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:
- Tuli Safari Lodge: A 4-star camp along the Limpopo River.
- Mashatu Tent Camp: Luxurious tents in the northern part of the reserve.
- Mashatu Lodge: A family-friendly camp with 14 suites.
- Euphorbia Mashatu: A 5-star experience with eight luxurious villas.
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
- How to Get There: Fly to Johannesburg and drive to the Pont Drift border crossing or take an internal flight to Limpopo Valley Airfield (situated within the reserve).
- Best Times to Visit: May to October for wildlife, November to April for birdwatching.
- Accommodations: Choose from Tuli Safari Lodge, Mashatu Tent Camp, Mashatu Lodge, or Euphorbia Mashatu for varied experiences.
*Acknowledgment: This guide was inspired by Gregory Rohart’s insightful journey through Mashatu Game Reserve.
Also read:
