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Deception Valley Lodge, Central Kalahari | Timbuktu Travel
Central Kalahari

Deception Valley Lodge

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Deception Valley Lodge

Authentic wilderness experience where you can track abundant wildlife with local guides
The Kalahari boasts stark beauty and an abundance of diverse wildlife, from the elegant oryx and ostrich to the majestic cheetah and black-maned Kalahari lion. Perhaps most notably, this region is the home to the heritage of San Bushmen, one of Africa's ancient people known for their rich cultural heritage and expert survival skills. There are very few lodges in this under-explored region, making Deception Valley Lodge just one of a handful of luxury all-inclusive options. While this family-owned lodge is actually technically located outside of the Deception Valley region, it immerses you in all the landscapes that are quintessential of the Kalahari.The waterhole within view of the main area is an absolute highlight, frequented by a variety of local wildlife.
Central Kalahari , Botswana
From $550 per person/per night
Safari
8 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The simplicity of the main lodge, with its thatch roof and unpretentious architecture, highlights the natural beauty of the surrounding veld. Bushman artefacts, original artwork, and wood carvings adorn the lodge with a traditional safari ambiance. On the breezy verandah of the main lodge, plush leather couches invite you to enjoy a "sofa safari" or kick back on sumptuous daybeds in an indoor lounge. A small library and well-stocked bar, as well as a large swimming pool, offer hours of enjoyment in between game viewing excursions. With attentive service and hands-on hospitality, you're sure to find the perfect balance between rustic comfort and simple luxury.

The rooms

There are eight thatched chalets raised on stilts that are connected to the main lodge through a network of wooden walkways. Each room boasts indoor and outdoor showers as well as an indulgently deep Victorian tub. There's plenty of room to sprawl - on your private deck or spacious lounge; enjoy a gin and tonic while you're at it, courtesy of your mini-bar. The family room is simply two adjoining double rooms. If exclusivity is what you're after (or you're a small family with children between 8 and 11 years) the Kalahari Manor is your very own bush palace, complete with a private guide and chef. It has a large, elegant lounge, a sunny veranda, and comfortable accommodation for a party of four.

Activities

This region of the Kalahari is home to some of Botswana's best summer game viewing, including the abundant plains game and ensuing predators. As well as game drives, explore the veld on foot with safari walks led by local expert guides and Bushmen who share their intimate knowledge of the region. If you want to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, it's worth noting that other lodges may get you closer. The appeal of this lodge is its location on a private reserve where off-roading is permitted, as well as are night drives, affording you great opportunities to catch some of the shy creatures of the desert, including brown hyenas, porcupines and aardwolfs.
Trips

Central Kalahari Tours & Trips

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How to book Deception Valley Lodge

How do I book Deception Valley Lodge?

Deception Valley Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Botswana trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Botswana trips featuring Deception Valley Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our Botswana specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Deception Valley Lodge?

Stays at Deception Valley Lodge start from around $550 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Deception Valley Lodge

Botswana

Central Kalahari

Home to the San Bushmen, expect poignant cultural experiences, star gazing and pure, untouched space.