Tankwa River Lodge is ideal for those seeking some real down time with a group of up to twelve loved ones. As soon as you head out to Sutherland, at the turn off at Matjiesfontein, the ancient Karoo landscape works its magic. The road weaves through harsh but beautiful hills, opening up as you cross the boundary into the Northern Cape and head left on 33kms of dirt road, ending at Blaauwheuwel Farm. Open the gate and follow the white stones downhill, past the quiver tree, until you reach the historic werf, at the heart of this 2 500-hectare Karoo farm.
A surprisingly lush garden of succulents, pistachio-coloured fever trees and succulents greets you, and if you arrive at dusk the firepit will be blazing with a welcoming fire. This will become your gathering point until late into the night, when the brightest stars flicker above in the blackest skies. The 200-year-old homestead is off-grid, and while solar power keeps things current, as night falls you will find yourselves opting for soft candlelight, in keeping with the farm’s yesteryear ambiance. Summer evenings are a balmy affair and doors and windows are flung open wide to welcome in the freshest farm air imaginable. And on chilly winter’s evenings, when everyone’s ready to turn in, the old farmhouse has plenty of open fireplaces and thick throws to keep toes toasty ‘til morning. Nights here are punctuated by nature’s sounds… the swirling river, honking geese, croaking frogs and the odd jackal wailing in the night.
Tankwa River Lodge is an eclectic mix of many beautiful collectables. The owner has been gathering treasures over time, with old cupboards and shelves stacked with vintage kitchenware, kilims and antique rugs covering the stone floor and Nguni hides over the simple screed. Life has stood still here for certain, but not the lifestyle! You’ll find all modern comforts and want for nothing, as it’s a much-loved hideaway.
Summers are properly baking hot… swimwear, a kikoi and your Havianas is all you’ll need. There’s a welcoming plunge pool to cool off in, where the kids can splash and play, plenty of shade and heaps of comfy, laid-back couches for reading and playing board games. Pack your coziest nightwear if visiting in winter as at nighttime it can get freezing cold – this is one of the coldest areas in the country, with snow frequently spotted on the mountains. Even in the middle of winter though you may experience the hottest days – be ready for anything!
While at Tankwa the super farm managers will take your party for a daily game drive. Early evening drives are particularly loved by guests; watching the sun set over the vast Karoo landscape is spectacular. Expect to see plenty of game on the farm, it is well stocked with Springbok, Gemsbok, Ostrich and Baboon. You may also be lucky enough to see some less common game, such as kudu, common duiker, aardvark, jackal, rooikat, aardwolf, brown hyena, African wildcat, scrub hare, bat eared fox and mongoose, although these animals are far more elusive. The Tankwa region is known for great birding and there are approximately 180 bird species in the area.
An extra bonus is Lady, the resident horse; she roams free and often comes visiting for carrots and apples, delighting your little people!
What we love!
- The absolute tranquillity and solitude… except for the farm workers there are no people or properties in view.
- Going for sunset game drives on the farm.
- Sitting round the fire pit drinking the good wine and telling stories long into the night.
- The lack of light pollution makes this a sublime spot for star-gazing.
What you need to know…
- The last hour from the main road is a gravel road. However, except for VERY low clearance vehicles this is not an issue.
- The water tastes brackish so please bring your own drinking water.
- There is no cell phone reception once you leave the N2. However, there is Wi-Fi so WhatsApp calls are possible.
- Take a night off kitchen duty – or even your whole stay! The farm managers can offer catered options. Please note catering must be arranged at least a week prior to arrival please.
- One game drive every other day (by the super farm managers) is included in the rate. Please note the Land Rover can only accommodate 9 guests.
- Extra game drives can be arranged, minimum 4 guests, at an additional cost. Sundowner drives are sublime, and the Land Rover is fitted with cool boxes and cups, plastic wine glasses, bowls, knives, cutting board, bottle opener etc. if you wish to self-cater. Catered option available on request.