Tswalu Kalahari
South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu Kalahari is inhabited by over 80 mammal species including meerkat and desert rhino.
South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu Kalahari encompasses around 272,000 acres of dramatic mountains, rolling dunes and scrubby grasslands, inhabited by over 80 mammal and 240 bird species. Opportunities abound to observe rare animals such as roan and sable antelope as well as meerkats, desert rhino and magnificent black-maned Kalahari lions. Just 10 vehicles enjoy access to this terrain ensuring that safaris here are exclusive and personal experiences. Another major bonus is that this region is malaria-free, so families with young children can enjoy a stress-free holiday.
Guests at Tswalu Kalahari can choose from two accommodation options. The Motse comprises of 9 secluded “legae” or “little houses” in the Tswana language. Each of these are fashioned from sand, stone and thatch, featuring open fireplaces, personal sundecks, indoor and outdoor showers, with three units designed specifically for families. The Tarkuni offers 5 luxury suites, a peaceful pool and traditional ‘boma’. With its own team of staff including a chef, private vehicle, guide and tracker, this homestead can be booked for exclusive use.
Aside from productive game drives across the enchanting landscape, guests at Tswalu Kalahari can take part in guided walks, safaris on horseback, ancient rock art excursions and sleepouts at “Malori”. Meaning “dreamer” in Tswana, this raised platform is built to resemble a weaver’s nest with a small thatch overhang, providing the option of shelter should you tire of sleeping beneath a blanket of stars. Romantic candlelit dinners can also be arranged here, with sundowners drinks and canapes to savour as the sun sinks beneath the horizon.
Tswalu Kalahari also offers one of Southern Africa’s most exclusive interactions – a chance for guests to view meerkats. The reserve has two colonies of habituated meerkats that have grown accustomed to humans, allowing guests to approach for close observations. The region is also home to other unsual carnivores such as bat eared fox, aardwolf, brown hyena and small spotted genet.
Location
How to get to Tswalu Kalahari
Tswalu Kalahari is located close to the border between South Africa and Botswana. It can be reached by daily scheduled service from either Cape Town or Johannesburg’s international airports. Flight times are 90 minutes and 2 hours respectively.
Activities at Tswalu Kalahari
- Game drives
- Guided walks
- Horseback safaris
- Sleepouts
- Meerkat encounters
- Private dining
*Some activities are available at extra cost.
Tswalu Kalahari Highlights
- South Africa’s largest private reserve
- Home to a wealth of wildlife from black-maned Kalahari lions to meerkats
- Malaria-free so ideal for families with young children
- A wide array of activities including walks and sleepouts
- Easily reached by daily scheduled flights
Featured
Accommodation in malaria free game reserves.
Below are some of our preferred tented camps and lodges in malaria free game reserves. Please contact us to tailor accommodation options to suit the style of your trip and your budget.
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Malaria-free Kwandwe Private Game Reserve on South Africa’s Eastern Cape offers five safari lodges, each designed to showcase the remote beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
A secluded retreat within the exclusive 185,000 acre Madikwe Game Reserve, Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge offers guests two accommodation options.
Madikwe River Lodge
Family-friendly Madikwe River Lodge is a relaxed, comfortable safari lodge set in South Africa's wonderful, malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve which is home to all of the iconic "Big 5" and much more.
Shamwari Game Reserve
On South Africa’s pristine Eastern Cape, Shamwari Game Reserve is an excellent safari destination being malaria-free and home to fantastic wildlife including all of the legendary "Big 5".
Tau Game Lodge
Located on the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Tau Game Lodge offers an authentic safari experience in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Tswalu Kalahari
South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu Kalahari is inhabited by over 80 mammal species including meerkat and desert rhino.
Tuningi Safari Lodge
On the vast Madikwe Game Reserve is the luxurious Tuningi Safari Lodge as well as family-friendly Little Tuningi, a self-contained private villa.
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