Private Karoo Retreat

Tula Retreat is a private, boat-access wilderness sanctuary on the edge of Calitzdorp Dam. We host only one booking at a time, so the entire retreat is yours.

Your stay begins with a private boat transfer across the dam. Once you arrive, there are no shared spaces and no interruptions—only mountains, water, wildlife and endless sky.

Designed primarily for couples, Tula offers off-grid comfort, a wood-fired hot tub and complete seclusion in the Little Karoo.

Tula’s private outdoor kitchen is set on a hill approximately 200 metres from the Jala Tent and is fully equipped for a relaxed self-catering stay.

• Gas stove and oven
• Gas fridge
• Fire pit and braai facilities
• Wi-Fi and solar charging points for phones and laptops
• Basic cooking essentials, tea, coffee and a French press

Daily wood and firelighters are included.

Prefer not to cook? Traditional Karoo “Skof-Tin” meals can be pre-ordered from Vineyard Kitchen and collected in Calitzdorp on your way to Tula. At least three days’ notice is required.

Relax

• Swedish massages by arrangement
• Yoga mats and meditation cushions
• Hammocks
• Wood-fired hot tub and stargazing

On the water

• Swimming
• Double kayak
• Guided kayak excursions
• Boat cruises
• Catch-and-release yellowfish fishing

Explore

• 1.5 km mountain trail
• 6 km gravel walk
• Birdwatching
• Cycling routes

Is Tula Retreat completely private?

Yes. We host only one booking at a time, so the entire retreat—including the hot tub, outdoor kitchen and dam frontage—is exclusively yours. The Vayu Caravan cannot be booked separately and is prepared only for bookings of three or four guests, unless arranged in advance.

How do guests access the retreat?

Guests park at Fish Eagle Private Resort, approximately 8 km from Calitzdorp, before taking a private 10-minute boat transfer to Tula. The gravel road is suitable for most passenger vehicles when driven carefully.

Is there secure parking?

Yes. Secure, shaded parking is provided behind a gate at Fish Eagle Private Resort.

Is the retreat self-catering?

Yes. The private outdoor kitchen is fully equipped. Guests may also pre-order Vineyard Kitchen’s Skof-Tin meals with at least three days’ notice.

Is there Wi-Fi or mobile reception?

There is no Wi-Fi in the Jala Tent. Wi-Fi and solar charging points for phones and laptops are available at the outdoor kitchen. Vodacom reception is limited, and other networks may be unavailable. A radio is provided for contacting staff when necessary.

How far is Tula Retreat from Cape Town?

Tula Retreat is approximately a 4 to 4½-hour drive from Cape Town.

What is the closest airport?

George Airport (GRJ) is the nearest airport, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Tula Retreat. Car rental is available at the airport, and the scenic drive through the Little Karoo forms part of the experience.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (no boat transfers after dark)

Check-out: By 10:00 am

Is Tula Retreat pet-friendly?

Unfortunately not. Tula Retreat is not suitable for pets due to free-roaming wildlife and the rugged natural terrain.

Is the water safe to drink?

The retreat uses filtered dam water. Guests who prefer bottled drinking water should bring their own.

Have another question?

We’re always happy to help.

Please contact us via WhatsApp if you have any questions before or during your stay.

⸻

Important Information

• We are unable to accommodate infants or children under 12 years of age.
• A signed indemnity form is required prior to check-in.
• The Little Karoo is a naturally dry region, and we kindly ask guests to use water responsibly.
• Water levels in the dam vary depending on seasonal rainfall.
• Staff are available daily between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm