1 / 4Nata
Size
230 km²
Elevation
900 m
Entry fee
$25
Ideal stay
2 days
Established
1993
Nearest airport
Maun International Airport (MUB), 300 km west; Francistown International Airport (FRW), 180 km east; both offer connections to regional and international flights
About Nata
Best time to visit
Wildlife highlights
Things to do
Getting there
Nearest town: Nata village, 15 kilometers south — small junction town with fuel, supplies, and basic lodging; Maun, 300 km west — main safari hub; Francistown, 180 km east — regional transport hub
Safari packages visiting Nata
7 days
Africa Uncovered Safaris7-Day Botswana Magic & Majestic Victoria Falls
From $2,590 per person
14-Day Botswana Explorer: Wildlife & Wonder
From $2,640 per person
Adventure Safari ExpertsBotswana's Ultimate Wildlife Explorer
From $2,640 per person
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Nata Bird Sanctuary?
Entry fees are approximately $25 USD per person. Guided sunset game drives cost about $30 per person for two hours. Daily costs range $100–150 including meals and accommodation at nearby lodges like Nata Lodge. Many travelers combine Nata with nearby <a href="/destinations/makgadikgadi-pans-national-park-1762716819238">Makgadikgadi Pans</a> visits. Compare safari packages on SafariFind to find the best pricing for your itinerary.
What is the best time to visit Nata Bird Sanctuary?
October to March (wet season) is optimal for birdwatching. Seasonal flooding attracts massive flamingo flocks and migratory species, creating peak viewing conditions. December to February is peak season with the most birds and tourists. May to September (dry season) offers clearer skies and fewer mosquitoes, but bird concentrations drop significantly. October and March are shoulder months with good activity and fewer crowds.
What wildlife can you see at Nata Bird Sanctuary?
Over 500 bird species inhabit Nata, with Lesser and Greater flamingos being the signature species, especially during wet season breeding. Common sightings include African pelicans, saddle-billed storks, fish eagles, and migratory waders. Larger animals include wildebeest, zebras, spotted hyenas, occasional elephants, giraffes, ostriches, and impalas. The sanctuary is not known for Big Five viewing; it specializes in waterbirds and salt pan wildlife.
How do you get to Nata Bird Sanctuary?
Nata is located on the A3 highway between Francistown (180 km east) and Maun (300 km west). Francistown International Airport (FRW) and Maun International Airport (MUB) both offer flights. Self-drive is most practical: 3–4 hours from Francistown, 4–5 hours from Maun. Standard vehicles work during dry season (May–September); 4WD recommended October onward when tracks soften. Public buses stop in Nata village; the sanctuary is 1 km away.