Mashatu: 5 days in 5 different ways

 MASHATU is a private wildlife sanctuary ideally located in northern Tuli at the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo rivers where eastern #Botswana meets South Africa. It’s not called “Land of Giants” for nothing – it is home to the largest population of elephants (1000+) on private land on the continent as well as prolific wildlife and bird species including lion, leopard, zebra, giraffe, wild dog as well as many plains antelope. What sets Mashatu apart though is its sheer “Wow factor” - the vast open spaces, the incredible vistas, breath-taking night skies - and the ability to set out and explore this remote slice of #Africa in five different ways that are sure to get the adrenaline pumping. 

1. Walk with Giants Half day walking trails not only promise ticking off some of the big game – but the focus is on the little, often overlooked aspects of the bush – tracks, plants, insects, etc. A more intimate bush experience that will awaken your senses and allow you to become a part of the environment – not merely a spectator on a vehicle. 

2. Pedal power Mountain bike safaris allow adventurous guests to see the bush from a different perspective. Experienced rangers provide all equipment and accompany cyclists as they pedal their way along ancient elephant paths. Rides are tailored to suit the fitness and strength of the riders in the early mornings and late afternoons. 

3. Ride on the wild side Experienced riders can join Limpopo Horse Safaris for a morning or afternoon ride into the wilderness. The terrain is ideal for exhilarating horse riding with natural ditches and logs to jump. Spot elephants and cats as well as antelopes, wild dogs, jackals, bat eared foxes, giraffe - and on occasion, canter with zebras and wildebeest across the plains. You can even ‘camp wild’ on a 7-day ride out on Mashatu. 

4. Traditional game drives Guided game drives with specialised rangers and trackers – mostly local Batswanas who have been living and guiding on Mashatu for over 13 years. Expect to see excellent daily sightings of the “Big 5 of Predators” (namely lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and jackal). 

5. Clickety click The combination of spectacular lighting, the quality of game viewing and guidance of the resident wildlife photographer means that Mashatu is a real “hot spot” for photographers. So much so, that a photograph called "Essence of Elephants", taken at Mashatu’s unique sunken Matabole Hide won Greg du Toit the BBC Worldwide "Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2013" title. Matabole is currently being upgraded to be even better when it reopens in March 2018. If that isn’t reason enough to get you reaching for your big lens – Mashatu’s newest hide, Elephant Valley Hide offers an alternative experience for up to 4 photographers in a contrasting section of the reserve which is more arid - so an important water source for wildlife in those drier areas.

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