A member of Relais and Chateaux, Tswalu is South Africa’s largest private game reserve covering 100,000 hectares of extraordinary wilderness. This is not the place to tick off the big five, this is an expedition into the heart of real Africa for the safari connoisseur.

Head out into the mighty Kalahari with your expert guide who will unveil the complex and vibrant ecosystem of the area. Game drives are tailored to what you want to seek, bush walks are actively encouraged as the best way to get close to the land: inspecting burrows, nests and the smaller insects and mammals. Night walks frequently encounter some of the most elusive safari species including aardvark, aardwolf and porcupine. One of the best places to sample the remarkable tranquillity of the desert is riding across the grassy savannah and rolling sand dunes on horseback. You will be accompanied by one of the lodge’s expert guides and riding can be arranged for everyone from complete beginner to Olympic champion.

Each of the eight suites at The Motse (main lodge) has 170m² of space, an open fireplace, lavish en suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower and private sunset-facing deck overlooking a waterhole. When taking a break from your Kalahari discovery, relax by the pool or use the telescope to take in one of the most impressive night skies you will find anywhere. Families, groups or a couple seeking the ultimate wilderness retreat should consider taking the five-bedroom Tarkuni.

Tswalu has been accredited by Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa in recognition of their commitment to both conservation and their local community. The lodge employs nearly 150 people, most of whom grew up in the immediate locality. Tswalu run literacy programmes for adults and children and a primary health clinic which is open to everyone who lives locally, not just staff. Treatment is provided free of charge and includes raising awareness of HIV/AIDS as well the importance of nutrition and healthy eating.