When asked where to go for serious wildlife photography in Africa, two private reserves stand out above the rest: Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana and MalaMala Game Reserve in South Africa.
The key highlights for both are the ability to get incredibly close to the animals and the absence of large tourist crowds!
1. Mashatu Game Reserve (Botswana)
The Largest Private Reserve in Southern Africa, Located at the Three-Country Border
Mashatu is located within the Northern Tuli Block, bordering Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. It boasts the largest area of any private reserve in Southern Africa. Against the backdrop of the Limpopo River and endless African skies, you can capture herds of elephants and leaping elands with iconic Baobab trees in the frame.
Why it’s great for photography:
- Diverse Landscapes: Unlike flat, monotonous savannas, Mashatu features varied terrain—waterways, forests, wetlands, rocky outcrops, and hills. This topographical variety allows for a wide range of photographic compositions.
- Off-Road Access: As a private reserve with few vehicles, rangers can drive off-road to get you closer to the wildlife.
- Unique Wildlife: Home to over 900 elephants (one of the largest populations on private land), giraffes, and the Kori Bustard. You can also spot elusive species like the Aardwolf, Bat-eared Fox, African Wild Cat, and Honey Badger.
- Open 4WD Vehicles: The absence of a roof provides an unobstructed 360-degree view, essential for tracking and shooting fast-moving wildlife.
- Photo Hides: Specialized hides allow you to observe and photograph animals at ground level for high-impact, low-angle shots.
History & Luxury
- Archaeological Significance: The land holds dinosaur footprints and Stone Age tools. It was also the cradle of the legendary Mapungubwe Dynasty.
- Adventure Activities: Beyond game drives, you can book horse-back, cycling, or walking safaris.
- Top Stays: Mashatu Lodge or Mashatu Tent Camp.
2. MalaMala Game Reserve (South Africa)
The Gold Standard for “Big Five” Sightings
MalaMala is the largest private reserve in South Africa, covering 33,000 acres. Positioned between Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand Reserve, it shares a fenceless 20km border with Kruger, allowing animals to roam freely.
Why it’s great for photography:
- Unrivaled Wildlife Density: With the Sand River acting as a lifeline, the density of the “Big Five” (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino) is exceptionally high. During the dry winter, animals migrate from Kruger to the MalaMala riverbanks.
- Exclusive Vehicle Access: Only MalaMala vehicles are permitted on the property, ensuring your shots aren’t ruined by a “traffic jam” of other tourists.
- Expert Off-Roading: Rangers are permitted to drive deep into the bush to follow predators like leopards and wild dogs, placing you in the best possible position for the perfect shot.
- Day & Night Drives: Capture the drama of the savanna under the stars with spotlight-assisted night drives.
The Pinnacle of Luxury
MalaMala is synonymous with high-end safari experiences. It offers world-class service, refined facilities, and bush dining that complements the raw nature outside.
- Top Stays: MalaMala Rattray’s Camp (ultra-luxury), MalaMala Sable Camp, or MalaMala Camp.
Travel Essentials & Access
To Mashatu (Botswana)
- By Air: Daily flights from Johannesburg to Polokwane, or direct charter flights from Johannesburg to Limpopo Valley (Thurs/Sun).
- By Road: A 2-hour drive from Polokwane or 6 hours from Johannesburg to the Pont Drift border post.
To MalaMala (South Africa)
- By Air: Daily flights via Federal Air from OR Tambo (JNB) directly to the MalaMala airstrip. Airlink also flies to nearby Skukuza and Nelspruit (KMIA).
- By Road: A 5.5-hour drive from Johannesburg.
- Note: Ensure you reach the Sabi Sand gate at least 90 minutes before closing. Cash is required for the gate entrance fee.
