Tswalu. We just love Tswalu. It is currently undergoing the latter stages of a huge refurbishment on one of their lodges, the wonderful Motse, which will be ready from the 16thJune this year and we can’t wait to see the finished product! The Motse, translated from the local Tswana means ‘village’ and consists of nine extremely generously spacious suites called ‘legae’ meaning ‘little house’ but this fine lodge is anything but little – especially as it lies within such a vast landscape at the foot of the towering Korannaberg mountains, with views stretching as far as the eye can see over the Kalahari grasslands.

The other stunning accommodation at Tswalu is the Tarkuni which is a pure oasis of serenity with equally stunning views of the Kalahari grasslands. Originally a private homestead, the wonderful Tarkuni is up to date with plush interiors and in no way in need of an update, so its doors are wide open ready and waiting for you! It accommodates up to ten guests in five luxurious en-suite bedrooms – the amphitheatre like firepit is definitely a must along with everything else at the Tarkuni!

Other than the exciting new revamp of The Motse, we have heard some more great news:

Jan comes home! Who is Jan you are asking? Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen is South Africa’s first ever Michelan-star Chef and having worked incredibly hard to achieve this holy grail of titles, this true bushman has finally returned to the bush – one cannot escape the call of the open skies and the smell of the burning campfires. A collaboration alongside the Oppenheimer family, who strive towards maintaining the traditions that are so strong within South Africa as well as celebrating food, people and arts. With the involvement of Jan returning this will be a new era in celebrating the unexplored culinary territory of the vast and versatile Kalahari.

Klein Jan will open its doors on one of the South Africa’s leading private game reserves, Tswalu Kalahari. Tswalu is a refuge, totally untamed, untouched, unspoiled – this celebrates the authentic yet simple splendour of this magical land. Inspired by all of this, Jan along with his superb team, will be cooking up a dining experience not found anywhere else – this has been his dream for years, so the passion behind this is completely pure.

Alongside this, Jan has introduced an innovation studio which is a new development kitchen opening its doors in Cape Town where a team of top-class chefs and students will have the chance to continue to develop and innovate South African cuisine.

Our MD has recently been to Tswalu and cannot stop talking about it! To help the rest of the team escape our jealousy at her having been to such a stunning camp – and wanting to return immediately – we implore you to get in contact to talk about Tswalu with us and to book your stay at Tswalu (something you will not regret) as soon as you can. It is a location and property not to be missed, especially now Jan and his team are on board!