Tintswalo at Lapalala Wilderness | Lapalala Game Reserve
Tintswalo Lapalala is an exquisite and exclusive safari lodge nestled in the heart of the 48,500-acre Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.
Surrounded by untamed beauty and diverse wildlife, Tintswalo Lapalala promises an intimate and immersive safari adventure. The lodge boasts 7 spacious and elegantly appointed luxury tents, each thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly into the environment.
Tintswalo Lapalala embraces sustainable tourism, aiming to protect and conserve the biodiversity of the reserve. The passionate and knowledgeable guides lead exceptional safari excursions, granting guests the opportunity to witness the "Big Five" along with an array of other captivating creatures.
The main lodge is a focal point for relaxation and indulgence, offering a swimming pool, outdoor boma, and a stylishly decorated lounge and dining area. Delectable cuisine showcases local flavors and culinary expertise, enhancing the overall sensory experience for guests.
Whether embarking on thrilling game drives, guided bush walks, or simply unwinding in the comfort of the lodge, Tintswalo Lapalala ensures an authentic African journey filled with adventure, luxury, and unforgettable memories. As a sanctuary for both wildlife and discerning travelers, Tintswalo Lapalala stands as a testament to responsible tourism, harmoniously combining conservation efforts with unparalleled safari opulence.
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RIver Boat CruiseSome of the best photography takes place in the afternoons. The evening light lends itself to excellent photos of animals and birds, as well as the magnificent sunsets over the Kubu Dam. The mornings are also very special, with the animals heading to the water for a morning drink. Birding is excellent along the river with frequent sightngs of African darters, fish eagles, kingfishers and other waders and water birds.
Game drives in the Lapalala WildernessOur professional guides are trained to take guests on various guided activities. Before departure on a game drive or bush walk, your guide will present an orientation on safety, as well as the area and game you could expect to see. Daily game drives take place in an open 4x4 Land Cruiser, which depart from the lodge early in the morning and again late in the afternoon, typically ending in the evening with unobstructed views of the starry skies above Lapalala Wilderness Reserve.
Bush BreakfastThe bush breakfast at Tintswalo Lapalala typically begins with an early morning game drive guided by experienced rangers who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and ecosystem. Guests have the opportunity to witness the beautiful sunrise over the African bush and spot various animals in their natural habitat. After the game drive, guests are taken to a designated outdoor breakfast area, which may be set up in a scenic location with breathtaking views of the wilderness. The setting is often carefully arranged to blend in with nature, providing an intimate and tranquil atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
Bush DrinksWatch the sun set in the Lapalala Wilderness
Curio Store
Delectable cuisineDelectable cuisine showcases local flavors and culinary expertise, enhancing the overall sensory experience for guests.
Luxury Tents have a large private balcony and its own private plunge pool.
Room Type: King/twin & full bathroom with an outdoor luxury bathtub and inside & outside shower.
Rate includes accommodation, full board, 2 safari activities per day, house beverages, WiFi, and in-house laundry.
The Family Luxury Tents can accommodate a family consisting of two adults and two children. The tent has a main bedroom with a king bed, as well as a small adjoining room at the back of the tent with two single beds.
It has a large private verandah and its own private plunge pool and has direct access to the main lodge via the raised wooden walkways.
Room Type: King bed as well as two single beds & a full bathroom with an outdoor luxury bathtub and inside & outside shower.
The Superior Luxury tent has a spacious bedroom, a small lounge area, and a large separate bathroom tent. It also has a large private verandah and its own private plunge pool.
Room Type: King & Full bathroom with an outside bath and shower.
The two adjoining Xhosa Superior Luxury Suites each have a large private verandah and a private plunge pool.
Room Type: Two adjoining king/twin rooms, each with a full bathroom with an indoor bath and shower.
Superior Luxury tented suite, with a large separate tented bathroom, private plunge pool, and a separate elevated open deck for lounging and sleeping under the stars.
Property Facilities
Bar, Communal Dining, Conference Centre, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card, Room Service
Your Stay
1 Night
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Mashatu Tent Camp | Mashatu Game Reserve
Mashatu Tent Camp is the leisure choice for the guest seeking the ultimate one-on-one bush experience and who prefers a more intimate environment. Listen to the symphony of the night—a chorus of hyenas, leopards, and lions—right outside your door.
Eight completely private tents are tucked under the branches of enormous trees, accessible via meandering pathways. The tents themselves are spacious, comfortable and large enough that there’s no need to duck to get around. Each is mounted on a raised platform and has its own private outdoor en-suite facilities, including W.C. and shower.
Instant camaraderie is the norm at this unique camp. Meal times are shared either in the open-air thatched gazebo, or in the boma (enclosure) overlooking the floodlit, well-populated waterhole. The camp’s plunge pool invites guests to cool off and escape the heat of the summer months.
The sturdy and shaded hide also overlooks the waterhole, where bush enthusiasts can sit quietly and witness animals going about their day, completely unaware that they are being watched. It is humbling indeed to be an observer, to be part of the perfect, natural world.
Please note that air-conditioning and heating is not available at Mashatu Tent Camp.
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Activities and Services
Restaurants
Tent exterior
Private tent
Outdoor shower
Tea and coffee at sunrise
Plunge pool
Tent views
Refreshments
Private porch
Hide
High tea
Open plan lounging area
Lounging
Boma
Outdoor dinner
Reading nook
Mashatu Tent CampCredit: Roger and Pat De La HarpeMashatu Tent Camp Hide
Male Lion at MashatuKing of the beasts
Mashatu Game Reserve- Mmamagwa RuinsCredit: Mashatu Game ReserveMashatu is renowned for its vast open spaces, and has an unrivalled view of Africa
Horizon Horseback MashatuHorse Riding with big game
CycleMashatu Mountain Biking at Mashatu for all levels of riders
Horizon Horseback MashatuA total MUST for Intermediate to advanced riders
Leopard and cubDaily sightings of leopard recorded at Mashatu
Private Tent
Eight completely private tents are tucked under the branches of enormous trees, accessible via meandering pathways. The tents themselves are spacious, comfortable and large enough that there’s no need to duck to get around. Each is mounted on a raised platform and has its own private outdoor en-suite facilities, including W.C. and shower. Imagine showering under the stars!
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Disability Services, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
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.
Tent Camp Boma
Meals are a sumptuous celebration of traditional African Cuisine - flavoursome and homely. Fresh fruits, vegetables, home-made breads and pies, succulent meat dishes and delicious desserts will appeal to a guest who appreciates informal cuisine at its best.
Morning pre-game drive snacks, brunch and high tea are served on the shaded terrace.
Dinners are served around a blazing fire in the reed-enclosed boma (African structure), exposing diners to the glorious night sky above.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
3 Star
Tented Camp
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife