Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Accommodation at Tswalu epitomises the stylish yet rustic elegance typical of luxury game reserve accommodation. Indeed, no creature comfort has been spared for guests at this quintessentially African dwelling. From the indoor and outdoor heated shower in every suite (the outdoor version looks out across the Kalahari plain) to the private suite sundecks and a library, this is the essence of modern luxury with an African feel. At Tswalu, dining entails many options. At the main house in the Motse, guests can either enjoy meals in the dining room, or in the privacy of their own suite lounge. Above all, Tswalu's exclusive game reserve accommodation achieves a rustic feel without compromising its private and luxurious.

The emphasis at Tswalu is on exclusivity, which is why the entire reserve can accommodate no more than 30 people at a time. The Motse is an African village consisting of eight authentically stone walled and thatch-roofed bungalows. Motse is a Tswana word for 'village' - Tswana is one of South Africa's 11 official languages and is spoken widely in Southern Africa including the Northern Cape.

For those looking for luxury African safaris that offer the ultimate in travel convenience and on-site facilities, Tswalu is ideal. This is South African game reserve accommodation whose facilities extend to even before guests have arrived: from the Anglo American hangar at Johannesburg International Airport, Tswalu has its own air shuttle that flies direct to the reserve seven days a week. Increasingly becoming standard practice among the top private South African game reserves, Tswalu boasts its own private landing strip. To read more about getting to Tswalu, visit the traveller.

At Tswalu, the game-viewing opportunities are unparalleled in terms of South African safaris. Guided walks meander across silent red dunes. Drives in open-sided safari vehicles traverse the Kalahari wilderness and stop at the most scenic spots to allow visitors to enjoy an impressive sunset or splendid bush dinner. Bird-watching, star-gazing and exciting visits to the habituated meerkat dens of Tswalu are just some of the activities on offer at Tswalu. Optional horseback trails, with a qualified guide, enable guests to become one with nature and to experience close encounters with wildlife.

In addition, South African safaris such as those offered at Tswalu allow guests the opportunity of visiting archaeological sites and viewing rock engravings in and around the reserve. Special-interest courses in archaeology, ethno-botany and photography, as well as golfing at the nearby Sishen Golf Course are also available on request.

The incredible beauty of the surroundings and the great variety of wildlife make South African safaris such as these an unforgettable experience. Safaris at Tswalu are the perfect opportunity to observe many endangered animals in their natural habitat and see a variety of birds, insects and desert vegetation.

Tswalu is justly proud of the success of its ongoing conservation projects, with the founder population of 7 000 animals having grown to more than 12 000 in the space of five years.

From the back of an open sided safari vehicle, from the saddle or on foot and with the help of our experienced field guides and trackers, learn how to spot and track like a professional on your South African safari!

Winner of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux Global Environmental Trophy 2006

Member of the Diamond Birding Route

AA Travel Guide - Gold Achiever Award 2006

AA Travel Guide Winner - Best Lodge 2005

AA Travel Guide - Gold Achiever Award 2004

Winner of the Andrew Harper 2000 - Grand Annual Award

Relais & Chateaux Member