Kasane: Gateway to the Wild Heart of Botswana

• HelloDumela
  [doo-meh-lah]
• GoodbyeTsamaya sentle
  [tsah-mah-yah sehn-tleh]
• YesEe
  [ee]
• NoNnyaa
  [nyah]
• Please/You're welcomeKe kopa
  [keh koh-pah]
• Thank youKe a leboga
  [keh ah leh-boh-gah]
• Excuse me/SorryTsamaya sentle
  [tsah-mah-yah sehn-tleh]
• How are you?O tsogile jang?
  [oh tsoh-gee-leh jahng]
• Fine. And you?Ke tsogile sentle. Le wena?
  [keh tsoh-gee-leh sehn-tleh. leh weh-nah]
• Do you speak English?O bua se se tswanang le setso sa English?
  [oh boo-ah seh seh tswah-nahng leh set-soh sah English]
• I don't understandGa ke itse sentle
  [gah keh eet-seh sehn-tleh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe kopa go bona setsebi, kamoso
  [keh koh-pah goh boh-nah seh-tseh-bee, kah-moh-soh]
• I don't eat meatGa ke dira nyama
  [gah keh dee-rah nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Tlhogi!
  [tloh-gee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKe kopa go dira thutlo, kamoso
  [keh koh-pah goh dee-rah thoot-loh, kah-moh-soh]

• Help!Boipuso!
  [boh-ee-poo-soh]
• Go away!Nna o tshware!
  [nnah oh tshwah-reh]
• Call the Police!Tlatsa maotwana!
  [tlaht-sah mah-oh-twa-nah]
• Call a doctor!Tlatsa ngaka!
  [tlaht-sah ngah-kah]
• I'm lostKe a tsenwa
  [keh ah tsehn-wah]
• I'm illKe a bolo
  [keh ah boh-loh]

• I'd like to buy...Ke kopa go rekela...
  [keh koh-pah goh reh-keh-lah]
• I'm just lookingKe bontsha fela
  [keh boh-ntshah feh-lah]
• How much is it?E e bokae?
  [eh eh boh-kah-eh]
• That's too expensiveKe setse go lefatshe
  [keh seh-tseh goh leh-faht-sheh]
• Can you lower the price?O ka nnete molao?
  [oh kah ne-ne-teh moh-lah-oh]

• What time is it?Ke nako efe?
  [keh nah-koh eh-feh]
• It's one o'clockKe nako ya moepeng
  [keh nah-koh yah mweh-peng]
• Half past (10)Mosese wa (10)
  [moh-seh-seh wah (10)]
• MorningMoemong
  [mweh-moh-ng]
• AfternoonMoipone
  [mwee-poh-neh]
• EveningNtsho
  [nt-show]
• YesterdayNgwanaka
  [ngwah-nah-kah]
• TodayNako eno
  [nah-koh eh-noh]
• TomorrowNako efela
  [nah-koh eh-feh-lah]
• 1Moepeng
  [mweh-peng]
• 2Bobedi
  [boh-beh-dee]
• 3Botho
  [boh-toh]
• 4Boraro
  [boh-rah-roh]
• 5Boruti
  [boh-roo-tee]
• 6Bobedi le boraro
  [boh-beh-dee leh boh-rah-roh]
• 7Boruti le boraro
  [boh-roo-tee leh boh-rah-roh]
• 8Bobedi le botho
  [boh-beh-dee leh boh-toh]
• 9Boruti le botho
  [boh-roo-tee leh boh-toh]
• 10Lesome
  [leh-soh-meh]

• Where's a/the...?Ke kae...?
  [keh kah-eh]
• What's the address?Setso sa kae?
  [set-soh sah kah-eh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?O ka nnete go bona (ka map)?
  [oh kah ne-ne-teh goh boh-nah (kah map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Nako efe ya (bosigo) e ka ba ngwana?
  [nah-koh eh-feh yah (boh-see-goh) eh kah bah ngwah-nah]
• A ticket (to ....)Thikete (ya ....)
  [tee-keh-teh yah]

The area around Kasane has been inhabited for centuries by various indigenous tribes, including the Basubiya and the Batawana. These tribes have a rich cultural heritage, with traditions that are still evident in the region today. The Basubiya, known for their fishing and agricultural skills, were among the earliest settlers, utilizing the rich resources of the Chobe River.

In the late 19th century, European explorers such as David Livingstone and Frederick Selous ventured into the region. Their explorations brought international attention to the area, highlighting its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Livingstone's encounters with local tribes and his mapping of the Chobe River were significant in opening up the region to further exploration and eventual colonization.

During the colonial period, Kasane began to take shape as a settlement. The town was strategically located at the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, making it a vital point for trade and transportation. The establishment of trading posts and colonial administration centers facilitated the growth of the town, drawing people from various backgrounds to settle in the area.

Botswana gained independence from British colonial rule in 1966. Kasane, like many other parts of the country, began to experience significant development. The government invested in infrastructure and tourism, recognizing the potential of Kasane's natural beauty and wildlife. The town became a gateway to the Chobe National Park, attracting tourists from around the world.

Chobe National Park, established in 1967, is one of Botswana's premier wildlife reserves and lies just outside Kasane. The park is renowned for its large elephant population and diverse ecosystems. Kasane serves as the main access point for visitors to the park, providing various amenities and services to support tourism. The town's proximity to the park has made it a focal point for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism.

Kasane is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. Traditional festivals, such as the annual cultural day celebrations, showcase the rich heritage of the local tribes. These events feature traditional music, dance, and crafts, offering a glimpse into the customs and practices that have been passed down through generations. The cultural festivals are a testament to the town's commitment to preserving and celebrating its indigenous heritage.

Kasane holds a unique geographical significance as it is situated near the borders of four countries: Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This strategic location has made Kasane an important hub for regional trade and cross-border tourism. The town's proximity to the Kazungula Ferry, and more recently the Kazungula Bridge, facilitates the movement of goods and people between these nations, enhancing its status as a key border town in Southern Africa.

Kasane is located in the northeastern corner of Botswana, near the borders with Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The most convenient way to reach Kasane is by air, with Kasane Airport (BBK) offering regular flights from major cities such as Gaborone and Johannesburg. From the airport, it is a short drive to the town center. Alternatively, you can reach Kasane by road. The town is accessible via the Nata-Kasane Road if traveling from within Botswana or the Kazungula border post if coming from Zambia or Zimbabwe.

Kasane is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer journeys, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through your accommodation. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore the area at their own pace. For a more local experience, you can use shared minibus taxis, which are an affordable way to get around. Boat cruises are a popular mode of transportation for exploring the Chobe River and its wildlife.

The official currency in Botswana is the Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips. ATMs are available in Kasane, and most accept international cards. It is recommended to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Kasane is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advised.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Kasane has a local police station and medical facilities, including a hospital and pharmacies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, over-the-counter medications are available at local pharmacies. Always carry a copy of your travel insurance and emergency contact numbers.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using shared minibus taxis. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Dumela' (hello) in Setswana is always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kasane like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss a boat cruise on the Chobe River to see the abundant wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. For a unique experience, visit the nearby Kazungula border post and take a short ferry trip across the Zambezi River, where four countries meet: Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.