Things To Do
in Nokaneng
Nestled in northern Botswana along the Thamalakane River, Nokaneng is a small but welcoming village that serves as a doorway to the region's wildlife and delta ecosystems. Life here moves at a slower pace, with sunsets painting the red savannah and locals sharing stories at village stalls. The surrounding plains host a variety of birds and plains wildlife during the dry season, while floodwaters from the delta bring seasonal life closer to home.
Visitors often combine cultural encounters with easy-access nature experiences, staying in guesthouses or camps along the river.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a guided walk through Nokaneng village to learn about the local lifestyle and traditions. Engage with the residents and visit local craft markets to see handmade goods. Capture the vibrant scenes and friendly interactions with your camera.
Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by a local family, featuring regional dishes. Participate in a cultural workshop to learn traditional dances and music from the community. Visit the nearby schools and community centers to understand local education and social projects.
Relax around a campfire while listening to storytelling sessions by village elders. Share experiences with fellow travelers and locals under a starlit sky. Experience the peaceful atmosphere and gentle night sounds of the Botswana wilderness.
Set out early on a motorboat safari along the Okavango Delta's narrow channels. Spot diverse bird species and wildlife like hippos and crocodiles along the waterways. Enjoy the fresh morning air and tranquil water views as you glide through the delta.
Stop on a sandy island for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Continue the safari by exploring smaller creeks in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). Observe elusive animals coming to drink at the water’s edge as the day cools.
Return to Nokaneng village and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local lodge. Reflect on your day's encounters with the delta's stunning ecosystems. Experience the calm and serenity of the evening close to nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Lodging (budget per night) | $25-50 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi/Local transport (short ride) | $2-6 |
| 🍲Local dish takeaway | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, slow-paced experience with wildlife and culture
- Close-knit communities and family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Fewer medical facilities in Nokaneng itself, with longer trips to larger towns for serious care
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Kea leboga" - Thank you
- "Tsamaya hantle" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Nokaneng
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the tranquil river with silhouettes of baobabs and birds.
Vibrant colors, people trading goods, and traditional crafts in the evening light.
Wetland edges host marabou storks, herons, and kingfishers during the rains.
Food in Nokaneng
Nokaneng Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked shredded beef served with pap or morogo.
Must-Try!
Maize porridge served with sautéed greens for a hearty meal.
A traditional bean and maize dish that is filling and affordable.
Dried or fried mopane worms, a protein-rich local snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning markets offer fresh produce, snacks, and crafts and are great for trying fresh fruit and street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say Dumela; handshakes are common and respectful.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in homes or villages.
Dress modestly in rural areas; avoid loud behavior and always ask before entering homes.
Safety
Tipping in Nokaneng
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in tourist facilities; 5-10% at eateries and more at lodges if service is exceptional. Botswana Pula is the local currency; many lodges accept cards, but carry cash for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Apr brings warm, humid conditions with frequent afternoon rains; carry rain gear, insect repellent, and waterproof footwear.
May–Oct offers clear skies and cooler mornings; days are sunny and dry, with wildlife more easily visible near water sources.
Nokaneng at Night
Hiking in Nokaneng
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverbank walk with birdlife; easy-to-moderate terrain near the Boteti River.
Seasonal hiking area around the salt pans with flat, open terrain and wildlife viewing.
Diverse landscapes along the delta edge with opportunities to see wildlife and birds.
Airports
How to reach Nokaneng by plane.
Main gateway for the Okavango region; domestic and regional flights with connections to Gaborone and Johannesburg.
Gateway to the Chobe region; good access for northern Botswana and Victoria Falls via flights.
Gaborone's international hub; longer transfer from Nokaneng but useful for connecting international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in northern Botswana, with rich cultural traditions and Setswana language.
Indigenous groups in parts of northern Botswana who preserve traditional hunter-gatherer heritage; interactions are respectful and with consent.
Motswana and neighboring community groups living in regional towns and villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played informally in villages and formally in schools.
Running and field events are common in school sports and community events.
Some communities participate in culturally significant games and activities during gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nokaneng.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose morogo, beans, maize porridge, and vegetable dishes; ask for no meat or meat-based broths.