A premier safari destination, Kasane, the administrative capital of Chobe District, ranks among the best tourist destinations in Botswana.

Discover Kasane, a Land of Safari Excellence in Northern Botswana

At the far north of Botswana, the charming town of Kasane is synonymous with the safari industry. Since 1975, it has attracted international visitors, shortly after the highly publicized renewal of vows ceremony of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. The two British actors exchanged their vows in the Chobe National Park, home to a high concentration of lions, elephants and hippopotamuses. Kasane's tourism success is supported by dedicated road and air connections. From Kasane Airport, shuttle services transport visitors directly to campsites and luxury lodges in Chobe Park. Embark on a boat cruise along the Chobe River, spot wading birds on the Savuti marshes, fish in the Okavango Delta, marvel at the spectacular curtain of water at Victoria Falls… The opportunities for hiking, camping and photography are endless. Book a flight to Kasane and experience the dream safari in Botswana you've always imagined.

History

Kasane's history is little documented in literature, and what little is known about the town hardly does it justice. It once served as a prison centre. During the nineteenth century, fourteen prisoners were held inside the trunk of a giant baobab tree, which stands near the entrance to Chobe National Park. A large plaque is planted behind the baobab, where you can read key dates in the tree's history and its uses.

Today

Kasane enjoys a frontier position at the intersection of Zambia, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. The Chobe River serves as a natural border between these four African countries. The town of Kasane developed south of the river, while to the north lies Namibia's Impalila Island. The river presents itself as a maze of lakes and marshes, surrounded in places by expansive savanna plains. The density of elephant and rhinoceros herds has made the region famous. Facing a concerning rise in poaching, Botswana's authorities created Chobe National Park.

In turn, hotels, restaurants and lodges have established themselves along the riverbanks to attract visitors. This explosion of real estate development in Kasane affirms its dual calling: tourism and fishing.

Things to See and Do

Chobe National Park

A safari through the desert plains of Chobe National Park is not to be missed. Why? The park's 11,700 hectares harbour a remarkable and often unequalled biodiversity. As you traverse the verdant grasslands, you'll be delighted to spot giraffes, water buffalo and majestic elephants, among other herbivores. The park is divided into four sectors: the Serondela zone near the Chobe River, the marshy Savuti area, the Linyanti marshes and the Nogatsaa forests, an excellent spot for observing eland. Hot air balloon safaris are available in private reserves.

Chobe River Cruise

For a touch of romance, nothing beats a pleasure cruise on the Chobe River. During the day, you can watch wildlife in the savanna, and at dusk, enjoy a magnificent sunset. Lunch aboard available on larger cruises.

Kasane Hot Springs

After a tiring day exploring Chobe's plains, recharge your batteries by diving into Kasane's hot springs. Whether you're here simply to relax or to rejuvenate, bathing here won't disappoint. During your soak, you might spot eagles in flight and a herd of elephants drinking at the river's edge. Unforgettable!

Caracal Wildlife Centre

Located on the airport road, the Caracal Centre is dedicated to caring for threatened and endangered animals. A recommended destination if you're travelling with children who share a passion for wildlife. The collection includes native birds, mongooses and a wide variety of snakes.

When to Visit Kasane

April to October is the season favoured by safari enthusiasts to visit Kasane and explore its natural treasures. The sun shines, temperatures are more comfortable, and the dry season limits vegetation density while drawing animals to permanent water sources. Perfect for wildlife photography!

Overland

The roads running east and south of the city are in relatively good condition. A road trip from Kasane to Victoria Falls is therefore feasible. If you plan to venture into Chobe National Park, west of Kasane, road travel is technically possible, but you'll need to hire a 4x4.

By Air

Kasane International Airport is just 4 km from the city centre. Regular flights are available from Johannesburg, Maun and Gaborone, Botswana's capital. Main flight days are Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Otherwise, charter flights are offered by local tour operators.

By Water

From Kazungula Wharf, motorboats provide connections between Chobe and Zambia.