Royal Madikwe Luxury Safari Lodge | Madikwe Game Reserve
The Royal Madikwe is an intimate luxury safari lodge focussing on community development and located in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. This luxury Lodge boasts a range of Suites embracing the earthy tones and organic textures of the surrounding wilderness with stylish amenities and a private plunge pool. The Royal Villa with 2-bedrooms is ideal for families travelling together. Sovereign House offers 3 luxury Bedrooms and gives way to endless views and wide-open spaces. The epitome of outdoor living is encapsulated by spacious viewing decks, an outdoor dining area, multiple lounging spaces with daybeds alongside a crystal clear plunge pool. Included in the rates are Game Drives and Bush Walks. In addition, you can experience Drumming Lessons, Tswana Dancing, Star Gazing or enjoy Massage Treatments.
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Luxury one bedroom suite with en-suite, outdoor shower, private viewing deck and plunge pool. Alfresco lounge perfect to retreat to and enjoy the wildlife and tranquil surroundings.
An accolade of romance in a peaceful space.This beautifully appointed one bedroom en-suite overlooks the abounding private waterhole teeming with wildlife! The charming alfresco lounge allows you to immerse yourself in nature and soak up the sunshine.
This lavish two bedroom villa is enveloped by a private viewing deck overlooking the private waterhole and vast landscapes to the North. The villa boasts an outdoor shower, bathtub, plunge pool, alfresco lounge with fire place and outdoor dining space.
A celebration of sophistication encapsulated in a homely space immersed in nature, boasting 3 en-suite bedrooms all with spectacular views. Large indoor / outdoor living spaces create the perfect retreat to relax and soak up your wilderness surroundings.
Luxury one bedroom suite with en-suite, outdoor shower, private viewing deck and plunge pool. Alfresco lounge perfect to retreat to and enjoy the wildlife and tranquil surroundings.
A discovery of elegance and tranquillity set seamlessly alongside an ancient game path teeming with wildlife, the Naledi Suite embraces the earthy tones and organic textures of the breath-taking wilderness surroundings offering an intimate retreat for couples and friends alike; or booked in conjunction with The Sovereign House to create an exclusive family experience.
A thoughtful affinity of interior sophistication and the ageless natural beauty paints a picture of serene luxury with lavish furnishings draped in the finest linens and subtle splashes of colour to awaken your senses. This beautifully appointed one-bedroom suite encompasses all the creature comforts you need to delight in your African wonderland.
Under the dappled shade of a time-old Blackthorn Tree, the comfortable alfresco lounge creates a restful space to retreat to between safaris, while the plush sun loungers on your private terrace lure you in to soak up the African sunshine aside your crystal-clear, naturally heated plunge pool.
Quieten your mind to the sound of nature and revel in her soft melody…
A translation of ageless beauty in a seamless fusion of wilderness and earth born novelties. The Korone Suites’ charm lies in its’ graceful luxury, extrinsic restful spaces and the resonating clipitty clop of playful hooves treading over the ridge on route to the Royal waterhole.
This beautifully appointed one-bedroom suite embraces subtle touches of colour to lift your mood while the grey undertones and natural elements create a tranquil space where you feel comfortable and at home in amongst the plush sitting areas all overlooking the abounding ancient game path beyond your spacious private terrace boasting a naturally heated sunken plunge pool and lavish sun loungers.
Rejuvenate under the open-air rain shower and immerse yourself in nature. Rest, retreat, relax and quieten your mind to the outside world…
The Lenyalo Suite is a salutation of romance encapsulated in a sumptuous one bedroom suite where couples find themselves immersed in nature and surrounded by the raw beauty of Africa, with all the luxurious creature comforts needed to forge an unforgettable experience.
The authentic detail and natural colour palates give rise to delicate touches of vibrance inspired by the vivid backdrop surrounding this beautifully appointed suite. A collaboration of modern and antiquated pieces come together in a serene space where time seems to stand still as you take in the sweet smells and melodic sounds of nature.
Marvel at the unchoreographed symphony of wildlife only 20 meters from your private terrace at the edge of the waterhole while finding solace from the midday heat in your crystal clear plunge pool. Every part of this exquisite suite celebrates the mesmerizing views of the waterhole right in front of your private terrace while the vistas in the North boast an endless backdrop of vast open grasslands dotted with Inselbergs.
Soak up the sunshine all year round on your plush sun loungers or retreat to the shaded alfresco lounge for an afternoon of relaxation, with your only interruption being a flurry of fauna around the waterhole.
Surrounded by untamed wilderness, this spacious family villa radiates a sense of homely elegance encapsulated by the vast extrinsic spaces and luxuriously sophisticated interiors. Sunlight filters softly through the large glass windows and stack away doors while gently accentuating subtle bursts of colour inspired by the backdrop of the diverse surrounding geography. A thoughtful blend of natural textures and colours complement the enveloping wilderness seamlessly while arousing a feeling of utter peace within.
Awaken your senses to the quiet whispers of nature where you’ll find the lavish two bedroom Royal Villa nestled effortlessly in the dolomite rich valley, set diagonally across from the busiest private waterhole in Madikwe Game Reserve making it the most popular choice for our discerning family safari goers!
Explore, experience, retreat… and rekindle your connection with nature in a celebration of serene spaces.
Nestled in an ancient dolomite ridge alongside an abounding Elephant game path, this exquisite house gives way to endless views and wide open spaces with extensive outdoor lounging areas accentuated by the dappled shade of Marula trees.
The Sovereign House experience brings luxury, elegance and sophistication to life in a comfortable natural setting with blue grey undertones, deep chocolate accents and a warm rusty palette inspired by the dolomite rocks and iron rich soils of Madikwe Game Reserve.
Exclusive to just six guests, the Sovereign House boasts 3 spacious bedrooms with dreamy vistas and beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms. Large open living areas create the perfect convergence for family fun with a cultured homely ambiance, while the loft style slow lounge provides solace for the younger generation. A selection of award winning wines find refuge in a sophisticated glass cellar adjacent to the modern kitchen, which looks out over the vast landscapes, giving the Sovereign House the ability to appeal to all generations.
The seamless choice for a discerning multigenerational family retreat! The epitome of outdoor living encapsulated by spacious viewing decks adorned in an outdoor dining area, multiple lounging spaces and daybeds alongside the crystal clear plunge pool.
Property Facilities
Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fireplace, Fridge, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Massages, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Golf, Historical Tours, Museums, Natural History Tours, River Cruises, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours, Wine Tasting
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Your Rooms
1x The Sovereign House
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 5
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Tarkuni, Tswalu | Tswalu
Located in a secluded valley in the Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve, Tswalu Tarkuni offers the ultimate, exclusive-use escape in a private homestead with an unparalleled safari experience. With the use of stone, natural textures, and neutral colours, Tswalu comprises five stylish bedrooms with bespoke amenities, inclusive of a dedicated chef, housekeeper, and a private vehicle and guide for Game Drives with Guide and Tracker. The lodge homestead offers a lounge with exceptional valley views, a beautifully appointed swimming pool and plenty of outdoor dining and relaxation spaces, including an intimate boma for magical fireside barbecue dinners under the stars. Game Drives and bush walks, and a visit to Tswalu's habituated meerkats is included to see them in their natural habitat is an unforgettable encounter.
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Luxury suites
Tarkuni is an exclusive homestead which can accommodate up to 10 guests in 5 individual suites. Each suite has a king-size bed with exquisite cotton linen, and and en-suite bathroom.
Tarkuni
Tarkuni offers unparalleled safari accommodation for guests who want to travel in small groups. Guests can expect genuine indulgence and pampering and, with their own private vehicle, guide, and tracker, a completely flexible safari experience
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Air conditioner, Baby Sitting, Bar, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Malaria Free, Meal On Request, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Outside Shower, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Telephone
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Cooking Courses, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, Helicopter Scenic Flights, High Tea, Horse Riding, Massages, Safaris, Sleep Outs
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Health and Fitness Centre, Hiking, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Night Drives, Rhino Tracking, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Game drives are tailored to each guest and led by highly skilled guides and trackers trained in the ecology of the southern Kalahari. Exclusive access to the reserve ensures sightings are quiet and unrushed, with no competition from other vehicles. Guests are free to spend as much time as they wish observing animal behaviour, tracking movements, or simply absorbing the vastness of the landscape.
Immersive bush walks offer a slower, more intimate way to experience the Kalahari. Led by expert field guides, these walks focus on observation and interpretation — what guides describe as “reading the newspaper” of the reserve. Tracks in the sand, the scent of a tree in seasonal change, and subtle changes in the land reveal stories of movement, interaction, and survival. These walks invite guests to engage with the environment through all the senses, discovering how much life and meaning is held in every detail. For safety reasons, immersive bush walks are available to guests aged 16 years and older. Younger guests are invited to participate in specially designed, age-appropriate nature experiences as part of the Junior Ranger Programme. These include guided children’s walks, spoor identification, track casting and hands-on learning activities — offering a safe and engaging introduction to bush skills and wildlife interpretation.
Tswalu’s vast semi-arid landscape supports a remarkable diversity of birdlife, with more than 260 species recorded across the reserve. Guided birding experiences — from early-morning walks to focused drives — reveal iconic Kalahari species such as sandgrouse, bee-eaters, sociable weavers, and a variety of raptors and desert specialists. Birding at Tswalu offers both rewarding sightings and a deeper understanding of the southern Kalahari’s unique ecosystems, making it a compelling addition to the safari experience.
Tswalu is home to three habituated meerkat colonies, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these charismatic animals at close range. Early-morning visits to their burrows allow guests to watch daily routines unfold naturally without disrupting their behaviour.
Exploring Tswalu on horseback offers a rare sense of freedom and connection with the landscape, allowing riders to move quietly through the Kalahari and experience the reserve from a different perspective. Horseback riding at Tswalu is offered to intermediate and advanced riders only. Each ride is led by an experienced horse guide and supported by a backup rider, both equipped with a radio and a comprehensive first aid kit. Riders must be comfortable at trot and canter and able to control a horse independently. The weight limit is 100 kg. Trail saddles are used as standard, with a limited number of English saddles available on request.
With minimal light pollution and dry, crystalline air, the southern Kalahari offers some of South Africa’s clearest night skies. Stargazing may take place from a private deck, during an evening pause on a game drive, or from a chosen lookout in the dunes. Guides help identify constellations and share stories linked to the stars, from Southern Hemisphere astronomy to cultural interpretations rooted in local Kalahari tradition.
Tswalu’s photographic safaris offer a highly tailored way to capture the wildlife, landscapes and light of the southern Kalahari. Each booking includes a purpose-adapted photographic safari vehicle and a specialist photographic guide providing practical field assistance and tuition, supported by a tracker. Two hours of informal, classroom-style tuition and assistance with post editing in Adobe Lightroom in Motse’s Photographic Studio. This experience caters to photographers of all levels, from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned professionals, and offers a rare opportunity to refine skills in an exceptional wilderness setting.
- Available at an additional cost per day
- Advance booking is essential
- Minimum commitment of two days required
- Best suited for 1-2 guests per vehicle
Guests may visit ancient San engraving sites protected within the reserve. Tswalu provides protection for many valuable rock art sites, featuring rock engravings (petroglyphs), cupules and paintings of people, animals, birds, and abstract shapes that document the culture and history of the San and other early inhabitants of Tswalu. Guided visits reveal the cultural and spiritual significance of this landscape, offering a powerful reminder of the deep human history embedded in the Kalahari.
One of Tswalu’s unique experiences is starlit dune dining, set atop one of the reserve’s quiet red sand dunes. As the sun sinks behind the Korannaberg mountains, guests gather for an open air dinner shaped by seasonal ingredients, local flavours and the warmth of a wood-fired barbecue. Lantern light, star-studded Kalahari skies and the surrounding silence create an atmosphere found nowhere else, making each dune dinner an intimate celebration of place.
The Spa and Gym at The Motse provide both relaxation and stimulation for body and mind, with inspiration coming from the savannah views and the use of organic materials both in the construction of this space, and in the spa treatments.
The Tswalu Foundation exists primarily to support ecological research at Tswalu. Through accumulating a growing body of quality output on the fauna, flora and the unique habitat of the southern Kalahari we have been able to make informed conservation management decisions to better support our shared vision.
This information has been made freely available to our neighbours and other interested parties so that, as we seek to add to our shared understanding of this rich and diverse landscape, they too can care for their land in the best long-term interests of the wildlife and people of the Kalahari.
During your stay at Tswalu, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with researchers studying both iconic and more obscure species and witness scientific conservation in progress.
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, an open-air bathroom and a spacious deck area 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. With comfortable beds, an open-air bathroom and a spacious deck area for dining, dreaming and stargazing, 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 needs to be booked in advance, carries an additional cost, and is offered subject to availability and prevailing weather conditions.
Children are welcome at Tswalu and the reserve is well equipped to cater for them. Tswalu believes that they too can be part of the conservation vision.
The youngsters will be introduced to the Junior Ranger programme and given a backpack with guides and tools to help them learn about the Kalahari. During their stay they will make their own bow and arrow for archery, learn how to identify spoor, and track game on foot.
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... guests will delight in the delicious gourmet meals prepared by Executive Chef Marnus Scholly.
Every moment of every meal at Tswalu reflects the culinary heritage of South Africa and is carefully designed to be as inclusive as possible. Sustainability is key: we forage for Kalahari ingredients and work with local suppliers who share our low-impact ethos.
We believe that luxury is found in contextual, relevant flavours rather than wasteful over-abundance. Our food offering helps tell the story of Tswalu – it’s inspired by and captures the essence of the Kalahari.
Working in partnership with Michelin-starred South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, our chefs look to reinterpret the flavours they find around them and create unique taste touchpoints at every turn. Our choice of ingredients is only half the story; the context from which they come and in which they are served completes the picture.
Tswalu's wine list has been carefully selected from the best South African wines available.
All guests now have the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Restaurant Klein JAN.
Boscia House Pop-up is a heritage-inspired dining experience located in a restored early-1900s farmhouse. Interactive and intimate, Boscia House offers a seven-course tasting menu inspired by the surrounding landscape, made using hyper-local, seasonal ingredients and paired with carefully selected wines.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Your Rooms
1x Exclusive use for Tarkuni Homestead
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 5
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Rare Earth Bakoven Beach House | Cape Town
Offering a quintessential Cape Town experience Rare Earth Bakoven Beach House is perched above the rocks of the secluded and tranquil Bakoven beach, with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a front-row seat to the grand finale of each day, a magnificent Cape Town sunset. With three luxurious rooms, featuring elegant yet comfortable interiors designed with a fresh and contemporary feel, Bakoven Beach House will feel like your own piece of heaven. Equipped with an open-plan kitchen, lounge, fireplace and dining area on the second level – all with spectacular sea views. The upper deck offers an outdoor barbecue, sun loungers and a comfortable seating area. The house is located just a short distance from Camps Bay, Clifton and many top Cape Town restaurants and attractions.
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Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Your Rooms
1x Exclusive-use for Beach House
Fast Facts
Villa
