Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is a private malaria-free game reserve situated in the heart of South Africa’s Northern Cape Province, not far from the border with Botswana. Positioned within the dry riverbed of the Nossob and surrounded by game-rich savannah, Tswalu offers a classic safari experience that is decidedly “off-the-beaten-track”.
Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is one of the most impressive of South Africa’s many private reserves. The worst of these reserves feel more like zoos than wilderness parks, but this couldn’t be said of Tswalu. It is larger and wilder than the more frequented private reserves in the Eastern Cape, and accommodates only a small number of guests in its two private lodges, lending it a real air of exclusivity. You are guaranteed a private guide and vehicle at Tswalu, and are unlikely to encounter many other guests as you explore the stunning Kalahari landscapes on foot and by 4x4.
Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is open throughout the year. The best time to visit is generally June to September, when the temperatures are a little cooler, and the game-viewing excellent.
Tswalu is a member of Relais & Chateaux.
Accommodation
There are two lodges at Tswalu, the Motse and Tarkuni. Both are small, intimate and furnished to a very high standard.
The Motse is the larger of the two properties. Situated at the base of the Korannaberg Mountains, it enjoys a superb view over the savannah plains and a well-frequented watering hole. It has just eight rooms, or ‘legaes’, built of stone, clay and thatch in the local fashion. These are large suites, each with separate bedroom, en-suite bathroom (with indoor and outdoor facilities) and a private verandah overlooking the watering hole in front of the lodge. Two of the rooms are family units, and accommodate four guests each.
Secluded between two mountain ranges, Tarkuni offers an altogether more intimate experience than the Motse. There are just five luxury rooms in this private villa, each with an en-suite bathroom (indoor and outdoor showers), as well as a private lounge with fireplace, dining room, library and bar, and a patio with heated swimming pool. Tarkuni can be booked on an exclusive basis by small groups or families, and accommodates up to 10 adults and four children. It comes with a dedicated chef and kitchen as well as private game-viewing vehicles.
Dining
Enjoy delicious three course meals served in the dining room at the Motse, or in the privacy of your own lounge or room deck. Tarkuni has its own private kitchen and chef.
Facilities (dependent on choice of accommodation)
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Lounge area
- Dining room
- Library
- Spa
- Children’s area with minder
- Boma
- Wine cellar
- Sundeck
- Private plane
Activities
- Game drives
- Guided game walks
- Hot air ballooning
- Horse riding
Child Policy
Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is malaria-free and suitable for families. There are family rooms and child-minding facilities at both the Motse and Tarkuni.
