Botswana 9 Nights

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.

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.

Game drives are conducted in the mornings and afternoon/evenings at camp. They usually last about three hours each and are conducted along the river systems and flood plains around the camp. The wildlife in the area is prolific and chances are good to see some of the larger predators, herds of elephant and buffalo and all the plains animals that occur here. Night drives are conducted in the early evening offering one a chance to see the smaller more nocturnal animals with spotlights.

Walking safaris are also conducted generally in the morning with armed guides. The walks are leisurely and time is taken to observe the smaller things in the bush that one normally misses when driving. Walking is weather dependent, or dependent on the condition of the terrain

This is a dug out canoe poled by an experienced poler in the shallower waters of the Okavango. It is a great way to see the waterways and is tranquil and quiet. These excursions take place in the mornings or longer day trips can be arranged. Explore the islands around camp and come back rested and rejuvenated.

Taking a water safari by boat offers up a completely different world. Based at water level you will see creatures and details that you would otherwise miss from the land.

We offer morning and afternoon/evening drives in the Kalahari allowing you to explore the impressive landscapes and unique environments that make this desert region so special. While not a prime game viewing area, you may nonetheless see elephants and other desert-adapted species like gemsbok, as well as amazing birdlife including ostriches and secretary birds.

The Lodge at Feline Fields is located in the heart of Bushmen territory, the first people of the Kalahari.

Feline Fields collaborate with the Bushmen community and offers through this a glimpse into their astonishing wisdom, spirituality and their partnership with nature which ensured survival over millennia.

Experiences range from bush walks under Bushmen guidance where they teach about veld foods and natural medicines and culture and folklore to an overnight fly-camp where you’ll be invited into their inner circle to witness, or partake in, the famous Bushman Trance Dance.

Accompanied throughout by your translator guide, guests have the opportunity to engage with the Bushmen and learn all about their survival skills, food preparation and cultural norms. Follow these ancient nomadic hunters into the pristine and untamed Kalahari Desert and gain insight into the culture and time-honored traditions of the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa.

Experience the African bush as you never have before.

Once you alight from your vehicle and your feet touch the earth, you will be surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of nature. It is here that you will discover a whole new world, mysteries that most visitors never have the privilege to see.

Our skilled and experienced guides will escort you through the bush and introduce you to the small wonders of the Kalahari. A truly fascinating experience where you become part of the wilderness.

Spend a night under a canopy of stars.

After a beautiful dinner lit by a roaring campfire, rest for the night in mosquito net tents kitted out with real mattresses and duvets.

Spending the night in the heart of the Kalahari, falling asleep admiring the stars nested in a comfortable bed, lulled by birdsong is the ultimate in romance. It is a unique and exhilarating experience that allows you to fully connect with Nature.

In the morning, as dawn approaches, the stars gradually disappear and the birds begin to stir as the first rays of sunlight appear over the Kalahari dunes, gently waking you up and realizing where you are.

The Kalahari is perfect for horse riding, with its vast, largely flat landscape making it exciting to explore from the saddle. Enjoy guided trails through this unique environment and stop for a bush breakfast or lunch along the way. Most riding takes place in the early morning to avoid the heat of the day.

Journey to the ancient Gcwihaba Caves, a World Heritage site, and the richest cave fossil deposit in Botswana. Accessible by staircase or cage lift, the caves are a cathedral of natural beauty with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. On the way back stop for a bush picnic under shady trees.

Enjoy massages and rituals that connect you with the Kalahari and its energies in our wellness sanctuary, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated. We use Africology essential oils, all made ethically and sustainably from African plants that have been growing in our lands for thousands of years.

Work out in the bush gym, open on all sides to nature. There is an array of exercise equipment to choose from including elliptical, home trainer, weights and more.

Each of our suites has its own sand bikes for your use during your stay. Feel free to cycle at will in and around the lodge or go out into the Kalahari with one of our guides and explore further afield.

Feline Fields Lodge has its own tennis court giving guests the opportunity to play a set or two in the magical environment of the Kalahari! Best played in the cool morning hours or late afternoons with sundowners on tap, this is a great way to have some fun during your stay! Racquets and balls are provided.

Guests can practice their swing on the driving range