Small and quiet, Tuli Safari Lodge is all about relaxation and safari adventures in the wild.
Location: Located in Northern Tuli game reserve, between the Limpopo River and Tuli’s kopjies, in the eastern corner of Botswana, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu feels like a well-kept secret. This is the ‘Land of Giants’, a sweeping wilderness of ancient baobabs, sandstone outcrops, and dry riverbeds that come to life with wildlife. The lodge sits peacefully beside the Limpopo River, offering a front-row seat to this remote and rugged landscape.
Rooms: The lodge itself also has an impressive history. Originally a farm, the building was turned into a safari lodge in the 1950's and has maintained the style and décor from that period. There are just 14 spacious suites, each tucked into leafy gardens and connected by wooden walkways. Inside, you’ll find a classic safari aesthetic with four-poster beds, soft neutral tones, and bathrooms with both a freestanding bath and an indulgent rain shower. Large windows and canvas details bring in the sights and sounds of the bush. Families are well accommodated here, with plenty of space and thoughtful touches throughout.
Amenities: The main lodge area is welcoming and relaxed, with open-sided lounges, a small shop, and quiet corners to read or unwind. You’ll find a lovely swimming pool shaded by trees, ideal for cooling off between drives.
Meals are generous and unhurried, often served on the open deck or beneath a canopy of stars. Guests love the bush breakfasts and the warm, friendly service that makes every meal feel special.
Activities: Game drives are a highlight here, with excellent chances of seeing elephants, big cats, and other wildlife in the unfenced reserve. You can also explore on foot with experienced guides, try mountain biking, join a horseback safari, or make use of the well-known PhotoMashatu hide, perfect for photographers seeking unique shots.
Sustainability: At Mashatu, every safari supports a deeper purpose. Through its “Travel with Purpose” approach, the reserve is entirely unfenced, allowing wildlife - especially elephants, leopards, wild dogs, and rare antelope - to roam freely across the Greater Mapungubwe landscape. Guests contribute a daily conservation levy that underwrites crucial wildlife research, including the Tuli Elephant and Northern Tuli Predator Projects, which help manage and protect these iconic species