A Soul-Stirring Kalahari Escape

Venture deep into the vast Central Kalahari Game Reserve, home to the legendary black-maned Kalahari lions and an extraordinary desert wilderness. Guided walks with experienced San trackers reveal the remarkable knowledge that has enabled generations to thrive in this challenging yet beautiful environment.

As night falls, the desert takes on a magical new character. From the camp’s sleepout deck, watch the Milky Way stretch endlessly across an immense canopy of stars – an unforgettable way to experience the silence and scale of the Kalahari.

Tau Pan Highlights

• Join San-led walks and discover traditional survival skills, medicinal plants and generations of indigenous knowledge
• Search for the magnificent black-maned lions of the Kalahari
• Enjoy a picnic lunch while exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Deception Valley
• Spend an unforgettable night beneath the stars on the dedicated sleepout deck

Activities

All experiences are led by Kwando’s expert guides and trackers, with outings adapted to the season, wildlife activity and guest interests. Activities follow Central Kalahari Game Reserve operating hours, and off-road driving is not permitted.

• San Bushman walks
• Game drives
• Excursions to Deception Valley
• Sleepout deck experiences

The Camp

Tau Pan was the first lodge to open within the renowned Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Its exceptional position sits high on the ridge of an ancient sand dune, overlooking wildlife-rich plains and a permanent waterhole.

The waterhole regularly attracts the resident lion pride, offering guests the chance to observe these remarkable predators from the comfort of camp.

Facilities

• Spacious open-sided dining, lounge and bar areas beneath thatched roofing
• Elevated firepit with spotting scope
• Swimming pool
• Safari shop
• Complimentary laundry service
• Solar power with generator backup
• Dedicated sleepout deck
• Limited Wi-Fi connectivity

Accommodation

Purpose-built desert suites are tucked beneath thatch and designed for year-round comfort. Insulated walls help protect against the intense Kalahari heat during summer while retaining warmth during the cooler winter months.

The eight Suites and one Family Suite each include:

• Private viewing deck with outdoor seating and waterhole views
• Spacious lounge with armchairs
• Ceiling fan
• Tea and coffee facilities
• International charging points
• Writing desk
• En-suite bathroom
• Flushing toilet and double vanity
• Indoor and outdoor showers
• Gowns
• Hot and cold running water.

Location

Tau Pan is situated deep within the enormous Central Kalahari Game Reserve, covering approximately 5.28 million hectares (13,047,165 acres) across the remote Kalahari Desert.

Tau Pan airstrip is approximately a 15-minute drive from camp. Light-aircraft flights take around 55 minutes from Maun and approximately two hours from Kasane.

For adventurous self-drive travellers, the 4WD journey from Maun via Rakops takes approximately seven hours, offering an immersive overland route through the Kalahari wilderness.