Bananyana Backpackers - Kasane Forest Reserve

Bananyana Backpackers is a camp near Kasane Forest Reserve.

Location
Kasane Forest Reserve, Chobe & Linyanti Wetlands, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-17.810469, 25.210957
Activities
camp

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1003 species observed within 20 km, 52 mammals, 347 birds.

  • Nile Crocodile (Reptilia, 506 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 467 observations)
  • African Fish-Eagle (Aves, 343 observations)
  • African Darter (Aves, 316 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 299 observations)
  • Common Hippopotamus (Mammalia, 294 observations)
  • Greater Kudu (Mammalia, 287 observations)
  • Yellow-billed Stork (Aves, 266 observations)
  • African Jacana (Aves, 261 observations)
  • Nile Monitor (Reptilia, 249 observations)

Best Time to Visit Bananyana Backpackers

The best months to visit Bananyana Backpackers are July, August, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 22.98°C, rainfall 210.5mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.09°C, rainfall 111.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 70%
  • March: Great, temperature 23.95°C, rainfall 48.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 66.3%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.92°C, rainfall 19.6mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 56.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 20.82°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 41.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.47°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 40.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.21°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 35.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.63°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 30.6%
  • September: Great, temperature 25.75°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 26.8%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.14°C, rainfall 2.7mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 29%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.26°C, rainfall 49.8mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 47.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.23°C, rainfall 134.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 64%

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of accommodation and facilities can I expect at Bananyana Backpackers?

Bananyana Backpackers offers a rustic camping experience, primarily catering to budget travelers with options for pitching your own tent or staying in basic safari tents. Facilities typically include communal ablutions, a shared kitchen area for self-catering, and common spaces to relax. It's designed for those seeking an authentic, no-frills bush experience near Kasane Forest Reserve.

What wildlife viewing opportunities are available directly from Bananyana Backpackers, given its location near Kasane Forest Reserve?

While Bananyana Backpackers is not within a fenced game viewing area, its proximity to Kasane Forest Reserve means smaller wildlife like monkeys, various bird species, and occasionally antelopes can be seen around the camp. For major wildlife encounters, guests will need to arrange guided game drives or boat safaris into the nearby Chobe National Park or the reserve itself. The camp provides a base for exploring the region's rich biodiversity.

What is the best way to access Bananyana Backpackers from Kasane, and how can I arrange safari activities from there?

Bananyana Backpackers is typically a short taxi ride from Kasane town or the Kasane Airport (BBK), which is the main hub for the region. Many local safari operators offer pick-up services directly from the camp for game drives into Chobe National Park or boat cruises on the Chobe River. The camp staff can also assist with recommendations and bookings for various safari activities.

What are the typical costs for a stay at Bananyana Backpackers, and what's generally included in the price?

As a backpackers camp, Bananyana offers very budget-friendly rates, usually charged per person for a tent site or a basic safari tent. The price typically includes your accommodation space and access to the communal facilities like kitchens and ablutions. Safari activities, meals, and transfers are generally not included in the base accommodation price and need to be budgeted for separately.

What safety precautions should guests be aware of when staying at Bananyana Backpackers, particularly concerning wildlife?

Given its location near a wildlife area, guests should always be vigilant about their surroundings, especially at night. It's crucial to store food securely to avoid attracting animals and to avoid walking alone after dark. While the camp has staff, remember you are in a natural environment, so always follow any safety guidelines provided by the camp management regarding wildlife encounters.

Other Safari Lodges in Kasane Forest Reserve

Parks in Chobe & Linyanti Wetlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana