The stunning Haina Kalahari Lodge is in the heart of the Kalahari, bordering the Central Kalahari Game Reserve at the northern boundaries; an approximate 3 hour drive from Deception Valley. The nearest village is Rakops, about 1 hour 45 minute drive to the east.
The lodge offers game drives conducted by professional and experienced guides in open-sided 4×4 vehicles.
Excursions
Choices of early morning, afternoon and night drives are on offer, affording you the opportunity to explore the beautiful Kalahari Desert area well known for sightings of the Kalahari Lion. Occasional sightings of leopard, cheetah and perhaps the rare opportunity of spotting the elusive Brown Hyena that frequents the area are the order of the day.
Regular sightings of antelope species such as Oryx, Blue Wildebeest, Eland as well as the smaller mammals including the black-backed jackal or ground squirrel. The area also allows for excellent bird watching, with over 250 bird species positively identified.
The highlight has to be the opportunity to explore the surrounding area on foot, led by the resident San People, who take you on an authentic, adventurous and informative guided walk. The walk is a journey into the past of these gentle people, during which they impart information about their ancient culture and how they once survived in the harsh and arid conditions. Being great storytellers, you are taken back in time as they reminisce on how they once lived. They also share their in-depth knowledge of the smaller creatures as well as the fauna and flora of the Kalahari. The walks are done at a pace you are comfortable with and a truly peaceful way to get closer to the environment.
Following a full day of activities and a delectable dinner, nothing beats taking a drive to the lodge’s elevated star gazing deck, where on a clear night, the Kalahari sky comes alive, showing off brilliant stars and crystal clear views of the Milky Way.
Accommodation
The Lodge accommodates up to 20 guests in solar-powered tents, strategically placed to ensure guests’ privacy at all times. The 6 luxury tents, sheltered by the uniquely structured slatted canopy, comprise of a bed with mosquito net, en-suite facilities with indoor and outdoor showers, and gas tea/coffee making facilities. Families can take full advantage of the Family Tent, which is made up of two Luxury Tents with inter-leading decks.
Alternatively, guests can upgrade to one of the 3 Superior Tents with large decks and full bathrooms. The Superior Tents are built beneath a thatched canopy, which provides shade and keeps the tents cool in the hot Kalahari sun. All units are furnished in subtle earth tones and dark woods in a contemporary African theme.
The main lodge consists of a lounge, dining room and bar area housed beneath a pitched thatch and timber structure. The swimming pool, sundeck, well-appointed bar and an expansive boma eating area are among the facilities available to visitors. The sundeck is a popular spot for social activities and for exchanging accounts of the various sightings of birds and animals spotted during the day.
Video courtesy of SunDestinationsvia YouTube
