In one of Botswana’s unique corners, more than 90,000 hectares of exceptional wildland have been created for this reserve. The Mashatu Game Reserve, originally known as the Tuli Enclave, is a remarkable wilderness of savannah, alluvial forests, wetlands, open plains, and sandstone cliffs. In the remote eastern corner of Botswana, in the Tuli Block at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers. It is the largest of the Rattray reserves. The Mashatu Game Reserve, with its rugged, pristine African landscapes, takes its name from the massive Mashatu tree, Xanthocercis zambesiaca, which is found in this vast privately owned area.
The Mashatu Game Reserve is a haven for the largest single elephant population on private land. On Mashatu alone, the population is estimated at about 700. Some of Africa’s other giants include the baobab tree, the eland, the ostrich, the cori bustard, and the majestic Limpopo River.
The nature experience in Mashatu is very personal with dedicated, experienced Tswana rangers and trackers who are eager to show you their world. The four-wheel drive safari vehicles set off in the late afternoon and again in the early morning in search of the different species that inhabit the reserve.
Over 350 species of birds can be observed, while the cheetah, zebra, giraffe, eland, impala, steenbuck and elephant herds can be seen on the plains. There is also a variety of fauna and flora that blooms throughout the year.
The climate in most of southern Africa is mild and pleasant. As a rule, hot, humid conditions prevail in the Tuli region. Severe summer thunderstorms may occur in the late afternoon and evening. However, they tend to be short-lived. Precipitation occurs mainly in the summer months (October – March). In the winter months (May to September) very warm clothing including a windbreaker (anorak) is essential.
Mashatu Main Camp is known for its hospitality. Enjoy dinner by the fire in the lala palm boma under a starry sky overlooking the illuminated waterhole. Relax by the pool or under the thatched verandah and experience the hospitality and service that Mashatu is known for. Mashatu is a paradise with the highest level of comfort and service, which blends nicely with the savannah rich in wildlife. There are 17 rooms at Mashatu Main Camp, 12 of which are insect proof. The French doors open onto a shaded veranda surrounded by the African flora and fauna.
A double bed and an extra-large single bed complement the well-appointed superior rooms. The 5 standard rooms in the central area of the camp consist of 2 extra large single beds and 1 bathroom with en-suite bathroom. The Mashatu Main Camp thus accommodates 34 guests. Mashatu Tented Camp is located in the remote northern part of the reserve. With never more than fourteen guests, this idyllic cabin offers accommodation in the form of seven twin tents. Although a bit rustic in character, every décor is present. The tents are insect-proof, have comfortable beds and each has its own shower and toilet facilities.
There is an open thatched roof deck where meals are served and a traditional boma for intimate campfire dinners. This camp also contains a plunge pool. Your absolute comfort is at the forefront of your hosts’ minds. On game drives or mountain bike tours, you will be looked after by your ranger and on your return to camp you will be happy to be looked after by the staff.
