Mashatu!

Mashatu!

Africa » Botswana » South-East » Gaborone
April 13th 2011

Published: April 25th 2011

Just 2 days after the wonderful wedding, 17 of us set off in 4 cars on a 5 hour drive to Botswana and Mashatu Game Reserve where we were to spend almost 5 days of the most unforgettable experiences we have had in our lives. It was so difficult restricting the number of photographs as we went on 8 game drives and saw all the game Mashatu had to offer. A typical day began with a wake up call from ... Read Full Entry

Photos are below

Photos: 38, Displayed: 21

hornbill

these raucous birds were quite common

hyena

our vehicle was lucky to get a close sighting of these usually skittish animals

black backed jackal

these scavengers were often seen at a safe distance from the pride of lions - awaiting leftovers

by the pool

from 11 - 3 each day we had free time to relax - this was one of the options

leopard

a truly beautiful cat - closely related to the cheetah - this one was spotted at dusk

lilac breasted roller

a beautiful little bird that we saw most days

lion & cubs

a protective mom was not too concerned when we came very close...the guide insisted we sit still and appear to be one large animal...we complied!

king of beasts

there is no doubt who is boss of this pride - note his one blind eye

family snack

the male and one female stand guard as 2 youngsters feast on fresh baby warthog - the male was very protective of them

baobab

these have been used as small homes or businesses - some here housed many birds and small animals

blue wildebeeste

a lion favourite...good for a couple of meals

cheetah

probably our favourite among the large cats -

eland

the largest of the hooved animals here - apparently they can leap over a vehicle with ease - I had an eland kebab...very lean and tasty!

elephants

the adults usually moved between us and the youngsters

giraffe

a journey of giraffes....new word for us!

Garry & Tim

on safari! fortunately, the high powered rifle was never needed

Group

we were the only guests at Mashatu Tent Camp - making it a very special experience

25th April 2011

Arthur & Eva
non-member comment

Wow!!
Looks like an outstanding & memorable adventure ! Great photographs ! Obey the rules ! Cheers A&E

25th April 2011

Bruce Chittick
non-member comment

chittick@tac.com.au
Loved the whole blog. Will look forward to showing the granddaughters all the animal photos. Staying at Des's tomorrow night on route to Melbourne. Will check out the new arrival - Archie who we hear is going really well.

26th April 2011

Ruth & Jim Dunlop
non-member comment

ruth.dunlop@primus.ca
Amazing photos Marlene and Ian!...Thank you so much for sharing......This is on our list....and it was great to get a preview!

26th April 2011

Lin Mutiger
non-member comment

Truly Blessed
One has to stop and wonder at these amazing experiences that are before us. Our worlds are immediately larger and we indeed are truly blessed to see such magnificent animals in their own environment. Definitely a trip of a lifetime. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip when we went and would've loved to have joined you this time. Could they please have their anniversary there and invite us all LOL. Look forward to seeing you soon LUV LIN AND RICK

28th April 2011

Beth
non-member comment

Great pictures....great memories!!! Hope Paris is all you hoped. xo

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