Plizio Visual Lab

Letlhakane Depression

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Relief

Weather…

The Letlhakane Depression is an extensive geomorphological low-lying area in north-central Botswana, geologically linked to the vast Makgadikgadi Basin system. Characterized by flat, often saline pans and fossil drainage lines, the depression remains dry for most of the year, collecting surface water only during periods of exceptional rainfall. The region is of immense economic importance due to its proximity to world-class diamond deposits, with the Letlhakane mine serving as a cornerstone of the local industry since the 1970s. The landscape features a mix of sparse grasslands and thorn-scrub savannah, with soils often marked by calcrete deposits and light-colored Kalahari sands. Climatically, the area experiences significant temperature extremes, with scorching summers and cold winter nights, supporting a resilient ecosystem of desert-adapted species. Historically, the depression was a significant seasonal hunting and gathering ground for Basarwa and Bangwato communities. Today, while mining infrastructure dominates the local topography, the open expanses of the depression continue to facilitate the movement of migratory ungulates across the central plains.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	25	23	19	16	16	19	23	27	28	28
Rain mm	88	72	48	21	3	7	0	0	4	22	50	80

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to this low-lying basin in central Botswana generally requires traveling on regional unpaved tracks, and a robust 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended.

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Best season

The dry winter months are considered the best time to visit, as the intense summer rains can turn the depression into impassable, muddy terrain.

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Terrain & paths

The landscape is characterized by expansive flat pans, low scrub vegetation, and loose sandy soils surrounding significant areas of geological interest.

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What to bring

Visitors must pack excessive quantities of drinking water, comprehensive sun protection, self-recovery vehicle gear, and sturdy, enclosed footwear.

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Parking

Vehicles are mostly parked near established camps or the edges of the depression, as driving directly onto the fragile pans can sometimes be restricted.

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Safety

The sheer isolation, extreme daytime heat, and lack of nearby facilities mean travelers must be completely self-sufficient and capable of handling emergencies.

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Time needed

A proper overland journey to traverse the Letlhakane Depression and observe its unique geography often requires a minimum of one or two full days of travel.

Geography

Coordinates

-21.40000, 25.60000

Facts

Geologically connected to the Makgadikgadi Basin
Home to the Letlhakane diamond mine, opened in 1976
Landscape consists of saline pans and scrub savannah
Significant for its underlying kimberlite formations
The depression functions as a seasonal grazing area
Features distinct calcrete soil layers and fine sands

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Letlhakane Diamond Mine2 km · SWExplore →

Karowe Diamond Mine17 km · SWExplore →

Damtshaa Diamond Mine20 km · SEExplore →

Orapa Diamond Mine27 km · SExplore →

Kubu Island57 km · NEExplore →

Sowa Pan Soda Ash Plant99 km · NEExplore →

Makgadikgadi Pans112 km · SEExplore →

Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration127 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Letlhakane Depression (1)

Letlhakane📍 landmark

A depression in the Kalahari Desert, known for its salt pans and diamond deposits.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Letlhakane Depression?

A flat, mostly dry depression in central Botswana, surrounded by significant mining areas.

Are there wild animals there?

Rarer than in parks due to industrial proximity, but antelopes and ostriches can be spotted.

What is the climate like in Letlhakane?

Very dry and hot; in summer, temperatures often rise above 35 degrees Celsius.

Can you drive in the area with a normal car?

Main roads are paved, but an off-road vehicle is advisable for the depression itself.

What is the economic base of the region?

The region relies almost exclusively on diamond mining (Letlhakane and Orapa mines).

Letlhakane Depression: where is it located?

Letlhakane Depression is located in Botswana.

Letlhakane Depression: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

Letlhakane Depression: why is it worth visiting?

The Letlhakane Depression is an extensive geomorphological low-lying area in north-central Botswana, geologically linked to the vast Makgadikgadi Basin system.

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