Jacks Camp

On the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans’ western basin lies the Ntetwe Pan, the stunning location for the Jack’s Camp and the San Camp, both run by Wilderness Safaris.

Jack's is beautifully set on an isolated island dotted with tall fan palms and commiphora trees. Doubtlessly, the location is one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring regions of the Kalahari.

Incidentally, the camp is named after the legendary, some say infamous, pioneer Jack Bousefield, whose son Ralph Bousefield built the exceptional accommodation together with his wife Catherin Rapaely. To this day, the camp is run by the dedicated couple.

The saltpans come alive when the migratory animals pass through the region. After the great rains (December to April), the area is visited by huge herds of wildebeests, zebras and springboks arriving from the savannah, closely followed by their predators.

In this season, the pans fill with water and attract countless water birds, such as flamingos, wattled cranes and pelicans.

In the dry season, or wintertime, many animals again leave for the Boteti River. Others however have adapted to the desert-like conditions and are resident year-round. Brown Hyenas, Meercats, and Aardvarks are just some of the animals to be found here.

Despite its harsh character, the region offers more than the fascinating wildlife. Ralph Bousefield and his gamekeepers have made many archaeological discoveries in the region, fossilized proof that men inhabited this area in the Stone Age.

Ntetwe Pan is an extremely fragile but spellbinding environment. The management and guides take great care to protect the pristine nature. The Kalahari and Jack’s Camp are a destination for those looking for truly remote experiences.