The name Dreghorn is of Celtic origin and is derived from distant Scotland, a stark contrast to the arid Kalahari.
Dreghorn is originally a village in North Ayrshire, Scotland, 3.5 kilometers to the east of Irvine town center, on the old main road from Irvine to Kilmarnock. It is sited on a ridge between two rivers. After the First World War (1913-1917), the region was surveyed by a Scott called Rodger “Malkop” Duke Jackson who subdivided the region into farms. Jackson was a colourful character and named many of these farms after landmarks of his homeland. Most of these names are still in use today and include many water holes in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and surrounding commercial farms area.
The Molopo River is formed by the Molopo river and its tributaries the Kuruman, Auob, and Nossob. The Kuruman River last descended in 2021 when it stopped flowing only 600 m east of Askham. In 1988 it passed Askham and flowed into Andriesvale and the Molopo. Andriesvale is about 15km north of Askham. The water then advanced another 22km down the Molopo’s course. The river flow stopped at the farm Zoutputs where eyewitnesses encountered a large flock of pink flamingos only two days after the water arrived. In 1974 and 1976, the Kuruman flowed well after good rains in the catchment area. The waters came down in the Molopo in those years and ran into Abiquaputs North’s pan for weeks. Abiquaputs’ pan is roughly 80km west of Andriesvale. The water in this pan dams up to a depth of about 5 meters before it begins to flow further south in the direction of Noenieput. 1974 the lead did not progress further than Ka-Kolk farm. In 1934 the Molopo was through to about 4km north of Noenieput.
Meet our Dreghorn Team
Uli & Tania Lombard
+27 83 627 2384
Owners
“Dream Big” is not just a slogan for the Lombard family – it’s a way of life. When Ulrich & Tania Lombard ventured from Paarl their now hometown for a holiday in the Kalahari with their daughters Zemke & Heyke, they fell in love with the red dunes and the endless possibilities that lay before them.
The dream of owning a piece of land in the Kalahari seemed far-fetched at first, but the Lombards were determined to make it a reality. They spent eight years in partnership on a farm 70km away before finally securing their dream:
Dreghorn Kalahari Game Farm.
The Lombard family wanted to create a place where people could have a home away from home, connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Kalahari. They purchased a 4,400-hectare farm and gradually expanded it over the past 2 years through hard work and determination. By combining their love for the land with their entrepreneurial spirit, they were able to create a sustainable business that has become a model for eco-tourism in the region.
Today, as owners and operators of Dreghorn Kalahari Game Farm, the Lombard family continue to embrace the “Dream Big” philosophy in everything they do. From conservation efforts to hospitality, they strive to exceed expectations and provide guests with an experience unlike any other and waving goodbye to friends, not their guests.
The Lombards’ willingness to dream big and work hard to make those dreams a reality has enabled them to create a thriving business that continues to grow and evolve.
At Dreghorn Kalahari Game Farm, we strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for our guests. We would be honored to become friends with you as we work together towards making your dream of a successful and enjoyable trip a reality.
Ulrich – Tania – Zemke & Heyke Lombard
Dirk Grobler
+27 72 351 5395
Lodge Manager
dreghorn@molopo.co.za / info@dreghornfarm.co.za
At Dreghorn, we take pride in welcoming our valuable guests with the exceptional expertise of our hospitality professional, Dirk Grobler. With more than ten years of experience in the industry, Dirk joined our team in April 2021 and has played a vital role in providing an unbeatable guest experience alongside Ulrich and Tania. Starting as a waiter at just 16 years old, Dirk has managed various restaurants in Gauteng before taking a six-year break in the private sector. His passion for people and love of food brought him back to the Northern Cape, where he now resides with his wife and son in Askham, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the Kalahari. At Dreghorn, our guests always come first, and we strive to offer top-notch service, cleanliness, value for money, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Kalahari. Whether it’s a special request or a simple inquiry, you can trust Dirk to make your stay an enjoyable one by ensuring that your needs are met in every possible way.
Charlene Hobbs
+27 67 747 1380
Admin Manager
Introducing Charlene Hobbs, a highly skilled individual who has developed an impressive background in managing finances and accounts. She, along with her husband, ran the risk into the hospitality industry in 2010 and has since made the most out of every opportunity that came their way. Charlene’s motto, “No job is too big or too small”, aptly reflects her strong work ethic, positive attitude, and unwavering determination to tackle any challenge that comes her way.