Cycling for Conservation in Mashatu’s Land of Giants
Mashatu’s “Land of the Giants” cycling event in May 2026 raised vital funds for anti poaching and conservation in Botswana’s Northern Tuli
May 2026: LAND OF THE GIANTS CYCLING EVENT 2026 RAISES BWP 1 MILLION FOR ANTI-POACHING INITIATIVES
Mashatu Game Reserve once again welcomed guests and riders from around the world for the 2026 edition of the Land of the Giants Cycling Event — a seven-day wilderness cycling experience combining adventure, conservation and connection in one of Botswana’s largest private game reserves.
Held within the vast and varied terrain of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, this year’s event brought together 41 riders across six international teams, alongside spectators and supporters, for what many described as a “top ten life experience.”
The 2026 event successfully raised BWP 1 million (over £55,000) towards anti-poaching initiatives, reinforcing Mashatu’s ongoing commitment to conservation and the protection of the reserve’s wildlife and wilderness areas.
Throughout the event, guests were welcomed with Mashatu’s signature hospitality, including personalised goodie bags featuring custom cycling jerseys, wellness treatments, branded keepsakes and exclusive return-stay incentives for the 2027 event.
An Experience Beyond the Ride
Over the course of three riding days, participants cycled between 120km and 180km through Mashatu’s diverse landscapes — from open plains to riverbeds and towering baobabs.
The 2026 Land of the Giants event is officially a wrap. Another 1 million Pula raised for our Anti-Poaching Team this year, and a ride filled with incredible memories, new friendships, lots of wildlife sightings, and epic days out on the bike. A huge thank you to all the cyclists who joined us this year, your support, passion, and determination made all the difference. Every pedal stroke helped contribute to something far bigger than the ride itself.
Designed to accommodate a range of cycling abilities, the event is structured around small groups of up to eight riders, each accompanied by an experienced guide and dedicated game vehicle throughout the journey.
Professional guiding, luxury accommodation, thoughtfully curated dining experiences and the opportunity to cycle through unfenced wilderness all contributed to an atmosphere that felt both intimate and unforgettable.
A highlight of the event was the final evening celebration — an elegant dinner set beneath star-filled African skies, surrounded by the sounds of the bush and live performances from award-winning Afro-Jazz artist, Banjo Mosele.
The event concluded with a prize-giving ceremony recognising standout participants and teams, while also spotlighting conservation initiatives connected to the reserve, including the “Down to the Wire” initiative — a project transforming confiscated wildlife snares into handcrafted jewellery and curio items, with proceeds supporting wildlife rescue and anti-snaring efforts.
Reflecting on the experience, participant Paige Hempsall shared: “I can’t put into words how special the experience at Mashatu was. From the incredible staff and exceptional game drives to every little detail along the way - everything was absolutely 10/10. We felt so welcomed and looked after, and we’re leaving with memories we’ll treasure forever.”
Future Event Dates
Dates for the next two “Land of the Giants” cycling events have already been confirmed:
• 2027: 1 – 7 May 2027
• 2028: 1 – 7 May 2028
With the 2027 event filling up quickly, interested riders and guests are encouraged to secure their place early by emailing Lala Bale on lala@mashatu.com.
For more information:
Visit the LOTG Cycling Event webpage
View 2027 event itinerary and rates
www.kaelodestinations.com / reservations@kaelodestinations.com
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