!Xaus Lodge

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Lodge · Kalahari

!Xaus Lodge

Named 'kaus', this lodge offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to immerse yourself in this distinctive desert landscape. It serves as the perfect accommodation for visitors exploring the wilderness of the Kalahari. Perched atop the 91st dune along the Auob River Road, the lodge boasts individual accommodation units connected by an elevated walkway leading to shared facilities.

LocationKalahari

About the lodge

An overview of !Xaus Lodge.

Named 'kaus', this lodge offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to immerse yourself in this distinctive desert landscape. It serves as the perfect accommodation for visitors exploring the wilderness of the Kalahari. Perched atop the 91st dune along the Auob River Road, the lodge boasts individual accommodation units connected by an elevated walkway leading to shared facilities.

This serene setting is ideal for peaceful reflection in the desert and provides an exceptional backdrop for stargazing under the shimmering night sky.

Highlights

  • Stargazing
  • Wildlife and Birdwatching
  • Guided Nature Walks and Game Drives
  • Unique Rustic Accommodation

You Should Know

Children are welcome. However, for safety considerations, regrettably, children under the age of 12 may not participate in the wilderness walks.

The Details

!Xaus Lodge, nestled in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, is the perfect destination for visitors seeking an authentic Kalahari experience. The lodge consists of a central building and 12 individual chalets, each with a private deck offering sweeping views of a saltpan and a freshwater-fed waterhole. For families, the lodge also offers a family unit that can comfortably accommodate up to four people.

The welcoming reception area features a unique wall hanging created by the Vezokhule sewing co-operative in Upington. The cozy lounge, adorned with a fireplace and a library, is ideal for relaxing before dinner. The dining area showcases hand-made furniture from Upington and is decorated with art by Bushman artists. It overlooks the saltpan, providing a mesmerizing view during meals.

A visit to the arts and crafts shop at the lodge allows guests to purchase locally-made Bushman crafts and other Kalahari-inspired items. The large observation deck serves as a perfect spot for stargazing, offering a truly magical experience under the open skies. In keeping with the local environment, the boma fire is built traditionally, fostering a warm, communal space for guests to gather.

The chalets are comfortably equipped with modern amenities to enhance your stay. Each en-suite chalet is supplied with purified desert water, conveniently located in a flask in your bathroom. To ensure year-round comfort, electric blankets are provided for chilly nights, while ceiling fans offer relief during the hotter months.

!Xaus Lodge operates within an ecosystem where water is significantly scarcer compared to the regions where most of its guests come from. Your consideration in helping conserve water during your stay is appreciated.

Price Includes

  • Full Board (All Meals)
  • Accommodation
  • Sunset Game Drives
  • Wilderness Walks
  • Night Sky Stargazing
  • Visit to the Khomani San Craft Village
  • Return Transfer to Kamqua Picnic Site

Guests who stay for four nights or longer at the lodge are treated to a complimentary game drive that lasts about six to seven hours. This adventure takes you through the dunes and along the Auob River, complete with a packed breakfast and a picnic lunch to enjoy during the journey.

You pay the lodge's rate, never a markup.

!Xaus Lodge

Family policies

Travelling with children.

What our safari specialists know about bringing children to !Xaus Lodge, current as of May 2026. They plan family trips here all the time, so anything below that needs arranging, they will sort. For the bigger picture, see our guide to safari with children .

Minimum ages
Stay All ages · Game drives All ages · Walking safari 12+
Child rates
Children sharing with 2 adults: 0–3 years complimentary; 3–11 years pay 30% of the adult sharing rate; 12–16 years pay 50% of the adult sharing rate; 17+ pay the full adult sharing or single rate.
Family rooms
Family unit available.
Care
No dedicated kids' programme
Exceptions

Children of all ages are welcome at the lodge, and one dedicated family unit accommodates up to 4 people (max 2 adults) with a private deck overlooking the waterhole/saltpan. For safety reasons, children under 12 are not permitted on the wilderness/guided dune walks. No kids' programme or babysitting service is advertised.

"Sara has been exceptional with the planning of our safari from beginning to end. There have been so many changes made over the past month on my part, yet she has been able to accommodate every single change. I am very impressed and happy with such professionalism."
August 2026 · Verified on Trustpilot ↗

Speak to a safari specialist

Let's design your stay.

From your first enquiry to the day you come home, one named safari specialist looks after every detail. We can handle the whole trip, not just the stay at !Xaus Lodge: multi-country itineraries, internal flights, road transfers, tipping guidance, travel insurance, the lot. A safari specialist will be in touch within as little as 15 minutes during working hours.

Example: 14–21 Nov 2027 · 2 adults · departing NYC · Big Five focus.

A safari specialist will be in touch within as little as 15 minutes during working hours. Your details stay private. View our privacy policy.

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