| Location:-
In the remote eastern corner of
Botswana, at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers,
lies an area known historically as the Tuli enclave - a diverse
wilderness of savannah, riverine forests, marshland, open plains
and sandstone outcrops. It is here that the largest of the Rattray
Reserves is situated - Mashatu Game Reserve. The name is derived
from the magnificent Mashatu trees, which occur throughout this
immense tract of privately owned land. Mashatu is also the home
of no less than seven of Africa's giants: the African elephant,
the lion, giraffe, the baobab tree, the eland, the ostrich, and
the kori bustard. It is fitting therefore, that some 75,000 acres
/ 30,000 hectares of pristine game land, be set aside for these
unique, prodigious features of this exhilarating continent.
Mashatu Game Reserve, an area of history and legend,
offers some of the most exciting game viewing in Africa. It is
a place of exceptional beauty where one can explore the rugged,
unspoilt African landscapes either in the comfort of open 4-wheel
drive vehicles, on a walking safaris, on mountain bicycles, or
horse back, guided by expert rangers and experienced trackers.
In addition to the game experience, Mashatu offers a view of Africa,
unchanged since the days of early visitors such as Kipling, Selous
and artist/explorer Sir Thomas Baines. Historic and archaeological
sites abound; notable are the Motloutse Ruins and the Pitsani
Koppie sites.
The excitement of Mashatu has not changed over
time. It is still home to large herds of elephant, prides of lion
and cheetah. Along the river courses, huge Mashatu trees provide
shade for eland, impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra, whilst
at night, the bat-eared fox, African Wildcat and the magnificent
leopard search for prey.Some 366 species of birds may be seen.
Mashatu Game Reserve proudly provides a refuge for the largest,
single population of elephant on privately owned land in Africa.
Known as the relic herds of Shashe, these elephants are the last
living testament to the great herds that once populated the meandering
Limpopo valley. Today, the population on Mashatu Game Reserve
alone, is estimated to number in excess of 500.
The wildlife experience at Mashatu is personalised.
Dedicated, experienced Tswana rangers and trackers are keen to
show you their world. Radio-linked 4-wheel drive vehicles, groups
of mountain bicycles or horses set out at dawn and again at dusk
in search of the diverse variety of fauna and flora which abound
throughout the reserve. Whether you visit Mashatu for the excitement
of the big game viewing, the relaxation of unspoilt Africa or
the quiet luxury of the camps, you will not be disappointed.
Mashatu Main
Camp:- Mashatu Main Camp is
the larger and more luxurious of Mashatu's camps. Completely
refurbished during 2002/3, the camp offers 14 tastefully and authentically
decorated suites. Each suite is furnished with two three-quarter
beds, a day bed, expansive en suite bathroom with shower, bath,
his and hers basins, and a second W.C. A private lounge area overlooks
the unfenced surrounding bush and 24 hour temperature control
completes the comfort of each suite. Mashatu Main Camp is elevated
around a waterhole and offers excellent game viewing opportunities
from within the camp itself. The dining area, stunning day lounge
and "Gin Trap" bar provide diverse lookouts from which
to enjoy and appreciate the environment. Facilities within the
camp include a swimming pool, an air-conditioned lounge and dining
room and a lala-palm enclosed African boma, in which sumptuous
dinners are savoured under the magnificent African night sky and
around a blazing fire. A well appointed curio shop complements
the facilities. The "piece de resistance" at Main Camp
is the Discovery Room: base for the scientific research conducted
at Mashatu and a magnifying glass though which the animals and
history of Mashatu can be examined. A fascinating insight into
the world that is Mashatu - the Land of the Giants.
Mashatu Tented
Camp:- Nestled in the remote northern area of the
reserve lies Mashatu Tent Camp. With never more than sixteen guests,
this idyllic getaway provides accommodation in the form of eight
twin tents. Although rustic in character every facility is provided.
The tents are insect-proofed, have comfortable beds and each has
an en-suite shower and W.C. facility. There is an open sided thatch
deck where meals are served and a traditional boma for intimate
campfire dinners. This camp also contains a very welcome plunge
pool. Your total comfort is the priority of your hosts. While
on game drives, you will be taken care of by your ranger and on
your return, the camp staff will gladly attend to your every need.
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