"The Northern Tuli Game Reserve is arguably Botswana’s most underrated safari destination. On a narrow eastern spur of the country – sandwiched between Zimbabwe and South Africa, and far removed from the country’s other wildlife areas – its hilly terrain protects the largest privately-owned conservation area in southern Africa. Mashatu Game Reserve is the best known of several private concessions, where wildlife including lion, leopard and elephant roam among baobab studded hillsides, dry riverbeds and impressive rock outcrops. Night drives encounter shy nocturnal creatures such as aardwolf and caracal, while other activities across the region include walking, mountain biking and exploring ancient archaeological sites.”
- Mike Unwin
Tuli Game Reserve
The narrow spur of land known as the Tuli Block is, in safari terms, out on a limb. Geographically, it is the easternmost part of Botswana, sandwiched between the Zimbabwe and South Africa borders, and lies far from the nation’s other safari areas. Scenically, its hilly, rugged landscape has a haunting beauty quite unlike any other reserve, with impressive basalt rock formations and huge, gnarled baobabs that have earned it the description ‘land of the giants’.
Tuli’s isolation has left it rather underrated as a safari destination. Yet here, protected within the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, you will find Africa’s largest population of elephants on private land, plus an impressive range of predators, including lion, cheetah, wild dog, spotted hyena and some exceptionally confiding leopards. With no rhino or buffalo, the region cannot boast the Big Five, yet its other large herbivores include giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, kudu and good herds of eland, while smaller nocturnal mammals – including honey badger, bat-eared fox, aardwolf and even caracal – makes night drives especially rewarding.
The Northern Tuli Game Reserve lies between the Limpopo and Shashe rivers, and falls into several private concessions, of which the best-known is Mashatu Game Reserve. Crocodiles and the occasional hippo frequent the rivers, where the statuesque sycamore figs and other riverine giants that line the banks provide refuges for the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. Indeed, the reserve’s rich tapestry of habitats – which also include marshland and mopane woodland – offers outstanding birding throughout. As well as game drives, bush walks and night drives, activities include mountain-biking, horse-riding and even hot-air ballooning. The whole area is steeped in history, from both the colonial and Stone Age eras, with rock art and ancient ruins offering an additional dimension to any visit. Today it forms part of the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area, shared with South Africa – from where the reserve is easily accessible, even via a cable-car when the Limpopo is in flood.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for the calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 32°C/90°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for the calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 32°C/90°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for the calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 32°C/90°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for the calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 32°C/90°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Wildlife will begin to move closer to the water sources as the clear skies dominate. The rain fades, and midday temperatures are more pleasant.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can however be surprising cold at around 6°C/43°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 25°C/77°F, the mornings can however be surprising cold at around 6°C/43°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are climbing, with midday temperatures becoming hot, averaging 29°C/84°F in August and 31°C/81°F in September. Mornings remain surprisingly cool, so do pack something warm.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are climbing, with midday temperatures becoming hot, averaging 29°C/84°F in August and 31°C/81°F in September. Mornings remain surprisingly cool, so do pack something warm.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 40°C/104°F not uncommon. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still however remain very hot, while the humidity adds level of discomfort. Game viewing can still be great, but just be prepared for a little heat.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
During this period large concentrations of grazers can be found in time for the calving season. These young animals attract large predator numbers from the surrounding areas. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 34°C/94°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Botswana, this region of the country has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. It is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Experiences
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
