Things To Do
in Kasane
Kasane is a town located in the northeastern part of Botswana, near the borders of Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is known for its close proximity to Chobe National Park, one of the most popular wildlife reserves in Africa. The town serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the park and offers various accommodations and amenities.
Kasane is also a thriving hub for safari activities, including game drives, boat cruises, and birdwatching adventures.
- "Dumelang" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Tsamaya sentle" - Goodbye
- "O eng?" - What is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an exciting game drive in Chobe National Park, where you'll have the chance to see elephants and lions in their natural habitat. Bring your camera for some stunning wildlife photography.
Enjoy a packed lunch by the riverside while watching the wildlife around you. After lunch, embark on a boat cruise along the Chobe River to spot crocodiles and hippos.
Return to your lodge and freshen up before dinner. Enjoy a traditional Botswana meal under the stars, listening to the sounds of the African night.
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast before heading out on a tranquil boat cruise on the Chobe River. Experience the morning wildlife as the sun rises over the water.
After your cruise, explore Kasane town, visiting local shops and markets for souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant with beautiful views.
Wind down with a sunset cruise, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the river. Return to your accommodation for dinner and share stories of the day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich wildlife and stunning natural scenery, including access to Chobe National Park.
- A gateway to see the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls.
- Cultural experiences with local communities and traditions.
- Opportunities for safari adventures and eco-tourism.
- Growing infrastructure and facilities for tourists.
- Limited urban amenities compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism can affect local businesses.
- Infrastructure issues such as roads and public transport can be challenging.
- Hot climate may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Potential for wildlife encounters could pose risks.
Best Activities in Kasane
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the rich wildlife of Chobe National Park with guided game drives or boat safaris, where you can see elephants, lions, hyenas, and a variety of bird species.
Enjoy a tranquil boat cruise on the Chobe River, offering stunning views of the riverbanks and an opportunity to spot wildlife drinking at the river's edge.
Engage in sport fishing on the Chobe River, targeting species like tiger fish and bream in the picturesque waters surrounded by wildlife.
Visit local villages to learn about the culture and traditions of the Tswana people, including traditional dance performances and craft markets.
Participate in birdwatching excursions, particularly around the Chobe River and wetlands, which are home to a vast array of bird species.
Explore the beautiful landscapes around Kasane on a quad biking tour, suitable for adventure seekers looking for a thrilling outdoor experience.
Kayak on the Zambezi River for a peaceful yet adventurous way to see wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery, often accompanied by knowledgeable guides.
Join a photo safari tailored for photographers, focusing on capturing the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of Kasane and its surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kasane with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kasane
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, Chobe National Park offers breathtaking views of the river and abundant opportunities for wildlife photography.
Located near Kasane, this viewpoint provides spectacular views of the iconic Victoria Falls and is perfect for capturing the majesty of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
This island, situated at the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, offers unique perspectives of the rivers and is a great spot for sunset photography.
The riverfront area is perfect for stunning sunset and sunrise shots, as well as wildlife photography, featuring elephants and hippos near the water.
This lodge provides beautiful views of the Chobe River and surrounding landscapes, making it a great place for relaxing and capturing scenic photos.
Food in Kasane
Kasane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Botswana dish consisting of slow-cooked beef, typically served with pap (maize porridge) and a side of vegetables. It can be savored at Mowana Lodge's Serondela Restaurant, known for its authentic local cuisine.
Must-Try!
This is a delicacy made from caterpillars of the emperor moth, a good source of protein. It is often prepared with tomatoes, onions, and spices. Visitors can savor this unique dish at Chobe Marina Lodge, where it is skillfully prepared to highlight its flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kasane better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Here, visitors can indulge in a variety of street food, including grilled meats, maize-based snacks, and traditional vetkoek (fried bread) filled with savory fillings. The market also offers a range of crafts and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kasane, it's customary to greet people, especially elders, with a handshake and a friendly smile. A nod or a simple 'hello' is also appreciated. Make sure to use your right hand when greeting, as the left hand is considered impolite.
While Kasane is a tourist destination, it’s important to dress modestly to respect local cultural norms. Avoid overly revealing clothing, and when visiting religious sites, ensure to wear attire that covers shoulders and knees.
Learn about and respect local customs and traditions. For example, during communal gatherings or events, it's polite to wait for the host to invite you to join. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kasane with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kasane
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kasane, Botswana, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It's common to tip service staff such as waiters, guides, and hotel staff. A tip of around 10% of the bill is standard in restaurants. For tour guides, a tip can range from BWP 50 to BWP 200, depending on the service provided and the length of the tour.
Payments in Kasane can be made using cash, usually in Botswana Pula (BWP), which is the local currency. Credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments or for transactions in local markets. ATMs are available, but it's best to check with your bank regarding international transaction fees and limits.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kasane.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Kasane. The weather is cooler and drier, with less humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. Animals congregate around water sources, ensuring better sightings. The Chobe National Park is particularly lively during this time, and visitors can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, and stunning sunsets.
While the wet season experiences higher temperatures and frequent rain, it is also the time when the landscape becomes lush and green, creating beautiful scenery. This period is great for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive. Wildlife is also more dispersed due to the water availability, but visitors can still spot young animals and experience the birth season. Some parks may have limited accessibility due to muddy roads.
These transitional periods are a balance between the extremes of wet and dry seasons. Expect moderate weather with fewer crowds. April and May often provide great wildlife viewing as animals become more active after the rains. October to November is warmer, and a good time for photography as the landscapes start to dry out and reveal clearer views.
Kasane at Night
Hiking in Kasane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A major national park in Botswana, renowned for its wildlife and beautiful landscapes, providing various hiking trails and opportunities for walking safaris.
Located in Chobe National Park, this area offers unique landscapes and wildlife viewing, with trails that allow for exploration of the marsh and its surrounding areas.
A protected area near Kasane that features walking trails through diverse ecosystems, allowing visitors to experience local flora and fauna.
Although primarily in Zimbabwe, it is located close to Kasane and offers hiking opportunities alongside the Zambezi River, with stunning views and wildlife encounters.
Near Kasane, offering guided hikes through the bush where you can learn about the local ecosystem and spot various wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kasane through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kasane by plane.
Located approximately 70 kilometers from Kasane, serves the resort town of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Located in Kasane, this airport serves as the main gateway for travelers to Chobe National Park and is close to the borders of Zimbabwe and Zambia.
About 90 kilometers from Kasane, this airport serves Livingstone, Zambia, and is another access point for Victoria Falls.
Located approximately 150 kilometers from Kasane, it serves the city of Francistown in Botswana.
Situated about 270 kilometers from Kasane, this airport serves the gateway to the Okavango Delta.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Botswana, including in Kasane, known for their rich cultural heritage and community-oriented lifestyle.
An ethnic group traditionally known as cattle herders, who have settled in the Kasane region and contribute to the local diversity.
Refers generally to the people of Botswana, including various sub-groups, and encompasses a significant part of the population in Kasane.
Includes individuals from various ethnic backgrounds such as Herero, Ndebele, and San people, adding to the cultural tapestry of Kasane.
Includes people from neighboring countries like Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, contributing to the demographic mix of Kasane.
The Soul of Kasane
Discover the essence of Kasane through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kasane, with many local teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Netball has a strong following in Kasane, especially among women and youth, with many schools and community teams active.
Cricket is popular among the youth in Kasane, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport and organizing matches.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Kasane, with local teams competing in regional tournaments and a focus on youth development.
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Kasane, with local courts available for play and community leagues fostering competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional local cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Kasane offer vegetarian and even vegan options, such as lentil stews, grilled vegetables, and fresh salads. The Old House and Chobe Safari Lodge are notable for their vegetarian-friendly menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options in the form of rice-based dishes, grilled fish or meat, and fruit platters at various dining establishments. The Old House is particularly accommodating in this regard, offering a range of gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kasane with these cultural adventures.