Tswalu Motse camp, Tarkuni, or Loapi are in the malaria-free southern Kalahari in the Northern Cape. Owned by the Oppenheimer family, this is a luxury, must see destination. In the luxury and beauty of this magnificent 100,000ha private game reserve, the focus is on flexibility and privacy. Tswalu offers outstanding game viewing, gourmet cuisine, and indulgent spa treatments. Getting to do the things you’ve only ever dreamed of.
At Tswalu, you are guaranteed a private vehicle, guide, and tracker. This provides complete freedom to traverse South Africa’s biggest privately owned reserve. The wide, open spaces await exploration. This is so typical of the southern Kalahari’s dramatic beauty. Both on and off the vehicle. Actively tracking iconic Kalahari species adds to the interactive thrill of game viewing. Such as a pride of black-maned lions or a brown hyena. As do sightings of elusive creatures, like pangolin and aardvark. The southern Kalahari is known for these animals. As well as; desert black rhinos, wild dogs, oryx, and cheetahs which are easily seen in the open savannah. Rare antelopes such as Roan, Sable, and Tsessebe. Walks dedicated to birding, horse riding alongside oryx, giraffe, or zebra, and a morning in the company of habituated meerkats all add up to a multifaceted safari experience.
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Tswalu Accommodation
Accommodation at Tswalu is at either Motse Camp, Tarkuni, or Loapi Camp. All are spaced a good distance apart. Motse and Loapi Camps are most suitable for couples and families. While Tarkuni is an exclusive-use villa for families or groups of friends (sleeping up to 10 x people).
Motse
The Motse nestles at the foot of the Korannaberg mountains, facing westwards across the grasslands of the Kalahari. Motse means “village” in Tswana. It is a luxury, contemporary camp / village which consists of just 9 x spacious and secluded “legae” or suites. Another Tswana word for “little house”. The Motse can accommodate a maximum of 24 guests, including children.
Each suite has an en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bath (except in children’s rooms) and a walk-in indoor shower. An outside shower offers views of the surrounding bush and wildlife. They all have an open fireplace, a separate dressing and study area, a telephone, a safe, and wireless internet. A private, shaded veranda with stunning views of the Kalahari. There is a bar with everything from sparkling wine to fresh milk. You will also find an espresso coffee pod machine and a variety of teas. Plus, a gourmet snack pantry, filled with homemade treats.
Three of the suites have spacious double suites with 2 x separate bedrooms. Each with an en-suite, connecting to a luxurious separate living room. These are perfect for families and welcome children of all ages. These are the Motse Family Suites.
The entire camp echoes the Kalahari’s dramatic beauty with richly textured interiors in soothing nature inspired tones. There are 2 x swimming pools, a photographic studio, and a gallery stocked with art, jewelry, clothing, and gifts. In addition, there is a spa with two treatment suites and a gym.
The Motse is Fair Trade accredited. It is also the recipient of several awards. Including National Geographic Adventure’s Top 50 Eco Lodges and the Spa Awards.
2025 The Motse Accommodation Rates (Indicative) |
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Per person sharing | R 42,790 |
Single occupancy | R 53,130 |
Children 0-11 years sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 2 x children sharing) | Complimentary |
Child 12-17 years sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 1 x child sharing) | R 10 010 |
The Motse Family Suite (for up to 2 x adults and 2 x children 17 years and under sharing) | R 99,000 |
3 x adults in a Family Suite | R 128,370 |
Extra child in a family suite (max 3 x children 0-17 years sharing in family suite) | R 10,010 |
Please note Motse is closed from 15th January to 8th July 2026 for enhancements.
2026 The Motse Accommodation Rates (Indicative) |
|
Per person sharing | R 46,400 |
Single occupancy | R 57,700 |
Children 0-11 years sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 2 x children sharing) | Complimentary |
Child 12-17 years sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 1 x child sharing) | R 10,900 |
The Motse Family Suite (for up to 2 x adults and 2 x children 17 years and under sharing) | R 107,400 |
3 x adults in a Family Suite | R 139,200 |
Extra child in a family suite (max 3 x children 0-17 years sharing in family suite) | R 10,900 |
Tarkuni Exclusive Use Homestead
Set among two rolling mountain ranges in total seclusion and calm, Tarkuni was the personal retreat for the Oppenheimer family. This exclusive-use villa offers 5 x luxury en-suite bedrooms. Each of the suites has its own deck with sun loungers. En-suite bathrooms have freestanding baths plus an indoor-outdoor shower. There is also a vast open plan lounge and dining room. And a cozy library and games room.
The homestead has easy indoor-outdoor communal living spaces for relaxation. A covered deck is ideal for dining. And leads to a private gazebo and an environmentally friendly private plunge pool. A personal chef creates the luxury of completely flexible dining. There is an intimate boma for magical fireside barbecue dinners under the stars. As well as breakfast or lunch. The boma has low, stone-packed walls to give guests uninterrupted views.
Tarkuni also comes complete with a private vehicle, a dedicated guide, and a tracker. This, therefore, makes it wonderful for smaller groups. From multi-generational families to close friends of up to 10 guests.
2025 Tarkuni Exclusive Use Homestead Indicative Rates |
|
Up to 10 x persons | R 313,280 |
7 x guests | R 275,880 |
6 x guests | R 246,730 |
5 x guests | R 217,580 |
1 – 4 guests | R 175,340 |
Please note that Tarkuni will be closed from 15th January to 15th April 2026 for enhancements.
2026 Tarkuni Exclusive Use Homestead Indicative Rates |
|
Up to 10 x persons | R 339,800 |
7 x guests | R 299,200 |
6 x guests | R 267,600 |
5 x guests | R 236,000 |
1 – 4 guests | R 190,200 |
Loapi Camp
Loapi Camp is the new kid on the block. A new mood of unfiltered adventure. It evokes the carefree, nomadic spirit of camping. A return to a true wilderness experience that is both private and exclusive. Located in a beautiful and secluded valley, Loapi invites deep engagement with the southern Kalahari. In all its unfettered, changeable beauty.
In Setswana, the name Loapi means ‘the space below the clouds’. This is aptly reflected in the camp’s environmentally sensitive, modular design. Suspended between earth and sky. There are 4 x one bedroom homes spanning over 300 square meters (about 3200 square feet). There are also 2 x two bedroom homes, spanning over 400 square meters (about 4600 square feet). Each home has all the elements of a safari camp. With indoor and outdoor spaces conducive to communal dining and relaxation.
Loapi Camp features numerous sustainable design solutions, from energy-saving air con, and solar pool pumps. To generous, shade-creating overhangs. Insulated walls, double roofs, and cross ventilation naturally help temperature regulation.
To encourage responsible water consumption, Loapi Camp has:
Bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers (no baths),
Water-wise plunge pools to reduce evaporation.
Family Safaris at Tswalu
A family safari at Tswalu is a great shared adventure. And an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and create lifelong memories. Whether learning the art of tracking, identifying animals, or finding the Southern Cross in the night sky for the first time. A safari with your children is very special. Young eyes are opened to a completely different world. Where the realities of sharing space with wild animals necessitate taking certain precautions and learning about bush lore. Children of all ages soon become immersed in the outdoor classroom that is Tswalu. Where the guide and tracker become the teachers. And learning about the importance of conservation is not only educational but great fun.
The advantages of having a private safari vehicle, guide, and tracker are particularly relevant for families. This means that children of all ages are welcome on game drives. Tswalu is in a malaria-free region of South Africa. Making it extra safe for a family safari with a baby or young child.
On arrival, children receive a backpack that includes Tswalu’s Junior Ranger training guide. Children love the special kiddies program at Tswalu (Junior Ranger program). Which includes bush walks, archery, spoor identification, picnics, and tracking lessons. Days on safari are individually planned for each family. From drives and walks to dining and downtime. The duration and scope of each activity will depend on the age and special interests of your children. Other activities include horse riding, pizza making, and cookie baking. Just to name a few. On top of this, complimentary babysitting will allow parents to enjoy more formal or private evenings.
Activities
Tswalu is malaria-free, making it an ideal safari destination for families. Children are actively encouraged to participate fully in the safari experience. Besides day and night game drives, complimentary activities include nature walks, animal tracking, horse riding, stargazing, dune breakfasts, sleeping out under the stars, and spending time with habituated meerkats.
A few of the other specialized activities on offer:
Rock art excursions,
Time in the field with one of the scientists from Dedeben Research Centre,
A session in the photographic studio, editing and printing your best wildlife images.
Star Beds
If you have been craving the solitude and silence of nature, raw and unfiltered, camping out for the night in one of the two-star beds*, will add an exciting dimension to your safari. The Naledi or Malori. Once dusk fades into velvety darkness, the sounds of nocturnal animals and a sky full of brilliant stars will be the only distractions. Choose Naledi, an elevated, open-air platform in the south. Or reserve a night at the Malori. A romantic safari tent overlooking the savanna dunes to the west.
The Malori Star Bed
A balmy summer night is a perfect time to sleep under the stars in the middle of the Kalahari. The Malori is Tswalu’s under-canvas experience with comfortable beds and an open air bathroom. A spacious deck area is for dining, dreaming, and stargazing.
Whether reserved for romance or for family bonding time, a Malori sleep-out is about tuning out. So that you can soak up the solitude. Tune into the silence. And count shooting stars. The tent is perfect for two. But spacious enough to invite the family. The Malori sleep-out is one of those once in a lifetime experiences you will never forget.
A night at Malori carries an additional cost and needs to be booked in advance.
2025 rate: R11,900
2026 rate: R13,000
Naledi Sleep-Out
*Please note the Naledi Star Bed is out of service at the moment (we’ll update when it reopens).
Meaning ‘star’ in the local Tswana language, Naledi is a simple sleep-out deck in the Korannaberg mountains. It is elevated above a valley with mesmerizing views.
Naledi is a romantic sleep-out experience for two adults but is also ideal for a family of four. Everything has been carefully considered so that guests have everything that is needed for a comfortable stay. Camping stretchers with luxurious bed linen and extra throws and blankets should the night turn chilly. Your summer dinner is a cold picnic-style supper of your choice. In the morning, wholesome breakfast treats accompany warming mugs of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. A few steps from the main Naledi deck is an open-air shower, basin, and toilet on its own timber platform. Providing comfort throughout your stay. Your private guide will leave you with a fully charged, two-way handheld radio. So you can remain in contact should you need assistance at any time.
A night at Naledi is an optional activity that is included in your stay. It does not need to be booked in advance but is offered subject to availability and prevailing weather conditions. Children over the age of 12 are welcome at the discretion of the guide.
Cuisine
Every moment of every meal at Tswalu reflects the culinary heritage of South Africa. Sustainability is key. They forage for Kalahari ingredients and work with local suppliers who share their low-impact ethos. For example, believing that luxury is found in contextual, relevant flavors rather than wasteful overabundance.
The Northern Cape is known for its pecans, pistachios, dates, citrus, grapes, and dried fruits. The region’s surprising bounty includes bottles from boutique, family-owned wineries. Adding to the depth of wines on the award-winning wine list. As well as small batch craft brandies, gins, and other typically South African spirits and liqueurs.
Guests will delight in the delicious gourmet meals. From a late breakfast at the pool, a picnic in the dunes, a feast in the boma. Or sundowners and snacks on your private deck.
Working in partnership with executive chef, Marnus Scholly, and Michelin-starred South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. Chefs look to reinterpret the flavors they find around them and create unique taste touchpoints at every turn. The choice of ingredients is only half the story. The context from which they come and in which they are served completes the picture. All guests now have the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Restaurant Klein JAN*. With a seasonal tasting menu that celebrates the best of the region on the plate.
*Klein JAN is currently closed due to flooding. A Boscia House Pop-up experience is offered until Klein JAN is reopened.
Tswalu’s wine list has some of the best South African wines available. Guests will enjoy the food and wine pairing menus.
The best time to visit Tswalu
The climate varies from extremely dry to slightly wetter. Winter is the dry season, and the rain usually falls during the summer months from October to April. There really is no ‘best time’ to visit Tswalu. Each of the Kalahari seasons offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities and dramatic changes to the landscapes as the environment responds to the presence or absence of water.
Kalahari Seasons
Spring At Tswalu
The mercury begins to climb in September and October. Particularly as the days start to lengthen. Evenings can still be chilly, so come prepared with layered clothing.
In Spring, thorn bushes are softened by blossoms. And the night echoes the calls of amorous barking geckos. The quintessential sound of the Kalahari. Meerkat pups venture outside their burrows for the first time. And there is a palpable sense of anticipation for the beginning of the summer rains.
Summer At Tswalu
Summer is between November and March and is the longest and most important season. Hotter days are punctuated by delightfully mild evenings. And spectacular afternoon thunderstorms.
While rain may be a regular inconvenience elsewhere, here it is both unpredictable and near miraculous. Consider yourself fortunate if it rains during your safari. As you’ll witness an almost instantaneous eruption of color. As the Kalahari transforms into a carpet of golden flowers, green shrubs, and grasses.
Many species coordinate their reproductive cycles with the reappearance of rain. New life is evident everywhere. From wobbly young antelopes to irrepressibly curious jackal pups. Flocks of migrating birds descend on the reserve to enjoy summer’s bounty.
Autumn At Tswalu
In the southern Kalahari, the autumn months of April and May are marked by milder days and cooler evenings. As the last of the summer rains peter out.
The savanna remains at its greenest and shimmers as the breeze carries seeds aloft. The sounds of clashing horns carry across the landscape as the impala rut reaches its peak. While tortoises and other reptiles prepare to hibernate through the winter.
Winter At Tswalu
Between June and August, temperatures can dip below freezing overnight. While the days remain pleasantly warm. The contrast between the red earth and white early morning frost is a visual treat.
Winter is the driest season. With dust devils dancing across the dunes and exceptional stargazing on cloudless nights. Nocturnal species change their daily routines. Tempted above ground by afternoon sunshine. This makes winter a wonderful time to look for Tswalu’s elusive species. Such as aardvark, aardwolf, and pangolin.
Getting to Tswalu
While it is possible to drive to Tswalu, we recommend flying! A Tswalu scheduled charter flight provides a seamless connection for guests from Johannesburg or Cape Town directly into the reserve. From Fireblade Aviation in Johannesburg, the flying time to Tswalu is about 90 minutes. From Execujet’s terminal in Cape Town, the flying time is two hours. On arrival, guests are welcomed and transferred by private vehicle into camp. This takes approximately 20 minutes, unless there is an epic wildlife sighting along the way!
All rates are fully inclusive of:
Dinner at Klein JAN restaurant (Boscia House Pop-up experience until it reopens) based on a 2 night stay at Motse Camp and Tarkuni Homestead. The minimum age for children is 12.
Private game viewing vehicle with a dedicated guide and tracker
Nature walks, including traditional plant use interpretation
Habituated meerkats
Horse riding and bird watching
Some of the oldest bushman rock engravings in Africa
A visit to the community clinic and pre-school
Accommodation
All meals with a variety of dining experiences from boma dinners to dune picnics
All beverages and a full selection from our award-winning wine list
Tea and coffee facilities
In-suite private bar and gourmet pantry
Laundry and valet services
WiFi
Childminding
Rates exclude
Transfers to and from Tswalu
Gift shop purchases
Spa treatments
International telephone calls
Tswalu Foundation donations
Gratuities (we will guide you on this once you have booked your stay)
Tswalu Accommodation Special Offers
The offers below apply to the Motse, Loapi, and Tarkuni. They can also be combined if using Motse and Loapi. The discount or free night is for 1st night at Motse.
Stay longer for Less – all year
If you stay for 4 nights, you only pay 50% on your 1st night. Or stay 5 nights and get 1 night free.
Valid: 1st January – 31st December 2025 & 2026.
Stay 4 nights and get a night free!
Stay 4 nights and pay 3 nights – the first night is complimentary
Valid: 1st October – 30th November 2025, 1st March – 30th April 2026 and 1st October – 30th November 2026
Honeymoon Retreat
Honeymooners who stay at The Motse or Loapi Camp also get these honeymoon treats:
A Malori sleepout
Bubbly and gifts on arrival
A romantic private in-suite dinner
A private wine tasting
1 x Spa massage per person
VIP Private Lounge at the Fireblade terminal
Terms and conditions: Travel within 6 months of the wedding, and a copy of the marriage certificate before arrival.
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