Ultimate Southern Africa

The day starts as dawn breaks over the African bushveld. After an early morning wake-up call, coffee, tea and rusks are served on the main deck. Shortly after, depart in an open Land Rover with experienced Rangers and Trackers who will share their extensive knowledge of the bush. These drives are undertaken at times best suited for game viewing which varies depending on the season but typically starts early morning. Where applicable you may be invited out of the vehicle to see tracks, examine certain plants and follow spoor.

The afternoon game drive is preceded by high tea and extends into the evening to view seldom seen nocturnal species by torchlight.

After a sumptuous Breakfast is served either back at the camp or in the riverbed or bush, guests are offered walks to suit their interests and fitness levels and are accompanied by an armed ranger and tracker.

Walks allow guests a better chance to see some of the smaller creatures of the bush as well as an opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region, and to have a chance to follow tracks in more detail.

Our Shangaan trackers will enthrall you with their explanations of the medicinal and other uses of the numerous plants and trees along with tales of traditional folklore.

Connecting to nature enhances a sense of wellness, and it is something that is integral to the Serondella experience of physical and mental wellbeing. The spa and meditation deck create a space for holistic relaxation, whether that be through yoga practice or a plunge in the spa-pool.

Take to the skies and look down on the untamed treetops in this once-in-a-lifetime experience as you fly in a helicopter from the Greater Kruger into the Blyde Canyon. This adventure from the air inspires a sense of wonder and puts the biodiversity of the natural world into perspective.

One-hour long flight over the scenic, Lowveld section of the Blyde River. As the sun rises, the landscape, the vegetation and, if you're lucky, some wildlife will provide photo opportunities. Game spotting cannot be guaranteed but on most flights, we see plains game such as giraffe and wildebeest. Terms & Conditions apply - additional cost.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Experience gourmet dining in Victoria Falls at the top-rated Cassia Restaurant. Centrally located only minutes from the Victoria Falls at Ilala Lodge Hotel, the newly-renamed restaurant offers a delicious breakfast buffet, lunch and al fresco evening dining under the starry African sky.

The Cassia Restaurant delivers an unmatched menu, paired with an extensive wine list comprised of carefully selected wines from South Africa’s top vineyards. The calming and tranquil ambience is further complemented by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background. A truly unforgettable dining experience not to be missed.

You know what they say about the early bird? If you are a passionate birdwatcher, don’t miss out on this river cruise! Keen bird lovers will delight in marking off their sightings in the birding booklet provided on board while enjoying a delicious continental breakfast including fruit platters, fresh pastries and a variety of cheeses and biscuits. Rare birds such as the African Pitta and the Narina Trogon have been sighted here, as well as hundreds of other bird species. The knowledgeable and experienced guides conduct these early morning river cruises.

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a continental breakfast as you cruise up the Zambezi River towards Kandahar Island while enjoying the sounds of the diverse birdlife and the African bush come to life in the early morning. Breakfast includes freshly baked pieces of bread and pastries, fresh fruit platters, jams, yoghurts and cheeses as well as an assortment of teas and coffee.

Sit back and relax while sipping a cold drink and enjoying a few quiet hours along the banks of the Zambezi River. Our lunch buffet includes cold meats, fresh salads and a wide selection of biscuits and cheeses, all catered by the award-winning Palm Restaurant at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The fully stocked bar is available throughout the cruise and the attentive crew is at your service.

There simply is not a better way to enjoy the dazzling African sunset than from the comfort of a Ra-Ikane boat on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Our ever-popular sunset cruise offers a unique way to explore the channels of the river and to get an up-close view of the pristine wilderness and African game along its banks. Enjoy an array of canapés, a full bar and a charming crew who can impart a bit of interesting Victoria Falls history with you on board the Ra-Ikane.