The Kalahari stretches from Zimbabwe through South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Angola all the way to Namibia. It's the world's largest sand basin and the grasses - unleached, nutrient-rich - support a surprisingly rich and diverse ecosystem.
And here, in this vast wilderness, the Kalahari Game Lodge occupies a sprawling patch of acacia and mopane trees along the dry Auob riverbed. Surrounded by ochre sands, blonde grasses and natural salt pans you're in prime Kalahari habitat and home of the Kalahari lions.
Inside the lodge, a delightful mix of up-cycled Africana and plush finishes makes a striking contrast to the burnished Kalahari landscape. While not exactly the last word in luxury, the Kalahari Game Lodge offers oodles of charm with large airy en suite chalets, comfortable beds and more of that bright, airy freshness introduced by the main lodge. You can camp here, too. Under the famous Kalahari sky in one of six secluded campsites with your own ablutions and washing up facilities complete with solar and wood-fired hot water.
With the Mata Mata border post 18km from the lodge, you're right where you need to be for a visit to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park or extend the adventure by entering from South Africa via Twee Rivieren.
Lion tracking is an awe-inspiring game drive experience on the reserve tracking and following the Kalahari lions using GPS-technology. Tagging some of the lions allows for conservation efforts and as a bonus, guarantees your sightings. A chance to see the wild Kalahari lions up close and learn more about the way they thrive in the arid semi-desert.
In case you were wondering, there's more to a Kalahari lion than simply a lion found in the Kalahari. They're known as a bona fide sub-species, lighter in colour and males have black manes. But besides their obvious differences in appearance, they also live in smaller prides, call larger territories "home" and prefer fine dining, in that they prefer to hunt smaller prey.
Game viewing on day and night drives with a focus on wildlife and flora. Night drives recommended in summer - the Kalahari gets mighty cold on winter mornings and evenings.
Self-guided 4x4 drives on the reserve. Discover the area and the wildlife at your own pace whilst testing out your 4x4 skills on the selected trail.
Dune braai aka barbeque: picture a red sand dune of the Kalahari. Picture the view out over the reserve. Now picture yourself there dining on a chef-prepared meal. In summer this is set for early evening with a drive back to the lodge at sunset. In winter this is done for lunch taking in the warmth of the afternoon sun. This activity is subject to availability so do enquire before your trip begins.
Hiking along the Auob riverbed is a great way to explore the reserve at your own pace. Hike to the lookout deck for incredible views.
Birding from just about anywhere in the reserve, including your chalet or campsite. If you are a keen bird enthusiast, mention this to your guide and their keen eye will look out for species to point out.
We always recommend booking all activities in advance so let us or the lodge know of your preferences before your trip begins.
"We can't wait to return"
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"We loved our experience with NTS"
We loved Namibia and its unique landscapes and kind people. It was certainly an adventure and a privilege to get to spend time there.
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