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Mashatu Game Reserve Botswana flag

1 Tours 0 Hotels & Lodges

Starting from

$500PP

Overview

Mashatu is situated in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve of Botswana which is situated between the Tuli Safari Area, a national park in Zimbabwe and the Mapungubwe National Park, a World Heritage Site in South Africa. It's one of the biggest private reserves in southern Africa. The riverine forests and marshland give way to savannah, rough outcrops and red sand. Mashatu is the Land of Giants. Elephants, giraffes and cheetahs—the largest, tallest and fastest creatures on dry land—are on the whole subjects of the realm of Mashatu. The largest bird, the ostrich, and the world's heaviest flying bird, the Kori Bustard, drink from the watering opening. The largest antelope, the Eland, is pursued by the lion, Africa's biggest cat and king of the beasts.

High Season
May to September
Best Time to Go
May to Oct & Dec to Jan

Pros & Cons

  • Amazing wildlife viewing experience (especially leopard and elephant)
  • Off-road driving is allowed which facilitates quality sightings
  • Game drives, walking safaris and night drives are available
  • horse riding and mountain biking are also available
  • Large private reserve with 3 small & exclusive lodges
  • Beautiful arid scenery
  • Slight expensive; all-inclusive packages are available
  • Three out of Big 5 animals are present except Buffalo and Rhino

Map in Botswana

Mashatu Game Reserve map

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Wildlife & Animals

Mashatu is the Land of Giants. Elephants, giraffes and cheetahs—the largest, tallest and fastest creatures on dry land—are on the whole subjects of the realm of Mashatu. The largest antelope, the Eland, is pursued by the lion, Africa's biggest cat and king of the beasts. This is perhaps the best spot to draw near to these giants and observe their behaviour and interactions. Leopard is frequently followed along the riverbeds and rough terrain through the hedge. 

Elephant

Elephant

Abundant
Giraffe

Giraffe

Common
Zebra

Zebra

Common
Hippo

Hippo

Occasional
Cheetah

Cheetah

Common
Lion

Lion

Common
Hyena

Hyena

Common
Wildebeest

Wildebeest

Common

Wildlife Highlights

Apart from Big five animals; there are varieties of antelope including wildebeest, eland, impala, kudu and steenbok, hyenas, aardwolf (or “earth wolf”), African wildcat, honey badger, bat-eared fox, black-backed jackal, the cape fox and the endangered wild dog. Crocodiles hide in the waterway. Wild dogs were once again introduced into the reserve and have been set up incredibly well.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The best time for wildlife viewing in Mashatu is at the end of the Dry season, generally from May to September, when animals assemble in the riverbeds. The summer months are very hot, but December to February is a good time to see big herds of elephants, eland, zebra and other ungulates.

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Birds

Mashatu has excellent bird-watching opportunities with more than 350 species recorded so far including the absolute most vibrantly coloured birds anywhere. Throughout the cold weather months, these birds can be spotted accumulated around the little pools of water that remain from the wet season, and throughout the late spring months colossal huge flocks of birds show up from far north to camp out for the season.

Black-headed Oriole

Black-headed Oriole

Common
Yellow-billed hornbill

Yellow-billed hornbill

Common
Saddle-billed stork

Saddle-billed stork

Common
Grey-headed Kingfisher

Grey-headed Kingfisher

Common

Best Time for Birding

Mashatu Game Reserve is an excellent park for bird-watching throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is in the Wet season from November to April, when migratory birds are available. For mammals and other wildlife viewings, the Dry season months of May to September are better.

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Best Time to Visit – Mashatu Game Reserve

The best time for wildlife viewing in Mashatu is at the end of the Dry season, generally from May to September, when animals assemble in the riverbeds. The summer months are very hot, but December to February is a good time to see big herds of elephants, eland, zebra and other ungulates.

High Season
May to September
Low Season
Seasonal rains can affect access in some areas
Best Weather
Typically during dry months; check local patterns
Worst Weather
Peak of Wet season; very hot months vary by region

May to October (Dry Season)

  • Less vegetation and animals concentrate around water, making them easier to spot
  • The skies are clear, rain is rare, and there are fewer mosquitoes
  • Even though most tourists visit during the Dry season, the parks still feel uncrowded, except for the bustling Chobe riverfront area
  • Early morning and evening drives are cold in June, July and August

November to April (Wet Season)

  • The scenery is greener, and there are lower rates during this season
  • Although wildlife is easier to spot in the Dry season, you'll still see plenty
  • There are many newborn animals and migratory birds
  • Except for January and February, rains seldom interfere with your trip
  • During January and February, the rains can be continuous for days
  • It gets very hot in October and November
  • Some lodges and camps close down during part of the Wet season

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Activities

Explore popular activities available in and around Mashatu Game Reserve.

Birding Safari

Birding Safari

Eager bird-watchers won't be disappointed on an African safari! This gray crowned crane was seen in the core of the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Boating Safaris

Boating Safaris

Explore the aquatic wildlife by boat, canoe, dhow or kayak. In Botswana, it is feasible to go down the Okavango Delta in a burrow kayak called a moko.
Climbing

Climbing

Adventure enthusiasts have sufficient climbing options in Africa, from the Amazing Mt. Kilimanjaro down to the smallest hills.
Cultural

Cultural

It is possible to take part in a cultural safari if you desire to spend your time visiting local schools, clinics, orphanages, and markets.
Farm Visits

Farm Visits

An incredible addition to any safari is taking the time to visit some of the local farms or plantations and sample some local produce.
Fishing

Fishing

Fishing safaris are especially famous in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique. River, lake and deep ocean fishing are all possible in Africa.
Game Drives

Game Drives

A game drive is an adventure that involves viewing wildlife from the comfort of a 4x4 open vehicle, providing you with a true safari experience.
Hiking & Trekking

Hiking & Trekking

Trekking massive mountains such as Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Meru, and Mt. Kenya, as well as hiking in the foothills, are all options in Africa.
Horse Riding

Horse Riding

For those who wish to explore the parks and game reserves by horse. These are the most well-known destinations; Botswana, Mozambique and South Africa.
Night Drives

Night Drives

Night game drives provide an opportunity to observe wildlife in action at night. Predators like lions, hyenas, and leopards become active at night.
Photography

Photography

Photography safaris are frequently led by experienced photographers who are dedicated to capturing the best shot possible.
Sightseeing

Sightseeing

Market visits are worthwhile before or after a safari. Locally made and sourced items make excellent souvenirs and great way to keep memories alive.
Walking Safaris

Walking Safaris

A safari bush walk is the best way to get some exercise and experience nature up close. Set out on an adventure with the wild inhabitants of Africa.

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