Things to do in Kubu Island
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kubu Island has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the enduring landmarks and ancient landscapes that define Kubu Island and the Makgadikgadi region.
Kubu Island
A remote granite island in the Makgadikgadi Pan famed for its ancient baobabs and stark desert beauty.
Baobab trees of Kubu Island
A forest of ancient baobabs stands on the island, creating a dramatic and iconic desert landscape.
Makgadikgadi Pan landscapes
The vast salt pans offer surreal, photograph-worthy vistas that define the region.
Museums
There are no dedicated museums on Kubu Island itself; nearby towns offer cultural showcases and exhibitions.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding museums recommendations for Kubu Island. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Religious Monuments
There are no major religious monuments on Kubu Island; focus is on natural landscapes and local communities.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Kubu Island. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
The Makgadikgadi region is dominated by vast pans and national parks offering unique desert safaris.
Makgadikgadi Pan National Park
Protects the expansive salt pans and supports desert safaris across the Makgadikgadi.
Nxai Pan National Park
Famous for its seasonal wildlife gatherings and dramatic baobab-studded landscapes near the Makgadikgadi area.
Kubu Island within Makgadikgadi Pan NP
The island sits in the park’s heart, offering remote camping and dramatic scenery.
Neighborhoods
Nearby towns and villages serve as bases for exploring the Makgadikgadi region.
Gweta
A small town and gateway base for Makgadikgadi adventures and park logistics.
Nata
Desert-service town offering supplies and access to the Makgadikgadi region.
Rakops
Regional hub near the southern edge of the pan where travelers pass through.
Free Things to Do
Make the most of the natural surroundings with these no-cost activities.
Stargazing on the Makgadikgadi Pan
The clear desert skies make for spectacular stargazing after dark.
Sunrise walk to the edge of the pans
Gently walk the desolate salt flats at first light for incredible lighting.
Self-guided baobab and desert flora stroll
A relaxed stroll to spot iconic trees and shrubs along the island.
Gastronomy
Sample traditional Botswana flavors and campfire favorites in the Makgadikgadi.
Seswaa with pap lunch
Traditional shredded beef served with maize meal, a Botswana staple.
Mopane worm tasting
Try this protein-rich local snack commonly found in camps.
Botswana braai under the stars
Campfire barbecue featuring local meats and classic flavors.
Nightlife
After dark, the desert comes alive with fires, wildlife, and stargazing.
Campfire evenings with guides and storytelling
Relax by a fire as guides share local folklore and wildlife tales.
Evening wildlife spotlighting
Guided spotlight drives reveal nocturnal desert life.
Stargazing with astronomer guides
Specialized sessions to appreciate the southern Milky Way.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and performances add color to a Makgadikgadi visit.
San storytelling and cultural performances
Local San communities share stories and traditional songs when available.
Traditional music and dance at camps
Evening performances celebrate Botswana’s cultural heritage.
Photography workshops under the pan night sky
Learn desert photography techniques amidst remarkable night light.
Sports
Adventure activities that keep you moving across the wide pans.
Camel safaris across the Makgadikgadi Pan
Ride camels across the flat pans for a classic desert experience.
Quad biking across the salt pans
Zip across the white expanse on a guided quad tour.
Horseback riding through the desert plains
Traverse the landscape on horseback for a different perspective.
Off the Track
Go beyond the well-trodden routes with these hidden or less-visited experiences.
Overnight camping on Kubu Island
Sleep under the stars on the island for an unforgettable desert night.
Remote baobab grove exploration
Visit secluded clusters of ancient trees away from crowds.
Sunrise photography expedition across the pans
Capture the pan’s vast light as the day begins.