What began as a quiet village and a remote outpost in northern Botswana has transformed into a busy tourist hub. Kasane is the springboard for exploring Botswana’s oldest national park, Chobe National Park, and strategically positioned at a major tourist route intersection where four African countries meet – namely Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Such positioning has led to rapid expansion in recent years. Here’s how to kill some time in Kasane between all those game drives and country-hopping.
1. Go for a Chobe River cruise
While we highly recommend hopping into a game drive vehicle to see the enchanting woodland area of Chobe National Park, what sets this area apart is the mighty Chobe River. 130000 African elephants call this corner of Botswana home and number one on your list is seeing the world’s largest land mammal from the water on an afternoon river cruise.
Most lodges in Kasane organise sunset river safaris and the golden light makes for exceptional photography. It’s also when the ellies and other wildlife is likely to come to the water for a drink. We also guarantee that hippos will snap their jaws baring their impressive tusks, crocodiles will slither across the water and you’ll fall in love with Botswana’s beautiful birds.
River cruising with elephants anyone?
2. Shop like a local in Kasane
Exercise your adventurous side with a trip to Kasane’s lively market. Held on the grounds of Hunter’s Mall, wandering through the market stalls will reveal everything from dried Chobe bream fish to ground nuts and freshly-plucked spinach to brightly-coloured African cloth and packets of dried mopane worms.
Keep an eye out for wildlife as you walk though! There is no fence separating Kasane from the Chobe National Park so animals move freely – even in the busier town centre. Warthog snuffle the streets and you might even spot a Banded mongoose darting across the tarred road. Taxis are available and affordable to get between the town and your lodge.
Hanging out at Hunter’s Mall, Kasane
3. Try to land a tiger in the Chobe River
Although some hotels offer tiger fishing year-round, the dry winter months between May and October are best when the river is flush with baitfish thanks to receding water levels. Even if you aren’t an avid fisherman (or woman) tigers are famous for being feisty and it’s always an exciting way to spend the day.
Angling for a Tiger is fishing for a trophy
4. Visit The Old House in Kasane
A popular haunt for Kasane locals, the restaurant at The Old House in Kasane serves affordable breakfasts (the Old House omelette is always a hit), pizzas for lunch and generous mains for dinner. Order a beer (St Louis is the local brew) and enjoy the open-air bar-restaurant atmosphere close to the lush Chobe riverbank.
5. Explore nearby Namibia from Kasane
The Chobe River forms the boundary between Namibia and Botswana. Bring your passport and take the easy boat ride from Kasane across to Impalila Island in Namibia. Measuring just 26 km long and home to 2100 people, explore the island with a local guide to learn more about life surrounded by water – the Zambezi River on one side and the Chobe River on the other.
Go to Chobe, Botswana
Browse our wide range of safaris and accommodation for Chobe and beyond – it’s a destination that combines easily with the and Victoria Falls. Alternatively, let one of our African Safari Experts tailor-make an itinerary that ensures you’re in the right place at the right time.
Also read: How to kill time in Maun
If you can suggest any other super ways to pass a little extra time in Kasane, let us know in the comments section below.
LET’S PLAN A CHOBE SAFARI
