In one of Botswana’s unique corners more than 90,000 acres of exceptional game land has been set aside for this reserve. The Mashatu Game Reserve, originally known as the Tuli enclave is a remarkable wilderness of savannah, riverine forests, marshland, open plains and sandstone cliffs. In the remote eastern corner Botswana, in the Tuli block at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers.

It is the largest of the Rattray Reserves. Mashatu Game Reserve with its rugged, unspoilt African landscapes gets its name from the massive Mashatu tree Xanthocercis zambesiaca which occurs throughout this vast expanse of privately owned land.

Mashatu Game Reserve is a sanctuary to the largest, single population of Elephant on privately owned land. The population on Mashatu alone, is estimated at approximately 700. Some of Africa’s other giants are the Baobab tree, the Eland, the Ostrich, the Kori bustard, and the majestic Limpopo River.

The wildlife experience at Mashatu is very personalized with dedicated, experienced Tswana rangers and trackers, enthusiastic to show you their world. The four-wheel drive safari vehicles set out at late afternoon and again at early morning in search of the different species which inhabit the reserve.

Over 350 species of birds can be spotted, while the cheetah, zebra, giraffe, eland, impala, steenbok, and the breeding herds of elephants are encountered out on the plains. There is also a diverse variety of fauna and flora which flourishes throughout the year.

The climate over most of southern Africa is mild and pleasant. Hot, humid conditions are usually experienced in the Tuli region. Heavy summer thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening may be experienced.

However, they are usually of short duration. Rainfall occurs mostly during the summer months (October – March). During the winter months (May to September) very warm clothes including a windbreaker (anorak) are essential.