Featured Property: Tarkuni Tswalu

Tswalu's Tarkuni has recently been completely renovated to welcome a new generation of travelers, seeking absolute privacy while desiring time in nature with family or friends. Many of these travelers are also requesting longer stays, allowing more time not only to explore Tswalu's vast landscapes but to relax and enjoy camp.

 This beautiful exclusive-use retreat is located in a secluded valley below the Korannaberg Mountains. Once hidden behind a wall, a precious, gnarled shepherd's tree has become a focal point at the entrance, welcoming guests to their thatched safari home. Days at camp are fluid and flexible, as active or relaxed as guests want them to be. "It's a place to restore and replenish the mind and body, while spending time with the special people in your life."

All the pleasurable daily rituals of safari living, from leisurely meals outdoors to afternoon siestas by the pool, were carefully considered in the design process. Adrian Davidson, project architect from Savile Row, a multidisciplinary design practice in South Africa, explains that one of the key reasons for the renovation was to open up the homestead to invite more light in, while also adding an easy flow between the living spaces, both indoors and outdoors. Improving Tarkuni's use of resources, like water, was also an important consideration that influenced the design.

 Tarkuni's new fire pit encourages gathering for an early cup of coffee before game drives, especially on chilly winter mornings. The brazier is just as conducive to cocktails before dinner while sharing stories of the day's special sightings. Positioned in front of the house is an inviting boma for outdoor dining, with low stone walls to take full advantage of the magnificent views across the waterhole to the horizon.

The five guest bedrooms have new, light-flooded bathrooms with outdoor showers. All the glass sliding doors throughout the house have been fitted with screen doors that allow the scents and sounds of the bushveld to filter in.

Tarkuni's airy interiors reflect the natural surroundings in a palette of fresh botanically inspired greens and natural, earthy tones. The southern Kalahari's complex textures and organic forms find expression in bespoke pieces of furniture, designed exclusively for Tswalu.

In addition to a large shaded veranda, there is a sala with teak day beds – a quiet spot away from the main house for a post-lunch siesta or an outdoor massage. Closer to the house there is a deep splash pool for refreshing dips on a warm day.

Tarkuni offers the ultimate escape at any time of the year, providing the opportunities to stop and appreciate the silence and the immense sense of space that defines Tswalu Kalahari experience.