For avid bird-watchers who are in search of an unforgettable experience, there is one destination that truly stands out above all others: Nata Lodge. Perfectly situated on the edge of the world-renowned Makgadigadi Pans, this exceptional lodge not only provides an incredible opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of this magical landscape but also serves as an ideal stopover on your journey to Chobe. A visit to Nata Lodge will leave lasting memories.
The Nata Lodge offers three accommodation options: chalets, family chalets and safari tents.
Eight en suite chalets are built on a platform overlooking the Didibakwe river and in the shade of Ilala palm trees.
Two of these chalets have outdoor showers and Victorian ball-and-claw baths (ask for the Luxury chalets).
On the southern boundary of Nata Lodge, there are 12 A-frame chalets, each with a stone verandah and semi-open bathroom. All the chalets offer ceiling fans and a safe to lock away your valuables.
The meru-style custom-built tents of the Nata Lodge are unique. Ten tents (all with en suite bathrooms) are pitched on wooden platforms in the shade of Marula trees.
The campsite makes for an unforgettable stay below African skies. Ablution facilities are well-kept and offer semi-open showers with hot and cold water. Please note that the campsite does not have electricity points.
Nata Lodge is right on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans – the largest salt pans in the world and the remains of Africa’s largest inland sea. The Lodge is located among Mokolwane palms on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans. GPS: 20 13 53.06S, 26 15 90.73E
book a salt pan sunset drive, breakfast below the baobabs, Nata village tour or paddle the Nata River
Executive equipment includes a projector with screens and speakers, water and refreshments, stationary and seating.
Bird watchers simply love our lodge. See plenty of species from the comfort of the pool deck, bar or breakfast table.
Homely and generous meals include burgers, breakfasts and our renowned oxtail. And ice-cold beer.
Across the public areas
Soak up the African sun at the palm-shaded pool.
The Nata River forms a delta which feeds Sanctuary’s Sua Pan. This is the breeding ground for huge numbers of water birds such as flamingos and pelicans.
A guided tour in one of the Nata Lodge’s open vehicles into the Sanctuary is not to be missed. Almost 165 bird species have been recorded in the Sanctuary.
The Nata Lodge is surrounded by many trees and these are home to many birds of different species.
A water feature and bird feeding area ensure that there are always birds and bird antics to watch. Among the species that are found at Nata Lodge, is Paradise Wydah, Crested Francolin, Meyers Parrot etc. At night, the nocturnal birds supply the entertainment.
Nata Lodge offers a fine restaurant with a la carte menu, while guests can enjoy a braai buffet in the boma on Saturday evenings.
BOTSWANA LODGES
As previously mentioned Francistown, Botswana second largest city is 200 km south of Nata Lodge. The Thapama Hotel is the most luxurious hotel and the Marang Gardens Hotel in the same city offers excellent value for money. If you wants to visit Chobe National Park and Kasane after your visit to Nata Lodge consider the Mowana Safari Lodge on the banks of the Chobe River 300 km to the North. In The West of the country and 500 km from Nata Lodge is two lodges which we recommends namely Thakadu Camp which is just five km from Ghanzi in Botswana. Thakadu Camp is on a private game reserve and it offers en-suite accommodation in chalets and Meru tents. If you prefer more luxury accommodation consider Kalahari Arms Hotel which is the most luxurious hotel in at the gateway to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
The nearest airport to Nata Lodge is at Francistown or Kasane or Maun. All more than 200 km away. If you want to include Nata Lodge as part of a 4x4 trip you will need to hire a fully equipped 4x4 vehicle. Johannesburg 4x4 Hire provide excellent Landcruisers not only in South Africa but also in Botswana.
NAMIBIA LODGES
Allow two days to drive from Nata Lodge to Swakopmund in Namibia. Perhaps a good place for an overnight stop will be one of above mentioned lodges. In Swakopmund Nata Lodge believe that Alte Brucke self-catering (self-contained) accommodation near the beach will be your answer. If you decided to visit Etosha National Park try Etosha Lodge just south of the Etosha National Park. Sossusvlei Lodge at Sesriem is an upmarket and luxury lodge more than a 1000 km from Nata. There are also some fine Swakopmund Hotels.
ZIMBABWE LODGES
From Nata Lodge you can continue along the main road and then cross the border at Pandamatenga into Zimbabwe. This will mean that you are in a wilderness area within two hours after you left Nata. From Pandamatenga it will take you 2 hours to reach Victoria Falls where A'Zambezi River Lodge is the only hotel on the banks of the Zambezi River a few km upstream from the water fall. If you plan a visit to Harare the capital city consider The Rainbow Towers Hotel which was previously known as the Sheraton Hotel Harare.
