MASHATU
BOTSWANA
Budget : Premium Safari*
"OFF THE BEATEN TRACK"
The Land of Giants
Located in the far south-east of Botswana, Mashatu is the epitome of what defines a wilderness area in Africa. A 36,000 hectare region steeped in history, with unique landscapes and a wealth of wildlife.
Mashatu is characterised by wooded but open savannah, sacred rock outcrops and scenic riverbeds on the border between South Africa and Zimbabwe. It's also a region of superb baobab trees, making for superb astrophotography.
This diversity of habitats is home to a large concentration of elephants and predators. It is also one of the best places in the world to photograph leopards, particularly along the Majale and Matebole rivers. This region of Africa offers exceptional photographic opportunities of these big cats, often lying in the branches of a huge Mashatu tree.
Lions, cheetahs and hyenas are also present in the reserve, as are many other species: eland, wildebeest, zebra, impala, kudu, etc.
It is also an excellent site for birdwatchers, with over 360 species of bird recorded.
In my opinion, it is one of the reserves offering the greatest photographic opportunities on the continent, both for its changing landscapes throughout the year and for its density of wildlife.
And don't forget the two strategically placed lookouts on the reserve, for unique shots by day and night.
A haven for felines and magical landscapes
Mashatu has the distinction of being one of the rare regions where safaris are prolific all year round. It all depends on your photographic interests and your budget.
Saison des fleurs
December to March
The green season is considered to be the rainy period between December and March and also the cheapest. It is nevertheless a rare moment to try and photograph all sorts of species in carpets of yellow flowers called ‘Devil's thorns’. These flowers only bloom after heavy rain. They often peak in February, but this of course depends on the weather and the amount of rainfall. Imagine taking photos of families of elephants or cheetahs in these carpets of green grass dotted with yellow flowers...
Dry season
April to June
Another interesting season is the period between April and the end of June. This is the start of the dry season, the caches are open and the animals are starting to move towards the waterholes. All this in cool temperatures and clear skies, as well as the superb autumn colours of May and June. This will give green, yellow, orange and red hues to your images. Prices are also cheaper than in the high season. Predators are also active for longer due to the cooler temperatures.
Peak dry season
July to October
The dry season peaks between July and the end of October, when temperatures are also high. The animals congregate around the last waterholes on the Limpopo and Majale rivers. This is where the caches are most active and prolific. Predators thrive on an abundance of prey weakened by the dry season. This is also the best time to photograph leopards resting in the thick shade of a large Mashatu tree and waiting for prey to pass in search of fruit that has fallen from the tree.
In short...
Day and night photo hides
The reserve has 2 ‘hides’ ideally positioned for photographing animals and birds at ground level. One is open for morning or afternoon sessions, while the other, further south, allows you to spend the night waiting for animals to come and drink. All in the utmost comfort: toilet, shower, dining area, air conditioning and 4 beds have been meticulously installed. Different lighting options are available to test your creativity when taking your photos. Imagine being just a few metres from a spotted hyena or a family of elephants in the middle of the night: a truly unique experience.
Highlights
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Exceptional photographic opportunities of large predators
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One of the best places in the world to see leopards
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Optimum photography all year round
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Access to day and night photographic blinds
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Magnificent and varied scenery throughout the reserve
Iconic species to photograph
Leopard
The most sought-after cat in Mashatu. Without doubt one of the best places in the world to photograph it.
Spotted Hyena
The cleaners of the savannah. They complete the list of Mashatu's biggest predators.
Elephant
An emblematic figure of the Mashatu landscape, this peaceful giant is present in large numbers in this region and often frequents the caches.
Lion
This is the main predator in Mashatu. Several troops are present here and there are plenty of photographic opportunities.
Cheetah
The fastest cat in Africa. It roams the Mashatu plains and is a relatively frequent visitor to the reserve.
Discover the experience
Because a picture is worth a thousand words, let yourself be seduced by the magic of Mashatu through this gallery.
Shared moments, grandiose landscapes and authentic campsites invite you to dream of your next adventure.
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* Explorer Safari – from 4 500€ | Premium Safari – from 6 500€ | Luxury Safari – from 8 000€