A unique opportunity to enjoy spending time with the Kalahari San Bushmen in an authentic, non-touristy environment.
Grassland Safari Lodge sits alongside the edge of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve next to unoccupied land which borders the Ghanzi ranches. The owners came to Botswana five generations ago and have an amazing relationship with the bushmen who are considered part of their family, their own children conversing fluently in the local 'click' language with the San.
The accommodation is in eight solid chalets, each with en-suite bathroom. The main lodge features both an indoor and outdoor dining room, so you can eat under the stunning Kalahiri night sky. Grassland is also justifiably proud of the standards of its cuisine! The food is home cooked and wholesome.
There is an amazing waterhole near the lodge that attracts pleny of wildlife, one of the highlights is the early morning arrival of hundreds of Sand Grouse coming to drink.
The lodge is home to the Predator Protection Project which is providing a local conservation and education project. Predators move freely from the Kalahari to neighbouring ranches where they attack cattle and find easy water. Historically farmers have shot them, this project rescues them and keeps them on Grasslands own private lands in a semi wild state before hopefully re-introducing them into wild situations. Cheetah and Wild Dog are also being encouraged into captive breeding projects as they are so endangered now in Botswana. Guests at Grassland can visit the project free of charge, though donations are of course hugely welcome. The local people are being educated in the conservation projects and learning not to shoot these animals.
The bushman experience here is definitely the highlight of any stay. Unlike some other lodges, the bushmen are clearly thought of as part of the family and are very much at home on the land. Go walking in the bush with them (at times to suit them not the visitor, it's so authentic!), You can visit the hunting village and learn about their traditional way of life.
Horse riding is also available at Grassland.
