The Search for Gentle Giants
When I think of large animals, majestic creatures like elephants and whales come to mind. I’m drawn to their quiet strength and grace. But it’s not just their massive size that captivates me; it’s the gentle nature they possess. In a world filled with noise and chaos, these animals serve as a reminder of the tranquility that can exist in the wild.
Interacting with these gentle giants can be a truly transformative experience. When you encounter an elephant up close, you can’t help but be in awe of their sheer power. Yet, despite their immense strength, they move with a quiet grace that is mesmerizing. It’s as if they have mastered the art of being both gentle and mighty at the same time.
Whales, on the other hand, are masters of the deep sea. These giants of the ocean navigate vast distances and communicate with one another through hauntingly beautiful songs. Their gentle nature is evident in the way they interact with humans as well. Whale watching is a popular activity, allowing people to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The experience of seeing a whale breach the surface and gracefully return to the depths is truly breathtaking.
So, why are these gentle giants so important? Well, their presence is a reminder of the delicate balance of nature. Their size and power are a testament to the incredible diversity of life on Earth. Without them, our world would be a much quieter and lonelier place. We must do everything we can to protect these gentle giants and ensure their habitats are preserved.
But how can we contribute to the preservation of such magnificent creatures? It starts with education and awareness. By learning about these animals and the challenges they face, we can better understand their importance and the steps we need to take to protect them. Additionally, supporting conservation efforts and organizations that work to protect these animals is crucial.
Preserving the habitats of gentle giants also requires us to take action in our own lives. Choosing sustainable practices and reducing our impact on the environment can go a long way in protecting these majestic creatures and the delicate ecosystems they call home. By making small changes in our daily routines, we can make a big difference.
For me, the quest for these quiet giants is a lifelong pursuit. I am constantly amazed by their beauty and grace, and I am dedicated to doing everything I can to protect them. I invite you to join me on this journey and together we can ensure that these gentle giants continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.
When I heard that the oldest baobabs in South Africa were dying, I knew I had to see them for myself. So, I embarked on a journey to visit these remarkable trees.
In Limpopo, South Africa, there is a remarkable tree called the Sagole Baobab. It holds the title of being the largest baobab tree in the world, estimated to be around 1,200 years old. This majestic tree has stood witness to the rise and fall of ancient kingdoms like Mapungubwe and Thulamela.
Imagine a tree that is twice the size of any other baobab tree in its region. Sagole Baobab is exactly that. Its immense size gives the impression that six massive trees have been magically fused together to create a super baobab. The bark of this tree resembles ancient lava, shaped and contorted by the blazing African sun over centuries. Standing tall at 22 meters and measuring a staggering 46 meters in circumference, Sagole Baobab is the second thickest tree in the world, surpassed in girth only by a cypress tree in Mexico. Embracing the tree in its entirety would take the strength of at least 20 people.
It’s just my mom and me here in Venda, Limpopo. The conditions here are unique – low clouds, no wind, and the occasional bird call. It feels like a personal meeting with a 1,200-year-old superstar. The tree has a calming presence, just like a vast body of water. We’ve been exploring this tree for two hours – circling it, touching it, and even climbing it. We’ve walked away to get a different perspective, and then we’ve gotten up close again to feel its smooth bark and peer inside its huge hollow. This is where the largest colony of mottled spinetails in the world lives. Normally, these swifts live in groups of around 20, but here there are 300 of them. Every evening, the birds gather in the sky before entering the tree for the night, while bats fly out through the same opening.
The Tree that Roars, also known as Sagole, is a majestic marvel that stretches its branches towards the orange earth. This towering giant has been a part of our world for centuries, offering a gateway to its ethereal realm for all those brave enough to climb its lofty heights. As a child, I often dreamed of such a tree, one so massive and awe-inspiring that it could only exist in the realm of imagination. To my delight, the Sagole tree not only lives up to these fantastical dreams but also shares a special bond with the creatures that call it home.
Hey there! Let me tell you about the Swartwater Baobab, one of South Africa’s incredible Champion Trees and one of the top five biggest baobabs in the country. It’s quite a sight to behold!
During a road trip we took, we made a stop at Sagole to explore and admire the majestic baobabs that our land has to offer. Our adventure was motivated by distressing news that the oldest baobabs were in danger. Reports from reputable sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and National Geographic raised concerns about their possible demise, leaving scientists baffled. The buzz started when a Romanian professor named Adrian Patrut and his team conducted an in-depth study using radiocarbon dating. They examined over 60 massive and ancient baobabs in Africa, hoping to uncover the secrets behind their massive growth.
Imagine their astonishment when researchers made the shocking discovery that over the past decade, a significant number of the world’s most ancient and colossal baobabs have met their demise or suffered partial collapse. It’s a devastating blow to both nature enthusiasts and admirers of these majestic trees.
Among the casualties are some renowned baobabs that have captured the public’s imagination, like the extraordinary Sunland Baobab, which gained fame for housing a pub within its majestic trunk. Additionally, the Grootboom baobab in Namibia and Botswana’s Chapman Baobab, both of epic proportions, have also succumbed to this disturbing trend.
As we grapple with this alarming reality, scientists are pointing the finger at climate change as the primary suspect. The rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns associated with this global phenomenon have wreaked havoc on these ancient arboreal wonders.
Can you believe it? The baobab tree has that effect on people. It’s like no other creature or landmark in Africa can compare. It’s timeless, strong, respected, and flexible. It survives where others can’t. These majestic trees of the African grasslands captivate our minds. Living for so long, they’re full of mystery, wrapped in folklore, and believed to connect us with our ancestors. In West Africa, some important trees are even given special funeral rites.
I had the opportunity to experience the Land Rover Discovery 5 at Musina Nature Reserve, where its incredible performance on rough roads impressed me. With its high clearance and comfortable ride, it effortlessly tackled the challenging terrain.
The baobab tree is truly a fascinating species. The more you learn about this unique tree, the more it captivates you. Did you know that baobab fruits can remain ripe for up to 10 years? And despite the long-lasting fruit, the magnificent flowers only bloom for one day. These incredible trees can even store up to 4,500 liters of water, making them the largest succulents in the world.
Furthermore, baobabs are known for their versatility and usefulness. They offer over 300 different uses, which is truly remarkable. The leaves can be cooked and enjoyed as a delicious substitute for spinach, while the seeds can be roasted to create a coffee-like beverage. Not only that, but baobab fruit contains six times more vitamin C than oranges and three times more potassium than bananas. It’s no wonder it’s been hailed as the ultimate superfruit! In fact, its powder is now available at popular retailers like Walmart in the USA and Boots in the United Kingdom.
Before I started my journey, I had to find out where the largest baobab trees are located. To do this, I reached out to Izak van der Merwe, who works in the Department of Forestry and has created a special registry called The Champion Trees of South Africa. This registry includes trees that are not only culturally and historically important but also trees that are really massive. Out of the 80 trees on the list, five of them are baobabs. And guess what? They are all found in the beautiful province of Limpopo.
When I received Izak’s email mentioning the exceptional baobab tree in Honnet Nature Reserve near Tshipise, I couldn’t help but be intrigued. He described it as a potential contender for the title of the second-largest baobab in South Africa, and possibly even the third-thickest tree in the entire world. The possibility of such an unconfirmed giant existing was simply too captivating to ignore! Fuelled by curiosity, I immediately altered my itinerary and charted a course towards the reserve, eagerly anticipating the moment when I would come face to face with this colossal wonder.
As I traveled through Venda, I couldn’t help but notice the majestic baobabs that lined the road. They served as multipurpose structures, functioning as bus stops, shelters, and even kiosks.
With my journey ahead, I realized I needed a reliable companion to join me. Someone who could take charge of managing snacks, navigate our route, and understand when to leave me be if I became tired (and a bit cranky) in the afternoon. My mother, who had recently retired as a schoolteacher, immediately came to mind as the perfect candidate.
The idea of navigation, in particular, struck me as a potential issue. My mom’s relationship with technology was a bit challenging, but this was also an opportunity to reciprocate the kindness she had shown me during our family vacations when I was younger. As a teacher, she had taken my sisters and me on various train trips to places like Joburg and the Garden Route, as well as adventurous road trips through the Karoo. Now, it was her turn to sit back and ask, ‘Are we there yet?’
On an early Monday morning, my travel companions and I embarked on a journey from Joburg in a remarkable Land Rover Discovery 5. Our destination: the Soutpansberg, the gateway to baobab country, which stretches across 30 other countries. Our first stop was the renowned Glencoe tree, located on a lucerne farm just outside Hoedspruit. This majestic baobab holds the title of being the oldest-known African baobab in the world.
Once upon a time, the tree had an impressive circumference of 47 meters. However, in 2009, it suffered two devastating splits, and in 2017, it ultimately collapsed. Despite its trials, the tree magically continues to live on. From a distance, it appears as a miniature forest, but stepping inside the canopy of leaves reveals its true nature – a complex network of branches and trunks sprawled across the ground. A nearby information board aptly describes it as a weathered and distorted old goblin. It possesses the immense girth of a giant, the rough skin likened to that of a rhinoceros, and twiggy fingers that grasp at nothing but air.
I discovered the Leydsdorp Baobab, a majestic tree that has served as a natural cooling chamber for countless years. Its interior maintains a refreshing temperature of 22°C, providing respite from the scorching heat.
While exploring the area, I had the pleasure of meeting Sharon Liversage, the owner of the pancake restaurant adjacent to this incredible baobab. Sharon shared an intriguing piece of local lore with me. She revealed that when Paul Kruger, the historical figure who traversed these lands with his loyal ox wagons, passed through, he would seek shelter in the shade of one baobab tree to the next.
As we continued our conversation, Sharon disclosed an intriguing anecdote. She recounted an incident from a few years back when a group of individuals arrived in a helicopter and expressed interest in purchasing the farm. Their motive? One half of a mysterious map, supposedly leading to the legendary Kruger gold, hinted that the treasure was hidden somewhere near this remarkable tree.
Captivated by their belief, these treasure hunters embarked on a two-week quest, consulting with diviners and scouring the land for any signs of the fabled bounty. Alas, their efforts proved fruitless, and the treasure, if it truly exists, remains elusive.
Heading towards the north, I embarked on a journey to explore two magnificent baobab trees. Along the way, I came across vendors selling ripe mangoes and witnessed the sight of tired donkeys seeking refuge under the shade of trees, as if they were waiting for a bus. As we approached the Leydsdorp Baobab, its unique characteristic became apparent — it leaned slightly, as if bowing to the world around it. Its bark was covered in an intricate pattern, resembling braille, etched by the hands of countless visitors. Acting as its faithful guardian, Swanie Swanepoel, a retired policeman, now tended to the baobab on a game farm. With great enthusiasm, he pointed out a magnificent spotted eagle-owl perched on one of its sturdy branches, making it clear that he had the best job imaginable.
I stumbled upon the leafy King-of-Garatjeke in a dusty village called Modjadjiskloof. As I approached, I noticed a group of young men gathered under its shade, engrossed in a game of dice. Beneath the towering tree, goats and chickens roamed freely, while young boys leaned against its trunk, enjoying a moment of leisure.
My mom remarked, “Now this is a tree that serves a purpose.” Like many of its counterparts across Africa, the King-of-Garatjeke is more than just a tree; it’s a central meeting place for the community. Throughout the continent, baobabs have been used as prisons, pubs, post offices, and even storage spaces for guns. In one instance, a baobab in the Caprivi Strip was transformed into a treehouse, complete with a flush toilet.
Have you ever heard about the King-of-Garatjeke? He’s quite the popular figure in Modjadjiskloof and hosts many social gatherings.
While I was in Louis Trichardt, I had the chance to meet Sarah Venter. She’s an expert on baobab trees, having completed her PhD on their ecology. Sarah also owns a company that responsibly collects baobab fruit. I asked her about the situation with the oldest baobab trees.
“It’s actually not as dire as some news articles make it seem,” she explained. “Only four of the oldest trees have passed away. Some of the others may have fallen, but that’s just a part of their natural behavior. In fact, baobabs can continue to grow for hundreds of years.”
“The real concern,” Sarah continued, “lies with the lack of young baobab trees. This is due to overgrazing by goats and other herbivores. They eat up the seedlings, making it difficult for the next generation to thrive.”
The trees, though, might find a way to overcome this challenge. “When everything lines up just right – like after a nice rain or when there are less hungry animals after an anthrax outbreak – little baobab seedlings can survive and grow into new trees,” Sarah explained, her voice blending with the nightly sounds of the bush. “They call it episodic recruitment, and that’s why you’ll often see lots of baobabs that are about the same size in one spot.”
South Africa’s response to Madagascar’s iconic Avenue of Baobabs, let me introduce you to the baobab country of Pafuri Gate in northern Kruger. When I crossed the Soutpansberg, the scenery transformed instantly. It seemed like baobab trees were everywhere, forming a unique and awe-inspiring spectacle. No longer counting individual trees, now I could marvel at groups of ten at a time. They stood tall, casting their shade and guiding me along the route. These majestic beings also graced villages, watching over kraals, bus stops, spaza shops, watermelon vendors, and schools. It was impossible not to be impressed by one particular rest area where more than 20 trees stood together, forming a cluster resembling a herd of elephants.
On a whim, I decided to take a sandy side road and stumbled upon a small forest filled with peculiar baobab trees. It was a fascinating sight to behold. Some of the trees were adorned with vibrant green leaves and delicate white flowers, while others stood completely bare, revealing their intricate and gnarled branches. The baobabs varied in size and shape, ranging from short and stout to tall and majestic. There were a few trees that resembled misshapen sweet potatoes, their trunks bent and bloated, as if they were formed by nature’s whimsy. Others looked like failed attempts at blowing glass, their twisted forms capturing my imagination.
In that moment, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the famous Avenue of the Baobabs in Madagascar. It resembled South Africa’s version, I thought, with its own unique charm and beauty. Intrigued, I decided to embark on a journey of exploration along the potholed road, captivated by the allure of these magnificent baobabs.
After a couple of hours of navigating through the baobab-heavy road, we finally arrived at Sagole – the colossal giant of the mopane veld. The sight of it was awe-inspiring. So much so, that my mom couldn’t contain her excitement and exclaimed, ‘Wow!’ not once, but twice, before we even stepped out of the car.
I stumbled upon an abundance of baobabs during my exploration of the Kruger’s Pafuri area. This was already impressive, but my excitement grew when I discovered even more of these majestic trees in the Musina Nature Reserve, which used to be called the Messina Baobab Forest Reserve. I learned that this reserve was established in 1926 with the sole purpose of safeguarding these extraordinary trees.
However, the real highlight of my journey came when I reached the Honnet Nature Reserve. It felt like a revelation as I came face to face with my dormant giant, patiently awaiting my arrival.
Wow, let me tell you about this super weird baobab tree we found. So, Francois Bosman, the eco manager guy, drove us in a fancy game vehicle to this tree that was about six kilometers away from our camp. As we got closer, I started feeling a bit disappointed, to be honest. The tree was actually pretty beautiful, with a really thick base and branches that looked as hard as stone. But it was nowhere near as huge as the Sagole tree. I measured it (22 meters around and 13 meters high) and sent the numbers to Sarah on my phone. And you know what she said? She told me, “It’s a big one, but not a giant.” Like, really? She even added some random emoji, which didn’t help ease my disappointment at all.
So, my friends and I had seen plenty of huge and twisted trees, but we hadn’t yet found a really important baobab. We decided to go into the Mashatu Game Reserve in the Tuli Block, after we had already visited the trees that had been damaged by elephants in Mapungubwe. Turns out, there was a baobab named after Cecil John Rhodes, just like Baines, Chapman, and Livingstone. You see, Rhodes was there in the 1890s, trying to figure out a path for his big railway project from Cape to Cairo. He even carved his initials into a tree on the edge of a rocky cliff.
But get this… Our guide, Bellamy Noko, told us that it wasn’t actually Rhodes’ baobab! The local people had been there long before he came through. They call it the Mmamagwa Baobab, after an archaeological site that goes all the way back to the 11th century. And guess what? That site is right there on the same hill made of sandstone.
Imagine this: I found myself in Mashatu, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. On that particular morning, I had the incredible opportunity to spot 16 magnificent big cats, including a leopard feasting on its recent impala kill.
The adventure continued as we arrived at our destination an hour before sunset. We were treated to the sight of majestic elephants trudging up a nearby escarpment. The hill was adorned with other golden sandstone koppies, creating a picturesque panorama of the grassland below. It was unanimous among visitors – this place possessed an enchanting aura that made it one of the most awe-inspiring spots to witness the African sunset. As the warmth of the day began to fade, I embraced my mom and clinked our glasses of cold gin and tonic. Mmamagwa, standing tall before us, basked in the final rays of sunlight. This marvelous spectacle has captivated countless hearts throughout the ages, and I hope it continues to do so for years to come.
In our journey, the magnificent trees were the main event, but they were not the only attraction. We traversed the province of Limpopo from the fever-tree forest near Crooks Corner to Mapungubwe and beyond. The search for the giant baobabs added an element of adventure to our trip, taking us to places like Modjadjiskloof, Leydsdorp, and Alldays that we would have otherwise overlooked. Along the way, we encountered fascinating individuals like Swanie, Sarah, Francois, and Bellamy, who added color to our experiences in the bushveld.
Every day was filled with long, eventful hours and delightful surprises. We stumbled upon a hot spring in Tshipise, where we indulged in a soothing soak to rejuvenate our weary bodies. In Zwigodini, a group of young children serenaded us with their sweet voices, leaving us in awe. And in Mashatu, we were fortunate enough to spend thirty precious minutes observing a leopard in its natural habitat. It seemed as if the magic of the baobab trees had infused our journey with a similar enchantment.
Now, as my mother and I recollect our memories, we can add yet another remarkable trip to our collection.
Imagine standing in the Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana and gazing at the Mmamagwa Baobab. It rises above the surrounding sandstone koppie, resembling the majestic horn of a rhino.
The Mighty Baobabs
Let me tell you about a few extraordinary baobabs that you can find:
The Glencoe Baobab – A true marvel, this tree is a whopping 1,853 years old and lies on its back. Yet, it continues to sprout fresh shoots from its branches. Interestingly, many visitors mistake a nearby 500-year-old baobab as the actual Glencoe Baobab.
The Leydsdorp Baobab – If you ever find yourself halfway between Tzaneen and Hoedspruit, make sure to visit the Leydsdorp Baobab. Named after a former gold-rush town, this magnificent baobab offers a fascinating tour by Swanie Swanepoel. And if you’re craving refreshment, he even sells cold drinks for only R10!
The King-of-Garatjeke – Seeking this elusive baobab was quite the adventure. We followed Google Maps, taking a chance on the misspelled “Garatseke Primary School,” and ventured down a bumpy dirt road. To our delight, we discovered this colossal tree right in the heart of the village.
Sunland Baobab – South Africa’s famous baobab pub met a tragic fate when it collapsed in 2017. This extraordinary tree boasted a massive circumference of 46 meters and housed a wine cellar and a tap for draught beer. Astonishingly, the bar once accommodated a record-breaking 56 people.
Sagole Baobab – Situated near the Venda town of Zwigodini, the world’s largest baobab is lovingly managed by the local community. Entrance to this remarkable site costs R30, and you can explore it from 8am to 4pm every day. For those who wish to witness the mesmerizing return of the mottled spinetails to the tree, there is an additional fee of R300.
Swartwater Baobab – As our journey among the Champion Trees drew to a close, we encountered this breathtaking beauty on a cattle farm just outside the quaint town of Swartwater. Be cautious when driving in this area, as the roads are notorious for their poor condition. The majestic baobab awaits, nestled 500 meters down a side road beyond a cattle gate.
When I visited Musina Nature Reserve in the Soutpansberg Region, I was amazed to discover that it is home to one of the largest collections of baobabs in the entire country. What’s even more intriguing is that this reserve encompasses the former Baobab Forest Reserve, which was established back in 1926 to safeguard these majestic trees from being exploited for profit.
Let me show you around.
First, let’s stop by The Baobab Restaurant. This charming eatery offers a breathtaking view of the Glencoe tree and specializes in mouthwatering pancakes. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on their tantalizing treats. From the classic cinnamon and sugar pancake priced at just R25 to the more adventurous venison pancake for R60, and even the delectable banana-and-caramel pancake for R50, there’s something for everyone here. Give them a call at 0823327887 to satisfy your pancake cravings.
Next up, we have Zvakanaka Farm, which is conveniently located just outside Louis Trichardt. This hidden gem offers secluded cottages and a fantastic campsite. During my stay, I opted for Madala’s Cottage, and boy was I impressed! From the outdoor bath to the private pool and the cozy indoor fireplace, everything was just perfect. Oh, and let me tell you about the birds! They were everywhere, making the whole experience even more delightful. If you’re planning on camping, it’s only R150 per person. But if you prefer the comfort of the cottages, they’re available for R425 per person. For reservations, you can reach them at 0844004595 or visit their website zka.co.za.
Welcome to the Pafuri Section of Kruger National Park! I want to tell you about some amazing baobabs that you’ll find between the Pafuri Gate and the Luvuvhu River. It’s truly a sight to behold! And the best part? Entry to the park is only R93 per person. Isn’t that great? Plus, when you visit, you’ll have access to a shop, restaurant, and petrol station at Punda Maria Rest Camp, which is just 76km from the gate. So you’ll have everything you need right there.
Now, let me tell you about the accommodations. If you’re into camping, you’re in luck! Campsites are available starting at R243 per person. You can bring up to six people with you, so it’s perfect for a family or group of friends. And if you prefer bungalows, they start at R370 per person. Both options offer a comfortable place to rest and relax after a day of exploring the park.
But that’s not all! I have something else to share with you. Have you heard of Pafuri River Camp? It’s an incredible place to stay, just a short 10-minute drive from the Pafuri Gate. The camp is set up with lantern-lit tents on stilts, creating a classic safari-camp atmosphere. Picture yourself surrounded by trees and immersed in nature. Sounds dreamy, right? And guess what? They have a pool and bar, so you can cool off and unwind after a thrilling day in the park.
At Pafuri River Camp, they even provide a catered braai every evening in the lapa. It’s the perfect way to end each day, enjoying a delicious meal in a beautiful setting. And if you prefer to do your own cooking, they also have self-catering tents available for R570 per person sharing.
Ready to experience the wonders of the Pafuri Section in Kruger National Park? Make sure to give them a call at 0827850305 or visit their website at pafuri.co.za to book your stay. You won’t be disappointed.
Tshipise: A Forever Resort is a unique destination that was established in the 1930s, centered around a hot spring that provides a rejuvenating experience. Here, you’ll discover 95 cozy chalets, 370 spacious campsites, and an array of amenities including a butchery, shop, restaurant, and hot-spring pools.
Our chalets are designed with your comfort in mind, offering a patio and braai area where you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. These accommodations start at R1,800 per night and can sleep up to four people. For those who prefer camping, our campsites are available at R170 per site, with an additional charge of R70 per person.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that Tshipise is surrounded by natural beauty. The Musina Nature Reserve, just a short distance away, is home to a variety of wildlife and stunning landscapes. To fully explore the reserve, a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to the challenging 22km road. As you navigate this road, you’ll encounter clumps of baobabs and catch glimpses of giraffes and wildebeests.
When you visit Tshipise, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and discover the wonders of the African wilderness. The entrance fee for the Musina Nature Reserve is R35 per vehicle, R25 for adults, and R20 for children. It’s a small price to pay for the incredible experiences that await.
Whether you choose to relax in our comfortable chalets or pitch your tent under the stars, Tshipise A Forever Resort offers an unforgettable retreat where the healing power of nature and the comforts of modern amenities merge. Take a break from the ordinary and embark on a journey of tranquility and adventure.
To reserve your stay or learn more, contact us at 0155390634 or visit forevertshipise.co.za.
Welcome to Mapungubwe National Park! This incredible place is not only known for its fascinating archaeological site and abundant wildlife, but it is also home to magnificent baobab trees. Though some of these majestic trees have been damaged by elephants, the park rangers believe in letting nature run its course. When you visit, you’ll get a chance to witness the resilience of these baobabs.
Entering the park will only cost you R55 per person, and you have the option to camp at one of the beautiful camp-sites starting from R303 for a group of six people. If you prefer a more comfortable stay, cottages are available starting from R345 per person. Book your visit at sanparks.org or call 0155347923.
Discover the Predator Capital at Mashatu Lodge! As we explored the Mashatu Game Reserve, we couldn’t help but agree with its title as the predator capital of Botswana. The lodge’s spacious and luxurious rooms, along with their exceptional meals, created a truly unforgettable experience. The guides at Mashatu Lodge are also top-notch, ensuring you have the best wildlife encounters. Enjoy all of this for just R8,525 per person when you book your stay. Contact them at 0317613440 or visit mashatu.com.