+27 79 507 9345
Mashatu Emerald Season
US$3,250 / per person sharing
2026
14th - 18th February 2026 - SOLD OUT
18th - 22nd February 2026 - SOLD OUT
14th - 22nd February 2026 - SOLD OUT
2027
14th - 18th February 2026 - 18 spaces remaining
18th - 22nd February 2026 - 18 spaces remaining
14th - 22nd February 2026 - 18 spaces remaining
18th - 22nd February 2026 - SOLD OUT
14th - 22nd February 2026 - SOLD OUT
14th - 18th February 2026 - 18 spaces remaining
18th - 22nd February 2026 - 18 spaces remaining
14th - 22nd February 2026 - 18 spaces remaining
Join us for an unforgettable photo tour in the stunning Mashatu Game Reserve during the lush emerald season this February! Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife, Mashatu is a photographer's paradise, where the fresh greenery provides a stunning backdrop for Africa’s diverse fauna. February marks the peak of the rainy season, bringing new life, dramatic skies, and exceptional opportunities for captivating photography.
Our tour is tailored for both novice and experienced photographers, offering expert guidance to help you capture the stunning beauty of Mashatu. You'll explore diverse habitats, from the dense riverine woodlands to open savannahs, where you'll encounter elephants, lions, cheetahs, and a myriad of bird species. With our intimate group sizes, you'll receive personalized attention, ensuring you maximize your photographic experience.
Imagine driving through a landscape bursting with fresh green hues, where the soft light of the rainy season enhances every shot. And if the rains have been just right, you may even witness fields of yellow flowers carpeting the ground, adding an extra touch of magic to your images. Each day in Mashatu offers countless moments to create stunning photographs that showcase the region’s unique beauty and thriving ecosystems.
Join Panthera Photo Safaris on this incredible journey into the heart of Mashatu. Let us help you capture the essence of Africa through your lens while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Book your spot today and get ready for an adventure like no other!
Why should you choose this tour?
Unique Destination Appeal
Mashatu not only has amazing wildlife with some of the best elephant, lion and leopard sightings in Africa, but it is also landscape rich. As you drive through the reserve you will see river beds, open plains, thick forests, giant rocky areas and beautiful giant Mashatu Trees.Optimal Travel Month
February is excellent for photographers in Mashatu because the lush vegetation and vibrant colors from the rainy season enhance the beauty of the landscapes. This is the best chance to see the yellow devil thorn flushes.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.Maximum 6 per vehicle. Intimate Group Departures
Small group photo tours create an enriching environment that emphasizes learning, creativity, and connection, making them a fantastic option for photographers of all skill levels.Expert-Led Experience
An experience-led safari not only allows you to witness the majesty of wildlife up close but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. It is an opportunity to learn, grow, and appreciate the natural world in a way that goes beyond mere observation.Quick Facts
Duration
5 Days / 9 Days
Country
Botswana
Starting Point
Pont Drift Border
Per Person Sharing
5 days USD $3,250
9 days USD $6,500
9 days USD $6,500
Single Suppliment
5 days USD $4,300
9 days USD $8,600
9 days USD $8,600
SADC Rates
SADC Rates do apply. Please contact us for more info.
Photographic Highlights
Photographic highlights in Mashatu include capturing animals in the yellow flowers, multiple predator species, often with interaction, clean backgrounds due to the lack of high vegetation, vibrant birdlife, stunning river landscapes, and the golden light of sunrise and sunset.
Day 1: Pont Drift
You will arrive at Pont Drift Border crossing before 1 o'clock to meet with the guides and be ready to 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 in an open game vehicle, searching for great photographic opportunities.
After the safari (approximately 3.5-4 hours), we will return to the camp to freshen up before enjoying a drink in the bar and dinner in the boma.
Day 2-4: Mashatu Magic
Day two starts off with a coffee and light breakfast at the lodge, featuring fresh fruit, cereals, and yogurt to accompany your hot cup of coffee or tea.
We then depart before dawn from the lodge to be in the central game viewing area around sunrise.
Our main goal is to locate animals amidst the stunning yellow flower flushes and capture incredible images in this breathtaking setting. (Please note that the flowers are highly dependent on rainfall, so the amount and timing of these flushes cannot be guaranteed).
After approximately 4 hours, we will return to the lodge for a brunch, a refreshing swim in the pool, and some rest before the next high tea and afternoon game drive.
During the afternoon game drive, we will once again venture out in search of excellent photographic sightings, stopping for various species along the way. After enjoying a sundowner stop, we will return to the camp to freshen up before heading to the bar and boma for dinner.
Day 5: Departure
Day 5 is our last day, but not before enjoying one final morning game drive. We will head out in search of wildlife during the best light before returning to the camp for brunch, packing our belongings, and beginning our journey home.
We will be transported once again from the lodge to the Pont Drift Border Crossing in an open game vehicle at approximately 11:30 AM.
Same itinerary x 2 for the back to back option
