THE EXPERIENCE

Drive across the infinite desert in search of its star attraction: the glorious Kalahari black-maned lion. Cheetahs are also abundant, one of the highest concentrations in southern Africa. Watch herds of springbok, gemsbok or wildebeest journey across the sands, as well as giraffes, brown hyaenas, myriad mongoose varieties, Cape and bat-eared foxes, leopards, black-backed jackals, and honey badgers. Among more than 200 bird species on hand, spot the striking secretary bird, pale chanting goshawk, ostrich, black-breasted snake eagle and countless others. Learn, feel the culture of the land’s indigenous people, the ancient San, out on a walk with a family. Sleep in a bed open to the night sky and marvel at one of the planet’s most spectacular night skies.

THE PLACE

Kalahari Plains lies in a remote part of the Kalahari Desert, in Botswana’s vast Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) – at 52 000 square kilometres, larger than Belgium. The reserve offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, particularly in summer.

THE CAMP

Kalahari Plains overlooks an immense pan with endless horizons and beautiful skies. Its eight en-suite canvas units – airy and insulated to keep temperatures comfortable – are each topped with a sleep-out platform where you can spend moonlit or star-studded nights. The charmingly traditional, wood and thatch main section consists of a lounge, dining area, pool, and deck. Solar power provides all the electricity and hot water in the camp. Healthy wildlife populations are present year round, many seen from vantage points in camp.