What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

Kubu Island

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

Kubu Island is a must-visit destination during a Botswana safari for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Rising up from the flat landscape and among baobab trees, these granite rocks are estimated to be over two billion years old and are considered sacred by some locals. The rocky outcrop of Kubu Island is located in the wildlife-rich Makgadigadi Pans and offers travellers a truly surreal landscape to photograph. Due to the low light pollution here, stargazing is a magical experience!

Top Destinations Near Kubu Island

The rock formations as well as the surrounding Makgadikgadi Pans offer incredible views and photography opportunities:

Granite Boulders and Baobabs: The Ultimate Stargazing Experience

The massive granite rock formations set against the sparse landscape are an otherworldly sight to see. Majestic baobab trees further make this area an amazing place for photographers.

No matter what time of the day you go, you’ll have an incredible view, especially in the evening when you can see millions of stars dot the night sky.

Surrounding Salt Pans: An Otherworldly Destination

Experience the vast, otherworldly expanse of the Makgadikgadi Pans. One of the largest salt pans in the world, during the dry season they appear as a white, endless stretch of land.

When the rains come, it transforms into lush grass plains that attract bird species as well as herds of zebras and wildebeest.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Kubu Island?

For easy access to the rock formations and a more comfortable, less wet experience, it’s advised to visit during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This time of the year sees the Makgadikgadi Pans at their driest, which makes them easier to drive on. To see wildlife, you’ll need to concentrate your efforts on the remaining water sources in the area.

Animals Found Near Kubu Island

Wildlife is sparse at Kubu Island, with mostly only migratory birds and small mammals here. In the larger Makgadikgadi Pans, animal highlights include zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest, with occasional sightings of elephants, lions, leopards, and hyenas.

How to Get to Kubu Island

Kubu Island is accessible by 4×4 vehicles. While on your Botswana safari, your lodge’s included game drives could feature a trip to this mystical area. A popular route is from Gweta or Nata, which will take you across the Makgadikgadi Pans.

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

Murielle Vegezzi, Destination Expert

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Help me plan

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
Thoughtful, thorough, responsive, and great organization of trip

Southern Kruger Safari and Cape Town Adventure Review

Bob Bender, United States
10 Jan 2025
A experience tailor made beyond our wildest dreams

Highlights of Southern Africa

Moyra, Canada
25 Nov 2024
Very accommodating and great at communicating in a timely manner

Rovos Rail, Victoria Falls & Cape Town

Richard, United States
08 Oct 2024
Good support for a fantastic tour.

5-Day Victoria Falls and Chobe Safari Review

Leo Kim, South Korea
25 Jul 2024
This was an exciting Safari experience.

12 Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari Experience Review

Joseph, United States
16 Jul 2024
More than excellent! Megan is very professional.