Our Stories

Tswalu is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, a place of iconic wildlife, vast landscapes and rich biodiversity. From hanging with habituated meerkats to dinner at Restaurant Klein JAN, expect the unexpected.

Tswalu’s remote location in the southern Kalahari provides the ultimate off-the-beaten-track escape at the height of summer. Exclusive access to this untrammelled wilderness sets the scene for a safari of unparalleled privacy and freedom.

Since opening, Loapi has established itself as a quietly luxurious, private retreat within the immensity of Tswalu’s exclusive-access wilderness. Gain an insider’s view of what it’s like to stay in one of these private tented homes.

Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen talks to us about finding inspiration in nature and community, and sharing the Klein JAN kitchen with Wolfgat’s Kobus van der Merwe for a once-off Kalahari-themed dinner.

A young man with a natural flair for service and an excellent memory for guest preferences, Freddy Ntoalang is proud to be Tswalu Kalahari’s first head waiter.

At Restaurant Klein JAN, head chef Etienne Wessels is telling the culinary story of the Kalahari with a modern, multi-course menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients.

In this delicious dish, springbok loin is teamed with an African staple, samp and beans, bringing together South Africa’s rich culinary heritage but with a modern twist.

Restaurant Klein JAN was recently named International Hidden Gem in the La Liste 2022 Awards, putting Tswalu Kalahari Reserve and the Northern Cape province of South Africa on the global culinary map.

The Motse's pastry chefs recently played around with new dessert ideas using these fresh, local pistachios. The result, pistachio frangipane tart, is served as a dessert with Chantilly cream.