Game Reserve
Mashatu Game Reserve
Botswana 290 km² (112 mi²) Est. 1988
About Mashatu Game Reserve
Known as the "Land of Giants" for its enormous elephants, towering baobab trees, and vast landscapes, Mashatu Game Reserve is the largest private game reserve in southern Africa. Located in the Tuli Block where the Limpopo and Shashe rivers converge, Mashatu offers dramatic rocky terrain, open grasslands, and exceptional wildlife photography opportunities. The reserve is malaria-free and easily accessible from Johannesburg.
0
Safari Tours
3.7
Avg Rating
3/5
Big Five
38
Years Protected
Highlights
- Malaria-free safari destination
- Largest private game reserve in southern Africa
- Exceptional photography opportunities with dramatic landscapes
- Easily accessible from Johannesburg (5 hours drive)
- Mountain biking and horseback safaris available
Considerations
- No Big Five (no buffalo or rhino)
- Can be very hot in summer months
- Entry through Pont Drift border post can be slow
- Not as wildlife-dense as Okavango Delta destinations
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
occasional
🐆
Leopard
common
🐘
Elephant
common
🦬
Buffalo
Not present
🦏
Rhino
Not present
Notable Species
Lion
Occasional
Leopard
Common
Elephant
Common
Baboon
Common
Eland
Occasional
Impala
Common
Hyena
Occasional
Jackal
Common
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Drive approximately 5 hours from Johannesburg via the Pont Drift border crossing, or fly charter from Johannesburg to the Limpopo Valley Airfield. Transfers from the airfield are arranged by the reserve.
Nearest Airport
Limpopo Valley Airfield
Nearest City
Francistown
Drive Time
4.5 hours