Mashatu with Mark Dumbleton

USD $6,970 / per person sharing

7 days
14th - 20th August 2026 - 6 spaces remaining

Join Mark Dumbleton for an unforgettable 6 nights, 7 days luxury photographic safari at Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana. Taking place in peak dry season, this is one of the most rewarding times of year for wildlife photography. Vegetation is sparse, water sources are limited, and wildlife movements become more predictable, creating excellent opportunities for meaningful sightings and strong photographic moments.

Each day includes guided morning and afternoon game drives, planned around the best light and natural animal behaviour. Mashatu is known for its wide open spaces, ancient trees, herds of elephants, diverse plains game, and the ever-present possibility of predators. The landscapes themselves are a major part of the story, offering clean backgrounds, dramatic skies, and a true sense of scale that makes this reserve so visually special.

A major highlight of this safari is three dedicated hide sessions in the renowned Matebole Hide. This underground photographic hide sits at water level, giving you intimate, eye-level perspectives as wildlife comes to drink. It is an incredible setting for capturing natural behaviour, reflections, textures, and quiet, powerful moments that are simply not possible from a vehicle.

Between drives and hide sessions, we will run relaxed, practical editing sessions to help you refine your images and strengthen your portfolio. This safari is designed for photographers of all levels, with hands-on guidance throughout to improve technique, field craft, and creative vision.

More than anything, Mashatu is a place to experience the feeling of true Africa. Vast horizons, dust in the golden light, distant calls at dusk, and the rhythm of the wild all combine to create something that goes beyond photography. This safari blends comfort, wilderness, and creativity in one of the most visually striking and authentic landscapes on the continent.

What’s included at Mashatu:
• 6 nights accommodation at Mashatu Lodge
• 2 morning sessions per person in the Matebole hide
• 1 afternoon session per person in the Matebole hide
• Exclusive-use game drive vehicles for our group
• Guidance from Mark Dumbleton on every drive and hide session

Why should you choose this tour?

Private access to a world-class photographic hide

Enjoy exclusive sessions in one of Mashatu’s premier hides — the Matebole, designed by photographers for photographers for photographers. This underground hide allow for unique, eye-level perspectives of wildlife and are among the best in Africa for capturing close-up moments with elephants, birds, and more.

Abundance of Species

You can expect to encounter species such as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs and various antelope species, along with a rich variety of birdlife, including bee-eaters, kingfishers, and raptors.

Small group, big focus Departures

We keep our group sizes small to ensure you get plenty of one-on-one time with your guides, allowing for personalized tuition both in the field and in post-processing sessions. Whether you need help with settings, composition, or editing, we’ve got you covered.

Expert-Led Experience

Your guide Mark Dumbleton, is a highly experienced wildlife photographer and safari leader. His knowledge and enthusiasm will elevate your photography, while his relaxed approach makes the experience both fun and educational.

Download the Full Brochure

Quick Facts

Countries

Botswana and South Africa

Group Size

6 guests / 1 vehicle

Starting Point

Pont Drift Border

Per Person Sharing

7 days USD $6,970

Per Person Single

7 days USD $9,070

Photographic Highlights

This trip offers thrilling big cat photography, elephants up close at toe-level from hides, and golden light scenes featuring iconic species like leopards, lions, and cheetah. From action-packed waterhole moments to intimate predator encounters, every game drive and hide session delivers powerful storytelling opportunities.

Day 1: Pont Drift

You will arrive at Pont Drift Border crossing before 1 o'clock to meet with mark and clear customs. Once we have cleared passport control, we will be met by a member of the Mashatu team who will drive us across the border, where we will clear customs on the Botswana side.

Once completed, we will then be transported on an open vehicle through to Mashatu Lodge, where we will check into our suites, receive a short briefing from the Mashatu team, and enjoy a high tea.

From here, we will head off on our first game drive, searching for great photographic opportunities.

Day 2 - 6: Mashatu Magic

Morning Game Drives: Early starts for the best light and predator activity.
Morning & Afternoon Hide Sessions (3 in total)
Afternoon Game Drives: Enjoy the late afternoon light and evening photography.
Editing & Review Sessions: Midday downtime used for image review and Lightroom editing instruction.

Day 7: Departure day

Final morning drive, breakfast, and departure from Mashatu Lodge / Pontdrift Border.