Southern Horse Magazine June / July 2016 | Page 18

The Tuli Safari traverses the vast Mashatu reserve from camp to camp, four in total, each of which are distinct and unique. However, it is hard to beat the experience of ‘Kgotla’, a disused tribal court. The Kgotla is made from leadwood branches, which twine around, forming an enchanting ‘boma’ where you sleep and eat around a large open fire. Set amongst ancient rock formations and canyons, there is a certain mystique about this place. Being a photographer, I was also wanted to see the wildlife and certainly Mashatu Game Reserve is packed with large herds of game. One day we saw a journey of giraffe about 70 strong and a large herd of eland around the next corner. My three favourite sitings by far, however, were the hyena in the riverbed, which we followed to its den where it met its mate, the lion lying motionless under the bush, with a huge belly having just consummed a wilderbeest and the elegant cheetah resting in the shade of the midday sun. So would I recommend this safari to riders? Yes, absolutely, I guarantee you will not be disappointed in he horses, riding, game viewing and generally fun experience. The icing on the cake to me was that both the Mashatu Game Reserve and the horses on the Tuli safari were just a photographers dream. The Tuli Safari runs throughout the year, for a maximum of 8-10 guests. It is a seven night safaris for experienced riders. Hats are mandatory. Contact: [email protected] [phone] THE TULI SAFARI LIMPOPO HORSE SAFARIS This seven day mobile safari is set in the Mashatu Game Reserve in the Tuli Block of Botswana. Viewing wildlife from the back of a well schooled horse is a just wonderful. The reserve is teaming with elephant, giraffe and plains game and combined with frequent sightings of leopard , cheetah and hyena, it is an unrivalled experience on horseback. The Tuli Safari traverses 120 miles of bush, open plains, staccatoed with magnificent Mashatu trees, and between the rocky ancient landscapes. A highlight is the ‘Kgotla’ camp, for two nights sleeping under the stars. [email protected] Contact: [email protected], [phone] Page 18