Elite Traveler November-December 2015

INSPIRE DESERT ESCAPES

elite traveler NOV/DEC 2015 ISSUE 6 88

Tswalu KALAHARI DESERT, SOUTH AFRICA

Set over 610,000 acres of wilderness, this private game reserve is the best place to see some of South Africa’s rarest wildlife including desert rhinos, cheetahs, rare antelope, buffalo, giraffes and Kalahari lions. Owned by the Oppenheimer family, the diamond moguls-turned-environmentalists, it is a sociable spot with regular bush dinners, South African wine tastings, and boma feasts. Your host can also arrange a yoga class in the tsala , overlooking the watering hole. Chef Mandi Hough also whips up some of the best cuisine in the region. Try the exceptional Kalahari truffle if it's in season. Standout service The main reason to visit Tswalu is for its bespoke game drives – you’re unlikely to see another Land Rover on your travels. Horseback safaris can also be arranged. Special amenities Outdoor showers, in-room spa treatments, stunning decor, including bushmen rock art said to be 380,000 years old, personal field guides and trackers, bed linen options (Egyptian cotton for warm nights, Aldona linen for cool ones). On-site runway that can accommodate private jets. Room to book Rent the entire resort (sleeps 28 in total), then take the Tarkuni five-bedroom villa for yourself. Contact Jeanine Engelbrecht, reservations manager, res@tswalu.com, +27 53 781 9331, tswalu.com Price $29,120 per night for exclusive use

The hotel has a Pilatus PC12 jet that guests can hire