We had an amazing opportunity to finally experience !Khwa ttu. To bring some context—we had always passed by on our way to other destinations or during a regular road trip, wondering what it would be like. So, you can imagine how thrilled we were when we finally had the chance to experience it all during a weekend stay.
Located roughly 70 kilometers from Cape Town, !Khwa ttu is a unique cultural and nature reserve dedicated to the San people. It offers visitors an immersive experience into the heritage, traditions, and history of the San, combining cultural education with breathtaking natural surroundings. From guided and self-guided tours to wildlife encounters, a fantastic restaurant, and comfortable accommodation, !Khwa ttu is a hidden gem on the West Coast.
Arrival and First Impressions
We arrived on a warm Friday afternoon and were welcomed by a serene atmosphere, surrounded by nature. Our first impression was how tidy and well-maintained everything was. The public spaces were immaculate, with clear signage to guide new arrivals. We parked in the public parking area and made our way to reception through a charming walkway lined with informative boards about the reserve—learning interesting facts along the way. A special highlight? A friendly 80-year-old tortoise that came out to greet us!
Check-in was smooth and welcoming, and we were given an overview of the meals, tours, and purpose of the reserve. We also visited the small curio shop filled with beautiful African crafts, books, and souvenirs that support !Khwa ttu’s initiatives. Antonio from the Marketing Department, personally welcomed us and guided us to our accommodation.
Our Stay at one of Hilltop Huisies
We stayed at the newly introduced Hilltop Huisies, which was previously a guesthouse but has now been converted into beautiful double units. Our accommodation for the weekend was a delight—an open-plan layout featuring a small kitchen, dining space, a cozy couch, and a well-appointed bedroom. The walls were adorned with stunning artwork, and the spacious bathroom featured a large walk-in shower, soft towels, and quality amenities. The best part? The balcony patio with a table and chairs, offering breathtaking views of the reserve, the Atlantic Ocean in the distance, and even Table Mountain on a clear day.
The unit was spotless and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. While the accommodation is self-catering, guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, which serves lunch from 12:00 to 16:00, or pre-order a dinner basket—a fantastic convenience that we were treated to and took advantage of on our first evening.
Sundowners and Wildlife Drive
Excited to explore, we joined Kerson Jackson for a sundowner drive around the reserve. As we drove through the landscape, Kerson shared fascinating insights into the San people, the history of the land, and the various animals that call the reserve home. Along the way, we spotted zebras, springbok, eland, ostriches, and other wildlife, all moving freely in their natural habitat. We ended the drive with a scenic stop, enjoying a drink as the sun set over the landscape—an unforgettable moment.
Pre-Ordered Dinner Basket
After our sundowner experience, we returned to our unit and prepared our pre-ordered dinner. The meal arrived in a beautifully arranged basket, containing starters, pre-made mains (which required a quick cook in the air fryer or oven), dessert, and drinks. It took just 30 minutes to prepare, and we were thoroughly impressed by the delicious, hearty meal. A big shoutout to the kitchen team for their incredible food, clearly made with love!
Dining & Breakfast at !Khwa ttu
Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day, and at !Khwa ttu, it was an experience to savour. The menu offers a variety of breakfast options, accompanied by a fantastic selection of drinks and teas. I particularly enjoyed the unique tea blends, including Buchu, Orange Rooibos, and other distinctive flavours. A slow and relaxing breakfast here is the perfect way to start the day.
They also offer a lunch menu brimming with delicious options— the perfect excuse for a weekend drive or a spontaneous lunch outing whenever you’re in the mood.
Activities and Tours
!Khwa ttu offers San Guided Tours a part of the whole experience – “Each of their superb San Guided Tours is different, but all are designed to engage the body and senses, as much as the mind.”
We opted for a self-guided tour, which allowed us to explore at our own pace. However, guided tours are also available for those who want in-depth insights from expert guides. We spent time walking through the three main exhibition buildings, reading about the life of the San people, their encounters with the modern world, and their deep connection with nature.
One of the most fascinating parts was the interactive tour featuring sounds and visual displays that mimicked their environment and way of life. It was an incredibly immersive and educational experience.
Though we didn’t participate in a tea tour this time, it’s high on our list for our next visit!
Sunsets, Sunrises, Nature & Wildlife Encounters
For nature lovers, the absolute highlights of !Khwa ttu are the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, as well as the incredible wildlife encounters. There’s something magical about watching the sky change colours over the vast reserve, accompanied by the sounds of birds and animals in the distance. The sense of tranquillity and connection with nature is unparalleled.
Overall Experience
Our weekend at !Khwa ttu was truly enriching—filled with interactions with nature, fascinating history, and the warm hospitality of the team. We left feeling inspired and with a greater appreciation for the culture, traditions, and resilience of the San people. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, ensuring that every moment of our stay was enjoyable.
We highly recommend everyone to visit the reserve and experience the !Khwa ttu cultural experience—even if it’s just for a day trip. At only 70 kilometers from Cape Town, it’s an easy drive and a fantastic educational opportunity for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature retreat, a cultural learning experience, or just a unique day out, !Khwa ttu is a must-visit destination.
We can’t wait to return!
For more details please visit their website at !Khwa ttu – The “Embassy” of the San – Home to a Very Different Museum – or follow on Facebook or Instagram for updates.
We were invited to !Khwa ttu in February to experience their offering. The above review is based on our own experiences. Images by travel opulent box.
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