Kasane

Kasane is a town in the far northeast corner of Botswana, set on the south bank of the Chobe River at the meeting point of four countries — Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It serves as the principal gateway to Chobe National Park and is a popular stopover for travellers heading to Victoria Falls. The town's location on the Chobe River floodplain gives it a lush, green character, and elephants roaming the streets are a common sight. Kasane has a small, walkable core clustered around the riverfront, with most lodges, restaurants, and tour operators concentrated along Presidents Avenue.

By Plane

Kasane International Airport (BBK) is about 5 km from the town centre. Air Botswana offers scheduled flights to Gaborone, and Airlink connects to Johannesburg. Many safari operators based in Maun also run charters into Kasane. Taxis from the airport to town cost around P50–100; arrange transport in advance as elephants sometimes roam the airport road.

By Car / Road

Kasane is connected by paved roads to Nata (200 km, 2 hr), Francistown (330 km, 3.5 hr), and Maun (300 km via gravel, 4x4 recommended). The Kazungula Bridge connects Botswana directly to Zambia. Mahube Express runs buses from Kasane to Francistown twice daily (13:30 and 15:30). Minivan taxis operate between Kasane and Katima Mulilo in Namibia. Self-drive visitors should be cautious of wildlife on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.

Kasane is laid out linearly along the Chobe River, and the main sights, lodges, and the Spar supermarket are within a 2 km stretch that is easily walkable. Taxis are available near the Spar and can be hired for trips to Kazungula, the park gates, or the airport. Fares should be negotiated upfront. There is no public bus system within town. Many lodges offer complimentary transfers to and from the airport and the town centre.

• Chobe National Park — The primary reason most visitors come to Kasane. Game drives depart daily from town, with the Sedudu Gate entrance just 5 km west. Elephants, lions, buffalo, and a profusion of birdlife are the main draws.

• Chobe River Cruises — Afternoon boat trips along the river offer close-up views of elephants swimming, hippos, crocodiles, and spectacular sunsets over the Caprivi floodplain. Most cruises run 15:00–18:00 and cost about P320 per person.

• Kazungula Quadripoint — The nearby confluence where Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe meet. The Kazungula Bridge offers views of this unique border junction.

• Victoria Falls Day Trip — About 70 km away in Zimbabwe/Zambia, the falls are accessible via organised tours that handle border crossings and transfers.

• Game drives in Chobe National Park — half-day or full-day, typically departing early morning or mid-afternoon. Most lodges arrange these, and self-drive is also possible with a 4x4.

• Sunset boat cruises along the Chobe River — a quintessential Kasane experience.

• Birdwatching — The riverfront and surrounding floodplains host over 400 bird species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and storks.

• Day trips to Victoria Falls — Many operators offer guided excursions to the Zimbabwean or Zambian side.

• Chobe Safari Lodge — Buffet dinner with game meats, stir-fry station, and river views. About P180 per person including drinks.
• Mowana Restaurant — Fine buffet dinner with Botswana specialities like pap and shredded beef. About P200 per person including drinks and tip.
• Shoprite — For self-catering supplies and picnic provisions.

Most major lodges have bars open to guests and non-guests. The Chobe Safari Lodge bar overlooking the river is a popular spot for sundowners. Bottled water is widely available; tap water is generally treated but bottled is recommended for visitors.

• Budget: Elephant Trail Guesthouse and Backpackers — dorm beds from USD 12, private rooms available. Free Wi-Fi.
• Mid-range: Sunshinevibe Guest House — air-conditioned double rooms with private bathroom, around P400 per night.
• Upscale: Mowana Safari Lodge — built around a ancient baobab tree, river views, full-board packages. Chobe Safari Lodge offers camping from P65, doubles from P780, with pool and riverfront setting.

Kasane has a well-stocked Shoprite supermarket, a Choppies supermarket, and several ATMs (FNB, Absa). The Chobe Safari Lodge gift shop sells maps, field guides, T-shirts, carvings, and other souvenirs. For basic supplies and groceries, the Shoprite near the town centre is the most convenient option.

• Chobe National Park — immediately west of town, the main attraction.
• Kazungula — 10 km east, at the four-country border confluence.
• Victoria Falls — 70 km northeast (Zimbabwe/Zambia), one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
• Maun — 300 km southwest, gateway to the Okavango Delta (4x4 required for the direct route).
• Nata — 200 km south, on the road to Francistown and Gaborone.