Brian Barnes, Nicky Oppenheimer’s chauffeur in London, has been making the most amazing walking sticks for the last three years. He recently visited Tswalu to host workshops for staff wanting to learn the art of stick making.
In 2010, Roger visited Tswalu for the first time and was immediately struck by the beauty and scale of this extraordinary landscape. Over the few days he was with us, Roger constantly sketched the plants and grasses which captured his imagination; he watched masked weavers building their nests throughout the day and marvelled at, as any jeweller would, the constellations of the Southern Kalahari’s “diamond skies at night.
From these inspirations , Roger has created a magnificent series of jewellery, now available here at the reserve and through his own website. Each piece is hand-made in 18 carat gold and diamonds at Roger’s UK studio. Importantly, a precentage of all profits from the sale of the collection, will go to the Tswalu Foundation, funding further research and conservation initiatives into the very ecology which inspired these jewels.
Click here to view Roger Doyle’s Tswalu Collection
Brian Barnes, Nicky Oppenheimer’s chauffeur in London, has been making the most amazing walking sticks for the last three years. He recently visited Tswalu to host workshops for staff wanting to learn the art of stick making.
Tswalu Kalahari Spa is a combination of sensual spaces which combine to create an inspirational venue for what must be one of the most unusual spa experiences in Africa.
Designed to enhance the natural beauty of the Kalahari and take advantage of the superb climate, the outdoor treatment area is within an indigenous spa garden where guests may find the occasional antelope grazing alongside them and be lulled into a deep state of relaxation by the sound of birdsong.
The indoor spa area is a natural extension of the earth, inspired by nature and the splendour of the Kalahari, with natural finishes and fabrics and simple spaces which together create a sense of tranquility and barefoot elegance.
Guests may also choose to have their treatments at an outdoor tsala, where a rustic structure protects one from the elements and is positioned to give a bird’s eye view of the open grasslands of the reserve against the backdrop of the Korannaberg Mountain range.
The Spa at Tswalu Kalahari is an integral component of the overall Tswalu guest experience. Surrounded by endless blue skies and the unique vegetation of the Green Kalahari, guests who indulge in the authentic signature massages will discover the Spa’s philosophy of “nature above man”…
Touch…
Indulge your senses in a Tswalu massage experience,
a unique fusion of different therapies designed to replenish and soothe body mind & soul
Signature Tswalu touch experience
ZAR 950 | 90 min
A choice between either a natural red dune sand or desert crystal exfoliation.
Paired with our signature Kalahari stone massage fusion, allow yourself to sink into deep relaxation.
Aromatic candle massage
ZAR 750 | 75 min
Food for a thirsty skin! Pure rich botanical oils from a lit candle is used for a distinctive, warm and sensory experience, leaving your skin moisturised and radiantly smooth.
Swedish massage
ZAR 700 | 60 min
By making use of long strokes and kneading, this relaxing and invigorating
massage immediately eases muscular aches and tension while promoting
health and well being.
Hot stone massage
ZAR 700 | 60 min
The gentle heat of basalt stones encourages muscles to expand and relax,
allowing a deeper penetration
to the core of the muscle.
Mom-to-be massage
ZAR 700 | 60 min
The ultimate pamper for future mothers, to relax and prepare for her newborn.
Designed to relieve tension, maintain suppleness in skin tone and aid in relaxation.
Reflexology
ZAR 700 | 60 min
A pressure-point massage focusing on nerve locations on your feet, corresponding to specific organs and areas of your body. Thumb and finger pressure releases tension, allowing energy and healing to flow to the affected reflex zone - balancing the body as a whole.
Back, neck & shoulder massage
ZAR 575 | 45 min
Sink into deep relaxation with a ritual that soothes away muscular pains using authentic, sun baked Kalahari calabashes and indulgent aromatic fragrances.
Indian head massage
ZAR 575 | 45 min
Focusing on key pressure points on your scalp, a technique designed to improve the functioning of the nervous system and the elimination of fatigue caused by mental strain.
Refine…
Unveil lustrously smooth skin with a personalised blend of your desired Kalahari exfoliation medium
Natural red dune sand
ZAR 475 | 30 min
Pure, fine red Kalahari Dune Sand.
Desert mineral crystals
ZAR 475 | 30 min
Direct from the natural mineral rich salt pans of the Kalahari.
Infuse one of the above with natural plant based emollientrich aromatic oils for a silky smooth skin.
Purify…
Personalised facials designed to treat various skin concerns to achieve your desired results.
All facials include a décolleté, scalp, neck & shoulder pressure point massage.
Decadent dune facial
ZAR 900 | 90 min
An exquisite ritual combining textures & delicate aromas for the ultimate anti-ageing effect. As the dunes in the desert move, so we will move the dunes of age. A decadent delight!
Sweeping sands facial
ZAR 750 | 75 min
Expect a fresh, clear and radiant complexion with this invigorating, deep cleansing regime. Step into an oasis of refreshment, a luscious treat!
Gentlemen’s deluxe facial
ZAR 750 | 75 min
This super-grooming facial decongests the skin, works overtime to eliminate blocked pores, rapidly accelerates skin repair and neutralises impurities. A cooling, refreshing burst!
Bliss…
The final touch, whether it be tip or toe
Classic Kalahari pedicure
ZAR 520 | 75 MIN
Sink into deep relaxation with a foot ritual that soothes
Away tired, aching feet.
Classic Kalahari manicure
ZAR 520 | 75 MIN
Surrender your mind and welcome the feeling of richly nourished and moisturised hands and nails.
Further…
Outdoor venues
Open air tsala’s further add to the ambience, enabling you to appreciate our wildlife.
In suite treatments
Available on request.
Spa attire
Please wear your robe and slippers located in your suite.
Tswalu gym
An environment focused on physical fitness, health and vitality.
Personal property
Management and staff are not liable for loss or damage of personal property.
Spa reservations
Booking in advance is recommended.
Please find our rates below
Rates include:
Rates exclude:
| 2012 Rates are per person |
|
|---|---|
| The Motse | |
| Per person rate (based on 2 people sharing) | R7700 |
| Single occupancy | R9900 |
| Children under 12 yrs sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 2 children sharing) | Complimentary |
| Child over 12 yrs sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 1 child sharing) | R2200 |
| Family suite supplement | R6000 |
| Extra child in family suite | R2200 |
| Motse exclusive use rate (up to 20 people) | R110000 |
| Tarkuni | |
| Exclusive use only (up to 10 people) | R42000 |
| Private Vehicle Hire with personal Field Guide and Tracker | Vehicle rate per day | R2800 |
| Flights | |
| 2012 | |
| JNB/Tswalu | One way R3080 Return R6050 |
| CPT/Tswalu | One way R3630 Return R7150 |
| Schedule Times: JNB 13h00 (1hr 30 min flight) CPT 11h00 (2 hr flight) JNB flight departs from Tswalu at 15h00 CPT flight departs from Tswalu at 13h30 Luggage allowance of 12 kg per person in soft sided bag Minimum 2 passengers - flights are non-commissionable | |
Imagine sleeping in a luxury king-size bed on a raised deck in the middle of a game reserve, surrounded by the calls of nocturnal animals, with nothing between you and the brilliant stars of the Kalahari night sky…
Tswalu Kalahari’s newly launched sleepout deck, The Malori (meaning ‘dreamer’ in Tswana), offers guests the unique experience of a safari sleepout on a magnificent 100,000ha five star private game reserve.
The Malori deck boasts a raised platform with a thatched overhang for protection should it rain. Guests can choose to sleep under the thatch or further along the deck where it is completely open. The quaint bush suite also has weather-proof blinds which can be rolled up or down according to preference.
There is no compromise on luxury. The king-size bed is dressed with exquisite Aldona linen. Luxury towelling robes and slippers are provided and an adjacent outdoor toilet, basin and shower are just a short distance away along a lighted walkway. A simple fold-up table and camping chairs and a cushioned couch complete the barefoot luxury.
The Malori deck is built to maximise the exquisite surroundings and has panoramic views of the vast plains of the Green Kalahari. It is orientated to showcase the incomparable Kalahari sunsets.
Guests are escorted to the sleepout by a guide on a game vehicle from either The Motse or Tarkuni Private Villa . On arrival, the guide sets up drinks and snacks and while the guests are enjoying the spectacular views over their sundowners, the chef prepares dinner.
Dinner is a relaxed meal prepared in front of the guests, followed by dessert.
Guests are then left to enjoy a cheese and biscuit platter and a night cap, before retiring in privacy to enjoy their own Kalahari sleepout experience!
Wake at sunrise to birdsong and the sounds of the early morning in the Kalahari. Your guide will bring your tea and coffee tray and set up a delicious continental breakfast on the deck.
Or you can choose to take a horse ride, walking trail or game drive back to the main camp, stopping for a picnic breakfast along the way.
Tswalu also provide children’s camping beds, so the whole family can enjoy an exhilarating Kalahari sleepout under the stars.
All our special packages are offered on our online booking system. Alternatively, please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) should you require further information.
Directions to Anglo American Hangar
(Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport)
Directions to the ExecuJetHangar
(Cape Town International Airport)
Alternative Transport Arrangements
Take a scheduled South African Airlines or SA Express flight to Upington or Kimberley.
You can choose to drive to Tswalu. And a good many of our guests do. Recommended routes are detailed for you below:
You can choose to drive to Tswalu. And a good many of our guests do. Recommended routes are detailed for you below:
You can choose to drive to Tswalu. And a good many of our guests do. Recommended routes are detailed for you below:
Tswalu creates the perfect place & atmosphere for the most romantic escape - be it your honeymoon or just time together…... 2 people, 100 000 hectares, thousands more stars.
Romance Package Includes:
• Spouse stays free
• Gift in suite on arrival
• Full board luxury accommodation for 2 adults
• Private vehicle, dedicated personal guide and tracker for the duration of your stay
• All beverages & selected wines
• A couple’s spa treatment
• Walking safaris led by an experienced field guide
• Private horseback ride through the savannah to a romantic sundowner in the dunes
• Scrumptous gourmet continental picnic when on your private game drive
• Private 5 course menu gourmand deck dinner with wine pairing
• Valet & laundry
• Romantic turndown
Terms & Conditions apply:
• Min 3 night stay
• All packages are mutually exclusive
• Flights excluded
• Single rate applies
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Tswalu Kalahari can be easily accessed by both road and air. Private scheduled charters offered daily flights from Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airports directly onto Tswalu Kalahari’s’ own private tarred airstrip. Click here for details on road access to Tswalu.
The climate at Tswalu varies depending on the time of year you visit so please visit our weather section for further details. It is however always advisable to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a good pair of walking shoes. In summer, light cool clothing is best with a light warm clothing item for early morning game drives. In winter, please remember a warm jacket and some cooler clothing for the afternoons.
Please also note that Tswalu Kalahari is free of malaria and other tropical diseases.
Tswalu means “new beginning” in the Tswana language.
The serenity of the reserve’s vastness and the intimacy of our properties combine to create the perfect place for any new beginning. A wedding celebrated here, or a honeymoon begun, could not be more memorable. Big birthdays become bigger still. As always, our ambition is to create an experience with you, not just for you; our staff can help you build in imaginative details throughout your stay.
As just one example of what is possible, our Honeymoon Under The Diamond Skies is centred around three nights in a suite at the Motse, where you will be greeted with champagne when you arrive. A private vehicle with your own personal Field Guide and Tracker will be at your disposal, guaranteeing the ultimate bespoke safari experience. You can gently ride on horseback across the savannahs to a romantic cocktail on the dunes as the sun sets. Our secluded spa offers relaxing reflexology or a luxurious massage to you both. And on your last night here, a private dinner on your own deck comes complete with a telescope to gaze at thousands of stars.
For weddings, milestones or simply Christmas in the Kalahari, we will work with you to bring your own vision to life. The desert is yours.
Our Executive Chef, Theresa Fehrsen, has a style which defines modern South African cuisine. Tswalu is proud to be a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux and to meet its exacting standards. But here you will enjoy food you will never see anywhere else in the world.
With an emphasis on the qualities of individual ingredients, Theresa creates new interpretations of classic South African dishes such as charkalaka or koeksisters. Elsewhere inspiration comes directly from the Kalahari and treasures such as the rare Kalahari truffle. Sometimes local colour creates a simple accent, such as a hollandaise made with inkomasi, the traditional buttermilk of the Tswana.
As our menus change, so do our venues. Sundowners are followed by dune dinners and spectacular sunsets. Tswalu’s Kalahari Feast is a modern reworking of the traditional “boma” braai. Breakfasts may take place with panoramic views of the waterhole where our Southern Pride of black-maned lions may also start their day. At any time, you may choose a romantic supper in the privacy of your own deck, with a vintage wine and a telescope to gaze at a thousand stars.
Our service aims to be gentle yet meticulous. As Justin Cartwright wrote in Conde Nast Traveller, “this unobtrusive professionalism is the special quality of Tswalu.”
For all bookings, a 25% deposit is required within 14 days of making a reservation. If a booking is not confirmed it will be released automatically from our system after this time. Please note that a reservation is not confirmed nor secure until this deposit has been paid. Tswalu reserves the right to release any accommodation being held where this required deposit has not been received within the stated period.
The balance of the accommodation charges and the costs of all transfers must be paid in advance, no later than 30 days prior to a guest’s arrival. Tswalu reserves the right to cancel any booking should payment not be received in full. If a booking is made within 30 days prior to arrival, full payment will be required at the time of booking.
All extra charges incurred during a guest’s stay must be settled at the lodge on departure.
Please note that flight transfer costs are included in the definition of bookings for the purposes of this agreement and Tswalu’s cancellation policy.
Cancellation Policy
90 - 46 days prior to arrival a 25% cancellation fee will apply
45 - 22 days prior to arrival a 50% cancellation fee will apply
21 - 0 days prior to arrival a 100% cancellation fee will apply
Please note that the Christmas period (15 December to 15 January) and Easter period are exceptions here as any booking for those periods which has been confirmed to us in writing will be subject to full cancellation fees regardless of the time of cancellation.
In the unlikely event of the cancellation of a confirmed booking, travel insurance must cover our Cancellation Terms and Conditions.
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All our special packages are offered on our online booking system. Alternatively, please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) should you require further information.
Tswalu offers every photographer and film-maker a unique chance to capture their own observations of the Kalahari. But the desert and its eco-system are too complex to be defined in one image or film. The dunes and the grasslands hold too many secrets; the landscape can change in an instant with the first drops of rain.
To make a reservation enquiry at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, please complete our online booking enquiry form or contact us by phone or email. Contact details for Tswalu Marketing can also be found on this page. Alternatively, contact us by filling the form below and we will respond to you within 24hrs.
If you would like to make a reservation enquiry, please complete the form below and we will contact you by telephone or email within 24 hours. Alternatively you may book online through Relais & Chateaux by clicking here.
Please find our rates below
Rates include:
Rates exclude:
| 2011 Rates are per person |
|
|---|---|
| The Motse | |
| Per person rate (based on 2 people sharing) | R7000 |
| Single occupancy | R9600 |
| Children under 12 yrs sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 2 children sharing) | Free |
| Child over 12 yrs sharing with parents in a standard suite (max 1 child sharing) | R3500 |
| Family suite (based on 4 people, including private vehicle, dedicated personal guide and tracker) | R20000 |
| Family suite supplement | R6000 |
| Extra child in family suite | R2000 |
| Motse exclusive use rate (up to 20 people) | R100000 |
| Tarkuni | |
| Exclusive use only (up to 10 people) | R38000 |
| Private Vehicle Hire with personal Field Guide and Tracker | Vehicle rate per day | R2500 |
| Flights | |
| 2011 | |
| JNB/Tswalu | One way R2800 Return R5500 |
| CPT/Tswalu | One way R3300 Return R6500 |
| Schedule Times: JNB 13h00 (1hr 30 min flight) CPT 11h00 (2 hr flight) JNB flight departs from Tswalu at 15h00 CPT flight departs from Tswalu at 13h30 Luggage allowance of 12 kg per person in soft sided bag Minimum 2 passengers - flights are non-commissionable | |