Orapa

Orapa is a mining town purpose-built by Debswana (a De Beers–Botswana government partnership) to serve the Orapa diamond mine, one of the largest diamond-producing mines in the world. The town is a company settlement with planned housing, recreational facilities, and a highly controlled, orderly layout. Public access is restricted; visitors require a permit from Debswana. The town has no traditional village character — it is a modern, clean, gated mining community surrounded by the Kalahari bush.

By Plane

Orapa has a private airstrip for company flights. Public access is via Letlhakane Airport (5 km south), which has domestic flights from Gaborone.

By Train

By Car / Road

Orapa is 10 km south of Letlhakane on the A3 highway, 170 km east of Maun and 130 km west of Serowe. Access to the town itself requires a Debswana permit arranged in advance.

The town is compact and walkable. A private vehicle is needed for trips to Letlhakane and the surrounding region.

• The Orapa Mine — visitors may arrange a mine tour through Debswana in advance; a fascinating look at Botswana's diamond economy.
• Letlhakane area — 10 km north, for provisions and access to the Makgadikgadi Pans.

• Orapa Club — a social club with a restaurant and bar for Debswana employees and authorised guests.

• Orapa Club bar — serves Botswana lagers and spirits.

• Orapa Lodge — accommodation for authorised visitors, managed by Debswana, about P400–600 per night.

• Orapa Shopping Complex — supermarket and basic retail for town residents. Visitors staying in Letlhakane can shop there instead.

• Letlhakane — 10 km south, with better shopping, fuel, and guesthouses.
• Makgadikgadi Pans National Park — 80 km north of Letlhakane, for the salt pans.
• Maun — 180 km west, gateway to the Okavango Delta.