The Safari Expert’s Unforgettable Stay at Mashatu’s Safari Homes and New Sleepout Hide
At Mashatu Game Reserve, we pride ourselves on offering our guests unforgettable safari experiences that merge adventure, luxury, comfort, and a deep connection to nature. Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting Villiers Steyn, the celebrated safari guide, photographer, and storyteller, at three of our remarkable offerings: Kolokolo Safari Home, Shalimpo Safari Home and the newly launched Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide. Villiers captured his time with us in two stunning video experiences, sharing his perspective on what makes Mashatu so extraordinary. An Intimate Stay at Mashatu’s Safari Homes In this this video, Villiers brings viewers into the heart of our Safari Homes, designed for families and private groups seeking an exclusive safari retreat. Located in the pristine wilderness of Mashatu, these homes are a harmonious blend of modern comfort and African charm. As Villiers shared in his video, the Safari Homes provide the perfect base for exploring the “Land of the Giants”, with expansive spaces and a private guide and game vehicle, as well as a private chef (exclusive to Kolokolo). The sense of privacy and the ability to tailor activities to your group’s interests elevates the experience to one of true luxury and personalization. From morning game drives to sunset relaxation by the pool, Villiers paints a vivid picture of life in this tranquil corner of Botswana. His footage of elephants ambling past the property and intimate leopard sightings highlight why Mashatu is a destination like no other. Watch Villiers’ Kolokolo and Shalimpo Safari Homes experience here. The Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide: A Night of Adventure and Photography In this video, Villiers and his photography friends visited the brand-new Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide. Located in the south-central region of Mashatu Game Reserve, the hide overlooks a man-made waterhole and faces north—a prime position for game viewing, especially during the dry season. This underground photography hide is equipped with two bedrooms (each featuring two single beds), a kitchen, and a bathroom, as well as a daybed and comfortable seating for at least four photographers. The hide is uniquely designed to offer the ultimate photography experience, with moveable lights that illuminate the waterhole at night. These lights, which can be remotely controlled to adjust brightness and intensity, allow photographers to capture dramatic, studio-like shots of animals visiting the waterhole under the stars. Guests at the hide can spend both late afternoons and early mornings in the underground space, making the most of the incredible photographic opportunities available during the golden hours of the day and throughout the night. As Villiers’ video shows, the Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide offers not just breathtaking views but also unforgettable wildlife encounters. During their 48-hour stay, Villiers and his group experienced a rich variety of wildlife visiting the waterhole, adding to the excitement of their adventure. If you’re curious about this once-in-a-lifetime experience, Villiers’ video gives an immersive look into the magic of the Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide. Watch Villiers’ Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide experience here. Experience Mashatu For Yourself These videos highlight just a glimpse of the magic that awaits you at Mashatu Game Reserve. Whether you’re seeking the ultimate private retreat at our Safari Homes or a bucket-list adventure at the Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide, Mashatu offers experiences that will leave you with stories to tell for a lifetime. Ready to create your own memories at Mashatu? Explore our unique accommodations and offerings Here. Contact reservations@mashatu.com to book your stay or book through the Mashatu website.
Through the Lens Series: Capturing the Soul of Mashatu with Renowned Wildlife Photographers
Welcome to the “Through the Lens” series, where we invite you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Mashatu Game Reserve, seen through the eyes of seasoned wildlife photographers. This series celebrates the artistry of each photographer, capturing Mashatu’s unique spirit and inviting readers to discover the untamed beauty, iconic wildlife, and mesmerizing landscapes of this magical place. Each episode introduces a talented photographer who shares their personal journey, favourite captures from Mashatu, and the magic that keeps them coming back. It’s a heartfelt look at the wilderness, revealing how each season and landscape creates a different mood, inspiring awe and respect in the photographers who explore it. We invite you to sit back with a warm cup of tea or coffee, relax, and dive into this enchanting playlist on our YouTube channel offering a visual journey and masterclass in wildlife photography. Let these photographers take you on an inspiring exploration of Mashatu. Go Yamagata Born in Japan and raised in Togo and Burkina Faso, Go Kinoshita has been drawn back to Africa time and again to capture its wildlife. Now based in Tokyo, Go leads Japan tours for C4 Photo Safaris and has earned awards like second place at the AGFA Awards and the top prize in the Epson Worldwide Photo Contest. His images from Mashatu capture the essence of the wild with a keen eye for detail and soul. [WATCH] Kevin Dooley An award-winning wildlife and portrait photographer from New Mexico, Kevin began his career in his father’s studio at just 14. His deep passion for Africa has led him to guide safari adventures, where he combines his love for photography and wilderness with travellers. Kevin’s Mashatu images are vivid portrayals of the animals he deeply respects, creating an intimate experience for viewers. [WATCH] Villiers Steyn Villiers, from Pretoria, began his photography journey as his high school’s photographer. With a Master’s degree in Nature Conservation, his studies focused on leopard behaviour in Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve. Now a seasoned wildlife photographer and safari guide, Villiers shares his adventures and insights on his YouTube channel, The Safari Expert, where he offers practical tips and a unique perspective on wildlife photography. [WATCH] Roger & Pat de la Harpe With a shared passion for conservation and Africa’s wild landscapes, Roger and Pat are South African freelance photographers and writers with over 30 years of experience. They’ve published 28 coffee table books, including Mashatu: Land of the Giants, and manage Africa Imagery, an image bank capturing the people, wildlife, and natural beauty of Africa. Their work in Mashatu is a rich visual narrative of the area’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. [WATCH] Jos & Yvette van Bommel Renowned wildlife photographers known for their captivating images of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Safari enthusiasts with 20+ years of experience, they have a deep passion for conservation and sharing the beauty of the natural world through their stunning photography, exploring Africa three to four months a year. [WATCH] Greg du Toit Acclaimed African wildlife photographer, writer, and private safari guide, Greg du Toit is known for capturing Africa’s raw beauty in its truest form. His images reflect a deep respect for wildlife behaviour and natural landscapes, and his Mashatu photos are no exception. With three books to his name, he offers his guests unforgettable photography safaris, deeply rooted in Africa’s rhythms. [WATCH] Mike Dexter With a degree in photojournalism and a FGASA Level II guiding qualification, Cape Town-based Mike Dexter has over a decade of experience in Africa’s wildest areas. His images from Mashatu reveal moments that are both rare and precious, portraying the wild’s untamed beauty with respect and artistry. [WATCH] Ann and Steve Toon Based in the UK, Ann and Steve Toon have dedicated over 25 years to capturing Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. They spend half the year exploring African game parks, bringing a storytelling approach to their photography. Their work is recognized globally, with awards like the Bird Photographer of the Year and the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Their images from Mashatu showcase Africa’s diversity, vibrantly bringing its stories to life. [WATCH] Shem Compion Known for his innovative approach and deep knowledge of animal behaviour, Shem Compion is a celebrated African nature photographer, adventurer, and co-founder of C4 Photo Safaris. He pioneered Africa’s first underground hide at Mashatu, providing photographers with incredible close-up wildlife encounters. His images are a testament to his passion for the wild, capturing the energy and essence of the animals and landscapes that make Mashatu so extraordinary. [WATCH]
