Founded in 1981 by leaders in conservation, the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve is 110,000 acres of pristine bushveld paradise about a 3-hour drive or 30-minute flight from Johannesburg. The reserve forms part of the historical Waterberg Biosphere, the first region in the northern part of South Africa to be identified as a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations – and the only savannah biosphere reserve in the world. Early evolutionary finds suggest that the first human ancestors may have lived in the Waterberg region as early as three million years ago. The area has also produced rare archaeological discoveries that date to the Stone Age.

Tintswalo at Lapalala is a family-friendly safari camp with stunning views of this malaria-free region’s rolling mountains and plains. Tintswalo’s prestigious portfolio boasts a luxurious collection of lodges with a strong focus on authentic African safari experiences, and Tintswalo at Lapalala is no different. This luxury tented camp offers superb Big 5 game viewing in one of Southern Africa’s most ecologically diverse settings. Enjoy daily game drives and unique environmental activities like visiting conservation projects of rare and endangered animals – like rhino, sable and roan antelope – as well as participating in environmental education programmes at local schools.

Highlights

• A real hidden gem in South Africa’s under-rated Waterberg region
• Tailored children’s activities
• Visiting the inspirational Lapalala Wilderness School
• Game drives to see the Big 5
• View the oldest rock art in Africa and other Iron Age artefacts
• Bush walks to see San Bushman cave paintings
• Sunset cruises on the Palala River

Activities

• BIRD WATCHING
• BUSH DINING
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS
• CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES
• STAR GAZING

Rooms

Luxury Tent

All rooms overlook a vast plain with a waterhole that attracts many species of wildlife. Raised wooden walkways connect the rooms and the main lodge. The luxury tented suites feature en suite bathrooms, indoor-outdoor showers and baths, as well as private plunge pools. A double-family suite is available for families with children or small groups.

Facilities

Tintswalo at Lapalala’s main lounge provides a warm ambience with a cosy fireplace where you can unwind. Head to the large relaxation deck for a refreshing dip in the swimming pool while watching animals drink at the active waterhole below. The lodge’s spa offers pampering treatments augmented by the famous Africology range.

Dining

Traditional cuisine is served in gorgeous locations around the lodge. You can look forward to exquisite boma dinners beneath a blanket of twinkling stars, or al fresco meals served on the lodge’s expansive deck.