Mashatu Game Reserve - Pristine Nature on the Limpopo River

The 200 square-kilometres large Mashatu Game Reserve is the largest single game reserve in southern Africa. It is located in eastern Botswana, directly on the border with South Africa, which is formed by the Limpopo River.

This region is part of the so-called “Tuli Block”, a strip of farmland and savannah stretching some 350 kilometres along the South African border and the Limpopo River. Mashatu takes up the largest part of the northern Tuli Block.

With its diverse landscapes and different habitats, the region is one of the most beautiful safari reserves: open savannah changes gradually into marshland, both interspersed by rocky outcrops and hills.

The lush riverbanks are covered with typical local forest, which includes Acacia and Sycamore Trees, Bananas and Strangler Figs wrapping their vise-like roots around other trees. It is a jungle buzzing with life, offering a habitat for many animals.

Mashatu is home to a large number of many different species; the 350 birds are just one example – a natural paradise for birdwatchers. Special bird-watching tours are, of course, available. The numerous elephant herds that inhabit the area are another highlight.

With a population of around 1,200 individuals, the Northern Tuli Game Reserve sports the highest number of elephants in a private reserve in Africa. The other four members of the “Big Five” are also present; in fact, the wildlife diversity is as good as in the Okavango Delta.

Specialties of the Mashatu Game Reserve are the Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris. Explore the region on a multi-day horseback safari and really get into the heart of the wilderness. Nights are spent in specially designed tent camps, offering a very comfortable overnight stop.

Mashatu is a must for all those enthusiastic about equine sports and remote wilderness!

Another exceptional activity is a wilderness mountain bike tour that really leads you off the beaten path.

The Mashatu Game Reserve is best reached either by air charter or overland from Johannesburg. The Limpopo Valley Airfield enjoys international airport status. Air Botswana (a very reliable airline) offers two flights a week. Driving from Johannesburg, on average, takes six hours.

Guests residing at the Mashatu Game Reserve have the choice between two accommodation options: either the luxurious Mashatu Main Camp or the isolated Mashatu Tented Camp.


Mashatu Main Camp

The Mashatu Main Camp is situated directly next to a waterhole, which is a favourite drinking spot for the local wildlife. Wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed.

The camp’s atmosphere can only be described as romantic, as the lodge makes the most of the local materials: natural stone and tree branches are combined with fine timber to give a rustic and homey feeling.

The Camp offers a beautifully located bar and restaurant. Step out onto the adjacent viewing deck and relish the unparalleled views out over the waterhole and the drinking animals.

When the weather is good, dinner is served at the Booma: enjoy scrumptious delicacies beneath the African night sky and next to a crackling fire. On hot days, the large pool is perfect for a refreshing dip.

The magical combination of location, atmosphere and of course the exceptional safaris make the Mashatu Main Camp an extraordinary and certainly memorable destination.


Mashatu Tented Camp

The Mashatu Tented Camp is remotely located in the northern section of the Mashatu Game Reserve and offers seven finely appointed tents. Those interested in an authentic accommodation in harmony with the natural environment have made the right choice.

The Mashatu Tented Camp’s main building is a solid structure that offers a lounge, restaurant, Booma and a small swimming pool for a refreshing dip.

The atmosphere of the camp is an echo of colonial times: fine wooden furniture and oil lamps create a feeling reminiscent of the days when Livingston explored Africa.