RRuben

In september-october 2010 I'm planning a safari in the Tuli region in southern botswana.
I'm not interested in any posh beds, **** meals or anything like that but my one and only interest is the quality of game viewing, an authentic experience.

I already looked at the mashatu option, but I wondered if there are any other good budget-friendly options in the region (for example the tuli safari lodge)?
Have any of you got any tips or experiences on these ?

christabir

We loved Mashatu Tented. I looked into Tuli Safari Lodge, but there's just not that much info available so we stuck with Mashatu. Can't wait to go back!

Bushkid0

Hi Ruben,

I'm going to be checking out a camp in Tuli very soon, called Koro Camp (maybe Korro camp). I'm hoping to stop off within the next montnh or two.

Their rates are very good and I've had excellent feedback, but I like checking the place out first. They seem to offer all the "real" stuff (game drives, bush walks, etc.), without the pricey frills. You may be able to do a web-search.

I've also had very good dealings with Tuli Safari Lodge, and intend checking them out at the same time.

Both Mashatu and Tuli Safari have good rap in this part of the world.

tockoloshe

Are you driving yourself? If so, are you approaching from the SA side into Tuli area or from within Botswana? If from SA Mapungubwe is worth a stop if you want 'no-frills' (self-catering though) - the cottages are really nice and the game viewing was good, they also do bush walks and game drives. It's only minutes away from the Pont Drif border.
http://www.sanparks.org/parks/mapungubwe/

RRuben

Hi all,

Thank for all the kind answers.
@Bushkid: be curious about hearing your feedback. Tuli seems a hidden gem, am very excited about it.
@tockoloshe: Yep, we'll driving from jo'burg to tuli, then kruger and probably hop over the border to mozambique.
About, Mapungubwe: can you compare this with tuli?

tockoloshe

It's a difficult comparison for me to make because we only stayed in Mashatu Tented camp in Tuli, where the game viewing is fantastic but of course you have experienced guides. We were only in Mapungubwe a couple of days 'DIY' game viewing, but there are some good hides and we found plenty to see (but no big cats). Try searching Tuli on this forum for more acco ideas for the self-driver:
www.4x4community.co.za
this thread in particular had some interesting suggestions:
http://www.4x4community.co.za/forum/...highlight=tuli
I have heard people say that the game is skittish in Tuli because of the proximity with Zimbabwe and the Tuli hunting block, but Mashatu certainly delivered.
Happy planning!

christabir

Mopane Bush Lodge is adjacent to Mapungubwe. We considered it for an overnight and am game drive on the way to Mashatu. It might be worth considering.

Bushkid-let us all know about your experience in the Tuli block. We had a fantastic experience and would love to visit other camps or lodges.

Treepol

RRuben,

thanks for asking this question as I too am interested in Tuli accommodations.

I was at Mashatu in 2008 and twice saw vehicles from a lodge called Eagles Nest or eagle something. I haven't been able to find anything about this lodge, does anyone have any info?

I'm planning a return to Mashatu in 2011, however I'd be very interested in a comparison with the Tuli Game Lodge or any other similar style accommodation.

Bushkid0, looking forward to your feedback.


Cheers,


Pol

Bushkid0

Hi folks,

I'll certainly try get up there to visit the four lodges I'm looking at (Mashatu, Tuli Safari, Korro and Limpopo River Lodge). I'll also see if I can find out something about Eagle Nest, and any other worthwhile lodges up there.

Unfortunately it's not an area I'm very familiar with (I'm more involved with the northern regions).

My trip will definitely include Mopane Bush Lodge - I've dealt with them for years and this will be my first visit. Mapungubwe has always intrigued me (I sometimes visit the museum in Pretoria, and would love to see the real thing).

I'll only be able to get there in about a month's time, but I'll post a trip report afterwards.

spassvogel

We have spent 4 nights at NITANI April 2009 and I would highly recommend that lodge.

http://www.nitani.co.za/

SV

RRuben

And tuli lodge it will be !
1 night at a hide and three at the lodge, so looking forward to it !!!