Mashatu Game Reserve
Overview
Botswana Parks
Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Botswana.
Mashatu Game Reserve is part of Northern Tuli Game Reserve and one of the largest private reserves in southern Africa. Mashatu has three of the Big Five, with rhino and buffalo absent. Elephant and leopard sightings are unparalleled. The exclusivity of the reserve means there are very few vehicles out on game drives, which, together with the sparse vegetation, makes for quality sightings.
Pros & Cons
Wildlife
Elephants are the star attraction in Mashatu, but predators are well represented too. Leopards are very common, and a lot of individuals are habituated and easy to follow. Lion, wild dog, spotted hyena and cheetah can all be seen. Smaller predators regularly spotted include African wild cat, bat-eared fox and black-backed jackal. Giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and a variety of antelope species are all found in this sparse habitat.
Scenery
The reserve comprises a diverse wilderness of savannah, riverine forest and wetland. Most striking are the sandstone cliffs jutting out of the plains and the dry riverbeds, which are frequented by herds of elephants digging for water. The majestic nyala berry tree or ‘Mashatu’, found along the rivers, provides shade and food for a variety of animals.
Activities
Because Mashatu is a private reserve, a wide range of activities is possible. Guided game drives are a major attraction for wildlife viewing and birding, and night drives are also permitted. Other activities include walking safaris, and the more adventurous may want to go horseback riding or mountain biking.
Weather & Climate
Summer (November to March) can get very hot. Although this period corresponds with the Wet season, rainfall is sporadic. By contrast, the winter months (April to October), which mark the Dry season, are fairly mild and almost totally dry. There is a notable chilliness early in the morning and at night, except for October.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Mashatu is from May to September, which forms part of the area’s Dry season. Mild temperatures make game drives more enjoyable at this time, and wildlife viewing is generally superb. From October to February or March it can be uncomfortably hot, with peak temperatures sometimes hitting 45°C/113°F.
