Tswalu Kalahari

Set amidst two rolling mountain ranges, Tswalu is the ultimate private sanctuary. Accommodation has been designed to uncompromising standards of comfort and elegance. The Motse is a collection of nine villas, three of which offer a second bedroom for families. You’ll feel the intimate privacy from the moment you arrive, while the design is authentic, but also exquisite. Beds face floor-to-ceiling windows, maximising your waking view of the wilderness outside. The main lodge features a large and glittering pool, indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a photographic studio to edit your photos between safaris.

There is a spectacular second option for larger groups seeking a more intimate stay. The Tarkuni House has an expansive central lounge and dining area with an open fireplace and sun deck. It's five luxurious suites each have a magnificent en suite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers and private veranda, taking a maximum of 10 guests. There’s a private pool at Tarkuni and shady salas offer calm and contemplation, opening to the remarkable scene of animals drinking at a nearby watering hole. Its own traditional boma has seen many celebrations. And its beguiling charm has led many guests to return to what becomes their home in the Kalahari.

The Kalahari is the ancestral home of the San Bushmen and some of their ancient engravings can be seen at Tswalu; current research suggests these may be amongst the oldest art on Earth. You can learn a great deal about San culture and traditions before heading out into the wilds to learn bushcraft, animal dropping identification and how to track wildlife on foot. The Kalahari’s semi-desert landscape is a unique ecosystem and hosts a great number of rare species, including cheetah, pangolin, wild dog and caracal.

Tswalu welcomes families and the ‘Junior Ranger’ programme ensures that everyone will come away with rich and exciting safari memories. One morning your youngsters may wake to find that the day begins with an archery lesson, before heading out around the lodge on foot with expert guides. Game drives, horseback and quad bike rides, sleep outs under the stars, or perhaps just a splash in the swimming pool are some of the other activities available. Of course, ‘Junior Rangers’ cannot operate without equipment—on arrival every child is given a backpack full of special guides and tools to aid them on their adventures.