Cresta Mowana Safari Resort and Spa Review: River Views

The setting

Cresta Mowana Safari Resort and Spa sits beside the Chobe River in Kasane, Botswana. Public reviews consistently identify the location as the property’s main strength. Guests describe broad river views, memorable sunsets and the chance to see wildlife without joining a formal safari activity. Hippos, warthogs and mongooses have been reported around the property.

The grounds are described as beautiful, and the resort’s position suits travellers using Kasane as a base for Chobe National Park. Land and water excursions are both mentioned in the reviews. One reviewer said the quality of the game drives helped make the stay worthwhile, even though the hotel itself fell short of expectations in several areas.

Rooms and atmosphere

Room feedback is mixed. Some guests found their accommodation spacious, comfortable and well maintained. Others described rooms as tight or small, with furnishings and fixtures needing updates. Maintenance concerns appear in more than one review, so expectations should be set below those for a recently renovated safari lodge.

This is a large resort rather than an intimate bush property. That scale works for travellers who want established hotel facilities and a convenient base, but it can feel crowded. One group reported a disorganised check-in and too many guests in shared areas. Travellers who prefer small lodges may find the atmosphere impersonal.

Dining and service

Food is one of the least consistent parts of the public feedback. Reviews mention buffet dining, game meats and local favourites, with some praise for the selection of local dishes. Other guests found the meals disappointing. The restaurant also appears to cater heavily to larger tour groups. Private travellers have reported reserved tables and a reduced sense of ease during busy periods.

Service reviews are similarly uneven. Staff are described as warm and helpful in some accounts, while excursion booking and arrival procedures were criticised in others. The practical lesson is simple: guests should confirm safari arrangements early and check the details of bookings before setting out.

Who should stay

The resort suits travellers who place river scenery, access to Chobe National Park and the convenience of a substantial property above boutique atmosphere. It is also a reasonable fit for guests hoping to see wildlife close to their accommodation. Couples may enjoy the sunset views, while organised groups may find the larger layout familiar.

It is less convincing for visitors seeking quiet, polished service or consistently strong dining. Google’s public listing shows a 4.4 rating from 1,160 reviews, indicating broad satisfaction overall, but the written feedback reveals a clear divide around maintenance, crowding and restaurant operations. The most reliable reasons to choose Cresta Mowana are its setting and safari access. The property itself needs more consistent execution.

Plan the rest of the trip

• More hotels in Botswana
• What else is worth booking in Kasane, Botswana
• All Botswana travel reviews
• Browse every destination we cover