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
Through the Eyes of a Traveller: A Guide to Mashatu Game Reserve
After visiting Mashatu Game Reserve, renowned photographer and travel blogger Gregory Rohart shares his experience, offering a practical guide to enjoying a unique safari in Mashatu – what he deems as “one of Southern Africa’s most beautiful private reserves.” We love stories through the eyes of those who travel to our special corner of the globe, and leave feeling inspired enough to share their unique insights and stories from their perspective. Enjoy Gregory’s “Guide to Mashatu Game Reserve”. The Land of the Giants Nicknamed the “Land of the Giants” due to its abundant elephant population and the local “Mashatu” tree found throughout Mashatu Game Reserve, which spans 42,000 hectares. Located at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, it offers diverse habitats, from plains dotted with baobabs to rocky kopjes and riparian forests. Unique Historical and Geological Sites Mashatu is home to significant paleontological and archaeological remains, including dinosaur footprints and evidence of the ancient kingdom of Mapungubwe. The reserve’s name is derived from the Mashatu trees (Xanthocercis zambesiaca) that provide a green refuge for wildlife along the rivers. Wildlife Encounters Mashatu boasts three of the Big Five: lion, leopard, and elephant. It is particularly renowned for excellent leopard sightings and large elephant herds. The reserve is also rich in other predators like cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals, and a variety of herbivores, including zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting over 350 bird species, including impressive raptors. Exclusive Accommodations Mashatu offers a range of accommodations, ensuring exclusive and intimate safari experiences. Options include: Additionally, two exclusive-use lodges, Shalimpo Safari Home and Kolokolo Safari Home, provide private stays. Activities and Best Times to Visit Mashatu offers traditional 4×4 safaris, walking safaris, mountain bike, and horseback safaris. The semi-underground hide at a watering hole is a unique feature for close wildlife observation. The best wildlife viewing is during the dry winter months from May to October, while birdwatchers may prefer the period from November to April. Planning Your Visit For a fulfilling experience, a stay of at least three nights is recommended. Arriving from Johannesburg is convenient, either by road or a short flight to Limpopo Valley Airfield. Practical Tips *Acknowledgment: This guide was inspired by Gregory Rohart’s insightful journey through Mashatu Game Reserve. Also read:
Botswana Voted Best Safari Country 2024
We are thrilled to share that Botswana has been voted the best safari country for 2024! This recognition comes after a detailed study of almost 3,600 reviews from experts and safari-goers, making it the fourth time Botswana has won this prestigious title. SafariBookings.com, the largest online marketplace for African safari tours, conducted this comprehensive study, evaluating a range of categories such as wildlife viewing, birding, bush atmosphere, and scenic value. Botswana’s diverse landscapes offer unmatched safari experiences. Mashatu Game Reserve, located in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, embodies the essence of Botswana’s safari excellence. With our rich biodiversity and diverse accommodations, Mashatu is the perfect gateway to experience Botswana’s wilderness. Whether you’re travelling by road or air, seeking a rustic bush stay or elegant lodge experience, Mashatu promises an unforgettable adventure for all. Why Visit Mashatu in eastern Botswana? As we celebrate Botswana’s achievement, we invite you to explore Mashatu and see for yourself why Botswana is the best safari destination. Book your safari stay with us and embrak on a remarkable journey. For more information, visit the full article on SafariBookings.com.
Escape the winter blues: Discover why Mashatu is a must-visit safari destination
Imagine trading the chill of the southern hemisphere winter for the warmth of the African sun. At Mashatu Game Reserve, our Heritage Campaign offers more than just a trip – it promises an adventure into Botswana’s wild beauty, perfect for a safari escape this August and September. A Journey into the Heart of Africa As August and September soon arrive, Mashatu transforms into a mesmerizing painting of golden hues. Picture yourself on a morning game drive, the air crisp and the landscape bathed in soft dawn light. Elephants gather to dig for water, lions stretch lazily in the sun, and the bush comes alive with the sounds of Africa’s birds awakening. During these months, the dry season brings wildlife into view, congregating around water sources. Imagine witnessing a herd of elephants passing close by, or a cheetah on the hunt. Bird lovers will be in awe of the diverse species, from colourful finches to majestic eagles – surpassing an impressive 350 species found on the reserve. Perfect Safari Weather August offers days that are comfortably warm, ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 31°C (88°F), and nights that are cool, ideal for stargazing. By September, temperatures rise from 16°C (61°F) to 36°C (97°F), ensuring dry, clear days perfect for wildlife viewing and capturing breathtaking sunsets. Celebrate and Save Join us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve and Botswana’s 58th year of independence. In celebration of this significant milestone in our legacy, we are offering a 20% saving on all-inclusive stays, across all our our beautiful lodges: Euphorbia Mashatu, Mashatu Lodge, Tuli Safari Lodge, Mashatu Tent Camp, or our exclusive-use safari homes, Kolokolo and Shalimpo. When booking your stay through our website, apply the promo code HERITAGE2024 in the top right corner to receive 20% off and secure your booking directly through us. Adventures Await Every day at Mashatu brings new wonders: Escape the winter blues and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Mashatu. Book your stay today and discover why Mashatu is a must-visit safari destination in Africa. Also read:
Mashatu’s international airport positioned within the reserve
An experience unlike any other in Southern Africa. A private international airport within the boundaries of a game reserve is a rare find, unique to Mashatu.