Mashatu, ‘Land of Giants’ takes its name from the locally-sacrosanct Mashatu tree and the giants that roam its terrain. This extraordinary place possesses an ecological diversity uncommon in other reserves. Complementing three members of the Big Five – leopard, lion and elephant – are some of the more surprising species, including the aardwolf, bat-eared fox, African wild cat, honey badger and black- backed jackal as well as endangered wild dog. Mashatu is also an ornithological paradise, and plays host to more than 350 bird species.
Earliest indications of man in the Tuli come from the numerous stone tool quarries. These stone tools date back to the Middle Stone Age (100,000 to 20,000 years ago). Many Late Stone Age tools can be found scattered in the Reserve where these Khoi and San people practiced a hunter-gatherer lifestyle. About 1200 years ago the Bantu-speaking traders migrated from the north and their influence on the land can be seen in the artifacts found in the area such as the stone work, gold ornaments, iron tools, garden-roller beads and pottery. Activities are focused around game drives in open 4-wheel drive safari vehicles in the 75,000 acre Mashatu Game Reserve. Included in our safari are one research drive each with the resident elephant and predator researchers. Mountain bikes are available for cycling safaris, and horseback riding and archaeological walks are also optional extras. Overnights Mashatu Tented Camp.