About
Piper Pan is a large seasonal pan in Botswana, in southern Africa. It is a lake that appears only when the rains are good. In those years the flat basin fills with water and becomes a gathering place for birds, drawing thousands of flamingos and a wide range of other waterfowl.
What to expect
The pan sits in a semi-arid landscape, where most of the ground is dry for much of the year. Against that backdrop, the water and the palm islands scattered across it create an oasis effect that stands out clearly. A visit is best suited to those interested in birdlife and open, quiet scenery rather than built attractions, since the appeal lies in the setting and the birds themselves.
Who it suits
- Birdwatchers hoping to see flamingos and waterfowl in numbers
- Travellers interested in Botswana's wetlands and semi-arid country
- Photographers drawn to wide skies, water and palm islands
Because the pan is seasonal, its water levels depend on the rains. Visitors should bear in mind that in a dry year the lake may be much smaller or absent, so it is sensible to check conditions before setting out. Those who arrive when the water is high will find the experience at its fullest.