You asked, globetrotters, so we’ve delivered: a flexible, exhilarating African riding safari with options to suit ALL riding abilities!
For beginner to advanced riders, there’s the All-levels Lodge Ride, set on a private, 21,000 acre wildlife reserve and conservancy in the vast South African Bushveld. It’s perfect for families and groups with non-riders thanks to the tailor-made itinerary and numerous off-the-horse activities. Plus, you can ride among Africa’s famous wildlife without worrying about elephants or lions!
For strong intermediate and advanced riders, the African Explorer is a MUST, covering two vastly different and equally breathtaking ecosystems. Starting with four days’ riding in the South African reserve, you’ll then travel across the border to Botswana for three incredible days in Mashatu Game Reserve, with its huge herds of elephant and iconic baobab trees.
Then there’s the Signature Safari, for intermediate to advanced riders, which combines the ease of a whole week in South Africa with the excitement of riding point-to-point across the Bushveld, from one secluded lodge to another.
Packed with an astounding variety of wild game and all the bells and whistles of a luxury safari, South Africa offers incredible value for money and an experience you’ll never forget.
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:The favoured breed is the South African Boerperd, but there are also pure and crossbred Thoroughbreds, Arabians and warmbloods.
- Pace:Variable, depending on the nature of the terrain. There will be some opportunities for faster riding each day.
- Weight Limit:A maximum of 85kg / 187lbs.
- Type of tack:South African McClellan saddles and English bridles.
- Seasons:Available all year round.
- Group size:All-levels Lodge Ride: 2 to 16 guests (riding in groups of 2-8); African Explorer: 2 to 8 guests; Signature Safari: 2 to 8 guests.
- Time in Saddle:On average, 4 to 6 hours per day.
- Riding Ability:All-levels Lodge Ride: All riding abilities welcome.
African Explorer: Strong intermediate to advanced riders only. *Riders will have to complete a 'test ride' to show they can ride independently at all paces before being allowed to take part in this program.
Signature Safari: intermediate to advanced riders. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out. - Accommodation:All-levels Lodge Ride: Accommodation is in a beautiful African lodge and adjacent thatched-roof chalets. All rooms are ensuite with either a shower or bath (or both). There is a large shared living area, dining room, verandah, and a swimming pool alongside the nearby lake.
There is also the option to spend a night or two at Camp Davidson or Savannah Lodge (see descriptions below) for an additional cost.
African Explorer: 3 nights at Camp Davidson, where luxurious, beautifully appointed, spacious canvas tents sit nestled amongst sandstone ridges overlooking grassy, game-filled valleys. Each tent has an ensuite, and there is a pool, too.
1 night at Savannah Lodge, which has five ensuite bedrooms, large living and dining areas, a pool, and a great view of the nearby watering hole.
2 nights at Two Mashatus Camp in Botswana, with large A-frame walk-in tents set on teak platforms, each with its own ensuite.
1 night at the truly extraordinary Tree Camp in Botswana. 4 metres off the ground in the boughs of a trio of ancient trees, the deck hosts airy twin share sleeping pods, a spacious open-air dining area and shared showers and toilets.
Signature Safari: 5 nights in the main lodge (see description above).
1 night in either Savannah Lodge (see description above) or the very similar Seringa Lodge.
1 night at Camp Davidson (see description above). - Ride Length:All-levels Lodge Ride: 5 nights or more. African Explorer: 8 days, 7 nights. Signature Safari: 8 days, 7 nights.
- Inclusions:
The price includes all riding (including swimming with the horses), full board, beverages including local beers, wines and a selection of spirits, and internal transfers (excluding airport transfers).
- Exclusions:
The price does not include international flights, travel insurance (compulsory), airport transfers, staff tips, and additional activities not listed on itinerary.
African Explorer: A £30 conservation levy is also payable to Mashatu Game Reserve on arrival.
DEPARTURE DATES & RATES
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!PLEASE NOTE: Pricing for the Signature Safari and All-levels Lodge Ride in the table above is to be used as a guide only, and will vary depending on which rooms/chalets are available at the time of your enquiry.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes all riding (including swimming with the horses), full board, beverages including local beers, wines and a selection of spirits, and internal transfers (excluding airport transfers).
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does not include international flights, travel insurance (compulsory), airport transfers, staff tips, and additional activities not listed on itinerary.
African Explorer: A £30 conservation levy is also payable to Mashatu Game Reserve on arrival.
Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. Depending on the ride you choose to book and your country of residence, there will be a 1.2% to 2.9% surcharge.
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.
Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change due to weather and other influencing factors.
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All-Levels Lodge Ride
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Signature Safari
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African Explorer - Day 1
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African Explorer - Day 2
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African Explorer - Day 3
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African Explorer - Day 4
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African Explorer - Day 5
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African Explorer - Day 6
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African Explorer - Day 7
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African Explorer - Day 8
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Additional Activities
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Transfer Information
Emily Beattie
‘Cantering across the plains towards majestic giraffes alongside my mum in the setting sun is a memory I will cherish forever. It was just magic! The guides were very knowledgeable, had amazing insight into the land and animals and had such interesting facts to share. They answered questions and drew diagrams in the sand explaining the different paw prints, it was so fascinating. As a beginner rider, I was so supported and cared for by not only the globetrotting crew but all the wonderful volunteers and guides. I officially have the riding bug and can’t wait to book my next holiday!’