Baines’ Baobabs Day Trip
Overview
Baines’ Baobabs—a cluster of seven ancient baobab trees (Adansonia digitata), some over 1,000 years old—rise dramatically from the edge of Kudiakam Pan like a scene from a painting. They were immortalized by British explorer and artist Thomas Baines in 1862 during his expedition with James Chapman, and remarkably, they look almost unchanged today. Located in the southern part of Nxai Pan National Park (adjacent to Makgadikgadi Pans), —think surreal saltflats, fossil riverbeds, and potential wildlife like giraffes, springbok, In November with the green season just starting, expect greening grasslands, fewer tourists, and vibrant birdlife, though roads may soften with early rains.
5:30: Depart Gweta
Head west on the A3 (, scenic with baobab-dotted plains). Arrive at the gate ~65 km away.
Enter Park & Drive South
Follow the main track north ~20 km through open grasslands. Watch for oryx, kudu, or ostriches. The landscape opens to ancient fossil riverbeds—prime for golden-hour photos.
Head back, scanning for elephants or lions near waterholes (rarer this early in season).
