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. It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If you are dishonest about your weight, we cannot guarantee the availability of a suitable horse.
- 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% interest-free 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
Trisha R.
‘The Bushveld African Explorer was everything and more. I was nervous we wouldn’t see as much as was promised; boy, was I wrong! The stunning varying landscapes of South Africa were a delight to canter through the winding, twisting trails that led to beautiful plains of giraffes and antelope. The transition to Botswana was just as exciting—open, side-by-side canters through the bush, and we saw everything from elephants, giraffes, and a lion (from afar!). The sunset rides home were spectacular, and all of this was accompanied by amazing food and accommodation. I was so impressed by the logistics of the operations of the tour operator and the amazing horses we rode. I didn’t want to say goodbye!’
Roslyn J.
‘The Bushveld scenery was incredible, and the horses were fabulous to ride.The roofless bathrooms in two of the camps were amazing! The beds were super comfortable in all the camps, and it was a lovely touch to have a night in a luxury safari in the middle of the ride. Our guides took great care of us while providing the most exhilarating rides of our lives. We saw giraffes, zebras, elephants, and lions—all from the backs of superbly trained horses. The game drive at the Treetop Camp was an absolute highlight. How can one top see a leopard with her fresh kill in a tree just METRES away? Or being surrounded on three sides by a pride of lions? To top it off, we spotted a cheetah with her FOUR cubs munching on that afternoon’s meal. Not to mention waking in the middle of the night to the sound of a lioness “harrumphing” so close to the tent that I felt I could stretch my hand out through the canvas and touch her. What an adventure, and what a way to see Africa! We are definitely booking our next trip with Globetrotting!’
Karen W.
‘Everyone should take this ride at least once in their lifetime! Seeing the animals up close while on horseback is definitely a bucket list item. The guides, horses, staff, food, and rooms all exceeded my expectations. Every day was magical, but two experiences stand out. During our first ride, we were in awe of being able to see zebra and giraffe with their babies, and we couldn’t believe how close we got. Another highlight was swimming with the horses—so much fun! I wish I had the chance to do it more than once. The accommodation was just beautiful, with staff coming in every evening to close windows, pull curtains, and close mosquito netting—an unexpected bonus. The daily laundry service was amazing! The food was excellent, with gluten-free and vegetarian options that showed much care, and the wine pairing from Chef G was a delightful surprise. The quality of the horses was fantastic, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure we were happy. They always asked for our preferences and made sure we enjoyed our rides. The guides were knowledgeable, sharing insights about local flora and fauna, and they were great at capturing our moments with photos and videos. I would definitely recommend this ride to a friend, and I would book with Globetrotting again without hesitation!’
Alana R.
‘This ride is a must-do! Words will never be able to do this experience justice. I rode the most beautiful, safe, responsive, and well-looked-after horses (shout out to Hollywood in particular) across a vast array of terrains and with the most beautiful wild game (zebras, giraffe, ostrich, warthog, wildebeest, impala, kudu, and so much more). We ate way too much food (the tastiest food I have ever eaten – and I am fussy)! We did loads of long sandy canters, jumping, swam with the horses, and even got to do a splashy canter. Don’t worry though if those don’t sound that fun to you – they really do cater for all abilities and want to make the stay special for all. Our two overnight stays were so vastly different from one another (glamping at Camp Davidson and what felt like five-star luxury at Savannah Lodge) and truly magical experiences. Lastly, the staff and volunteers who work at the lodge are really just beautiful people who love horses and want you to have the time of your life!’
Arlo U.
‘This ride was a fantastic way to see a part of South Africa that I would never have been to otherwise. The setting was truly great, with a wonderfully relaxed environment. The riding was excellent, the accommodation was good, and the food was simply amazing. But what really made this experience so special was the fantastic staff and the lovely group of people I got to share it with. The other guests were a great mix, all very supportive, and we had such fun dining together. I can’t recommend this ride enough.’
Fiona T.
‘This was a true bucket-list holiday that I’d long dreamed about but never imagined that I’d actually get to do! But one day an email landed in my inbox & the universe told me to take the plunge. This holiday was everything it was advertised to be and more. I’m not articulate enough to describe the beauty of the South African landscape and its wildlife, and the warmth of its people. I was cared for every step of the way. The ride truly catered for all abilities and the hosts treated us like treasured family friends. Nothing was too much trouble. Horses, wildlife, scenery, food, wine, comfort and wonderful company. Perfect. Don’t waste time thinking about this holiday, just go ahead and book it! It was truly the experience of a lifetime.’
Maree S.
‘South African Explorer – what an AMAZING week that was. From fabulous unique accommodation – think beautiful individual bungalows, gorgeous tents with open-air shower, and a stunning tree camp – to fantastic food, guides, horses and AFRICA. I would never have imagined being so close, so aware of the grace of a giraffe, the cheekiness of a warthog, the subtle power in a cheetah, or the size of an elephant. For just a moment, they allowed me to be inside their space – how lucky we are. The horses are ready – to race with you across open ground, hop over logs and obstacles, or splash through water. Polocrosse was a blast – it doesn’t matter if you have absolutely no skills, everyone, including the other team, is giving advice and cheering you on, and the horses know what they are doing. Stunning night skies, eerie sunrises in the mist, great food, great friends – Thank you Kate and Laura, for another life-changing experience.’
Sarah B.
‘The South African adventure was another magical experience and particularly as I was able to share it with my daughter. The Lodge was an amazing base and our beautiful room overlooked the lake and dam. Watching an early morning muster from our balcony was a highlight as the sight of the horses coming over the dam as the mist rose from the water was magical. As was the sound of the hippos calling at night. The food, from our first lunch outside in the garden to our last amazing degustation dinner with wine tasting beforehand, was delicious and plentiful. The guides and volunteers that looked after our group were amazing in their ability to cater for every level of rider and each day we were divided into groups that enabled everyone to be within their comfort zone. There were therefore opportunities to ride at every pace, at speed through water and over cross-county jumps but there were also some magical moments of stillness when we just watched the animals in their natural habitat. Seeing my first giraffe and watching families of Zebra grazing and warthogs at play were truly magical moments. I was so impressed at how the wonderful horses we met were matched to the riders and I loved having the opportunity to ride a variety of different horses who were all responsive and fun to ride. The adventure was a very special and joyful shared experience that really was a dream come true.’
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!’