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 antelope 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.
Skip to Motse Accommodation and Rates, Tarkuni Homestead Accommodation and Rates, Loapi Camp Accommodation and Rates, or Specials and Packages
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 called 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 |
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 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, dedicated guide, and 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 |
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| 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 |
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). All the elements of a safari camp have been incorporated into each home. With indoor and outdoor spaces conducive to communal dining and relaxation.
Loapi Camp features numerous sustainable design solutions, from energy-saving air-conditioning, and solar powered 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.
Loapi Camp Accommodation
Each home has been carefully positioned to make the most of unimpeded views south. Across the swaying golden grasses and gnarled trees of Tswalu’s characteristic arid savanna. Guests are assured of privacy and seclusion with at least 100 meters (330 feet) between each home. The bedrooms at Loapi Camp are cocoon-like sanctuaries under canvas. Connecting guests to the sights and sounds of nature. While providing exceptional comfort and insulation from the Kalahari’s extreme temperatures. Uncluttered, sculptural interiors, enriched by nature’s colors, textures, and organic shapes, optimize the sense of space.
Designed as contemporary glass and steel pavilions, the living and dining areas form the heart of the home. Together with the kitchen and fully stocked pantry and bar. A private study makes working or studying remotely very easy. Deep, shaded decks have daybeds for relaxation and a plunge pool for refreshing dips. A fire pit is ideal for sundowners and early morning coffee.
A private chef prepares all your meals in the interactive kitchen with a dedicated butler.
At the entrance to each home is a pavilion, or outpost, from where guests set off on all activities. The outpost is also a welcoming point of return. With a bathroom, storage for safari essentials, and a choice of refreshments. Guests at Loapi Camp have private use of a safari vehicle with a dedicated guide and tracker. Providing unlimited access to the largest privately protected conservation area in South Africa.
2025 Loapi Camp Accommodation Rates |
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One Bedroom Luxury Tented Safari Home |
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| Per person rate (based on 2 people sharing) | R 51,370 | |
| Single occupancy | R 63,690 | |
| Children 0-11 years sharing with parents in a 1 bedroom safari home (max 2 x children sharing) | Complimentary | |
| Child 12-17 years sharing with parents in a 1 bedroom safari home (max 1 x child sharing) | R 10 010 | |
Two Bedroom Luxury Tented Safari Home |
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| Up to 2 adults and 2 children (0-17 years) | R 118,690 | |
| 3 x adults sharing | R 138,600 | |
| 4 x adults sharing | R 184,690 | |
| Additional child 0-17 years in a 2 bedroom safari home (max 3 x children sharing) | R 10 010 | |
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.
The Kalahari and Bushman
The name Kalahari derives from the Tswana word “Kgala” which means “great thirst”. But Tswalu is in the southern Kalahari which is really a “green desert”. This is due to the Korannaberg mountains that attract precious rainfall in the summer months. There are over 400 x plant species at Tswalu. Together with more than 230 x bird species (including endangered raptors), and 90 mammal species. Plus 38 species of reptiles. Every living thing has adapted ingeniously to this unique environment.
The Kalahari is the ancestral home of the San people (Bushman). Some of their ancient engravings can be seen at Tswalu. Current research suggests that these may be amongst the oldest art on Earth. As hunter-gatherers, the Bushmen survived by tracking and hunting wild game with bows and arrows. Gathering berries or desert melons. And storing scarce water in the blown-out shells of ostrich eggs. The San culture and beliefs are rich and rooted in this land.
Conservation and Sustainability
Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is at the forefront of sustainable ecotourism in South Africa. As a fellow member of The Long Run, the sustainability journey is focused on the four key areas. Conservation, community, culture, and commerce. The reserve is first and foremost an ambitious conservation project. There are numerous research projects, geared towards understanding and conserving key species within the Kalahari ecosystem. Research informs all major conservation decisions. Playing a vital role in revealing fascinating aspects of the ecology. Tswalu has always taken a low impact, high value approach to ecotourism. The reserve has the lowest guest footprint in South Africa. And revenue from the camps helps fund conservation. Ecotourism contributes to the sustainable preservation of the southern Kalahari’s biodiversity for future generations.
By choosing Tswalu, guests not only become part of a bigger sustainability story. But also contribute to the conservation of the southern Kalahari’s biodiversity.
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. As 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 the almost instantaneous eruption of color. As the Kalahari transforms into a carpet of golden flowers and green shrubs and grasses.
Many species coordinate their reproductive cycles with the reappearance of rain. New life is evident everywhere. From wobbly young antelope 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.
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.
Game Drives
Days on safari at Tswalu unfold at your own pace, depending on your interests and the time of year. With every Tswalu booking, a private vehicle, guide, and tracker are guaranteed. With this comes the freedom and flexibility to choose where to go and what to see on the reserve. Including unlimited time at sightings. Nothing is dictated. The only schedule is your own.
Sightings may include some of the elusive species that find sanctuary at Tswalu. Such as aardvark, pangolin, bat-eared fox, brown hyena, and aardwolf. Other iconic Kalahari species include black-maned Kalahari lions, desert black rhinos, wild dogs, oryx, and cheetahs. At any time of the year, there are special sightings and transformations to the landscape. All are influenced by seasonal changes and the absence or abundance of water.
Meerkat Experience
The Tswalu meerkat experience is made possible because these sociable creatures have been habituated over many years to accept humans as part of their environment. And not to see human presence as a threat or danger. Habituators have spent many hours in the presence of each of these groups to build their trust. It is a very slow process of moving closer or retreating to give them more space. All the time observing their behavior. The animals are not followed when they move beyond the safety of their burrows to forage. This is to ensure that their feeding habits are not disrupted.
Spending time at one of the habituated meerkat colonies is often a highlight of a Tswalu safari. Get within a few meters of one of three family groups. To watch them pop in and out of their burrows. Stand sentry, groom, and play with each other. Soak up the sunshine, and forage in the sand for tasty morsels.
Your guide will wake you at daybreak because the best time to see the meerkats is when they first emerge from their burrows to scan the horizon, groom themselves in the sun, and begin foraging for the day.
For the best experience, guests should sit as still as possible. About two meters away, and just observe the meerkats going about their normal activities. It is an encounter that will bring you up close to wild animals and immerse you in their natural environment.
Birding Safari at Tswalu
If birding is a key objective of your safari it is best done on foot. However, you are likely to spot numerous bird species even on game drives. Sightings depend on which habitat you are traversing. There are some birds that you will see across the property. Including Sociable weavers, White browed sparrow-weavers, Namaqua doves, Fawn colored larks, and ant eating chats.
A memorable sighting at Tswalu is the aerial ‘rocket’ display of the male Red-Crested Korhaan. He launches himself vertically up to 30 meters above the ground and then throws himself into a backward somersault. Dropping out of the sky with wings closed. It looks as if he has been shot out of the sky!
Birders Walking Safari
Birders will be eager to discover many of the bird species of the southern Kalahari while at Tswalu. Setting out in the early morning on a walking safari coincides with the onset of the dawn chorus. Listening to bird calls is always a useful tool to locate different birds.
Early risers include the robust and vocal White browed Sparrow Weaver. With its series of chattering and squealing phrases. Cutting through the cool of the morning are the high pitched, melodious whistles of the Kalahari Scrub-Robin.
Keystone tree species, such as the complex Camel thorn tree, are large and strong enough to support the enormous Sociable weaver nests. Which can be built to exceed one ton in weight. Sitting patiently under one of these community nests may be rewarded, if you are lucky. With a close-up of one of the smallest diurnal raptors in the region, the Pygmy Falcon. The Pygmy falcon makes use of one of the many chambers of the Sociable weaver’s nest.
Birding on foot is always a rewarding way to spend a morning on the reserve. Whether wandering over rocky hills, strolling through grassy plains, or cresting a red sand dune. Or just wait it out at a watering hole or pan.
Nature Walks
Much of Tswalu’s beauty can be found in the smaller details, which are best appreciated by getting out of the vehicle. Then you will get up close to the ripples left by the wind on the crest of a sand dune. Notice a yellow flower opening to face the sun. Or; be able to trace the tracks left in the sand by a porcupine digging for roots. A walking safari makes it possible to see these and other signs left in the wild. That adds to understanding this fascinating wilderness. Following the tracks of iconic Kalahari species. Including cheetah, brown hyena, and aardvark, adds to the thrill of exploring on foot.
Horse Riding
Another wonderful way to appreciate Tswalu’s landscapes and wildlife is from the saddle. A guided horse safari allows up-close animal sightings that are sometimes not possible from a vehicle or on foot. Regardless of your level of experience, follow game trails through the grasslands. Head over to the dunes for a picnic lunch. Or ride out to the Malori star bed before sunset.
Rock Art
Tswalu protects many valuable rock art sites. Said to date back some 500,000 years. Featuring rock engravings, and paintings of people, animals, birds, and abstract shapes. Documenting the culture and history of the San and other early inhabitants of this place.
One site is on a prominent hill with hundreds of images of giraffes, elands, and human figures. There are also ongoing archaeological investigations around Tswalu.
Stargazing
Tswalu must certainly be one of the best places to stargaze in South Africa. With no pollution to spoil the view of the Kalahari’s “diamond skies”.
Tswalu Kalahari Spa
The award-winning spa offers a welcome lounge, two beautiful therapy suites with adjacent sensation showers with a private garden. In keeping with Tswalu’s philosophy, the spa is crafted from natural materials. With reed ceilings and dry stone walls in the indoor and outdoor showers.
Tswalu Helicopter Experiences
See Tswalu from above with the Agusta Westland 119, a versatile single engine helicopter ideally suited to VIP transport. The Augusta is available for private helicopter flips on Tswalu, and excursions to nearby points of interest and historical landmarks. And a shuttle service to Upington Airport.
Star Beds
If you have been craving the solitude and silence of nature, raw and unfiltered, camping out for the night in one of our 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
Naledi Sleep-Out
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. With 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 touch points 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.
Tswalu’s wine list has some of the best South African wines available. Guests will enjoy the food and wine pairing menus.
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 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 below offers apply to the Motse, Loapi, and Tarkuni
Stay longer for Less
If you stay for 4 nights, you only pay 50% on your 1st night.
Or stay 5 nights and get 1 night free.
Discount or free night is for 1st night at Motse.
Promotion is also valid on combination stays at Motse and Loapi
Valid: 1st January – 31st December 2025
Stay 4 or 5 nights and get a night free!
Stay 4 nights and pay 3 nights – first night complimentary
Valid: 1st March – 30th April 2025 and 1st October – 30th November 2025
Promotion is also valid on combination stays at Motse and Loapi
Honeymoon Retreat
Honeymooners who stay at The Motse or Loapi Camp also get the below 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 marriage certificate presented before arrival.
Tswalu Kalahari Reserve Camps
Tswalu Motse, Tarkuni, or Loapi Camps are in the malaria-free southern Kalahari in the Northern Cape; a unique, luxury, must-see destination
Northern Cape South Africa
South Africa
