MASHATU
GAME RESERVE
In
the remote eastern corner of Botswana, at the confluence of the
Limpopo and Shashe rivers, lies an area known historically as
the Tuli enclave - a diverse wilderness of savannah, riverine
forests, marshland, open plains and sandstone outcrops. It is
here that the largest of the Rattray Reserves is situated - Mashatu
Game Reserve. The name is derived from the magnificent Mashatu
trees, which occur throughout this immense tract of privately
owned land. Mashatu is also the home of no less than seven of
Africa's giants: the African elephant, the lion, giraffe, the
baobab tree, the eland, the ostrich, and the kori bustard. It
is fitting therefore, that some 75,000 acres / 30,000 hectares
of pristine game land, be set aside for these unique, prodigious
features of this exhilarating continent.
Mashatu Game Reserve, an area of history and legend, offers some
of the most exciting game viewing in Africa. It is a place of
exceptional beauty where one can explore the rugged, unspoilt
African landscapes either in the comfort of open 4-wheel drive
vehicles, on a walking safaris, on mountain bicycles, or horse
back, guided by expert rangers and experienced trackers. In addition
to the game experience, Mashatu offers a view of Africa, unchanged
since the days of early visitors such as Kipling, Selous and artist/explorer
Sir Thomas Baines. Historic and archaeological sites abound; notable
are the Motloutse Ruins and the Pitsani Koppie sites.
The excitement of Mashatu has not changed over time. It is still
home to large herds of elephant, prides of lion and cheetah. Along
the river courses, huge Mashatu trees provide shade for eland,
impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra, whilst at night, the bat-eared
fox, African Wildcat and the magnificent leopard search for prey.Some
366 species of birds may be seen. Mashatu Game Reserve proudly
provides a refuge for the largest, single population of elephant
on privately owned land in Africa. Known as the relic herds of
Shashe, these elephants are the last living testament to the great
herds that once populated the meandering Limpopo valley. Today,
the population on Mashatu Game Reserve alone, is estimated to
number in excess of 500.
The wildlife experience at Mashatu is personalised. Dedicated,
experienced Tswana rangers and trackers are keen to show you their
world. Radio-linked 4-wheel drive vehicles, groups of mountain
bicycles or horses set out at dawn and again at dusk in search
of the diverse variety of fauna and flora which abound throughout
the reserve. Whether you visit Mashatu for the excitement of the
big game viewing, the relaxation of unspoilt Africa or the quiet
luxury of the camps, you will not be disappointed.
Mashatu Main Camp
At the end
of an unforgettable game drive, experience the well known hospitality
of Mashatu Main Camp. Enjoy dinner around the fire in the Lala
- Palm boma under a canopy of a million stars, overlooking the
flood-lit waterhole. Relax around the pool or on the thatched
verandah and experience the ‘at home’ friendliness
and service. Mashatu is a refuge of unparalleled ‘bushveld’
luxury comfort, blending in harmoniously with the game lands and
teeming wildlife surrounding the camp.
Accommodation
at Mashatu Main Camp includes insect-proofed luxury suites, each
with a large fully equipped en-suite bathroom. Sliding doors open
onto the African bush where guests can relax and savour the sights
and sounds from their own suites. Two large beds complete the
well appointed rooms. This camp has a magnificent viewing deck
directly off the bar or “gin trap”, together with
an elevated lounge overlooking the water-hole.
Children’s
Policy - Age restrictions do exist and are applied in
the interests of personal safety as well as the comfort of other
guests.
At Mashatu
Main Camp, children of all ages are welcome but those aged five
and under are not permitted to dine in the boma or to be taken
on game drives, unless their parents have reserved sole-use of
their safari vehicle. Special dining arrangements can be made
and baby sitting services are provided on request at a nominal
charge. Suites at Mashatu consist of either 2 double or 2 3/4
beds and a day bed used by children under the age of 12. Children
under 12 years of age, sharing with full paying adults, pay 50%
of the quoted adult tariff.
Mashatu
Tent Camp
Nestled in
the remote northern area of the reserve lies Mashatu Tent Camp.
With never more than sixteen guests, this idyllic getaway provides
accommodation in the form of eight twin tents. Although rustic
in character every facility is provided. The tents are insect-proofed,
have comfortable beds and each has an en-suite shower and W.C.
facility. There is an open sided thatch deck where meals are served
and a traditional boma for intimate campfire dinners. This camp
also contains a very welcome plunge pool. Your total comfort is
the priority of your hosts. While on game drives, you will be
taken care of by your ranger and on your return, the camp staff
will gladly attend to your every need.
Children’s
Policy - Age restrictions do exist and are applied in
the interests of personal safety as well as the comfort of other
guests. We regret to advise that no children under the age of
12 years are allowed at Mashatu Tent Camp. There are no family
rooms available at Mashatu Tent Camp.
Mashatu
Game Reserve
Tel: +27 11 442 2267
Fax: +27 11 442 2318
Email: mashatu@malamala.com
   
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