Mashatu has become the first private game reserve to sponsor a professional rugby team, aligning with English club Bristol Bears for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.

This revolutionary collaboration merges elite rugby and African wilderness with the shared values of community, sustainability, and a maverick spirit.
Nestled in Botswana's Northern Tuli Game Reserve, Mashatu, known as the “Land of the Giants”, spans 42,000 hectares of pristine, privately owned and conserved wilderness. Home to the largest elephant herds on a private game reserve in Southern Africa, as well as renowned predator sightings, ancient baobabs, and an untouched landscape, offering a luxury safari experience.

Mark Kelly, Director of Mashatu Investments, said: “Mashatu is redefining the boundaries of what a modern safari experience can be - an exclusive, tailored, and transformational journey. Beyond traditional game drives, Mashatu offers immersive safari experiences setting it apart, including safari walks, photographic hides, nights under the stars, cultural community visits and more. This partnership is about creating meaningful impact. As part of the same ownership group, both Mashatu and Bristol Bears share a deep-rooted commitment to community and sustainability.”

From youth programmes across Bristol run by the Bristol Bears Community Foundation to Mashatu's conservation and local empowerment initiatives in Botswana, both organisations are grounded in the same foundations of giving back.

Bristol Sport CEO and Bristol Bears Board Member Gavin Marshall said: “We are proud that Mashatu will be our principal partner for the rest of this season. As with Mashatu, community sits at our core, and we share the same vision to inspire and to leave a lasting positive legacy.”

Bears fans can experience an array of exciting activations throughout the season, including the chance to enter competitions to win safari experiences at Mashatu's luxury accommodations.

Mashatu Nature Reserve Director Wendy Du Toit said: “Guests can travel with purpose to a destination that embraces sustainable tourism and minimal environmental impact. Mashatu has a mission to inspire adventure and drive sustainable change. Whether it's supporting wildlife conservation and empowering local communities, we share a common vision, and this collaboration celebrates the power of bringing together two worlds to inspire what's possible.”

For media inquiries, please contact Claire Roadley at Umlingo Travel PR or Danita Stevens at Mashatu on danita@mashatu.com