Botswana : Tuli Block

The Tuli Block and eastern Botswana have a real feel of "undiscovered Africa" about them. The Northern Tuli Game Reserve boasts the largest population of elephants on privately owned land anywhere in the world (approximately 700) and other game is just as prolific with Lion, Leopard and over 350 species of bird within the reserve. The North East Tuli Game Reserve incorporates several privately owned reserves. While night game drives are not permitted in Botswana's national parks, they are one of the main attractions of the private game reserves in the Tuli Block. Such nocturnal animals as leopard, lynx, genet, spring hare, porcupine, aardwolf and aardvark can be seen on the after-dark drives. Most lodges offer game and nature walks as well as horse trails and visits to little-known historical sites.

Quick links:
Limpopo Horse Safari	Mashatu Tented Camp
Mashatu Main Camp	Nitani Lodge

Limpopo Horse Safari
In the remote eastern corner of Botswana, at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, lies an area known historically as the Tuli enclave - a diverse wilderness of savannah, riverine forests, marshland, open plains and famous sandstone outcrops. It is here within the Northern Tuli Game Reserve that you find Mashatu Game Reserve, home of Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris.
The Tuli Block is an area of great diversity, magnificent vistas and ancient land formations. It is also home to a multitude of wildlife species, and remains untouched by the invasion of man. How better to experience the breathtaking beauty of the area than on horseback. The terrain comprises a network of dry river beds, true African mopane bushveld, the famous Tuli sandstone outcrops and high ridges that afford a view for many miles across Africa's vast game rich plains.
This region lends itself to horse safaris. It is still home to large herds of elephant, prides of lion and cheetah. Along the river courses, huge riverine trees provide shade for eland, impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra, whilst at night, the bat eared fox, African wild cat and leopard search for prey. The Northern Tuli Game Reserve proudly provides a refuge for one of the largest, single population of elephant on conservation land in Africa. Known as the relic herds of Shashe, these elephants are the last living testament to the great herds that once populated the meandering Limpopo Valley. Today, the population is estimated to number in excess of 1200.

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camp fire	canyon	Eagles Rock

elephant skull	elephant	log cabin

Mashau Camps
Mashatu Main Camp
With 14 suites Mashatu Main Camp is one of the largest camps in the Tuli Reserve. The lodge has a thoughtful layout and all the rooms are extremely comfortable, huge and with en-suite bathrooms and direct views into the bush. In the evening there is a boma to enjoy the evening meal under the stars and during the day the dining area overlooks a permanent waterhole. The food here is outstanding; every meal there is something new and original and such a huge selection. A large pool is located in the centre of the lodge with ample shade and relaxing loungers to laze away in the heat of the afternoon.
The lodge is completely safe and well suited to families who want to introduce children to the wonders of the bush. There is a fascinating 'Discovery Room' and there is an ongoing Elephant research project that guests can get involved in. Other activities include cycling, horse riding, walking, archaeological site visits and both day and night game drives.

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pool	room	waterhole

Mashatu Tented Camp
Mashatu Tented Camp is a small tented bush camp (during the last visit a leopard had made a kill next to the main reception!) in the northern area of the Tuli Reserve. There are only 7 tents all set amongst the thick bush and well spaced from each other. The tents are rustic in character but have every comfort, large wooden furniture, electric fans, en-suite showers and a private veranda.
The camp is small and welcoming; the management couple are professional and very friendly and will help you get the most out of your visit.

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bar	boma	tent

Nitani Lodge
Nitani Lodge is the smallest and most up market lodge in the Tuli Block. There are only 5 large rooms in an exclusive corner of the lodge, each 'house' is completely private with en-suite bathrooms, plunge pools and uninterrupted views out to the surrounding bush. Most of the camp is built on high walkways with minimum impact on the environment. Every small detail has been thought of including a well stocked wine cellar, air conditioning and a large swimming pool and spa treatments. There is a star gazing computer so that you can make the most of the clear night skies and each room has its own telescope.
At Nitani you relax to your own timetable where the staff will work around your plans and expectations, the activities are plentiful and this area has so much to offer and guides are on hand to take you on both day and night game drive, walking safaris, archaeological tours or just bird watching in camp. Horse riding and cycling can also be arranged with other lodges in the area.

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giraffe	swimming pool	walking safari