Botswana: Tuli Block

It used to be farmland, until it became obvious that tourism and game farming were better options. Farms were consolidated and became privately owned reserves, such as Tuli Game Reserve and Mashatu - which became the largest privately owned game reserve in Southern Africa. Fences are few and animals like Impala, Wildebeest, Kudu and Zebra, migrate on historic routes along a large section of the Limpopo River.

Mashatu Game Reserve is also a refuge for the largest Elephant population on privately-owned land: approximately 700 - with plenty in Tuli as well. You are almost guaranteed to see Leopard and Lion here and possibly Cheetah, as well as herbivores like Impala, Eland, Zebra, and Giraffe. Bird life is prolific with 350 species recorded, from majestic Black Eagles and Eagle Owls, huge terrestrial Kori Bustards to colourful bee-eaters and darting kingfishers.

As this is private land, you are privileged to go on guided foot safaris and thrilling night drives, which may reveal such shy nocturnal animals as Porcupine, Aardvark and Kangaroo-like Springhare, plus smaller predators like Bat-Eared Fox, spotted Genet and tufted-ear Lynx. The Tswana rangers and trackers of Mashatu and Tuli have vast tracts of land at their disposal to show guests some really exciting game viewing.

Game drives are not the only option and mountain biking and horse riding safaris are a speciality of this area. A quote from a guest of the Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris says. 'There is nothing on earth that can beat this place.' While another said, 'An experience I will never forget.' Let these impressions by people who have been here, unleash your own sense of adventure.

Mashatu and Tuli are right on the South African / Zimbabwe border and 4 to 5 hours drive from Johannesburg. It is also only a short flight from Johannesburg International - which is the gateway airport for all Southern African safaris.

Climate:

Dry Season:

It is dry for most of the year and gets quite arid during the Winter months of June to August. The lack of foliage makes this the ideal time for a game watching safari. The added bonus is that there are very few biting insects around at this time. Days are warm with temperatures in the mid 20's°C (around 75°F), but nights get cold and slump below 10°C (50°F).

Rainy Season:

Hot and humid December sees almost 4 times as much rain as any other month, with November next in line. You can also expect sporadic showers in September and April. Temperatures from October to May hover around and above 30°C (86°F). These wet summer months are wonderful for birdlife, newborn antelopes and lush green landscapes.