Euphorbia Mashatu Recognised Among Botswana’s Best at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards
Flagship luxury safari lodge honoured among Botswana’s best, reinforcing Mashatu’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading wilderness destinations. Euphorbia Mashatu, the flagship luxury lodge within Mashatu Game Reserve and part of the Kaelo Destinations collection, has been recognised with three prestigious accolades at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards – receiving the titles of Best Bush Lodge in Botswana, Best Eco Safari Lodge in Botswana, and Best Private Game Lodge in Botswana. The awards recognise Euphorbia Mashatu’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences while championing conservation within one of Africa’s most extraordinary wilderness areas. They also form part of a landmark achievement across the wider Kaelo Destinations collection, which was named Best Safari Company in Africa, while sister property Pambele Beach House in Mozambique received three awards for Africa. Situated within Mashatu Game Reserve, spanning 42,000-hectare (104,000 acres) in Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Euphorbia Mashatu offers an intimate safari experience where contemporary elegance, personalised service and extraordinary wildlife encounters are seamlessly balanced with a deep commitment to conservation. Renowned for its diverse landscapes, remarkable biodiversity and exceptional photographic opportunities, Mashatu has earned international recognition as one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. The Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards are regarded among the hospitality industry’s most respected accolades, recognising excellence through guest feedback and celebrating establishments that consistently deliver exceptional experiences. Reflecting on the recognition, Wendy du Toit, Joint Managing Director of Mashatu Game Reserve, said: “We are deeply honoured that Euphorbia Mashatu has been recognised as Best Bush Lodge in Botswana, Best Eco Safari Lodge in Botswana, and Best Private Game Lodge in Botswana at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards. These accolades reflect our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class, sustainable luxury safari experiences while safeguarding one of Africa’s most iconic wilderness destinations. Above all, this recognition celebrates our exceptional team, whose passion, dedication and authentic hospitality bring the spirit of Mashatu to life every day, as well as our valued guests who continue to share in our journey. PULA!” As the flagship property within the Kaelo Destinations collection, Euphorbia Mashatu embodies a philosophy of authentic hospitality, conservation-first tourism and meaningful travel. Every stay contributes to the ongoing protection of Mashatu’s extraordinary ecosystem while creating unforgettable moments for guests immersed in the African wilderness. While these awards celebrate excellence, they also reaffirm the philosophy that defines Mashatu: delivering extraordinary safari experiences that connect people with nature while protecting the landscapes and wildlife that make this corner of Botswana so remarkable. Website: www.kaelodestinations.com | www.mashatu.com Imagery folder: Imagery – Mashatu Scenery, Lodges & Safari Homes Mashatu Property Videos: Link to playlist Marketing/Media Contact: danita@kaelodestinations.com About the Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards The Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards recognise outstanding hospitality establishments around the world based on genuine guest feedback rather than public voting or judging panels. The awards celebrate hotels, lodges, villas, resorts, retreats, spas and restaurants that consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences and are widely regarded as one of the hospitality industry’s highest accolades for service excellence.
The Rise of the Solo Safari Traveller:Why Mashatu is the Perfect Destination for Independent Explorers
Solo travel has become one of the fastest-growing segments in luxury travel, with more travellers choosing to embark on meaningful journeys independently. Recent industry insights shared by the African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA) reveal that solo travellers are now the fastest-growing segment within the luxury safari market. Solo safari enquiries increased from 13.07% of all safari enquiries in 2024 to 15.42% in 2025—the only traveller category to record year-on-year growth. Meanwhile, online searches for “solo travel” have surged by 230% over the past decade, signalling a broader shift in how people are choosing to explore the world. Why Safari is Ideal for Solo Travellers Unlike many forms of independent travel, a safari offers the freedom of exploring alone without the isolation that can sometimes accompany solo journeys. Shared game drives, communal dining experiences and expert guides create natural opportunities to connect with like-minded travellers, while still allowing plenty of time for personal reflection in nature. For many independent travellers, particularly those embarking on their first solo adventure, safari provides the reassurance of a carefully curated experience where every detail is thoughtfully managed. Why Mashatu is Perfect for the Independent Traveller As part of the Kaelo Destinations collection, Mashatu has recognised the evolving needs of today’s traveller, shaping experiences around genuine shifts in guest behaviour, and with a belief that exceptional travel experiences should be seamless, immersive and deeply felt. Situated within Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Mashatu offers solo travellers the confidence to explore independently while knowing every detail of their journey has been considered. Botswana itself adds to that peace of mind, consistently ranked among Africa’s safest and most politically stable countries, giving independent travellers, especially those exploring solo for the first time, added reassurance as they plan their journey. With coordinated air and road transfers including scheduled flights into Mashatu’s private airfield (Limpopo Valley Airfield), guests can arrive effortlessly, transitioning from plane to safari vehicle on arrival. Beyond the seamless logistics, Mashatu naturally creates opportunities for connection. Shared game drives, bush dining experiences, sundowners and evenings around the fire allow guests to meet like-minded travellers from across the world, while the vast wilderness provides endless opportunities for quiet reflection. Recognising the Shift Before it Became a Trend Identifying the growing demand for solo safari experiences early and recognising that traditional single supplements could discourage independent travellers from pursuing luxury safari adventures – Mashatu introduced its Solo Traveller Offer, waiving the single supplement on stays of four nights or more. The response has been remarkable. Revenue generated through Mashatu’s Solo Traveller Offer more than doubled year-on-year, increasing by 102% between 2025 and 2026. The offer has become one of Mashatu’s strongest-performing promotions, highlighting the growing appetite for luxury safari experiences designed with solo travellers in mind. The Future of Luxury Safari is Personal There is something uniquely powerful about experiencing Africa’s wilderness independently. Watching elephants move across ancient landscapes, following the tracks of wildlife at sunrise, sitting beneath a sky of stars after a day of exploration. These moments encourage connection—not only with nature, but with yourself. As solo travel continues to reshape luxury tourism, destinations that offer authentic experiences, seamless journeys and genuine hospitality will define the future of travel. With solo travel demand showing no signs of slowing, Mashatu and the wider Kaelo Destinations portfolio are well placed to lead this shift, having moved early to remove the barriers that once held independent travellers back. More than a travel trend, it’s a reflection of how modern travellers are redefining what luxury means—and why the future of safari is becoming increasingly personal. Contact for bookings/enquiries www.kaelodestinations.com | reservations@kaelodestinations.com
Empowering Eco-Guardians: Teacher Training Weekend at Mashatu
As custodians of a vast and thriving ecosystem within the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, we believe meaningful conservation begins with community. We are honoured to partner with Bana ba Bobirwa in nurturing young environmental leaders across the Bobirwa district. By opening our doors to programmes such as the Eco-Warrior Clubs, we aim to strengthen the vital connection between conservation and our neighbouring communities. At Mashatu, we believe protecting Botswana’s natural heritage depends on empowering those who live alongside it. Together, we continue to invest in education, collaboration and opportunity — ensuring the Land of Giants remains a place of inspiration for generations to come. Hosting initiatives like this forms part of our long-term commitment to education, community upliftment and sustainable tourism in the Bobirwa region. The following reflections were shared by Bana ba Bobirwa, offering insight into the impact of their recent Teacher Training Weekend hosted at Mashatu. Eco-Guardians: Teacher Training Weekend at Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu From 20–22 February 2026, Bana ba Bobirwa proudly hosted our second annual Teacher Training Weekend at Tuli Safari Lodge, Mashatu — a truly inspiring and impactful gathering. Our Eco-Guardians form the very foundation of the Bana ba Bobirwa programme. Their passion and commitment ensure the continued success of our Eco-Warrior Clubs, where young learners are introduced to the importance of wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. The Eco-Warrior Clubs are voluntary extra-curricular programmes running across six primary schools in the Bobirwa district. Through these clubs, children engage in hands-on conservation activities, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the value of tourism and conservation within the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. Our vision is clear: to nurture motivated young environmentalists who will help sustain and protect Botswana’s natural heritage for generations to come. Training This year, we were honoured to welcome Charlotte Gerrish, Bana ba Bobirwa’s curriculum developer, who not only compiled our comprehensive Eco-Warrior workbooks but also led the teacher training sessions. Charlotte worked closely with 18 dedicated teachers from the six schools we support, equipping them with the tools, confidence and knowledge needed to successfully deliver the Eco-Warrior curriculum. We were also delighted to have Richard Modeme from Mashatu join the training. His presence brought valuable wildlife knowledge and added a dynamic, practical dimension to the sessions, enriching the teachers’ understanding of the natural environment they are helping to protect. Inspiring the Next Generation It is through this programme that we are able to motivate young environmentalists, teach vital life skills, inspire future leaders and empower the children of Bobirwa. Seeing the enthusiasm, dedication and passion of our Eco-Guardians reminds us that meaningful conservation begins with education — and with people who care deeply about the future of their communities and their environment. We are incredibly grateful to Tuli Safari Lodge for hosting us and Mashatu Game Reserve for their continued support of this important initiative and for helping us continue to grow the next generation of conservation champions.’
THROUGH THE EYES OF A TRAVELLER – The African Search for “Home” and a “Mashatu Moment”
When Matt and Ashley Roth started looking at their “trip-of-a-lifetime” destination in Southern Africa, they had no clue where to start…. Read all about their wonderful experiences and journeys travelling through Mashatu Game Reserve. When deciding where the travel to in Southern Africa, we considered a few destinations. Kruger National Park? The Okavango Delta? The Kalahari… All options were on the table. Through some of our friendly connections we discovered Mashatu and the rest is quite simply a journey of joy and everlasting friendships. If you have stumbled upon this blog – you obviously want a little deeper information about what to expect. Just so you know – I am not being compensated for this and its truly out of pure passion that I write this. But the short of it, enjoy….and just book your safari now. Travel and Adventure to the Ultimate Destination We had heard that getting to the most amazing places in Botswana was a trek – but it really was easy. We contacted Mashatu and they arranged everything for us once we landed in Johannesburg South Africa. We were picked up by our road transfer (Mashatu Connect) at our overnight hotel at the airport and whisked away with the most friendly of drivers. He drove us safely and comfortably around the 5 hour drive to the Pont Drift Boarder Crossing into Botswana. Mind you – our first trip was in 2019 and we have been back almost every year since – bringing friends, family, and others. So we are seasoned pros now. The Experience of Mashatu I think your first introduction really happens on the Botswana side of the boarder. You are picked up by the most amazing guides and trackers in all of Southern Africa after concluding the standard passport stamping and form filling. We sat together and came up with three things that we think are the magic behind Mashatu. 1. The Mashatu People 2. The Animal Sightings and 3. The Mashatu Moment. Let me break each one of those down in a bit more detail. The Mashatu People While it sounds like I am explaining a subset of Botswana people…I really am not, I am highlighting the staff here at Mashatu’s Camps. We have stayed at Tent Camp, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu, Mashatu Lodge, Kolokolo Safari Home and had a short stay at Euphorbia Mashatu too. Every single person you interact with is the most lovely and caring person you will meet. From the cooks and chefs, to the housekeeping staff, to the camp managers. It feels like everyone is family immediately. I have never travelled anywhere in the world where it feels like you are “home” more than Botswana. Maybe that’s because if you trace all humanity back…. we come from that area. Maybe its deeply rooted in our DNA or maybe it’s just how lovely the staff are. The Guides and Trackers – Oh man, don’t get me started or I could write a whole other blog about how amazing they are. From their lead guide to the newest tracker – we have become lifelong friends with many of them. Learning about their weddings, children and so much more. Not to mention their absolute expert level of finding animals, landscapes, always putting you in the exact correct locations. Quite simply the best in Southern Africa. I am a fan of sitting next to the trackers and learning more and more about tracks, how to see what the animal is moving, and the tips and tricks they have used over the years. So much so that I started taking tracking courses. Think of the tag-team of your Guide and Tracker like this. The Guide drives…gets you placed perfectly, makes sure you are comfortable, has amazing and incredibly deep knowledge about the flaura and fauna and your Tracker…the tactical guy looking at the forensic evidence to partner with the guide to get you to the sightings…and oh the sightings… The Wildlife Sightings So many Safari goers want to see the hailed “big five” and we have done those tours and sites. Trust me when I say I don’t think its about seeing the “big five”. I think its about the intimate, quality sightings that Mashatu Guides and Trackers work so hard to give the guests at Mashatu. In our years of visiting Mashatu we have been surrounded by Spotted Hyena, Sat under a Mashatu Tree with a female leopard, Went on a “Game Park” (what we called our drive instead of a drive – we just parked and sat quietly and allowed the animals to come to us!) at Fig tree Crossing and had a massive elephant dig for water surrounded by Impala and Kudu. Instead of having a traditional sundowner, we skipped it and were blessed with a pride of lions and cubs playing all around the game vehicle. The sightings are really treats. The guides respect the wildlife, observe but do not interfere, and educate you softly. We follow their advice, remain quiet and respectful and the wildlife feel like they accept you. The Mashatu Moment OK, this one is admittedly silly – but it’s a true thing that happens when you are in Mashatu. It could be a moment at Mmamagwa Hill Baobab where you can run your fingers over tens of thousands of years old game carved into the stone. It could be a sundowner at De Beers Lookout with elephant shrews trying to steal some snacks. Or, it could be just watching the sun set over the amazing landscape. The moment is powerful and so desperately needed. With all of the turmoil, stress, hustle and grind of daily life, ‘The Mashatu Moment’ will hit you when you least expect – where all of that melts away and you truly live in the moment. The joy of the wilderness, wildlife, and gravity of perspective are the only things that matter. It’s one of the main reasons why I keep coming back to Mashatu. My Instagram feed before my
Where Giants Roam in Harmony: The Elephants of Mashatu
There are few moments in life as humbling as standing in the quiet company of elephants. At Mashatu Game Reserve, this is not a rare privilege — it’s a daily reminder of how nature thrives when given space, respect, and understanding. A Landscape Graced by Giants Mashatu is home to the largest herds of elephants on a private game reserve in Southern Africa. Their presence is both powerful and peaceful. Families of matriarchs and calves tracing ancient trails that have connected this landscape for generations.These pathways are living threads of memory, connecting waterholes, feeding grounds, and seasonal routes that our guests are fortunate to witness during game drives, guided walks, and cycling safaris. A Conservation Model Rooted in Respect Botswana has long been recognised as one of Africa’s leading voices for conservation. Guided by a high-value, low-volume tourism model, the country protects its wild spaces by ensuring that fewer visitors have deeper, more meaningful experiences. Mashatu follows this same philosophy, inviting travellers from across the globe to experience an pristine wilderness where wildlife remains wild, and encounters feel deeply personal. This approach allows us to safeguard vast tracts of land for the animals that call it home, while ensuring that tourism directly benefits conservation and community development. Harmony Through Coexistence Respect for wildlife lies at the heart of everything we do. But harmony doesn’t happen by chance — it’s the result of collaboration, education, and care. Through the Tuli Conservation Trust and initiatives like Bana Ba Bobirwa, Mashatu works closely with neighbouring communities to build understanding and reduce human-wildlife conflict. These programmes foster a deep respect for the natural world among the next generation — teaching local children about the importance of wildlife conservation and their role in protecting it. The Importance of Connection Wildlife corridors are safe passages that link ecosystems and allow animals to migrate freely – vital to the survival of elephant’s, as movement is life. Our owners, Steve and Maggie Lansdown, have long championed the protection and restoration of these corridors, ensuring that elephants and other wildlife can continue their age-old journeys across the landscape without restriction. In doing so, we help preserve not just the ecological balance of the region, but the cultural and natural heritage of this remarkable corner of Botswana. A Continuing Promise As we look ahead, we remain committed to nurturing an environment where elephants roam freely, where people and wildlife thrive side by side, and where the conservation approach of Botswana continues to inspire the world. Visit Mashatu Game Reserve and Book a Stay with Purpose www.mashatu.com | reservations@mashatu.com
Mashatu Game Reserve Named Best Game Reserve in Southern Africa for 2025
Mashatu Game Reserve, Eastern Botswana – We are honoured to share that Mashatu Game Reserve has been recognised as the Best Game Reserve in Southern Africa at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards. This prestigious accolade celebrates excellence in luxury travel and hospitality, and we are deeply grateful for the recognition — not only for what it celebrates about Mashatu as a destination, but for what it affirms about our continued commitment to responsible tourism and authentic guest experiences. As majority shareholders of Mashatu Game Reserve, the Lansdown family continues to champion conservation and community projects that make a tangible difference — from employment and education initiatives to health and wildlife protection programmes that sustain the region. “Mashatu’s success lies in protecting what makes this land extraordinary — vast open space, thriving wildlife corridors, and a community that grows alongside it. Sustainable tourism allows us to do that — to preserve, to share, and to keep this pristine wilderness alive for generations” – shares Steve Lansdown CBE, who, alongside his wife Maggie, has been dedicated to conservation work in Botswana for more than a decade. Set within Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Mashatu offers guests a transformative journey through one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. Four luxury lodges and two exclusive-use safari homes beautifully immerse travellers in nature – complemented by extraordinary experiences such as cycling safaris, guided bush walks, horseback safaris and photographic hides that bring you closer to the wild, respectfully and authentically. This award is both an honour and an inspiration to us. A reminder to keep protecting what makes Mashatu so special. Contact us to book your stay: reservations@mashatu.com Visit our website: www.mashatu.com
Mashatu Through the Eyes of a Traveller: Diana Andersen’s Stay at Mashatu Tent Camp
When Diana Andersen first set foot in Mashatu’s Tent Camp, she found herself immersed in the rhythm of the wild. In her own words, Mashatu Tent Camp “feels connected to the African bush, offering a sense of seclusion and harmony with the environment.” It’s from her point of view — waking to birdsong, settling into evenings under open skies — that we rediscover Mashatu not as a destination, but as a living, breathing space of nature. Mashatu Tent Camp – An Authentic African Experience Diana describes Tent Camp as the more “rustic” option among Mashatu’s accommodation offerings, yet it remains “one of the most loved camps for all the right reasons.” Despite its simplicity, the camp delivers high standards of service, food, and guest attention that rival its more luxurious counterparts. Each of the eight canvas tents, raised on platforms with verandas facing the bush, includes a private en-suite bathroom (outdoors). There’s no air conditioning or heating, but each bed is cozy, with hot water bottles in colder months and a pool for hot days. The main lounge and dining area is welcoming and inclusive — meals, local beer, wine, and spirits are part of the stay. What sets Mashatu Tent Camp apart is its closeness to wildlife. A waterhole at the camp draws animals throughout the day, and an underground onsite hide allows guests to observe wildlife up close without leaving camp. Diana admits she once skipped her last morning game drive just to stay in the hide, capturing her favourite Mashatu photos as animals came for their dawn drink. Beyond the camp, guests can visit other hides like the Matebole Hide or the Lala Limpopo overnight hide, with the latter offering an even more immersive photographic experience (at extra cost). Game drives in open vehicles, guided by Mashatu’s expert guides and trackers, traverse dry riverbeds and giant Mashatu trees — a prime environment for leopards, elephants, giraffes, and many others. Birdlife is also exceptional, especially as the wet season draws near — Diana notes that around November, species count swells to some 350. In the dry season, you’ll traverse stark landscapes with exceptional game viewing. Mashatu is accessed via charter flights from Johannesburg (Lanseria) or by road (approx. 6 hours), with Mashatu handling internal transfers and arrival logistics. Only Mashatu vehicles are allowed inside the reserve, though self-drivers may leave their cars at Pont Drift Border Reflections, and Why This Place Resonates By the end of her stay, Diana’s tone captures what many travellers feel but find hard to put into words: Mashatu Tent Camp is more than accommodation — it’s a way to feel part of the land. She emphasizes how the rustic elements don’t detract but rather enhance the experience: “Surrounded by nature, guests can enjoy the sounds of birds, hyenas, and vervet monkeys … making it easy to forget that the outside world exists.” She also notes that moments like sitting quietly in the hide as dawn’s light bathes a drinking impala or elephant become the episodes you carry with you — the ones you return to when you close your eyes. Her experience reveals something Mashatu aficionados already sense: luxury isn’t always about opulence — sometimes it’s about presence, intimacy, and wildness. Ready to See Mashatu Through Your Own Eyes? If Diana’s journey has stirred your safari wanderlust, perhaps it’s time you embarked on your journey. Whether you stay at Mashatu Tent Camp, one of our other 3 lodges or two safari homes, or explore the hides and game drives she so vividly describes, Mashatu offers you a rare chance to step into pristine wilderness. Visit Mashatu Tent Camp to learn more or book your stay | Reach out directly and we’ll help you tailor the perfect Mashatu trip: reservations@mashatu.com | Read Diana’s full original article here: Mashatu Tent Camp, Botswana – An Authentic African Experience – Wildlife Information
Empowering the Next Generation of Eco-Warriors with Bana ba Bobirwa
Empowering the Next Generation of Eco-Warriors with Bana ba Bobirwa Mashatu Game Reserve, situated in Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve, shares a border with the Bobirwa District, fostering a deep-rooted connection with the local communities. Recognizing the importance of community engagement and environmental education, Mashatu proudly sponsors and supports the Bana ba Bobirwa (BbB) initiative. This program is dedicated to empowering the youth of the Bobirwa District that borders Mashatu Game Reserve, through conservation education, aiming to cultivate a generation that values and actively participates in preserving Botswana’s natural heritage. Recent Eco-Camps at Mashatu Tent Camp This December, the BbB program hosted two remarkable back-to-back camps at Mashatu Tent Camp. The camps were attended by eager children from the Bobirwa community and dedicated Eco-Guardians (volunteers) who shared their knowledge and passion for conservation. The camps began with intensive volunteer training sessions, equipping Eco-Guardians with skills in mentorship, safety, intentional programming, and reflection. These sessions ensured a nurturing and safe environment for the children to learn and grow. When the children arrived, they were greeted warmly with songs, goodie bags filled with donated essentials, and the incredible support of their tent leaders. The sense of belonging created at camp laid the foundation for a week of exploration, creativity, and personal development. Activities and Learning Highlights The Eco-Camps were a vibrant blend of education, fun, and impactful experiences, encompassing: The aspirations shared by the children, with many expressing desires to become wildlife rangers, conservationists, and photographers, were particularly inspiring. Commitment to Future Conservation Mashatu remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting BbB’s mission to empower young conservation leaders. Together, we look forward to many more impactful initiatives that not only uplift the children of Bobirwa but also contribute to the preservation of Botswana’s rich natural heritage. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to all volunteers, sponsors and staff who contribute to the success of these programs.
Exploring the Spotted Hyena’s Relationship with Water at Lala Limpopo Sleep-Out Hide
When most people think of hyenas, they imagine these creatures as cunning, opportunistic predators often associated with the dry, arid savannas of Africa. While hyenas are well adapted to life in some of the harshest environments on Earth, what may surprise many is their surprising fondness for water. In this blog, with insights shared by resident Photo Mashatu Guide, Aubrey Tselang, we’ll explore the often-overlooked side of hyena behaviour: their love for water, as observed from Lala Limpopo Sleep-Out Hide. C4 Photo Mashatu Photographer Aubrey Tselang Misunderstood Hunters and Their Fascinating Water Behaviour Hyenas are often misunderstood, relegated to scavenger status despite being formidable hunters. Their portrayal in pop culture as sneaky and unpleasant complicates popular perceptions. This outlook causes many to overlook fascinating hyena behaviour. Spotted Hyenas and Their Fondness for Water The spotted hyena, the most well-known species, is known to seek out water sources. Unlike other carnivores that might have an instinctual aversion to water, hyenas are the complete opposite. Beyond their normal drinking behaviour, hyenas often swim and frolic in the water. They playfully chase one another in and out of the water and engage in playfights, which are instrumental in social bonding and hierarchy establishment. The importance of water goes beyond just hydration for hyenas—it also plays a crucial role in their complex social dynamics. Hyenas use water sources as places to congregate and communicate. They employ vocalizations, scent-marking, and body language to interact with each other at these waterholes. When several clans meet at a water source, the interactions can become quite intense, with different groups vying for space and dominance. C4 Photo Mashatu Photographer Aubrey Tselang Hunting and Utilization of Water at Lala Limpopo It’s not surprising to see hyenas hunting at Lala Limpopo. They have been observed taking an interest in antelopes on several occasions. Hyenas use the water hole to soak old skin and bones, likely bringing these food items from far afield to utilize the water. Photo Credits: C4 Photo Mashatu Photographer Aubrey Tselang The Marvel of Hyenas’ Interaction with Water While hyenas may not be as iconic for their aquatic behaviour as some other animals, their interaction with water is a marvel to watch and photograph. Whether it’s for drinking, hunting, or socializing, water is an essential part of a hyena’s life. As we continue to observe these fascinating creatures, it becomes clear that their love for water is just another aspect of what makes them one of the most adaptable and resilient animals in the wild. So the next time you think of hyenas, don’t just picture them as scavengers. Instead, imagine them sipping water from a watering hole, swimming, or strategizing around a water source—because their love for water is just one of the many layers that make hyenas such incredible survivors. C4 Photo Mashatu Photographer Aubrey Tselang C4 Photo Mashatu Photographer Aubrey Tselang
Introducing the Exclusive Wilderness to Winelands Partnership Between Mashatu Game Reserve & Quoin Rock Wine Estate
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana and Quoin Rock Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa, have launched the Wilderness to Winelands experience, an adventurous and luxurious partnership. This extraordinary alliance offers travelers the opportunity to experience the best of Africa in one seamless journey—from the wild beauty of Botswana’s untamed wilderness to the refined luxury of Stellenbosch’s world-renowned wine country. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Mashatu Game Reserve, located in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, spans 42,000 hectares of privately owned wilderness and is known for its breathtaking wildlife, including the largest elephant population on a private reserve in Southern Africa and frequent sightings of Africa’s iconic big cats. The exclusive-use nature reserve provides unique activities including walking safaris, cycling safaris, and an award-winning underground hide for intimate wildlife sightings, ensuring a captivating experience for all. Complementing the safari adventure is Quoin Rock Manor House, just 45 minutes from the bustling hub of Cape Town. Nestled on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain, Quoin Rock is celebrated for its award-winning wines, lavish hospitality, and panoramic views. The estate offers a variety of experiences, including wine tastings, gourmet picnics, and fine dining at the acclaimed Gåte Restaurant. Enjoy the estate’s ultimate luxury retreat at the Quoin Rock Manor House, which provides 360-degree views of the Cape Winelands and accommodation in an unparalleled setting. https://youtu.be/bB_cZm6SRPc Wilderness to Winelands Exclusive Packages This innovative collaboration presents three bespoke packages, combining the adventure of Mashatu with the elegance of Quoin Rock and Knorhoek Wine Estate: 1. Mashatu Euphorbia Villas & Quoin Rock Manor House Package Immerse yourself in eco-luxury at Mashatu’s 5-star Euphorbia Villas, followed by a stay at Quoin Rock’s Manor House, offering a seamless blend of African wilderness and wine country elegance. 2. Mashatu Kolokolo Safari Home & Quoin Rock Manor House Package Pair the exclusive tranquility of Mashatu’s 5-star Kolokolo Safari Home with the luxurious serenity of Quoin Rock Manor House in Stellenbosch. 3. Mashatu Shalimpo Safari Home & Knorhoek Farmhouse Package Enjoy the secluded wilderness at Mashatu’s Shalimpo Safari Home, and retreat to the tranquil Knorhoek Farmhouse for an authentic farm experience in Stellenbosch. Each package provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of Southern Africa’s natural beauty and world-class luxury, where the safari landscapes meet the refined charm of the Cape Winelands. Perfect for Multigenerational Families, Friends, and Corporate Retreats The Wilderness to Winelands experience is ideal for multi-generational family groups seeking unforgettable adventures together, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. It’s also a fantastic option for friends looking to bond over once-in-a-lifetime trips, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and rich culture of the region. Additionally, top corporate teams can take advantage of this unique journey for customer incentives or team-building retreats, enjoying the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in a stunning setting. Contact Mashatu for Bookings and More Information: Email: reservations@mashatu.com Call: +27 31 671 3440 (SA) | +267 74 988 822 (BW) | +27 83 521 6339 (WhatsApp) More info: Click Here to view the brochure and find out more The Wilderness to Winelands partnership between Mashatu and Quoin Rock combines the very best of African adventure and sophistication, offering a once-in-a-lifetime journey that redefines luxury travel on the continent.