Kubu island is important, sacred site for local people of all nations up to this day. Those men who are older than 16, come here to make a contact with God, here they may sing a special song for rain. Offerings are left here up to this day.
Most likely the original local name of the site is Ga'nnyo, given by local Khoe people (1). Current name of the island - Kubu - means "large rock" in Kalanga language. Often it is mentioned that its name comes from "hippopotamus" in Tswana language, what seems to be an error.
First white tourists came here in the late 1970ies. Soon the site got a fame of mysterious, legendary site - some thought that it is ancient city built by Phoenicians, others reported sightings of mysterious beings. Soon, in 1980ies mass tourism came, taking away much of the pristine feel.
Nowadays this place is one of most popular landmarks in Botswana. Tourists arrive here with four wheel drives and occasionally stay overnight, using the basic facilities at the site.