Inaugural Trail Run in Botswana - Running with the Giants

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.

Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris is honoured with the reputation of having the finest schooled horses on the African continent. Surrounded by a multitude of Africa's flora and fauna, come and explore this breath-taking terrain from horseback, in the company of experienced African equestrian hosts who have extensive knowledge and experience of the bush. There is nothing more exhilarating than galloping on horseback alongside herds of antelope, over the wild open plains of Mashatu, kicking dust into the sunset sky.

There are combinations of horse safaris from which the guest can choose including multi-day, camp wild experiences.

Please note that only competent and regular horse riders should consider this activity as the concessionaire will, in the interests of safety, test the skills and ability of the horse riders. The experienced staff will terminate the reservation if the guest is not skilled enough to ride through wild country where dangerous animals roam.

This concession on Mashatu comprises a resident wildlife photographer, based at Mashatu Lodge and photographic hides in two selected sites plus a mobile hide on the reserve. Guests at Mashatu can enlist the photographic expertise of the photographer or simply visit one of the hides during their stay which will be charged as an additional activity over and above the daily rates for accommodation.

The photographic hides are structures built to maximise the photographic potential of the animals that visit them. These hides can be used to view wildlife in the normal manner, but have been positioned with consideration of the angle of the sun, the background and the angle which the viewer occupies in relation to the animals and birds.

The most famous of these hides is the 'elephant hide', renowned for the photographic images taken of elephant and other animals drinking from the water's edge. Less well know amongst the hides is a mobile hide that is moved periodically to take advantage of sightings that change during the seasons such as nesting birds, drying pools in rivers and den sites. Any of these hides offer both the amateur or professional photographer the most unique and delightful opportunities to record a memorable safari at Mashatu.

Bring your mountain bike and ride amongst the wildlife of the vast Northern Tuli Game Reserve. You owe yourself the opportunity at least once in your life!

Cycle Mashatu operates the cycling concession on Mashatu Game Reserve. Cycling is offered to guests from both Main Camp and Tent Camp as an experience to be enjoyed during their stay on a more traditional vehicle safari. Guests can also book a 'camp wild' cycling experience comprising up to three days on a cycling safari. These safaris depart Fridays and Tuesdays in the winter months where Cycle Mashatu offers a 3 night guided mountain biking adventure, catering for up to 8 cyclists. Enjoy riding elephant manicured game paths, sleeping under the starlit skies and exploring the ancient Land of the Giants. Cycle Mashatu tailors the tours to suit the group's fitness and strength and provides vehicle support, meals, and camp amenities. Many would argue that you have not lived until you have cycled in the Land of Giants - a thrilling experience indeed.

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.

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.

Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris is honoured with the reputation of having the finest schooled horses on the African continent. Surrounded by a multitude of Africa's flora and fauna, come and explore this breath-taking terrain from horseback, in the company of experienced African equestrian hosts who have extensive knowledge and experience of the bush. There is nothing more exhilarating than galloping on horseback alongside herds of antelope, over the wild open plains of Mashatu, kicking dust into the sunset sky.

There are combinations of horse safaris from which the guest can choose including multi-day, camp wild experiences.

Please note that only competent and regular horse riders should consider this activity as the concessionaire will, in the interests of safety, test the skills and ability of the horse riders. The experienced staff will terminate the reservation if the guest is not skilled enough to ride through wild country where dangerous animals roam.

This concession on Mashatu comprises a resident wildlife photographer, based at Mashatu Lodge and photographic hides in two selected sites plus a mobile hide on the reserve. Guests at Mashatu can enlist the photographic expertise of the photographer or simply visit one of the hides during their stay which will be charged as an additional activity over and above the daily rates for accommodation.

The photographic hides are structures built to maximise the photographic potential of the animals that visit them. These hides can be used to view wildlife in the normal manner, but have been positioned with consideration of the angle of the sun, the background and the angle which the viewer occupies in relation to the animals and birds.

The most famous of these hides is the 'elephant hide', renowned for the photographic images taken of elephant and other animals drinking from the water's edge. Less well know amongst the hides is a mobile hide that is moved periodically to take advantage of sightings that change during the seasons such as nesting birds, drying pools in rivers and den sites. Any of these hides offer both the amateur or professional photographer the most unique and delightful opportunities to record a memorable safari at Mashatu.

Bring your mountain bike and ride amongst the wildlife of the vast Northern Tuli Game Reserve. You owe yourself the opportunity at least once in your life!

Cycle Mashatu operates the cycling concession on Mashatu Game Reserve. Cycling is offered to guests from both Main Camp and Tent Camp as an experience to be enjoyed during their stay on a more traditional vehicle safari. Guests can also book a 'camp wild' cycling experience comprising up to three days on a cycling safari. These safaris depart Fridays and Tuesdays in the winter months where Cycle Mashatu offers a 3 night guided mountain biking adventure, catering for up to 8 cyclists. Enjoy riding elephant manicured game paths, sleeping under the starlit skies and exploring the ancient Land of the Giants. Cycle Mashatu tailors the tours to suit the group's fitness and strength and provides vehicle support, meals, and camp amenities. Many would argue that you have not lived until you have cycled in the Land of Giants - a thrilling experience indeed.

The Discovery Room, situated at Mashatu Lodge, is a museum of all things Mashatu past and present, and is the perfect activity to keep the little ones engaged. The educational side of Mashatu, our Discovery Room presents a number of interesting displays of our Reserve and provides an opportunity to browse through during periods of relaxation between game drives. You can expect fish aquaria of the some of the local species, archaeological artefacts, collection of Boer War remains found on Mashatu, reconstructed skeletons, findings of the predator and elephant research that has been conducted on Mashatu.

Indulge in our lavish spa treatments from the tranquil ambiance of Mashatu Lodge. Serokolo, a bespoke spa with tranquil facilities at Mashatu Lodge, has skilled therapists ready to pamper you with rejuvenating therapies and quality products using local and natural ingredients that reflect our commitment to both luxury and well-being.

The perfect way to wind down, whether it be a sunrise or post private game drive spa session.

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.