Plizio Visual Lab

Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

The zebra migration in the Makgadikgadi Pans is the second largest of its kind in Africa after the Serengeti migration, representing a fascinating biological phenomenon. Thousands of zebras and wildebeests trek annually between the Boteti River in the west and the mineral-rich grasslands of the salt pans in the east. During the rainy season from November to March, the herds migrate to the pans to benefit from nutrient-dense grasses and surface water. In the dry season, as the pans desiccate, they return to the Boteti River, which provides the only permanent water source in the region. The journey covers a distance of over 500 kilometers and is fraught with dangers from predators like lions and hyenas. Researchers utilize GPS collars to track movement patterns and protect vital migration corridors from human encroachment. This migration is a critical driver for the ecological balance of the Kalahari ecosystem.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	27	26	24	20	17	16	20	24	28	29	28
Rain mm	100	96	59	23	2	4	0	0	3	16	49	91

📋 Practical info

📅

Best season

The zebra migration mainly occurs in the rainy season from November to March, when fresh grass sprouts on the pans. In other months the animals are usually elsewhere.

🌅

Best time of day

Early morning zebras are most active when moving in long columns across the pans. Late afternoon they can often be seen drinking at the few water holes.

📜

Etiquette

Keep at least 50 metres distance from the migrating herds to avoid disturbing them. Drive slowly and avoid getting between the animals as this can cause panic.

🎒

What to bring

Binoculars with long range are important to spot zebras in the flat landscape. A telephoto lens for your camera or a spotting scope helps capture details without getting too close.

🧭

Getting there

The migration takes place on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, which are accessible only with a 4x4 vehicle. Local guided tours are strongly recommended to safely locate the migration routes.

🦌

What to expect

Zebras can cover long distances and sometimes are not seen for hours. Find a raised observation point and wait - the herds often appear unexpectedly on the horizon.

Geography

Coordinates

-20.50000, 24.80000

Facts

It is recognized as the second longest land mammal migration in Africa.
The herds complete an annual round-trip of approximately 500 kilometers.
Up to 25,000 zebras participate in this large-scale seasonal movement.
The Boteti River is the essential dry-season refuge for the animals.
For decades, the migration was blocked by veterinary disease-control fences.
Mineral-rich grasses found on the pans are vital for the health of foals.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Makgadikgadi Pans22 km · NExplore →

Boteti River46 km · SExplore →

Nxai Pan National Park60 km · EExplore →

Boteti River Region79 km · SWExplore →

Boteti River Birdwatching81 km · SWExplore →

Orapa Diamond Mine104 km · NWExplore →

Damtshaa Diamond Mine107 km · NWExplore →

Kubu Island120 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration (1)

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park🌿 nature

This vast savanna reserve is renowned for encompassing enormous salt pans and hosting one of the largest zebra migrations in Africa.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When does the zebra migration in Makgadikgadi take place?

The migration takes place during the rainy season from December to March.

Where is the best place to see the zebras?

Sightings are best in the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pan National Parks.

Is the migration dangerous for tourists?

No, as long as you stay in the vehicle and follow the guides' instructions.

What other animals follow the migration?

Predators like lions and hyenas follow the herds in search of food.

Can the migration be experienced on foot?

For safety reasons, this is strongly discouraged; guided game drives are standard.

Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration: where is it located?

Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration is located in Botswana.

Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration: why is it worth visiting?

The zebra migration in the Makgadikgadi Pans is the second largest of its kind in Africa after the Serengeti migration, representing a fascinating biological phenomenon.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →