Frequently referred to as the ‘Green Kalahari’, Tswalu is a unique place that supports a diverse range of very interesting species within a magnificent setting. With just two lodges (Tswalu Motse and Tswalu Tarkuni) accommodating only 30 guests and six safari vehicles, it provides a very personalised and private safari experience. Tswalu has over 70 species of animal, but of particular note are its desert black rhino, black-maned Kalahari lion, and many other elusive creatures such as aardvark, aardwolf, pangolin and porcupine.
Malaria-free and with great accommodation and game viewing, Tswalu is a fantastic safari destination and offers great flexibility not found in too many reserves. Guests have the service and amenities found in a modern luxury hotel, while at the same time enjoying an authentic African safari environment. As well as a choice of drives, there are options to go out on horseback, on foot, or even sleep out under the desert night skies for some amazing stargazing. In addition, trips can be arranged to visit a local community and there are a number of San Bushmen carvings to visit that recent archaeologists believe may be up to 380,000 years old, some of the oldest on the planet.
Tswalu prides itself on the level of service and flexibility it offers its guests – game drives can be taken at nearly any time and tailored to your requirements. As well as Kalahari lion and desert black rhino, Tswalu has some very interesting and rare species that are difficult to find in many other parts of Africa.
Activities
Game driving, horse riding, bush walks and stargazing.
Time of year to travel
Tswalu can be visited all year round and offers different experiences based on the season. Our top recommendation is between May and October (winter and spring), as the days are cooler and sightings of smaller, rarer animals increase. During the summer (November to March), the days are warmer with the occasional thunderstorm and many of the animals calve, while the arrival of many migrant birds makes this a great time for birdwatching. Autumn (April to May) is the greenest time of year in the Kalahari with mild days and cool evenings. It is also rutting time for many of the antelope species. We would recommend a three or four night stay to make the most of a visit to Tswalu.