Game Drives
Guests at Mashatu enjoy two exceptional game drives daily — one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon — each designed to immerse you in the rhythm of the African wilderness. Begin your day with freshly brewed coffee and homemade bakes as the sun rises, and later, marvel at the sunset whilst enjoying refreshing sundowners and authentic African snacks.
With a maximum of three vehicles per sighting, every encounter remains intimate and respectful — both to the wildlife and to your personal experience. Our expert rangers and trackers, many of whom have spent decades guiding at Mashatu (some for over 40 years), know this land intimately. Their passion and insight transforms each drive into a journey of discovery, revealing the signs, stories, and connections that make Mashatu so extraordinary.
Across 42,000 hectares of untouched wilderness, you’ll traverse dramatic sandstone outcrops, open plains, and riverine forests that are home to Mashatu’s legendary elephants, big cats, birds and diverse wildlife. From the silent watch of a leopard to the distant call of a pearl-spotted owlet, every moment out on a game drive brings the wilderness vividly to life – leaving you awed and forever changed.
Safari Walks
At Mashatu, guests have the rare opportunity to exchange one of their daily game drives for a guided safari walk — a chance to experience the wilderness from a different perspective on foot.
Accompanied by our experienced rangers, you’ll move quietly through the bush, learning about the delicate web of life that sustains this remarkable ecosystem. From the spoor of a leopard to the intricate patterns of an insect or the scent of a wild herb – each corner will reveal something enlightening.
These walks invite you to slow down and truly connect — to notice, listen, and appreciate the smaller stories that shape the vast landscapes of Mashatu. It’s an experience that deepens understanding and inspires reverence for the African wilderness.
Matebole Photographic Hide
A bucket-list experience for anyone visiting Mashatu, the Matebole Hide offers something truly extraordinary — a perspective of wildlife that’s almost impossible to put into words.
From this sunken, underground hide, you sit at eye level as elephants, antelope, and countless bird species gather to drink just metres away — an experience that feels almost cinematic in its intimacy.
Guests can book a morning or afternoon session, each accommodating a maximum of nine people, complete with refreshing drinks and snacks. Guided by the PhotoMashatu team, with over a decade of expertise, you’ll receive professional insights, equipment support such as gimbals, and personalized guidance to capture each moment beautifully — whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a first-timer.
For those seeking to venture further, the PhotoMashatu vehicle is purpose-built for photography — with ample space for gear, fitted gimbal arms, and a specially lowered floor for eye-level shots. It’s regarded as one of the most comfortable and capable photographic vehicles in Africa, designed to give you the perfect shot every time.
Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide
Recognised by Conde Nast Traveller as “the world’s most intrepid sleepover”, the Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide offers a front-row seat to Africa’s wild theatre – witnessing starlit African skies and nocturnal wildlife from dusk to dawn. The waterhole is 2m from the photographing window. A new experience for photography enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike- built with innovative lighting to sure you always get a great photo.
Lala Limpopo Sleep-out Hide offers a “one-of-a kind” comfortable safari suite built into the ground, with an incredibly active waterhole right outside the window. Spend a memorable evening underground photographing and observing all the nocturnal creatures of Mashatu and wake up to elephants at eye level. You can experience the hide from dusk till dawn, all while drinking coffee, having dinner and other comforts to make sure your experience is unhurried and that you never miss a sighting.
Cultural Village Tour
Mashatu offers guests the chance to connect with the local culture through immersive Cultural Village Tours. Journey into the villages that surround the reserve, where skilled artisans craft traditional African items such as intricately woven baskets. Explore nearby ancient rock paintings and relics, gaining insight into the region’s rich heritage and timeless traditions. Each tour is transformative, providing a deeper understanding of the local way of life while offering meaningful impact — 50% of proceeds are directed to the community, supporting initiatives that sustain culture and livelihoods.
Adding a Cultural Village Tour to your stay allows you to experience Mashatu beyond its wildlife — offering connection, learning, and purpose in a way that enriches guests and community alike.
Night Drives
Night Drives at Mashatu allow guests to explore the bush after dark in the company of experienced rangers. Departing after dinner, you venture on a drive to witness the nocturnal wildlife that emerges when the sun sets — from stealthy predators to small, fascinating creatures that thrive under the cover of night. As the bush comes alive, it’s also the perfect time to marvel up at the African night sky, witnessing galaxies and shooting stars that majority don’t experience in cities nowadays. The sky tells a story, as the land and wildlife does, and our rangers share their knowledge, weaving wisdom of both the wildlife and night sky.
Minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 guests for a personal experience.
Cycling Safari
For those seeking a new perspective of the African wilderness, Mashatu offers an exhilarating mountain bike safari — a unique opportunity for adventure travellers to explore the land on two wheels. Available to guests staying at Euphorbia Mashatu, Mashatu Lodge, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu, Mashatu Tent Camp, and Kolokolo Safari Home, these guided rides take place in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon, when the bush is at its most alive.
Accompanied by our experienced rangers, you’ll follow ancient elephant paths and winding trails through Mashatu’s vast landscapes — pedalling in the tracks of the giants themselves. Every ride is tailored to the fitness and pace of the group, ensuring both adventure and relaxation.
Horseback Safari
Horizon Horseback Mashatu is celebrated for having some of the finest schooled horses on the African continent, offering riders an unparalleled connection with the wilderness. A horseback safari at Mashatu delivers unforgettable memories, bringing you closer to Africa’s wildlife from a perspective few ever experience.
Available to guests at Euphorbia Mashatu, Mashatu Lodge, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu, and Kolokolo Safari Home, rides are offered in the morning or afternoon, traversing natural ditches, leaping over logs, and following open plains where elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelope, and elusive big cats roam.
Safety is paramount: children under 12 are not permitted, riders under 18 must be accompanied by an experienced rider, and a riding assessment ensures all participants are comfortable and skilled. Non-riders can still explore Mashatu through game drives, safari walks, cycling, and photographic hides.
A riding experience that is thrilling, intimate, and unforgettable.
Serokolo Spa
Serokolo Spa, proudly founded and operated by Mashatu’s first female concessionaire, is a sanctuary of wellness in the heart of the African bush. Run by local Motswana women, the spa offers treatments that draw on indigenous, healing ingredients, providing an authentic and restorative experience amidst serene natural surroundings.
Guests can enjoy spa treatments at Mashatu Lodge (Mashatu Spa House) and Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu (Tuli Spa House). Private villa treatments are available for guests at Euphorbia Mashatu, with serene veranda setups overlooking private wilderness views. Guests staying at Mashatu Tent Camp or Kolokolo Safari Home are transferred to either Mashatu Lodge or Tuli Safari Lodge for their spa experience. (Serokolo Spa is not available for Shalimpo Safari Home guests).
Service Hours: Early Bird Spa: 06:00–08:00 | Day Spa: 08:30–17:00 | Sundowner Spa: 18:00–19:30 | Evening Spa: 20:00–21:30
Night Under the Stars
For those seeking a rustic and intimate safari experience, the Night Under the Stars invites you to walk to your fly camp/star bed, where uniquely designed and positioned tents blend seamlessly with Mashatu’s wilderness. It’s an experience that enables you to become one with the land — listening to the distant calls of hyenas, enjoying fireside chats with fellow nature lovers, and gazing up at a sky full of stars from the comfort of your tent.
This additional activity is offered year-round for a maximum of six guests. Children under 12 are not permitted; those aged 12–18 must be accompanied by a parent. The experience is available to guests staying at our commercial lodges and Kolokolo Safari Home (excludes Shalimpo Safari Home).
Guests depart on an afternoon game drive with an overnight bag, arriving at the WalkMashatu Fly Camp for dinner, drinks, night photography, a guided night walk, fireside storytelling and star gazing. The following morning, enjoy a light breakfast before departing on a sunrise game drive and returning to your lodge for brunch.
Intimate and truly unforgettable.
Snorkeling
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, a haven for marine biodiversity. Swim alongside colourful reef fish such as Parrotfish, Clownfish, Angelfish and more. Explore coral formations, and marvel at the crystal-clear waters that provide exceptional visibility. All snorkelling equipment is available during your stay.
Kayaking
Glide through serene waters in our kayaks, exploring hidden coves and winding through mangroves. Pambele’s unique location allows for both tranquil paddles along the coastline and more adventurous routes that take you deep into the mangrove forests. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife and perhaps even spot dolphins playing in the waves. All kayaking equipment is available during your stay.
Boat Rides
Set sail on leisurely boat rides along the stunning coastline. Our private motorized catamaran is ready to take you on personalized excursions, where you might spot dolphins, explore untouched beaches, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze.
Sandbar Private Picnics
Experience the magic of sandbars—pockets of sand that appear in the ocean due to the ever-changing tides. These unique formations create private islands where you can enjoy a private picnic and simply soak in the solitude. Our team will set up everything you need for a perfect day on your own private piece of paradise.
Deep-Sea Diving
For those seeking deeper adventures, our deep-sea diving excursions reveal the magnificent marine life of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Dive with experienced instructors and encounter sea turtles, rays, an array of vibrant fish species, and for the fortunate few, the elusive Dugong. Dolphins are a common sight, while Whale Sharks and Humpback Whales make spectacular appearances at certain times of the year.
Please note that deep-sea diving activities need to be pre-arranged as the services of a dive master or dive instructor are required and will be charged for accordingly. PADI Open Water course available on request.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the rich waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, our guides will provide the support needed to make your fishing trip both fun and rewarding. All fishing equipment is available during your stay.
Seasonal Whale Watching
Witness the majestic migration of humpback whales and the awe-inspiring presence of whale sharks. Our whale-watching excursions offer a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular shows. With the guidance of our experienced team, you’ll have the best chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
(August – October).
Note: Boating is not permitted by law after dark therefore all activities will be subject to weather, prevailing tides and sunrise/sunset.
Bird Watching
The Vilanculos Wildlife Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting a diverse array of species. Spot Olive Bee-Eaters, Pelicans, Flamingos, and many more. Our managers guiding the way will introduce you to the avian wonders of the area, sharing fascinating insights about the local birdlife and their habitats. Whether you’re an avid birder or just curious, this experience offers a peaceful and captivating connection with nature.
Sanctuary Drives
Offering the best of sealife and wildlife, embark on drives through the sanctuary, where you can encounter a variety of wildlife and bird species. Journey to scenic viewpoints for drinks or sundowners and enjoy the stunning landscapes that the sanctuary has to offer from high vantage points. Each drive provides a unique opportunity to see the beauty of the wildlife in their natural environment and capture incredible moments with your camera.
Beach Walks
Take long, leisurely walks along the pristine beach, which stretches for miles around the hill to a local village. Sunrise walks offer a magical start to the day, as the first light casts a golden glow on the sands – the perfect opportunity to explore the shoreline, feel the soft sand in between your toes and enjoy the fresh coastal breeze. Enjoy the sights of the sailing Dhow’s – locally crafted.
Luxury Collection
Safari Collection
Explorer Collection
Botswana
Explore the award-winning Mashatu Game Reserve, situated within the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, eastern Botswana – renowned for the largest elephant herds on private game reserve in Southern Africa and incredible big cat sightings.
Mozambique
Discover Pambele Mozambique, an exclusive-use beach house within the Bazaruto Archipelago in the Vilanculous Coastal Sanctuary – where exclusive land and sea adventures await and time moves with the tides.
