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Community-Based Conservation Since 1993

Guardians of the Sua Pan’s flamingo skies

Nata Bird Sanctuary is a community-managed reserve on the edge of the Makgadikgadi wetlands — protecting one of Africa’s largest flamingo breeding sites while supporting four neighbouring villages.

230 km²
Protected Sanctuary
165+
Bird Species Recorded
250,000
Flamingos at Peak
4
Partner Villages

Discover Nata Bird Sanctuary

Experience the stunning seasonal wetlands of the Sua Pan, the rich birdlife, and the living story of community conservation in northeastern Botswana.

A Living Conservation Story

From community idea to conservation landmark

In 1988 the Nata Conservation Committee set out to protect the wetland birdlife of the Sua Pan while creating real economic opportunity for the people who live closest to it. Five years later the Nata Bird Sanctuary was gazetted — and it remains one of Botswana’s most successful community-based conservation projects.

Today the Trust is governed by a board of trustees elected by the villages of Nata, Sepako, Maposa and Manxotae. Every visitor contributes directly to wetland protection and local livelihoods.

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Quick Facts

  • 230 km² community-managed sanctuary on the Sua Pan
  • One of only three major flamingo breeding sites in Africa
  • Recognised Important Bird and Biodiversity Area
  • ≈15–20 km south of Nata village, off the A3
  • Best visiting season: January – April

See the sanctuary

A short film about Nata Bird Sanctuary and the communities who protect it.

Every visit protects a wetland and supports a village

Whether you are a birder, overlander or simply curious about community conservation in Botswana — your visit funds the work of the Trust and the four partner villages.

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