9-day Pafuri & Tuli Safari

Discover the heart of Mashatu Game Reserve through exhilarating safari game drives. Traverse the 31,000-hectare wilderness, following the well-worn trails of over 1000 elephants that call this haven home. These paths, created by breeding herds and their playful calves, offer a unique vantage point for unforgettable encounters with Africa’s majestic wildlife. Guided by seasoned rangers, embark on open four-wheel drive vehicles and venture off-road to witness the raw beauty of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, alongside the diverse range of giraffes, zebras, and antelope that populate the reserve. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of nocturnal creatures during captivating night drives, guided by powerful spotlights. In the company of expert guides, get up close to over 366 bird species, marvel at the breathtaking scenery, and capture stunning photographic moments. Mashatu Lodge even offers exclusive private vehicle options upon request, allowing you to tailor your adventure. These Tswana guides, steeped in local knowledge, provide invaluable insights into the intricate web of nature, enriching your experience with depth and meaning. Your journey not only connects you with the wild but also supports responsible travel and conservation efforts. Join us in preserving this remarkable ecosystem and creating lasting memories in the heart of Africa.

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WalkMashatu is an intimate look and exploration into the daily lives of Mashatu’s inhabitants and wilderness area. By interacting closely with some of our enigmatic, remarkable and powerful wildlife characters and following paths, WalkMashatu provides the opportunity to peek into the natural world and how the ecosystem of Mashatu thrives, from the smallest of insects to the largest of creatures. WalkMashatu allows you to immerse yourself in nature, become grounded and feel the rhythm and wonder of Africa’s wilderness. WalkMashatu is a life event. WalkMashatu is a not a race, survival or endurance test. Walks are to explore, experience and enjoy the ancient African landscapes. To contribute to your tailored experience, our walking guides are handpicked and have years of experience walking in wilderness areas. They are passionate about walking and exploring smaller and normally overlooked aspects of the African Bushveld, striving to make your experience interactive and informative.

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A trip to the local village whereby the guests experience a day in the life of a local villager. Including meeting the local chief, visiting the school, buying locally made arts and crafts, spending time at one of the rock art sites and for those that would like to experience a bit more - donkey cart rides and locally made wine from palm trees

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Embark on a thrilling cycle adventure. For those seeking a new dimension of exploration, guests staying at Mashatu Euphorbia, Mashatu Lodge, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu, or Mashatu Tent Camp can embark on an exhilarating mountain bike safari. Prepare to witness the bush from an entirely unique perspective as you pedal your way through the untamed wilderness. Accompanied by experienced rangers, venture along ancient elephant paths for an awe-inspiring journey amidst the “Giants of Mashatu.” Cycling through this breathtaking landscape is a rare and unforgettable experience, tailored to the fitness and strength of the riders. Mountain bike safaris take place in the early morning and late afternoon, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings during the most enchanting hours. Discover a world of adventure with mountain bikes, cycling helmets, and water bottles readily available at Mashatu – your gateway to a thrilling exploration of the wild.

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Horizon Horseback Mashatu is honoured with the reputation of having the finest schooled horses on the African continent.

A horseback safari at Mashatu guarantees unforgettable memories and a deep connection with the African wilderness. Book your adventure in advance to secure your place on this extraordinary journey. Note that children under the age of 12 are not permitted, and those under the age of 18 need to be accompanied by an experienced rider. Traverse natural ditches and leap over logs as you explore the perfect riding terrain. Encounter a breathtaking array of wildlife, from iconic elephants and elusive cats to wild dogs, antelopes, and more. Witness the beauty of giraffes and zebras as you canter across the plains. Choose from a morning or afternoon ride at Mashatu Euphorbia Villas, Mashatu Lodge, or Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu. Experience the fast-paced exhilaration of advanced riding. For skilled riders, the ‘camp wild’ journey offers a 7-day horse safari adventure on Mashatu. Safety is paramount. A riding test ensures that riders are experienced and comfortable. Non-riders can explore Mashatu’s wonders through game drives, photographic hides, walking safaris, and cycling adventures while riders tailor their private rides from the stables. Book your adventure in advance to secure your place on this extraordinary journey. For experienced riders only.

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With the famous sunken, underground hide, a dedicated photographic vehicle, and knowledgeable photography professionals who guide you in making incredible images, the PhotoMashatu experience is not to be missed by photography enthusiasts or professionals.

The award-winning sunken hide at Mashatu has been designed specifically for photographers who want to get up close and personal to wildlife. The hide’s location is at an exceptionally busy watering hole, that is frequented by a variety of animals and birds. The highlights are the elephants - who come en-masse to the hide. Imagine being 2m away from a herd of elephants, whilst at ground level! In one session you can expect to be thrilled by a variety of antelope, birdlife, elephants and occasionally predators too. Importantly, non-photographers enjoy a visit to the hide just as much - here it is all about the animals coming towards you.

Our PhotoMashatu vehicle was designed with the photographer in mind. It has ample space for your equipment, gimbal arms, soft boxes in which to store your cameras whilst driving around and a special low-level floor from which to get eye level images. The vehicle has been lauded as one of the most comfortable photo vehicles in Africa – giving you that extra advantage of getting the best images possible whilst you are out in the field.

With over 11 years’ experience providing photographic support in Mashatu Game Reserve, the PhotoMashatu team offers you complete photographic support during your visit.

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Night under the Stars offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with uniquely designed tents positioned in surprise locations, making you one with the surrounding wildlife of Mashatu. Enjoy fireside chats with fellow nature lovers, hear the laughs of hyena passing by, and gaze up at the twinkly night sky from the comfort of your tent. Romantic, intimate, and indescribable.

This is booked as an additional activity and is offered throughout the year. The rate is for max 6 pax. No children under 12 years permitted. Children aged 12 to 18 must be accompanied by a parent. Guests will depart the lodge they are booked at after dinner (approximately 9pm), with an overnight bag. They will be taken on a night drive to explore the nocturnal activities happening in the reserve (approximately 2hrs). The night drive will end at the WalkMashatu Fly Camp, where they may participate in night photography, a night walk and/or fireside stories with drinks and snacks, before sleeping under the stars. The next morning, guests will have a light early morning breakfast before departing on morning game drive at around 6am and then back to camp, or back to camp first and then game drive.

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Step quietly into the wild heart of Pafuri, where every footfall draws you deeper into a landscape alive with story. A walking safari here is not about distance covered, but about immersion, slowing down to notice the rustle of leaves, the spoor pressed into soft sand, the alarm call of a hornbill overhead. Guided by seasoned guides, you move through fever tree forests, riverine groves, and open floodplains, learning to read the bush as a living text.

On foot, the scale of the wilderness shifts. The towering baobabs feel more ancient, the scent of wild sage more vivid, the silence more profound. Encounters with wildlife, whether a herd of nyala melting into the thickets or elephants moving with quiet authority, become intimate, grounded in respect and awareness.

Walking safaris in Pafuri are as much about connection as they are about adventure. They invite you to tune into the rhythms of nature, to feel the pulse of the land beneath your feet, and to carry away not just sightings, but a deeper sense of belonging to this remarkable corner of the Greater Kruger. This activity is offered by prior arrangement only, ensuring a tailored and respectful experience.

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Walking Safari Credit: RETURN Africa

Walking Safari Credit: RETURN Africa

Walking Safari Credit: RETURN Africa

Scenic game drives take you to various points of interest within the concession, such as Lanner Gorge, the Limpopo Flood Plain, the Fever Tree Forest, the Nyala Berry Forest, seasonal wetlands, and Mangala.

Bush walks are the best way to experience the forests, floodplains, gorges, and koppies between the two rivers. Walking through this remote and pristine landscape provides a more intimate experience and is ideal for bird watchers looking for species like Pel’s Fishing Owl, as well as others seeking solitude and wilderness in one of Africa’s great landscapes. We offer walking safaris from April to October (Pafuri Walking Safaris) for nature lovers to explore this vast and varied area.

Guests at Pafuri Tented Camp can prearrange to swap a morning game drive for a bush walk to explore the concession on foot.

Immerse yourself in early human history with a visit to the Royal Citadel of Thulamela. This site, which arose in the 13th century and lasted for about five centuries, is located on a rugged hilltop overlooking the Luvuvhu River. It was part of the sophisticated Great Zimbabwe culture, known for its mining, crafting, and global trade via the Swahili Coast.

A community visit to our partners in the Makuleke villages offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Makuleke people's past and present way of life. The visit includes a traditional meal and a memorable performance by a cultural group.

Experience magical moments with bush dinners along the Luvuvhu River, bush breakfasts among the giant Nyala Berry trees, or boma evenings filled with storytelling by the Makuleke people. Full-day excursions with a picnic lunch, which allow you to venture further afield, can be prearranged with the reservation office.

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Drive thorugh Baobabs Credit: RETURN Africa

Walking in Wetlands Credit: RETURN Africa

Sundowner Drinks Credit: RETURN Africa

Coffee Stops Credit: RETURN Africa

Sundowner Drinks Credit: RETURN Africa

Sundowner Drinks Credit: RETURN Africa

Walking Safaris Credit: RETURN Africa

Walking Safaris Credit: RETURN Africa

Walking Safaris Credit: RETURN Africa