Tswalu, Northern Cape, South Africa

Tswalu Kalahari is the largest private game reserve in South Africa and covers an area of over 100,000 hectares. Tswalu makes conservation its absolute priority and has won numerous accolades over the years including the National Geographic Adventure Magazine’s Top 50 Eco Lodges in 2009.

No more than thirty guests and six vehicles are allowed on the reserve at any one time so one can enjoy the beauty of this landscape, the diverse wildlife, and the peace and serenity of what may be South Africa’s last great wilderness.

Situated in the southern Kalahari Desert in South Africa’s Northern Cape, the lodge is malaria free and offers exceptional sightings of some of the country’s rarest and most extraordinary wildlife including black-maned Kalahari lions, desert black rhino, meerkats, rare antelope, cheetah, over 70 species of mammal and 230 species of birds, including endangered raptors.

Being a member of Relais & Chateaux, accommodation at Tswalu is beautifully appointed. The luxurious suites or ’legaes’ at Motse camp (meaning village), are built of local stone, rich red clay and traditional Kalahari thatch.

We like: The heated infinity pool, which overlooks a nearby watering hole, offering superb game viewing.

Best for: Those wanting a remote getaway without compromising on luxury.