FAM Trip Spotlight: German Agents Discover the Heartbeat of Mashatu, Botswana
There’s a quiet magic that awakens in the hearts of travellers when they step onto African soil. It’s not just the wildlife, the landscapes, or the golden sunsets—it’s something deeper. As the old saying goes, “You may leave Africa, but Africa never leaves you.” In the month of May, Mashatu Game Reserve had the pleasure of welcoming a group of five distinguished German travel professionals—business owners and safari experts—on a hosted familiarisation trip. For many, it was a long-awaited journey. For all, it was a transformative experience. Here’s a glimpse of what stood out to them—and what could await you, too: “A beautiful spot on Earth – where the stars are actually the enormous trees. I hadn’t realized that; I always assumed the “Giants” were the elephants… but the trees are amazing and truly unique! Staff in the camps were fantastic! The ‘heart and soul’ – super friendly and open people… everything feels authentic and not staged, which I really liked. You feel very welcome. I can definitely see myself recommending Mashatu Tent Camp, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu and Shalimpo Safari Home to my clients – Euphorbia is also fantastic.” – Silke Schumann, Destination Afrika “This is how a high-quality safari can begin. Scenically impressive, diverse, well developed and well equipped with wildlife. The new overnight hide is very successful and in general the hides are a nice addition to the observation possibilities. Euphorbia Mashatu: The handwriting of the best safari architects and interior designers is clearly recognizable. The staff are friendly, accommodating and helpful. You can feel that many have been there for a very long time, and see each other more like a big family.” – Juergen Kuehner, Karawane Euphorbia is stylishly designed and it’s great that the theme “Euphorbia” can also be found everywhere (shape of the rooms after the seed, lamp covers in the lounge area shaped after the leaves). Great idea with the iPad in the rooms with the possibility to contact someone by message and look at the “eBirds”, “e-plants” etc. and look up what you have seen again. It was also great that there were USB charging options everywhere. Mashatu Tent Camp has a lot of feel-good atmosphere. I particularly liked the idea of the bucket shower.” – Jasmin Feierabend, Africa Tours Individual “The journey of getting to Mashatu was quick and problem-free. The pilots greeted us at the check-in counter and the service before and during the flight was very good. It feels luxurious but down-to-earth and absolutely in the right place. Kolokolo is beautifully furnished and has a cozy atmosphere, with excellent service from the team. It feels like a home-away-from-home. Night under the stars is a great experience. I especially loved waking up in the bush at the first rays of light.” – Daniela Seigert, AST “It was very helpful to experience the different arrival and departure variants – and to see how smoothly the arrival works both by land and by flight. The sincere friendliness and helpfulness of all employees is a real unique selling point of Mashatu. In conversations, it became clear again and again how proud people are to be a part of Mashatu – which has been directly transferred to the entire atmosphere. A real plus! Night under the Stars was a really impressive set up – I’ve never experienced a sleep-out like it. A very special experience for every guest who wants to embark on a very special safari adventure. The landscape diversity in the Mashatu Reserve, with the mighty Mashatu trees (!) as well as the numerous rivers and the rides in the dry riverbeds, have impressed me very much – every single game drive was an experience in itself.” – Andrea Ludwig, Andrea Ludwig Afrika We are grateful to our German travel experts for visiting our hidden gem in the south-eastern corner of Botswana and sharing their wonderful feedback. Visit www.mashatu.com to find out more about planning the ultimate Botswana safari trip to Mashatu.
Mashatu’s Safari Specials offering tailored travel and timeless value
We’ve been listening closely and reviewing which of our specials truly resonated with you — and we’re excited to announce the launch of a collection of permanent specials – thoughtfully designed to make your journey to Mashatu easier, more flexible, and more rewarding. Unlike limited-time deals, these handpicked specials offer year-round booking windows (with the exception of the Early Bird), giving you the freedom to plan your safari when it suits you best. Whether you’re travelling solo, celebrating love as a couple, exploring the bush with family, or seeking an adventure with friends, there’s something ‘special in our specials’ for everyone. Set in a remote, pristine, and exclusive corner of Botswana, Mashatu is where purposeful travel, rare sightings, and meaningful stories unfold. SOLO TRAVELLER SPECIAL For those intrepid travellers seeking a dream safari destination, Mashatu’s solo traveller special is for you. Embrace the solitude of the wilderness, revel in the luxury of your private suite, and enjoy camaraderie shared at mealtimes. Your adventure awaits – without the added cost. Offer: Single supplement waived for stays of 3 nights or more Booking Dates: Open all year Stay Dates: 1 January – 31 December (year-round) Valid: Across all lodges (excluding safari homes) Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests Contact reservations@mashatu.com to book your stay Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Link to specials page: https://mashatu.com/offers-rates-specials-and-packages/ VALENTINE’S IN THE WILD With exclusive game drives, starry nights & lantern-lit dinners, rare wildlife sightings and intimate time together in nature – Mashatu is the perfect destination for a unique safari Valentine’s escape. Offer: Book 2 nights or more, and 1 person stays free Booking Dates: Open all year Stay Dates: 1 February – 30 March Valid: Across all lodges (excluding safari homes) Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests Contact reservations@mashatu.com to book your stay Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Link to specials page: https://mashatu.com/offers-rates-specials-and-packages/ FAMILY SAFARI SPECIAL Whether you’re travelling with your immediate family or gathering multiple generations together, there’s no better place to embark on a bucket-list family safari than at Mashatu Game Reserve. Offer: Children Stay for Free: Children under the age of 16 can stay for free when sharing a room with their parents at Mashatu Lodge and Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu. Children Stay at Half Price: Children can stay in a separate room at half the children’s rate (must be over the age of 12). Safari Homes Pay for 2, Stay for 3: Book one of our exclusive-use safari homes, perfect for groups of up to 8 people, and enjoy your third night for free. *Please note: This offer is limited to one child sharing a room with parents due to lodge capacity and vehicle availability. Triple or quad room configurations are not available at Mashatu Tent Camp or Euphorbia Mashatu. Terms & Conditions: Booking window: Open all year Stay dates: 1 November to 31 January Available across all Mashatu lodges (Euphorbia Mashatu is 16 years and over, Mashatu Tent Camp is 12 years and over) Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests Contact reservations@mashatu.com to book your stay Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Link to specials page: https://mashatu.com/offers-rates-specials-and-packages/ EARLY BIRD SPECIAL We know there is consideration that goes into planning travel – that’s why we’re looking ahead to help you secure your dream safari. By booking early in the first half of the year, you’ll enjoy 15% off when booking across all Mashatu lodges and safari homes for the following two years. Offer: 15% off all stays across all lodges and safari homes Booking Dates: First half of the year (1 January – 30 June) Stay Dates: Throughout the following two years (1 January – 31 December) Valid: Across all lodges and safari homes Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests Contact reservations@mashatu.com to book your stay Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Link to specials page: https://mashatu.com/offers-rates-specials-and-packages/
Spotlight on April’s Mashatu Agent FAM Trip
Looking back on April, we’re reflecting on one of its highlights — hosting a group of incredible travel professionals on an immersive FAM trip to Mashatu Game Reserve. Over a few unforgettable days, key agents experienced the breadth of Mashatu’s unique offering. From vast landscapes, intimate wildlife encounters, luxury lodges, authentic connection with nature, and the warmth of the Mashatu team. We had the pleasure of hosting Craig Marshall of Marshall Solutions, Fezeka Ndwalane of Thompsons Africa, Zelda Smit of ZS Safaris and Diane Jacobs of Sense of Africa. These valued industry partners brought unique expertise and fresh perspective. It was a privilege to showcase Mashatu and see what stood out through their experience of the reserve. From thrilling game drives and time spent at our photographic hides to warm evenings under the stars – part of our WalkMashatu Night Under the Stars activity, the group gained a full sense of the scale, diversity, and authenticity that defines a Mashatu experience. Zelda Smit shared: “I have always highly recommended Mashatu to my clients – but after experiencing it myself, I will be promoting the camps even more – especially the “night under the stars” – I could not recommend that highly enough.” As for Craig Marshall, Kolokolo Safari Home took his breath away, as did the wildlife sightings. He shares: “Kolokolo Safari Home is breathtaking – a real piece of paradise on the banks of the Limpopo. The food was incredible, and it was good to see how the staff used all different locations for all the meals. The game was incredible, and our Leopard, Lion and Cheetah sightings were next level!” What stood out for Diane was the people – “super welcoming, dedicated and enthusiastic”. She shared Zelda’s sentiment toward the enchanting Night Under the Stars experience, and furthermore added, “I will most certainly recommend Mashatu for photographers, and travellers who appreciate vast land, massive trees and exceptional cat sightings!” We’re deeply grateful for their time, enthusiasm, and insights. We look forward to welcoming them — and their clients — back again soon. Visit www.mashatu.com or email our team at reservations@mashatu.com to start planning your trip to Mashatu.
Why Easter is the Perfect Time for a Family Safari to Mashatu
As mid-term school breaks and Easter excitement approaches, we know how families are looking for ways to reconnect, unwind, and make lasting memories. What better way to do this than embarking on an unforgettable safari adventure to a true hidden gem – Mashatu Game Reserve. Nestled in the southeastern corner of Botswana, on the borders of South Africa and Zimbabwe, Mashatu is a pristine and privately owned game reserve. Easily accessible via road or air transfers, whether you choose to self-drive or fly in, getting to Mashatu is seamless, making it the perfect last-minute getaway. With our travel arm, Mashatu Connect, daily scheduled flights or road transfers from Johannesburg to Mashatu can be arranged. Flights depart from Lanseria Airport and arrive in Limpopo Valley Airfield – a private international airport situated within the reserve (flight duration approx 1.5 hours). Road transfers can be booked through Mashatu Connect too, departing Johannesburg and arriving at Pont Drift Border Post (road transfer approx. 6 hours). You can also fly to Polokwane airport, with a road transfer from Polokwane to Pont Drift Border Post (road transfer approx. 2 hours). Alternatively, you can self-drive and enjoy a fun road trip as a family – viewing serene landscapes, listening to sing along songs and enjoying car snacks – it’s a road trip that will set the tone for the exciting safari stay that awaits! Why Easter is the Ideal Time to Visit This year, thanks to the generous green season rains, the reserve is lusher and more vibrant than ever, setting the stage for incredible wildlife encounters. The landscape is bursting with fresh vegetation, attracting abundant wildlife, including a wave of newborns—from playful elephant calves to curious lion cubs. Imagine the joy of your children seeing these babies in the wild—an experience that will be etched in their hearts forever. Perfect Weather: The cool mornings and balmy afternoons make for comfortable game drives and outdoor activities. Easier Travel for Families: With the Easter holidays and school mid-term breaks, now is the ideal time to get away without disrupting school schedules. Proximity to South Africa & Zimbabwe: For South Africans and Zimbabweans, Mashatu is right on your doorstep, making it easy to reach for a spontaneous adventure. Exceptional Sightings: The fresh greenery provides spectacular photographic opportunities, and the concentration of wildlife is at its peak. Photos: Villiers Steyn A Safari Designed for Families Mashatu is tailor-made for families, offering a variety of activities to keep everyone engaged: Game Drives & Walking Safaris: Witness Africa’s giant 7 up close with expert guides – the African elephant, the lion, giraffe, the baobab tree, the eland, ostrich and the kori bustard. Matebole and Lala Limpopo Photographic Hides: Get eye-level with wildlife from a unique underground perspective. Cycling and horseback Safaris: Adventure through the reserve on mountain bikes for a one-of-a-kind wildlife perspective. Private Safari Homes: Opt for a stay at one of Mashatu’s exclusive-use Safari Homes. Shalimpo (self-catering and cosy) and Kolokolo (fully catered and 5* luxury) offer the ultimate exclusive retreat for a private and comfortable family stay. Relaxing amenities: Lodge facilities conducive to family enjoyment. With Easter around the corner, now is the time to pack your bags, bring the family, and experience the wild magic of Mashatu Game Reserve. Contact our reservations team regarding last-minute specials over this beautiful season and let’s make your trip happen!
Exciting Safari Specials for 2025 & 2026 at Mashatu Game Reserve
We’re excited to announce our latest specials for 2025 and 2026, designed to offer you unparalleled safari experiences at exceptional value. VALENTINE’S IN THE WILD SPECIAL A Valentine’s that’s out of the ordinary. Picture a sea of yellow devil thorn flowers carpeting our expansive reserve, lush green backdrops with towering trees, and golden sunsets painting the sky in vibrant hues. With an all-inclusive stay that includes adventurous game drives, intimate lantern-lit dinners, riveting wildlife sightings and relaxation time to connect with one another and nature – Mashatu is the safari destination for a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s escape. Offer: Book 2 nights or more, and 1 person stays free Booking Dates: Now – 15 March 2025 Stay Dates: 1 February – 30 March 2025 Promo Code: Valentines2025 Valid: Across all lodges (excluding safari homes) Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests. Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Contact reservations@mashatu.com SOLO TRAVELLER SPECIAL For the bold, independent spirits, Mashatu is calling. For those solo intrepid travellers seeking a dream safari destination for 2025, Mashatu’s solo traveller special is for you. Embrace the solitude of the wilderness, revel in comfort and luxury in your private suite, and enjoy the warmth of camaraderie shared at mealtime. Your adventure awaits – without the added cost. Offer: Single supplement waived for stays of 3 nights or more Booking Dates: January – 31 May 2025 Stay Dates: 1 February – 30 June 2025 Promo Code: Solo2025 Valid: Across all lodges (excluding safari homes) Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests. Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Contact reservations@mashatu.com EARLY BIRD SPECIAL Looking ahead – making 2026 travel extraordinary. We know there is consideration that goes into planning travel. That’s why we’re looking ahead to 2026 and how we can help you secure your dream safari. By booking early, you’ll enjoy 15% off when booking across all Mashatu lodges and safari homes. PLUS, with our rate freeze for 2026, there’s never been a better time to lock in your ultimate safari experience at this incredible value. Start planning your journey, as travel plans couldn’t be more enticing! Offer: 15% off all stays across all lodges and safari homes Booking Dates: January – May 2025 Stay Dates: 1 January – 31 December 2026 Promo Code: EarlyBird2026 Valid: Across all lodges and safari homes Open to all new bookings for international and SADC guests. Subject to availability and not combinable with other specials Contact reservations@mashatu.com or book directly through our website Start planning your next travel adventure today and don’t forget to Subscribe To Our Newsletter for the latest updates, specials, and insider news from Mashatu Game Reserve.
WalkMashatu: A Safari Walk Ending in a Night Under the Stars
Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure with WalkMashatu, an extraordinary walking safari that leads you deep into the heart of Botswana’s wilderness. But this is no ordinary safari—your journey culminates in a magical experience like no other: spending a Night Under the Stars at the Walk Mashatu Fly Camp. Set within the vast 42,000-hectare expanse of Mashatu Game Reserve, this walking safari offers a closer look at the intricate ecosystem that thrives here. Led by expert guides, the adventure invites you to leave the vehicle behind and immerse yourself in the wilderness on foot. As you tread softly along ancient elephant paths, you’ll encounter everything from Africa’s mighty big game to its smallest, often overlooked creatures. Each step of your journey connects you to nature in a more intimate way, as the guides share their knowledge of the bushveld, helping you uncover Mashatu’s hidden wonders. A Walk from Day to Night What makes the WalkMashatu experience truly exceptional is the way it unfolds. After an exhilarating day of exploration, you’ll return to camp for dinner, but the experience doesn’t end there. Once the stars begin to twinkle in the African sky, the Night Under the Stars begins. Departing your lodge after dinner, you’ll be whisked away on a 2-hour night drive, where the mysteries of the nocturnal world reveal themselves. From elusive predators to the quiet rustlings of the bush, the night drive offers a glimpse into the untold stories of the reserve. As the drive concludes, you’ll arrive at the WalkMashatu Fly Camp. Here, you’ll have the chance to participate in night photography or take a guided night walk. If relaxation is what you seek, gather around the campfire for fireside stories, drinks, and snacks, where the magic of the evening truly sets in. Sleeping Under the African Sky The sheer beauty of the Night Under the Stars experience is unmatched, as you drift off to sleep with the sounds of the wild all around you. Uniquely designed tents with comfortable bedding and folds on all sides, (enabling you to roll up or pull down the folds depending on your preference), is set up so that you can spend the night with the starry sky as your ceiling. In the morning, you’ll be treated to a light breakfast before embarking on a game drive at dawn – when the bush is at its most active. WalkMashatu operates from March to October each year, with a maximum of 6 guests. Children under 12 are not permitted on these walking trails. Children aged 12 to 18 must be accompanied by a parent. Contact our team regarding trails offered by WalkMashatu; additional trails can be tailored and made on request. Night under the Stars is available throughout the year as an additional activity, open to guests staying at Mashatu’s commercial lodges. Maximum of 6 guests, no children under 12. Whether it’s discovering the secrets of the bush by foot or sleeping beneath the African sky, the WalkMashatu experience is an adventure that brings you closer to nature than ever before. Book Your WalkMashatu and Night Under the Stars Experience Today
Unlock the Full Experience of Mashatu Game Reserve with a Combo Stay
Mashatu Game Reserve, the largest privately-owned reserve in Botswana, is a land of striking contrasts and diverse landscapes. Spanning over 42,000 hectares, it offers an extraordinary range of terrains, from towering sandstone hills to vast, open plains and tranquil riverine beds. To fully immerse yourself in this remarkable wilderness, we highly recommend taking advantage of our Combination Packages, designed to help you explore the vast beauty and diversity that Mashatu has to offer. Why Choose a Combination Package? The unique geography of Mashatu Game Reserve means that each area provides a completely different experience. By combining stays across our various lodges—whether it’s the rugged, historic charm of Tuli, the wildlife-rich riverine of central Mashatu, or the remote serenity of the confluence where our safari homes are found—you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the reserve’s incredible biodiversity and scenery. With a combination package, you won’t miss any of the highlights. Tuli landscape and uniqueness The Tuli area is known for its dramatic sandstone hills, ancient San rock paintings, and rich history dating back to the Mapungubwe era. Here, you can explore the fascinating Solomon’s Wall, take in panoramic views from kopjes, and relax under giant Nyala berry trees in Tuli Safari Lodge. Mashatu central landscape and uniqueness Central Mashatu is a wildlife lover’s dream. This area is home to the meandering Majale River and its tributaries, providing excellent opportunities for game viewing and bird watching. The alluvial plains, covered in devil thorn flowers during the rainy season, create a vibrant, picturesque setting that is truly unforgettable. Confluence landscape and uniqueness At the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers lies Shalimpo, where you can unwind in a more remote, self-catering lodge. With its towering leadwood trees and riverine environment, this area offers an off-the-beaten-path experience where you can connect with nature and enjoy the peace and beauty of the wilderness. Make the Most of Your Stay With Mashatu being the largest privately-owned reserve in Botswana, there is so much to explore that a stay of 6 nights or more is highly recommended. Our combination packages allow you to split your time between our different lodges, ensuring you get the most out of your trip. Whether it’s experiencing the history and rugged beauty of Tuli or the wildlife-rich heartland of Mashatu, each day brings new adventures. To make your experience even more memorable, these packages come at special reduced rates, giving you the chance to explore the vast expanse of Mashatu while enjoying the best value for your safari. Why Mashatu? Mashatu offers a wealth of activities and experiences that aren’t found at most reserves in Southern Africa, from game drives and cycling safaris to photographic hides and cultural and historical community explorations. The reserve’s sheer size and variety ensure that every guest leaves with memories that last a lifetime. Our combination packages are the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in all that Mashatu has to offer. So, why settle for a short stay when you can experience the full grandeur of the reserve with a special combo offering? Book your combination package today and embark on the ultimate safari adventure. 4 to 6-night stays to fully explore the reserve Reduced rates for longer stays Book with our reservations team to enjoy special rates: reservations@mashatu.com | +27 31 761 3440 (SA) | +27 83 521 6339 (Whatsapp) Come discover why Mashatu is called the Land of Giants, and let each area of the reserve reveal its own unique story. BOOK YOUR STAY
