Botswana Crowned Best Safari Country in Africa 2025 for the Fourth Time
For the fourth time—and third year in a row—Botswana has been voted the Best Safari Country in Africa by SafariBookings.com, reaffirming what so many travellers, conservationists, and safari lovers already know – that Botswana is the heart and soul of authentic African safari. This recognition is based on over 4,600 reviews from safari-goers and industry experts, and celebrates Botswana’s commitment to a low-impact, conservation-led tourism model that prioritizes the wild over the crowded. An ethos that’s at the heart of Mashatu’s purpose and vision for a sustainable future. Photo By: Francois Fourie Why Botswana Leads the Way: Unspoiled wilderness: Botswana remains one of the last places where wildlife still roams free and undisturbed. The elephant capital: Botswana is home to the largest population of elephants on the continent. Mashatu is home to the largest population of elephant herds on a private game reserve in Southern Africa. Exclusivity by design: Botswana and Mashatu’s “low-density, high-quality” safari approach means sightings are often enjoyed in solitude or shared with just a few others—no overcrowding, no queues, just nature. Mashatu’s Place in the Story: In the remote eastern corner of Botswana, where the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers meet, lies Mashatu Game Reserve—a privately owned wilderness that embodies everything this award celebrates. Guests experience expansive predator-rich landscapes, famous for its leopard and cheetah sightings, immersive wildlife photography hides and unique activities like mountain biking safaris, six luxurious accommodation options from elevated lodges to private safari homes and a passionate team dedicated to protecting wild spaces and supporting local communities. Photo By: Francois Fourie Photo By: Francois Fourie Photo By: Francois Fourie Photo By: Francois Fourie As the world turns its attention (once again) to Botswana’s brilliance, we invite you to come and discover what makes our land so magical—and why it continues to lead the way in responsible, bespoke safari travel. Mashatu is more than a destination. It’s a feeling. One that stays with you long after you leave. Visit www.mashatu.com to find out more and start planning your trip to the best safari country in 2025. Email our team at reservations@mashatu.com to find out more or to book your stay.
A Landmark Premiere and Proud Partnership: Mashatu and Wildscreen Festival Botswana
Premiere of “Mashatu: Land of Leopards” Closes Historic Event in Maun Last week marked a significant milestone for conservation storytelling in Africa, as the internationally acclaimed Wildscreen Festival took place for the first time in Botswana. Held in Maun from 12–13 June, the festival — with Mashatu Game Reserve as a major sponsor — provided a powerful platform to spotlight Botswana’s extraordinary natural heritage and the rising talent of its creative industry. The event culminated in the African premiere of “Mashatu: Land of Leopards”, a landmark documentary filmed entirely at Mashatu over a three-year period. Directed by Julien Naar, with Wim and Mags Vorster of Wild Web Africa as cinematographers and field producers, and produced by ZED for France Télévisions, National Geographic & RTS – the film, which captures rare and intimate leopard behaviour against the reserve’s breathtaking backdrop, was met with wide acclaim and proved a fitting finale to a two-day programme filled with bold ideas, fresh voices, and a collective commitment to the future of natural world storytelling. The festival’s final session featured an address by Stephen Lansdown CBE, majority owner of Mashatu Game Reserve. Lansdown underscored the importance of investing in initiatives that deliver tangible, long-term value for both communities and the environment, highlighting how meaningful partnerships and storytelling can spark change. The Lansdown Family, long-standing philanthropists and conservationists, have played a central role in the development of Mashatu as a leader in sustainable tourism. Mashatu forms part of a broader portfolio of properties across Africa, Guernsey (where the Lansdowns reside), and the UK, including the Bristol Sport Group and a redevelopment project on Guernsey’s west coast. Across these regions, their focus remains the same: combining business and philanthropy as a force for good. The Wildscreen Festival brought together both international and regional leaders in natural world storytelling, with representation from BBC Studios, National Geographic, Earth Touch, Botswana Television, and the Natural History Film Unit Botswana. For Mashatu, supporting this first Botswana edition of Wildscreen is about catalysing visibility, opportunity, and global recognition for Botswana’s homegrown storytellers — and the wild spaces they represent. The festival is a statement that Botswana has a voice, a vision, and a rightful seat at the global table when it comes to conservation storytelling. Reservations Contact:reservations@mashatu.com | www.mashatu.com Marketing Contact:danita@mashatu.com | www.mashatu.com
Through the Eyes of a Traveller: Diana Andersen’s Experience at Mashatu Game Reserve
We love hearing about our guests’ journeys and the moments that leave lasting impressions. In this edition of Through the Eyes of a Traveller, we feature Diana Andersen of Wild Animal Info, as she shares her experience of time spent at Mashatu Game Reserve in a beautifully detailed article. Enjoy as Diana shares insights into her trip — from the rich wildlife encounters to the unique character of each lodge, and her personal highlights including Mashatu’s famed elephant sightings and warm hospitality. Where is Mashatu Game Reserve? Diana begins by highlighting Mashatu’s unique location in Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve, where the country borders both South Africa and Zimbabwe. Its vast open spaces and rugged terrain offer a true sense of wilderness, unlike more frequented safari destinations. For Diana, the untouched quality of the landscape and the solitude it offered made Mashatu feel deeply special and wild. Getting to Mashatu Although Mashatu feels wonderfully remote, Diana found the journey easy and seamless. After flying into Polokwane, South Africa, she was transferred by road to the Pont Drift Border, where she crossed the Limpopo River into Botswana — a short and scenic hop that added to the sense of adventure. This combination of accessibility and isolation is something she found rare and refreshing. The journey was smooth and well-organised — a great reminder that an off-the-beaten-track safari doesn’t need to be logistically complicated. Lodges at Mashatu Game Reserve Diana experienced stays at Euphorbia Mashatu, Mashatu Lodge and the Mashatu Tent Camp, all offering a unique perspective on the safari experience. During her stay at Euphorbia Mashatu, she appreciated the unique design of the villas, based on the leaf of the iconic Mopane tree found throughout Mashatu. Set amongst Euphorbia trees, the villas overlook the Majale River, offering stunning views, which she enjoyed from her private plunge pool. Gourmet meals prepared with the finest local ingredients added to the five-star experience. At Mashatu Lodge, she noted the comfort and elegance of the spacious suites, with peaceful views and thoughtful touches that made her stay feel relaxed yet luxurious. Her time at the Tent Camp brought her closer to nature — a more intimate, down-to-earth setting that still delivered top-notch guiding and hospitality. She highlighted the friendly atmosphere and how well the camp complemented the environment around it. Activities at Mashatu Game Reserve Over the course of six game drives, Diana encountered a spectacular range of wildlife — including leopards, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and Mashatu’s iconic elephants. One of her most memorable moments was her first leopard sighting, which she described as magical. She was also amazed by the frequency and size of elephant sightings, noting how present and awe-inspiring they were throughout the experience. Her appreciation extended to the expertise of the guides, whose tracking skills and passion brought each sighting to life. Diana reflects on Mashatu as a place that offers both space to breathe and plenty to discover. It was the perfect beginning to her African safari journey — one filled with unforgettable wildlife, welcoming hospitality, and a sense of connection to nature. Diana reflects on Mashatu as a place that offers both space to breathe and plenty to discover. It was the perfect beginning to her African safari journey — one filled with unforgettable wildlife, welcoming hospitality, and a sense of connection to nature. Read Diana’s full article on Wild Animal Info: The Magic Of Mashatu Contact our team to book your stay: reservations@mashatu.com
The Ultimate Southern Africa Road Trip: Self-Driving to Mashatu
For many travelers, the ultimate safari adventure isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey. And what better way to experience the vast beauty of Southern Africa than by taking the scenic route? Recently, motoring journalist Dieter Losskarn embarked on an epic road trip from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, stopping at Mashatu Game Reserve along the way. His choice of vehicle? The rugged Toyota Hilux GR-Sport, which proved itself more than capable of handling the challenging, rain-soaked roads leading to Botswana. A Landscape Transformed by Rain After an exceptional rainy season, Dieter arrived at Mashatu to find the land bursting with life—rolling golden grasslands, verdant trees, and water-filled pans reflecting the African sky. This seasonal transformation not only paints a breathtaking picture but also attracts an abundance of wildlife, from elephant herds quenching their thirst to predators taking advantage of the lush cover. The Ease of Self-Driving to Mashatu For those considering a self-drive safari, Mashatu is a perfect stop on a Southern Africa itinerary. Whether you’re driving from South Africa, Namibia, or Zimbabwe, the journey is straightforward, with well-marked roads leading to the border. Once you arrive, it’s as simple as: Parking your vehicle at the border Getting your passport stamped and clearing customs Hopping into a Mashatu game-viewing vehicle with our rangers Why Add Mashatu to Your Road Trip? Incredible wildlife – Renowned for leopard sightings, large elephant herds, and over 350 bird species. Exclusive safari experience – Escape the crowds and explore a pristine, untouched, and unfenced wilderness. Adventure at every turn – Whether it’s a traditional game drive, an overnight hide experience, or a cycling safari, Mashatu offers a unique way to connect with nature. For road-trippers looking to blend the thrill of the open road with an unforgettable safari, Mashatu is the perfect stop. 🚗 Read more about Dieter Losskarn’s journey to Mashatu Game Reserve in this News24 article: DRIVEN | From Cape Town to Vic Falls: How Toyota’s Hilux impressed in unthinkable road conditions Contact our reservations team for booking and start planning your own self-drive adventure to Mashatu today!
Through the Eyes of a Traveller: The 5-Star Euphorbia Mashatu Experience
At Euphorbia Mashatu, every moment is filled with wonder and discovery. We had the pleasure of hosting Gregory Rohart, who shared his unique experiences and insights from his stay with us. His detailed account captures the essence of what makes Euphorbia a hidden gem within the heart of Mashatu. When you think of luxury and nature combined, Euphorbia Mashatu stands out as a remarkable destination. Located in the heart of Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana, these private villas offer a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and wildlife. Luxurious Accommodations Euphorbia Mashatu is designed to provide the utmost comfort and luxury. The villas are spacious, elegantly furnished, and equipped with all modern amenities. Each villas offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the comforts of home. Wildlife Encounters One of the highlights of Gregory Rohart’s stay was the close encounters with wildlife. From early morning game drives to evening safaris, the opportunities to see a diverse range of animals were endless. The skilled guides at Euphorbia Mashatu ensure that every safari experience is memorable, offering insights into the behaviours and habitats of the animals. The Role of Water in the Wilderness Water is a critical element in the wild, and its presence at Euphorbia Mashatu adds to the allure of the place. The Majale River that the lodge overlooks and the waterholes near the lodge attract a variety of wildlife, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem. Guests can witness animals coming to drink, play, and interact, offering a front-row seat to the wonders of nature. Dining and Cuisine The culinary experience at Euphorbia Mashatu is nothing short of exceptional. Guests are treated to gourmet meals prepared with the finest, local ingredients. The dining area offers stunning views, making every meal a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Themed dinners where the Euphorbia team sing and dance to locally loved music adds an extra touch of excitement to the dining experience. Activities and Adventures Beyond game drives, there are numerous activities to engage in at Euphorbia Mashatu. From guided bush walks to bird watching, the lodge offers something for every nature enthusiast. The photographic opportunities are unparalleled, with the diverse landscapes providing the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning images. Sustainable Tourism Euphorbia Mashatu is committed to sustainable tourism practices. The lodge operates with minimal environmental impact, using eco-friendly materials and practices, powered off solar panels. Guests can enjoy their stay knowing that they are supporting conservation efforts and helping to preserve the natural beauty of Mashatu Game Reserve. Gregory Rohart’s experience at Euphorbia Mashatu is a testament to the unique and unforgettable adventures that await visitors. From luxurious accommodations to close wildlife encounters and exceptional dining, every aspect of the lodge is designed to provide an unparalleled experience. Discover why Euphorbia Mashatu is more than just a destination – video here. For the full blog post visit: The Euphorbia Mashatu Lodge Experience
Micheala Strachan’s Inspiring Journey Through Mashatu Game Reserve
We were thrilled to welcome renowned wildlife broadcaster and UK national treasure Michaela Strachan to Mashatu Game Reserve for an extraordinary three-day adventure! Michaela immersed herself in the untamed beauty of our reserve, which inspired a series of posts on her social media channels thereafter, filled with vibrancy that shared the magic of Mashatu. We loved seeing the way in which Mashatu touched her soul, so much so, that we wanted to share an overview of her experience with you, highlighting what stood out to her during her stay. https://youtu.be/naNAVnM1c48 Day 1: Conservation and Connection Michaela’s first post reflected her deep admiration for Mashatu’s owners commitment to conservation. She passionately highlighted how Mashatu serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, emphasizing the importance of protecting our natural world. See her inspiring post here Day 2: The Majesty of Elephants On her second day, Michaela was captivated by our majestic elephants. Her awe-inspiring posts showcased their playful interactions and serene presence, giving her followers a glimpse into the lives of these gentle giants. Watch her captivating reel here Day 3: The Beauty of Nature Michaela’s final day was filled with the breathtaking beauty of Mashatu’s landscapes and diverse wildlife. See her reflections in this insightful post here Reel Recap Michaela’s series of engaging reels that vividly depict her experiences at Mashatu can be seen below. Her adventures included thrilling game drives, intimate wildlife encounters, and stunning sunsets and more. Each post capturing the essence of Mashatu. Conservation and connection Award-winning underground photographic hide Elephant bull Adorable charging baby elephant Gentle giant drinking Elephant appreciation Mashatu Magic – experience overview Michaela Strachan’s visit was not only a celebration of Mashatu’s natural beauty but also a powerful reminder of the significance of conservation. Her series of posts inspired many to appreciate the wonders of the wild. We are deeply grateful for her passion and advocacy for wildlife and appreciation for our hidden gem in Botswana.
Mashatu’s Anti-Poaching Unit Conquers the Wildlife Ranger Challenge
Congratulations to Mashatu’s incredible Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) for completing the Northern Tuli Game Reserve – Wildlife Ranger Challenge 2024! This year, the team took on the tough challenge of carrying 22kgs for 21kms, finishing in just over 3 hours and 40 minutes—an impressive feat that showcases their strength and dedication to protecting the wildlife and wilderness of Mashatu. Supporting Team Mashatu Thank you to Team Mashatu for supporting the challenge from start to finish. From manning the water points to celebrating at the finishing lunch, their energy and encouragement made a big difference to the APU team’s morale along the way. Special shoutout to the Mashatu syndicate members from Rock Camp and Eagles Nest for their generous sponsorship of equipment to the APU team at the finish line. Their support and cheers throughout the event added to the success of the day. Walking with the Rangers Congratulations to Operations Director, Peter Bale, who walked the entire 21km route alongside the APU team. His commitment and leadership to walking with the rangers highlights the shared dedication across Mashatu to conservation efforts. Thank You to Our Donors To date, 55 donations have been made, totalling $27,979, to support the Wildlife Ranger Challenge. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to this important cause, which provides crucial funding to protect wildlife in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. With just 5 days remaining, there’s still time to donate and help our rangers continue their vital work in safeguarding the biodiversity of this remarkable landscape. Thank you to all who have supported and donated. Together, we are making a difference! Donate here: https://wildlife.rangerchallenge.org/campaigns/northern-tuli-game-reserve-team-2024
Celebrating Excellence in Housekeeping: A Key to Exceptional Hospitality at Mashatu
At Mashatu Game Reserve, we believe that the foundation of exceptional hospitality begins with the often-overlooked heroes of our industry—our housekeeping team. Recently, our team had the privilege of attending a three-day Housekeepers Convention, which was a powerful reminder of their invaluable contribution to the hospitality experience. This event brought together professionals from across Botswana to share knowledge, refresh skills, and reignite their passion for delivering outstanding service. From learning about the latest industry standards, like BTO’s grading system, to adopting best practices from the Housekeepers Association of South Africa (HASA), the convention was filled with practical insights. The focus on maintaining cleanliness, safety, and attention to detail ensures that our guests always enjoy the best of what Mashatu has to offer. One of the highlights was the housekeeping competition, where our own Lolo from Mashatu Lodge took 2nd place, showcasing the skill and dedication that our housekeeping team brings to their work every day. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our team, ensuring that each guest suite/villa/room is a haven of comfort and cleanliness. Whether it’s preparing rooms with care, ensuring public spaces are pristine, or exceeding expectations in small details, our housekeeping team is at the heart of delivering a memorable stay. We are incredibly proud of our team and their ongoing dedication to excellence, contributing to the preservation of our lodges for future generations. This is hospitality at its finest, creating a space where guests feel welcome, safe, and eager to return. BOOK YOUR STAY
The NOTUGRE Team Takes on the Wildlife Ranger Challenge
We’re proud to support the brave individuals of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve (NOTUGRE) anti-poaching unit as they gear up for the 2024 Wildlife Ranger Challenge. This gruelling event, which tests the physical and mental endurance of wildlife rangers across Africa, is more than just a race, it’s a powerful statement of commitment to the protection of Africa’s precious wildlife. Why It Matters: The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is part of a global campaign led by Tusk to raise much-needed funds for wildlife rangers across Africa. These funds are vital in supporting the daily operations of rangers like Madimabe, Masebe, Martin, and Odirile, who work tirelessly to protect endangered species and preserve the delicate ecosystems they inhabit. Until September 30, 2024, every $100 donated will be matched by the Scheinberg Relief Fund, effectively doubling the impact of your contribution. By donating, you’re helping to secure the future of Africa’s wildlife and the rangers who dedicate their lives to this noble cause. Meet Our Rangers: Madimabe Molelekwa has dedicated five years to safeguarding wildlife with the NOTUGRE anti-poaching unit. For him, the Wildlife Ranger Challenge is not just a competition; it’s a crucial test of his resilience and determination. Each step he takes in this challenge is a testament to his unwavering commitment to protecting Africa’s natural heritage. https://youtu.be/NPOz9-k-cCo?si=sWUu_oa8X82eATgb Masebe Masebe has been with the NOTUGRE unit for six years and brings a deep passion for his work to the challenge. He knows that the Ranger Challenge is no easy feat—long distances, uneven terrains, and the heavy weight of his gear make it a true test of endurance. But Masebe’s resolve is strong, and he’s ready to push through every hurdle to help ensure the future of our wildlife. https://youtu.be/RZwf1vvYyn0?si=ggX6UQ2f-RVhSdW1 Matlhogonolo Martin Koobokile, another six-year veteran of the NOTUGRE unit, understands the physical and mental demands of the challenge all too well. Facing intense heat, rugged landscapes, and unpredictable wildlife encounters, Martin remains steadfast in his mission. For him, the stakes couldn’t be higher, but his dedication to the cause keeps him going. https://youtu.be/Q7OwBRMai5w?si=g3YGBX-LtAJ-16yt Odirile Makala is one of the newest members of the team, having joined just six months ago. Despite his relative inexperience, Odirile is eager to prove himself in the Ranger Challenge. He knows the road ahead will be tough, especially as the weight of his pack begins to wear him down. But with the support of his more seasoned colleagues and his youthful determination, Odirile is ready to tackle this ultimate test of endurance. https://youtu.be/oCDRp90GuTU?si=5EPPXIuK6EhQRQIg How You Can Help: You can show your support by donating to the NOTUGRE team. Every dollar counts in the fight to preserve and protect wildlife habitats across Africa. Join us in cheering on our rangers as they take on the Wildlife Ranger Challenge and make a real difference in the conservation of Africa’s natural wonders. Donate Now: Support the Northern Tuli Game Reserve Team Together, we can help our rangers continue their vital work and protect the wildlife we all cherish. Let’s stand with them, every step of the way.
Through the Eyes of a Traveller: A Magical Safari at Mashatu Lodge
In this installment of our “Through the Eyes of a Traveller” series, we highlight Diana Andersen’s journey at Mashatu Lodge, where she discovered the beauty and wildlife of Mashatu Game Reserve – known as the “Land of the Giants,” a hidden gem in the southeastern corner of Botswana, offering an unparalleled safari experience: Delve into the Mashatu experience through her eyes: A Luxurious Stay at Mashatu Lodge Nestled in one of the most wildlife-rich areas of the reserve, Mashatu Lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury and immersion in nature. With fourteen private suites overlooking the African bush, guests are treated to a serene environment where the sounds of wildlife fill the air. The lodge’s proximity to central wildlife areas ensures frequent visits from elephants and other animals to the waterhole, visible from the main dining areas. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with warm hospitality, including a cool towel and a refreshing drink. The walk to the suites is a delight, especially for bird lovers, with sightings of paradise flycatchers and yellow-billed hornbills along the way. The lodge’s air-conditioned suites and inviting swimming pools provide a welcome respite from the heat, particularly during Botswana’s hot summer months. Engaging Wildlife Encounters Mashatu Lodge is perfectly situated for those eager to explore the diverse wildlife of the reserve. Guests can embark on twice-daily game drives, led by experienced guides and trackers who bring the bush to life with their deep knowledge and expertise. Diana Andersen was fortunate to have Fish, one of Mashatu’s most experienced guides with a tenure of over 40 years at Mashatu, and Ephraim, a skilled tracker, who together made her safari experience truly remarkable. The game drives often follow dry riverbeds, natural corridors for animals such as giraffes, wildebeest, kudu, impala, and, of course, the majestic elephants. Diana Andersen also had the privilege of witnessing predators such as lions and leopards and observing them up close. One particularly thrilling encounter involved a leopard with an impala kill, soon joined by her cub—a rare and exciting sight. The day’s adventures continued with a lion pride feasting on a giraffe and ended with a stunning sunset over a cheetah sighting. Unique Experiences at Mashatu Beyond the game drives, Mashatu offers a variety of unique experiences. The Discovery Room, filled with natural artifacts from the reserve, provides an educational opportunity for both adults and children. Families can also participate in the children’s learning program, designed to educate and entertain young guests. For those looking to capture wildlife from a different perspective, the Matebole Hide offers a front-row seat to observe elephants and other animals at close range. Alternatively, guests can explore the reserve on horseback, by bicycle, or on guided walking tours, each offering a unique way to experience the beauty of Mashatu. Conclusion Mashatu Lodge offers a truly unique safari experience, where luxury and nature meet in perfect harmony. As Diana Andersen discovered, the combination of expert guides, abundant wildlife, and the lodge’s inviting atmosphere creates memories that will last a lifetime. To read more about her adventure at Mashatu Lodge, you can visit her full article here: Botswana Safari at Mashatu Lodge. BOOK YOUR STAY
