-year-old baobab trees and the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
  • Offers a unique blend of "basic but oh so Afro-chic" Bakalanga Huts and camping options
  • Features the largest and coolest swimming pool in the Kalahari
  • Provides a wide range of activities including baobab bushwalks, quad biking, game drives, and cultural village visits

What makes it special

  • Experience the vast remoteness of the Makgadikgadi Pans and Kalahari Desert.
  • Sleep in traditional Bakalanga Huts, offering an Afro-chic and authentic accommodation experience.
  • Engage in unique activities like quad biking across the pans and interacting with Kalahari meerkats.
  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the "funkiest bar in Africa," a hub for travelers and locals.
  • Contribute to conservation efforts through the Makgadikgadi-Nxai Pans Conservation Initiative, supporting the mammal migration.

Facilities

  • 18 thatched huts (8 twin Bakalanga, 7 twin Baobab, 3 Bakalanga Family) with air-conditioning
  • 6 camping spaces with shared bathroom facilities
  • 3 overland camping sites
  • Ensuite bathrooms with indoor showers in huts
  • Largest swimming pool in the Kalahari
  • Funky bar and restaurant with à la carte menu
  • Quirky tea garden designed by local artists
  • Massage treatments (additional cost)
  • Wi-Fi available
  • Battery charging facilities in main guest area and rooms
  • Child-friendly (child rates apply to guests 18 and under)
  • DBB (dinner, bed, and breakfast) included for hut accommodation; lunch extra
  • Accessible by two-wheel drive; road transfers and flights available