Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

If you long for an intimate safari where you won’t see a single other game vehicle... if you yearn for peace and solitude… and if you have an urge to connect with the true essence of Africa under an expansive southern sky, then this is undoubtedly the ultimate haven for you! Set amidst a spectacular landscape of shimmering grasslands and rolling desert dunes, the malaria-free Tswalu is situated at the foot of the Korannaberg Mountains in the remote Kalahari Desert, approximately 300 kilometres northwest of Kimberley.

The reserve is the vision of the late Stephen Boler, a British entrepreneur, who undertook one of the largest private conservation projects in Africa. Boler established the reserve in just four years, introducing thousands of animals, including the rare desert black rhino, sable and roan antelope, Cape buffalo, cheetah and waterbuck. Later acquired by the Oppenheimers (a well-known mining family of South Africa) in 1999, Tswalu is today the largest private game reserve in South Africa with 250,000 acres of arid savannah… you simply cannot get more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ than this!

Built from local stone, natural loose rock and rich red clay, Tswalu’s two unique lodges blend discreetly into a stunning backdrop of mountains and open plains. Here, the term ‘African chic’ is stylishly epitomised amidst an air of rustic elegance, with expansive views taking centre-stage in a design where no creature comfort has been spared. The Motse (meaning the ‘village’ in Tswana), consists of eight elegant ‘legae’ – or suites – each with a palatial bedroom, ensuite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, spacious lounge with an open fireplace, outdoor heated swimming pool and a viewing deck with day beds to soak up the solitude. An interesting mix of natural materials and contemporary shapes complement the over-sized day beds, cocoon chairs and powder blue and burnt-orange fabrics to create a truly contemporary edge. Two of the ‘legaes’ were specifically designed with families in mind, each being able to accommodate up to four guests. For small groups or larger families, the equally glamorous Tarkuni, a separate freestanding African dwelling only 20 minutes away, comes complete with four ensuite bedrooms (picture 3), a heated swimming pool and a dedicated team of guides and house staff.

In the Kalahari, the thornveld and sweeping sand dunes are home to some of the world's most fascinating wildlife, including the curious meerkats. Activities are many and varied, including game drives across the dunes, tracking rhino on foot, horse riding, hot-air ballooning and even 'sleeping out' on the dunes (picture 2) – to name just a few! Children can retreat to the Jwa Bana children’s room in between game drives whilst nearby archaeological sites offer a fascinating insight into the ancient San culture.

Tswalu is accessible via a scheduled charter flight from either Johannesburg or Cape Town.

PRICES Prices for 3 nights at The Motse from £1110 per person twin share including all meals, game activities, horse-riding and local beverages. The air charter to Tswalu is additional. Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways