Kubu Island: A Baobab-studded Sentinel in Botswana's Salt Pans
Explore Kubu Island: An ancient granite outcrop with baobabs in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans, offering history, beauty, and stunning night skies.
Kubu Island, or Lekhubu, is a unique granite outcrop in the middle of Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans. Adorned with ancient baobab trees and historical stone structures, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into prehistoric times.
A brief summary to Kubu Island
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (May to October) for easier access and more comfortable conditions on the pans.
- A 4x4 vehicle is essential for reaching Kubu Island due to the challenging terrain.
- Bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and firewood, as facilities on the island are limited.
- Book your campsite in advance through the Gaing O Community Trust.
- Be respectful of the island's cultural significance and followLeave No Trace principles.
Getting There
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Driving
Kubu Island is typically accessed from the north via Gweta or Nata, or from the south via Mmatshumo. A 4x4 vehicle is essential due to sandy and potentially muddy tracks. The tracks are generally passable during the dry season (May to October). From Gweta or Nata, follow tracks south towards Thabatshukudu Village and then to the Tswagong Veterinary Gate. From Mmatshumo, head north, following signs to Lekhubu. Note that there are no fuel stations or shops near Kubu Island, so stock up in advance at Letlhakane, Nata, or Maun. There are no mandatory tolls. Camping fees are approximately P150 per person per night for international visitors, plus VAT and a park fee.
Discover more about Kubu Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Plot
57.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Botswana's wilderness at The Plot campground, offering tranquility and adventure near Letlhakane's top attractions.
MOLORI LODGE
61.7 km
Experience comfort and affordability at Molori Lodge in Letlhakane, your gateway to Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Jack's Camp
78.8 km
Experience the magic of a 1940s-style safari in the heart of Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans at the luxurious and iconic Jack's Camp.
San Camp
83.2 km
Experience the magic of the Makgadikgadi Pans in luxurious style at San Camp, a unique desert oasis in Botswana's Kalahari.
Camp Kalahari
85.0 km
Experience the magic of the Kalahari at Camp Kalahari: Adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion in Botswana's stunning desert landscape.
Victoria Falls Destinations
85.2 km
Discover Victoria Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder offering stunning views, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural experiences in Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Eselbe Camp Backpackers
87.4 km
Riverside camping and backpacker haven near Nata, Botswana, offering affordable lodging and access to the Makgadikgadi Pans and Nata Bird Sanctuary.
Planet Baobab
94.5 km
Experience Botswana's quirky side at Planet Baobab: Authentic lodging, Kalahari adventures, and unforgettable desert nights near the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Gweta Lodge
95.5 km
Your comfortable base for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans, offering wildlife encounters and cultural experiences in the heart of Botswana.
Unmissable attractions to see
Makgadikgadi adventure camp
16.6 km
Your basecamp for exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans and the iconic Kubu Island in Botswana.
Sua Pan
20.0 km
Experience the surreal beauty of Sua Pan, Botswana: a vast salt pan teeming with wildlife and stunning landscapes in the heart of the Kalahari.
Makadikadi Basin
36.9 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans: Botswana's ancient salt flats, a landscape of stark beauty, unique wildlife, and profound historical significance.
Nata Bird Sanctuary
36.9 km
Discover Botswana's avian paradise: A community-run sanctuary teeming with flamingos, pelicans, and diverse wildlife on the Makgadikgadi Pans.
Makgadikgadi Pans
42.4 km
Explore the surreal beauty and vast landscapes of Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana: wildlife migrations, ancient baobabs, and stark, stunning scenery.
Nwetwe Pan
55.2 km
Discover Botswana's Nwetwe Pan: a seasonal spectacle of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and serene solitude in the heart of the Makgadikgadi.
Orapa Game Park
60.2 km
Discover the enchanting Orapa Game Park, a wildlife haven in Botswana, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Central kalahari Game reserve
62.2 km
Discover the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, a sanctuary for wildlife and San culture in the heart of Botswana.
Mabaka Farm and Campsite
65.0 km
Escape to Mabaka Farm and Campsite in Letlhakane, Botswana, for a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure under the African sky.
Baobab Chapmana
73.7 km
Explore Baobab Chapmana in Tutume, Botswana - a historical landmark featuring majestic baobab trees and rich local culture.
Green’s Baobab
79.8 km
Discover Green's Baobab in Botswana: A historical landmark where explorers left their mark on an ancient African icon.
Nata Lodge
88.6 km
Explore the Makgadikgadi Pans from this comfortable lodge near the Nata Bird Sanctuary, a gateway to Botswana's natural wonders.
Aardvark
95.3 km
Discover Aardvark in Tutume, Botswana: A blend of culture, nature, and adventure in a welcoming village setting.
Joy Pan Tours
95.7 km
Discover Botswana's stunning landscapes and rich culture with Joy Pan Tours in Gweta, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Essential places to dine
Makgadikgadi Lodge
47.7 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Makgadikgadi Lodge, your gateway to Botswana's stunning salt pans and diverse wildlife.
Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments
61.3 km
Experience the comfort of home in Botswana's stunning landscapes at Nxai Pan Self Catering Apartments.
Nxai Pan filling station
61.8 km
Discover Nxai Pan Filling Station: Your essential pit stop for adventure-filled journeys through Botswana's breathtaking landscapes.
Hungry Lion Letlhakane
62.2 km
Experience delicious fried chicken at Hungry Lion Letlhakane - a top destination for fast food lovers in Botswana.
Raffles
62.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Botswana at Raffles Restaurant in Letlhakane, where tradition meets deliciousness.
Nando's Letlhakane
63.7 km
Discover the taste of flame-grilled perfection at Nando's Letlhakane - where Portuguese flavors meet South African hospitality.
Debonairs Pizza
63.7 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Debonairs Pizza in Letlhakane - where quality meets convenience!
Hungry Lion Teemane Mall
63.8 km
Discover the irresistible taste of crispy fried chicken at Hungry Lion Teemane Mall in Letlhakane - where flavor meets convenience.
Executive Catering
66.9 km
Discover a culinary gem in Orapa at Executive Catering—where local flavors meet international tastes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Mophane Restaurant
67.0 km
Discover the flavors of Botswana at Mophane Restaurant in Orapa - where local meets global cuisine.
Wimpy
67.4 km
Experience mouthwatering meals at Wimpy in Orapa – your go-to fast food destination for delicious flavors and convenience.
The Palm Grove
85.2 km
Experience authentic African cuisine at The Palm Grove in Nata - where flavors meet culture.
BOMA - Restaurant and Bar
87.2 km
Experience authentic Botswana flavors at BOMA - Restaurant and Bar in Nata, where every meal tells a story.
Pelican Lodge and Camping
87.2 km
Experience nature's serenity at Pelican Lodge and Camping in Nata, Botswana - your gateway to adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Makgadikgadi Epic
54.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Makgadikgadi Epic, an unforgettable event venue in Botswana that blends culture and nature seamlessly.
Thando's supermarket
56.6 km
Explore the flavors of Botswana at Thando's Supermarket in Sowa, your gateway to local and international culinary delights.
Ounskay tuck shop
60.7 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Ounskay Tuck Shop, your go-to store in Letlhakane for delicious snacks and essential goods.
Mmaosa General Dealer
61.3 km
Explore the heart of Letlhakane at Mmaosa General Dealer, your local grocery store for fresh produce and authentic Botswanan goods.
IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall
61.3 km
Explore the vibrant IKAGO Business Enclave Shopping Mall in Letlhakane - where shopping and local culture come together!
Farmers Butchery
62.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Botswana at Farmers Butchery in Letlhakane – a supermarket that connects you with local culture and fresh produce.
Sefalana Shopper Letlhakane 1
62.2 km
Discover Sefalana Shopper Letlhakane, a vibrant outlet mall in Botswana offering a diverse shopping experience with local and international brands.
SPAR Letlhakane
62.2 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and flavors at SPAR Letlhakane, the supermarket that has it all for tourists exploring Botswana.
Dunns Letlhakane
62.3 km
Explore Dunns Letlhakane for trendy men's and women's clothing that brings local style and culture to your wardrobe.
Choppies Letlhakane
62.4 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Choppies Letlhakane, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and Botswana essentials.
B& M
62.8 km
Discover local treasures and a welcoming atmosphere at B&M in Letlhakane, Botswana, perfect for tourists seeking authentic experiences.
Vikinxere
63.3 km
Explore authentic Botswana at Vikinxere, a smart shop in Letlhakane offering unique local products and a glimpse into the vibrant culture.
LLK TUCKSHOP
63.5 km
Experience the local charm at LLK Tuckshop, Letlhakane's premier destination for quality tack and authentic Botswana culture.
Lemogang tuckshop
63.5 km
Explore the flavors of Botswana at Lemogang Tuckshop, a vibrant general store in Letlhakane offering local delicacies and community spirit.
Baba Wholesale
63.8 km
Discover the heart of Letlhakane at Baba Wholesale, where local culture meets convenience in a vibrant shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Buuhe Pub & Grill
59.3 km
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Pelko Pub Zowa
61.0 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Pelko Pub Zowa in Letlhakane, a lively bar perfect for unwinding with drinks and entertainment.
Sports BAR
61.3 km
Experience the thrill of sports and vibrant nightlife at Letlhakane's Sports Bar, where every game is a celebration.
THE HANEA PUB
61.6 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Letlhakane at The Hanea Pub, where locals and travelers unite for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Noche Lounge
62.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Noche Lounge, Letlhakane's premier bar featuring local drinks, lively atmosphere, and a taste of Botswana's social culture.
Adventure Bar
62.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Adventure Bar in Letlhakane, the perfect spot for relaxation and connection with locals and travelers alike.
Nkosho Bar
62.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local culture at Nkosho Bar in Letlhakane, Botswana's hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
The Big Park
62.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Big Park in Letlhakane, where local culture meets a lively bar atmosphere.
LM Bar
62.9 km
LM Bar in Letlhakane offers a vibrant nightlife experience with a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
Top Centre Bar
62.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Letlhakane at Top Centre Bar, where local flavors and friendly faces create unforgettable memories.
Mphampha Bar
63.1 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Mphampha Bar in Letlhakane, where great drinks and friendly faces await.
Night rider Bar
63.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Letlhakane at Night Rider Bar - a local favorite for drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere.
GNG Bar And Butchery
63.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine at GNG Bar And Butchery in Letlhakane, a must-visit for every traveler.
Sundowner Bar
63.7 km
Discover the charm of Sundowner Bar in Letlhakane, where relaxation meets the vibrant local culture amidst Botswana's breathtaking landscapes.
Golf Club House
67.0 km
Experience the charm of Orapa at the Golf Club House, where relaxation meets the thrill of golf in a scenic setting.
