ATC - Grassland Safari Lodge

Grasslands Safari Lodge

Where Culture, Conservation, and the Kalahari Come Alive

Nestled on the fringes of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in Botswana’s Ghanzi District, Grasslands Safari Lodge offers an immersive safari experience unlike any other. Here, vast Kalahari horizons meet extraordinary wildlife encounters and the most authentic Bushman (San) cultural experience in Southern Africa.

What sets Grasslands apart is the remarkable diversity of experiences available in one destination. From the exceptionally productive waterhole directly in front of the lodge — alive with wildlife day and night — to horseback safaris across golden grasslands, guided morning and afternoon game drives, the African Wild Dog conservation project, and white rhino encounters, every moment at Grasslands is rich with discovery.

The Most Authentic Bushman (San) Experience in Southern Africa

At the heart of Grasslands Safari Lodge lies something truly extraordinary: a profound and genuine connection to the San people.

This authenticity stems from the deep-rooted relationship between the lodge owners, Neeltjie (formerly De Graaff) and her husband Tiaan Bower, and the Bushman community.

Neeltjie stands as a rare custodian of San cultural knowledge. Fluent in Naro — the primary language of the local San — she bridges worlds, allowing guests intimate access to one of the oldest living cultures on Earth. As a sixth-generation descendant whose family history is intricately interwoven with the Bushman people, she offers insight not as an outsider, but as someone raised within a shared history of respect and connection.

Guests do not simply observe — they participate.
Bush walks reveal ancient survival skills.
Tool-making demonstrations showcase traditional craftsmanship.
Village visits offer meaningful exchanges and wisdom passed down through generations.

This is not a staged cultural display. It is living heritage — authentic, respectful, and profoundly moving.

Wildlife & Conservation in the Kalahari

Beyond cultural immersion, Grasslands delivers exceptional wildlife experiences across the sweeping Kalahari grasslands.

Game drives reveal iconic desert-adapted species, including:

• Majestic gemsbok
• Agile springbok
• Red hartebeest
• Eland
• Predators such as cheetah and leopard
• And the increasingly rare African Wild Dog

The lodge’s dedicated Wild Dog project reflects Neeltjie and Tiaan’s commitment to predator conservation, offering guests insight into one of Africa’s most endangered carnivores.

Adding to this conservation success story are the white rhinos now residing at Grasslands. Through careful breeding management and protection efforts, these magnificent animals represent hope for the future — completing a truly diverse and meaningful safari experience.

A Waterhole Like No Other

The lodge’s vibrant waterhole, situated directly in front of the chalets and main area, is one of Grasslands’ greatest assets. Wildlife activity unfolds throughout the day and often intensifies at night, offering guests effortless yet extraordinary viewing from the comfort of the lodge.

Accommodation & Hospitality

Accommodation consists of comfortable en-suite chalets, each offering sweeping views over the active waterhole. Designed for relaxation and immersion in nature, the lodge also features:

• A swimming pool
• A shaded thatched relaxation area
• Inviting communal spaces for storytelling and connection

Hospitality at Grasslands transcends service — it feels like coming home. With a family tradition spanning more than 135 years in the region, Neeltjie and Tiaan welcome every guest as part of their extended family.

Activities at Grasslands Safari Lodge

Grasslands offers a diverse range of experiences tailored to every explorer:

Game Drives
Morning and afternoon drives led by knowledgeable guides, revealing the wonders of the Kalahari ecosystem.

Horseback Safaris
A unique and intimate way to explore the grasslands and approach wildlife naturally.

Waterhole Viewing
Continuous wildlife activity directly in front of the lodge — ideal for photography and relaxed observation.

Wild Dog Conservation Project
Educational insight into one of Africa’s rarest predators.

White Rhino Encounters
An opportunity to witness conservation in action.

Authentic Bushman (San) Experience
Cultural walks, toolmaking demonstrations, village immersion, storytelling, cuisine, and philosophy from the world’s oldest living culture.

Grasslands Safari Lodge is not simply a safari destination.
It is a place where culture, conservation, and family legacy converge — creating an experience that is immersive, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.