Botswana Safari

In the remote eastern corner of Botswana, at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, lies an area known historically as the Tuli enclave - a diverse wilderness of savannah, riverine forests, marshland, open plains and sandstone outcrops. It is here that the largest of the Rattray Reserves is situated - Mashatu Game Reserve. The name is derived from the magnificent Mashatu trees, which occur throughout this immense tract of privately owned land. Mashatu is also the home of no less than seven of Africa's giants: the African elephant, the lion, giraffe, the baobab tree, the eland, the ostrich, and the kori bustard. It is fitting therefore, that some 75,000 acres / 30,000 hectares of pristine game land, be set aside for these unique, prodigious features of this exhilarating continent.

Map of Mashatu Game Reserve: Map of Mashatu

Mashatu Game Reserve, an area of history and legend, offers some of the most exciting game viewing in Africa. It is a place of exceptional beauty where one can explore the rugged, unspoiled African landscapes either in the comfort of open 4-wheel drive vehicles, on a walking safaris, on mountain bicycles, or horse back, guided by expert rangers and experienced trackers. In addition to the game experience, Mashatu offers a view of Africa, unchanged since the days of early visitors such as Kipling, Selous and artist/explorer Sir Thomas Baines. Historic and archaeological sites abound; notable are the Motloutse Ruins and the Pitsani Koppie sites.

The excitement of Mashatu has not changed over time. It is still home to large herds of elephant, prides of lion and cheetah. Along the river courses, huge Mashatu trees provide shade for eland, impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra, while at night, the bat-eared fox, African Wildcat and the magnificent leopard search for prey. Some 366 species of birds may be seen. Mashatu Game Reserve proudly provides a refuge for the largest, single population of elephant on privately owned land in Africa. Known as the relic herds of Shashe, these elephants are the last living testament to the great herds that once populated the meandering Limpopo valley. Today, the population on Mashatu Game Reserve alone, is estimated to number in excess of 500.

The wildlife experience at Mashatu is personalized. Dedicated, experienced Tswana rangers and trackers are keen to show you their world. Radio-linked 4-wheel drive vehicles, groups of mountain bicycles or horses set out at dawn and again at dusk in search of the diverse variety of fauna and flora which abound throughout the reserve. Whether you visit Mashatu for the excitement of the big game viewing, the relaxation of unspoiled Africa, or the quiet luxury of the camps, you will not be disappointed.

Completely refurbished during 2002/3, the camp offers 14 tastefully and authentically decorated suites. Each suite is furnished with two three-quarter beds, a day bed, expansive en-suite bathroom with shower, bath, his and hers basins, and a second W.C.

A private lounge area overlooks the unfenced surrounding bush and 24-hour temperature control completes the comfort of each suite. Mashatu Main Camp is elevated around a waterhole and offers excellent game viewing opportunities from within the camp itself. The dining area, stunning day lounge and "Gin Trap" bar provide diverse lookouts from which to enjoy and appreciate the environment. Facilities within the camp include a swimming pool, an air-conditioned lounge and dining room and a lala-palm enclosed African boma, in which sumptuous dinners are savored under the magnificent African night sky and around a blazing fire. A well appointed curio shop complements the facilities.

The "pièce de résistance" at Main Camp is the Discovery Room: a base for the scientific research conducted at Mashatu and a magnifying glass though which the animals and history of Mashatu can be examined. A fascinating insight into the world that is Mashatu - the Land of the Giants.

Mashatu Main Camp offers a fully air-conditioned conference room, with seating for up to 48 delegates “Boardroom Style” and includes: VCR and TV monitors, overhead projectors, slide projectors, screens, flip charts and white boards. No additional charge is levied for the use of the conference room.

MASHATU TENT CAMP            For images of Mashatu Tent Camp, click Mashatu Tent Camp Images
Nestled in the remote northern area of the reserve lies Mashatu Tent Camp. With never more than sixteen guests, this idyllic getaway provides accommodation in the form of eight twin tents. Although rustic in character, every facility is provided. The tents are insect-proofed, have comfortable beds and each has an en-suite shower and bathroom. There is an open sided thatch deck where meals are served and a traditional boma for intimate camp fire dinners. This camp also contains a very welcome plunge pool. Your total comfort is the priority of your hosts. While on game drives, you will be taken care of by your ranger and on your return, the camp staff will gladly attend to your every need.

Suites - No suites are available at Mashatu Tent Camp.

Children’s Policy And Rates - Age restrictions do exist and are applied in the interests of personal safety as well as the comfort of other guests. We regret to advise that no children under the age of 12 years are allowed at Mashatu Tent Camp. There are no family rooms available at Mashatu Tent Camp.

Wildlife
Mashatu Game Reserve, an area of history and legend, offers some of the most exciting game viewing in Africa, with large herds of elephant, prides of lion, plus leopard and cheetah. Along the river courses, huge mashatu trees provide shade for large herds of eland, impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra, while at night, the bat-eared fox, African wild cat and the magnificent leopard search for prey.

Some 366 species of birds may be seen. Mashatu Game Reserve proudly provides a refuge for the largest, single population of elephant on privately owned land in Africa. Known as the relic herds of Shashe, these elephants are the last living testament to the great herds that once populated the meandering Limpopo valley. Today, the population on Mashatu Game Reserve alone, is estimated to number in excess of 500.