South Africa

Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa

Nestled in the heart of the South Kalahari, the luxurious surrounds of Tswalu are the pinnacle of safari chic. Constructed from local stone and rich red clay, topped with traditional Kalahari thatch, the five suites and homestead are the perfect safari retreat. Float in the huge infinity pool, surrounded by endless, rolling landscapes or sit in a shady spot and relax with a good book. After a day’s game spotting, you can enjoy a hearty meal from the ever-changing seasonal menu – don’t miss tucking into the barbequed meat from the typical South African boma.

Location

In a 1,000sq km area, Tswalu is not only the largest private game reserve in South Africa, it is also the most unique and beautiful. Tswalu, meaning “a new beginning”, has a strong conservation focus and is full of incredible wildlife. All this and Tswalu is just a 2-hour flight from Cape Town and a shorter hop still from Johannesburg.

Your room

Comprising The Motse and Tarkuni Homestead, there’s a space to suit everyone at Tswalu. Each of the five suites of The Motse is huge, with a large bedroom and snug living area, where you can sink into cozy sofas in front of the open fireplace. Terracotta stone walls and wooden floors covered with handmade rugs create a homely feel while unique furnishings carved out of local wood remind you of the culture around you. Sit out on the private terrace and watch animals drink at the nearby watering hole, or soak away in the freestanding bathtub. For those looking to whisk the whole family away on a safari adventure, Tarkuni Homestead is irresistible. Made up of five bedrooms and complete with private pool, private boma, private chef and, well, private everything, it’ll feel like your very own home in the bush.

Why we like it

What we love about a safari at Tswalu is the way that you actually have to look for your game. Whilst the lions may not recline on your doorstep, it’s the patience that makes the sightings all the more rewarding. Here, Black Rhino rub horns with Buffalo and there are Lions, Cheetah and Giraffes to name but a few. But it’s not all about the Big Five and you’ll also have the opportunity to see rarer creatures, including the ever-elusive pangolin if you’re lucky. Add to that two resident meerkat colonies and you’re in for a wild few days.

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