Kubu Island, Makgadikgadi Pans Travel Guide

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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kubu Island.

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.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Nata Bird Sanctuary

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Makgadikgadi adventure camp

Sua Pan

Kumaga Entrance to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Explore Kubu Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kubu Island, mapped for you.

Getting There

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

Kubu Island, also known as Lekhubu, is a captivating and remote destination rising from the vast, flat expanse of the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana. This island, a granite rock formation estimated to be over two billion years old, stands as a testament to time and geological forces. Once an island in a prehistoric lake, it's now a unique landmark in the middle of the largest salt flat complex in the world.The island is crowned with ancient, gnarled baobab trees, some over 2,000 years old, creating a surreal and beautiful landscape. These trees, with their massive trunks and sprawling branches, provide shade and a striking contrast to the surrounding white salt. The island also holds archaeological significance, with evidence of prehistoric human presence, including stone tools and rock engravings.Kubu Island is considered a sacred site by local communities, adding a spiritual dimension to its allure. The island's isolation makes it an ideal location for stargazing, offering unparalleled views of the night sky. Visitors can explore the island on foot, taking in the panoramic views, ancient stone cairns, and unique flora and fauna. Camping is available, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the island's tranquility and beauty.