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
Mashatu: A Photography Guide
Mashatu Game Reserve, located in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve of Botswana, is a photographer’s paradise. Known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, it offers numerous opportunities for capturing stunning images. This guide will focus on tips and equipment recommendations for photographing wildlife in Mashatu, with a special emphasis on using the hide which helps you photograph elusive animals like zebras, elands, and giraffes. Photographic Opportunities in Mashatu The Hide at Mashatu The hide at Mashatu is one of the best places to photograph animals up close. Positioned at a waterhole, it allows photographers to capture intimate moments of wildlife as they come to drink. From playful baboons to majestic elephants, the hide offers a unique vantage point that brings you eye-level with the animals. The hide provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, certain animals like zebras, elands, and giraffes can be more challenging to capture from the back of a safari vehicle. These animals often roam in areas less accessible by vehicle or runaway when they hear the sound of a vehicle, requiring patience and keen observation and this is where the hide plays a very important role Recommended Lenses For The Hide Wide-Angle Lens (15-35mm, 24-70mm): Ideal for capturing large groups of animals and providing context to your shots. Perfect for photographing a herd of elephants or a landscape with multiple species. Mid-Range Telephoto (70-200mm): Great for capturing individual animals or small groups. This lens strikes a balance between wide-angle and long telephoto, making it versatile for different scenarios. Long Telephoto (200mm+): Essential for detailed shots and portraits. Perfect for capturing close-ups of animals’ faces, feet, or other intricate details. Lens Recommendations For those looking to save space and manage weight on flights, consider these two-lens setups for Nikon, Canon, and Sony cameras. I chose these brands because they are the three most popular among guests at Mashatu, but feel free to bring the brand of your choice: Nikon Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4: Versatile for both wide-angle and mid-telephoto shots. Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3: Covers long telephoto needs, ideal for detailed shots and distant subjects. Canon Canon RF 24-105mm f/4: A flexible lens suitable for various scenarios. Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1: Perfect for long-range photography, capturing intricate details from a distance. Sony Sony 24-105mm f/4 G: A versatile lens that covers wide-angle to mid-telephoto range. Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G: Ideal for long telephoto shots, capturing distant subjects with great detail. Each of these combos can be enhanced with a 1.4x extender to increase focal length when needed, providing extra reach without the need for additional lenses. Essential Accessories for Your Trip SD Cards: Bring plenty so you won’t have to format them until you return home, even if you run daily backups to a hard drive. Hard Drives: Bring two or more for backing up your photos after each activity. Batteries: Bring extra backup batteries to ensure you don’t have to limit the number of shots you take. Cleaning Kit: Essential for dealing with dust, which can be common in Mashatu, to prevent dust spots on your lens glass. Second Camera Body: Highly recommended to avoid changing lenses in dusty conditions and to have a backup in case something happens to your main camera body. Tips for Capturing Action Shots Whether you’re at the hide or on a photo vehicle, capturing action shots requires the right settings and techniques: Shutter Speed: 1/1250s – 1/2500s: Ideal for capturing dynamic interactions like baboons playing or zebra stallions clashing. 1/4000s: Freezes the motion of birds in flight, ensuring sharp images. 1/2500s: For a balanced approach that captures some motion blur in the wings of birds, adding a sense of movement. Best Times to Visit Mashatu for Photography Mashatu offers different photographic opportunities throughout the year, each season bringing its own unique advantages Rainy Season (December to March) Pros: Lush green backdrops and vibrant landscapes. The yellow flowers of the devil’s thorn add a striking element to photos.Cons: Animals, especially big cats, are harder to spot as they tend to stay in the thick foliage. Dry Season (June to October) Pros: Animals are more visible as the landscape opens up. The brown/greyish backdrop can create dramatic contrast in your images.Cons: The scenery is less vibrant, but the increased visibility of wildlife compensates for it. Mashatu’s Expert Guides Mashatu is home to some of the best guides in the country. These experienced professionals have driven some of the world’s greatest photographers and understand how to position vehicles for optimal photography. They are attentive to your needs and will follow your instructions to ensure you get the perfect shot. Conclusion Mashatu Game Reserve is a treasure trove for wildlife photographers. By using the right equipment, understanding animal behavior, and knowing the best times to visit, you can capture incredible images that tell the story of this magnificent reserve. Whether you’re in the hide or on a safari vehicle, the opportunities for breathtaking photography are endless. Note The hide is closed from the 1st of December and opens on the 1st of March, as this is the peak of Botswana’s rainy season Disclaimer: The writer of this blog does not have any affiliation with any of the mentioned brands
Mashatu’s Newest Overnight Photographic Experience
Discover the Lala Limpopo Overnight Hide – A Photographer’s Dream Uploading… We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our brand-new luxury overnight photographic hide, the Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide. Set to open in October, this unique experience is designed for photography enthusiasts and wildlife lovers who crave an intimate encounter with the African wilderness. Located within the heart of Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve, the Lala Limpopo Hide is being developed in partnership with C4 Photo Safaris, co-founded by renowned professional photographer Shem Compion. This innovative hide has been subtly integrated into the landscape, allowing you to observe and photograph wildlife from the privacy and comfort of your own secluded sanctuary, from dusk till dawn. The hide overlooks a waterhole, famously known as Pete’s Pond, which has long been a bustling hub of wildlife activity. Whether it’s a herd of elephants quenching their thirst, a mother leopard guiding her cub, or a variety of bird species, you’ll be at eye level with the action—sometimes just a few meters away! With non-intrusive lighting introduced around the waterhole, you can capture stunning images day or night. The hide also features advanced sensors to alert you to any nocturnal activity, alongside a full control panel for adjusting lighting and angles to suit your photographic needs. When it comes to equipment, the possibilities are endless. We recommend bringing a range of lenses—from wide-angle to ultra-zoom—such as 16-35mm, 24-70mm, 70-200mm, and even up to a 500/600mm lens. You can expect to photograph elephants up close with a wide-angle lens or capture tight, detailed shots of a leopard with a 400mm lens. For night photography, the faster the lens, the better. The Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide is designed for exclusive use, accommodating up to four photographers or guests at a time. It includes a small kitchen, lounge, dining area, and a full bathroom with shower facilities. A separate bedroom is also available for your tour leader, Mashatu ranger, or C4 guide, who will be on hand for safety, advice, and photography tips. There’s even an outdoor courtyard where you can relax and soak up the sunshine without disturbing the nearby wildlife. Our existing underground hide, Matebole, has already earned global recognition, with award-winning images like Greg du Toit’s “Essence of Elephants” being captured there. The Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide raises the bar even higher, offering a one-of-a-kind sleepout safari experience that promises to be unforgettable. To celebrate the launch, we are offering an exclusive 50% opening special for October and November 2024. Please note that the hide will close from December 2024 to February 2025 for the rainy season, reopening on March 1st, 2025. Rate: $450 per person sharing per night or $650 for one room. Exclusive use of the hide is $1,600. Booking: The Lala Limpopo Hide is available as an additional activity for guests staying at one of Mashatu’s camps, including Euphorbia Mashatu, Kolokolo Safari Home, Mashatu Lodge, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu, Mashatu Tent Camp This is an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Mashatu and capture memories that will last a lifetime. For booking inquiries or more information, please contact reservations@mashatu.com or Click The Button Below BOOK
Mashatu Game Reserve to host Land of the Giants Cycle Tour
Over 50 riders to embark on a journey through the African bush to raise funds in support of conservation initiatives to preserve Botswana’s natural heritage.
Exciting safari experiences and exclusive offers at Mashatu
We’re thrilled to unveil an array of exciting experiences and exclusive offers awaiting you at Mashatu Game Reserve! Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s wilderness?
