Note that you should never attempt to drive across the pan from the east side to the west, or vice versa – even during the dry season.

Sowa Pan Mine (Soda-ash factory)

This modern industrial complex seems strangely out of place here, especially as it is easily reached, 40km along a tarred road. The turn-off is about 48km south of Nata on the road to Francistown.

South Islands

About 7km south of Kubu, far out on the pan, are two other small islands. They too have Baobab trees and the larger one, on the east, has a series of rocks cairns along its spine.

Kukome Island (also spelt 'Kukonje' Island)

On the eastern shore of Sua Pan, roughly opposite Kubu, Kukome Island (GPS: KUKOME) has similar fossil beaches and ancient remains. To reach here, first head for the Kwadiba Veterinary Gate (GPS: KWADIB) on the east side of Sua Pan, from where a track leads west for about 7km to Kukome Island. (Beware: the GPS point given for the Kwadiba Gate on older editions of the Shell map doesn't seem correct to me.)

Mmatshumo Village

Mmatshumo (GPS: MMATSH) is a small village on the south side of the pans, between Sua and Ntwetwe pans – as well as an important waypoint when you're navigating yourselves around.

Thabatshukudu Village

Thabatshukudu (GPS: THABAT) is another village, notable for the landmark of its colourfully painted general dealer's store – and another useful waypoint when navigating yourselves around.