Adventures & Safaris, South Africa
Overview
Horses
Type of horses:
Anglo Arabs, Thoroughbreds, Boerperds and cross breeds
Nature of horses:
Honest forward going and highly responsive
Number of horses:
70
Height of horses:
11.0 -16.3 h
Weight limit:
110 kg
Tack type:
McClellan saddles, English & Australian Stock saddles also available
Pricing
Dinaka Luxury Safari
Price includes all riding and accommodation on a full board basis.
The price for this safari in 2008 is £1512 per person.
Please note guests wishing to book single accommodation will be required to pay a supplement.
Big Five Limpopo Safari
Price includes all riding and accommodation on a full board basis.
2008 PRICES
Big Five Mobile Safaris - £1840 per person.
Big Five Static Camp Safaris - £1740 per person.
There is a 50% surcharge for single supplement on this safari but no supplement is charged if you are prepared to share with a person of the same sex.
Please note we are giving a £150 per person discount for 1-9 March only
Transfers - £180 per person
This is inclusive of arrival day transfer at 11am from the Intercontinental hotel adjacent to the airport to Dinaka, 5th day transfer from Dinaka to Limpopo Valley and departure day transfer at 12pm form Limpopo Valley to Johannesburg International airport.
Big Five Jembisa Limpopo Safari
Price includes all riding and accommodation on a full board basis. Transfers from Johannesburg International Airport are also included.
The price for this safari is £1604
There is a 50% surcharge for single supplement on this safari
The price includes transfer from Johannesburg airport at 11.00 am on arrival and for 12.00 pm departure back to the airport.
Lodge Based Activity Week
High Season - 1st March - 30th April & 1st July - 31st December 2008:
£150 per person per night.
Low Season - 1st May - 30th June 2008:
£125 per person per night.
SPECIAL LOW SEASON DISCOUNT - Stays of 8 nights or longer are reduced to £110 per person per night.
These prices include accommodation, all meals, snacks, drinks, riding and laundry. Transfers and staff gratuities are not included.
There is a 20% single supplement charge for guests not willing to share with a person of the same sex.
Family Programme
The following prices are fuly inclusive of ful board accommodation, all drinks, riding and lodge activities.
2008 PRICES
Adults £150 per person per night
Children (under 16) £120 per person per night
Please note that you may pay for your holiday with bank transfer, cheque, debit or credit card.
Availability/Booking Form
Ride Description
Overlooking a beautiful lake, the ranch is situated in the Waterberg in northern South Africa's Limpopo province. The ranch offers two riding safari options on some of the most impressive game farms in the Waterberg Bio-Sphere Reserve. While the emphasis is on high quality game viewing on horseback, riders have the assurance that they are riding horses cared for and trained on the ranch and guided by expert and sympathetic guides. Furthermore, since the horses are chosen from the entire ranch herd of seventy, guests can be expertly matched to their mount. Each safari option offers a unique element of riding with game but the location in each case is truly exceptional.
New family programmes make this destination perfect for children, riders and non riders. There are several ponies used by the hosts children which are available for children to enjoy safe riding at this wonderful destination.
Outrides and game viewing take you through countryside which is mostly open, flat and perfect for extended canters. The topography consists of gently rolling hills leading to picturesque views on both sides. The occasional rocky koppie provides an ideal vantage spot from which to appreciate the vastness of the Waterberg plateau. Swimming the horses in one of the many dams is an excellent way to cool down after a long morning ride. Outrides within the private game reserve on the ranch offer the opportunity to ride with species such as giraffe, zebra, impala, red hartebeest, eland and reed buck as well as many of the smaller mammals such as jackal, baboons, monkey and warthog.
Viewing game on horseback is a deeply enriching experience as the animals seem to have little fear enabling you to get closer than you ever thought possible. The guides will show you how to follow game tracks and learn local bush lore. Leisurely viewing of the energetic resident hippo family always proves to be a popular interlude to a ride.
For those wanting extended game viewing opportunities, the Born Wild Safari is a two day safari crossing the Melk Rivier into neighbouring properties. The area boasts many species of game including white rhino, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, ostrich and a host of antelope. On these trips meals are served from the camp fire and accommodation is in thatched huts sleeping up to three people, each with en suite facilities.
For experienced riders, the challenging cross country course ranges from training level log piles to over thirty taking open jumps. The ranch hosts an annual international three phase event affiliated to the Horse Society. The course was designed by South Africa's top course builder Johnny Perreira.
An amalgam of polo and lacrosse, polocrosse is easy to learn and is one of the most exhilarating sports on horseback. To guests who have never played before we introduce the game slowly, running through the basic rules and showing the tricks of the trade when it comes to stick work. Then it is "in at the deep end" with a full game. One chukka is usually all it takes to bring out the competitive spirit. The game is so addictive that many of our previous guests have taken it up upon returning home.
The 1200 strong cattle herd on the ranch are stud Bonsmaras, a hardy South African breed bred for their quiet temperament, beef production and disease resistance. Guests can join in the daily routine of herding and yard work, checking the progress of calving cows or drive the herd between wildly spread pastures. Given their non aggressive nature these cattle are the ideal animals with which to experience the challenge and excitement of mustering cattle. Herding cattle also stimulates you to work closely with your horse and gives a rewarding purpose to a morning ride.
Those interested in yet another challenge on horse back can join in the fun of Western games. Barrel racing and pole bending are fun ways of schooling yourself in the art of light command and quick responses.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
The Ranch looks over a beautiful lake and consists of a tastefully restored old farmhouse togetether with a cluster of thatched cottages each with a character of its own. The large colonial verandah is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the South Africa bush. The bird life is profilic and at dusk guests can listen to the haunting sound of hippo or black backed jackals from the farmhouse.
A jetty extends onto the lake and offers a secluded tanning spot. A plunge pool in the garden enables guests to cool off during hot summer days. With no TV or newspapers, the Lodge is the ideal place to escape from it all and completely relax.
Guests are accommodated in double rooms in the main house or the luxury thatched cottages all with en-suite facilities. Each cottage is set slightly away from the main house offering a private and homely place to relax after an active day in the saddle.
After the horses, food is your hosts' second passion. Before an early morning ride, guests are offered a light breakfast. After working up an appetite on your ride, lunch is served under the giant syringa tree in the garden followed by afternoon tea at about 3 pm.
Dinner is a sociable and sumptuous affair, during which the day's adventures or misadventures are accounted with great delight. The carefully planned three course menus are accompanied by a selection of fine South African wines. Fresh vegetables and home grown herbs are used in all recipes with home made bread and cakes which are baked on a daily basis.
Activities
Why not take the opportunity to enjoy a guided bush walk with one of the guides or a farm tour with the great character, Charles Baber, original owner of the ranch.
We also encourage guests to meet members of the local community living in one of the villages on the ranch and to visit their children at the farm creche or school. The children love to see foreign faces and are bound to sing a delightful African song for their visitors.
There is also fishing.
Further Details
Languages: English
Health requirements: No specific health requirements
Age limit: None
Tuition: Tuition can be arranged for certain activities
Included: Riding, food, drinks, accommodation and activities
Not included: Transfer & flights to South Africa
Travel Information
Direct flights from the UK to Johannesburg can be booked with the following airlines:
London Gatwick to Johannesburg - Nationwide Airlines
London Heathrow to Johannesburg - British Airways, South African Airways and Virgin Atlantic.
Indirect flights from a number of regional airports can be booked with KLM, Lufthansa and Air France.
On arriving to Johannesburg those booked on safaris will be asked to make your way to the Premier Arrivals Lounge situated in the Airport Sun Intercontinental Hotel. Facilities here include eleven luxury shower suites (complimentary toiletries and hair dryer provided), suit valet service and internet access. You will also be offered a complimentary full English breakfast. Please note this is not included in transfers for the Lodge Based Stay or the Family Programme.
Private transfers:
1-3 persons £110 per car
1-4 persons £175 per car
4-7 persons £200 per car
8-10 persons £275 per car
Lodge Based Activity Week & Family Programme: £45 per person
Arrival day transfers depart from Intercontinental Hotel Saturday at 10am.
Departure day transfers leaves the lodge at 2pm.
Dinaka Safaris: £100 per person
Arrival day transfer departs from Intercontinental at 11.am.
Departure day transfer leaves Dinaka lodge at 1pm.
Big Five Safaris: £180 per person
Arrival day transfers departs from Intercontinental at 11am
Departure day transfers leave Limpopo Valley at 11.30am.
Private transfers for all programmes:
1-3 passengers Polo type sedan - £90 per person
1-4 passengers Condor - £140 per person
4-8 passengers seven seater mini bus - £150 per person
Airport: Johannesburg (JNB)
Programmes
Dinaka Luxury Safari
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Day one: 11.00 am. Guests are met at the Johannesburg Intercontinental Hotel, (see appendix 1) Here guests can enjoy a choice of full English or continental breakfast and can relax whilst their fellow companions arrive. The driver will then transfer all guests to the Dinaka lodge in time for a late lunch. The afternoon ride will introduce guests gently to the awesome riding country of Dinaka and will be used to assess the riders with their chosen mounts. It will give everyone the chance to ensure the perfect match before the more challenging riding begins. Day two: Will be a ride along the foothills of the Seven Sisters mountain range, through thick woodland areas to the western boundaries. Here you will have your first experience of the unending sandy tracks and glimpse the unending views of the Dinaka plains and the abundant herds. You will arrive back at the lodge in time for a late brunch and a chance to siesta by the pool. The afternoon ride will be a fast and exhilarating ride along the Sand river, this area is prime waterbuck and hippo viewing territory. Day three: Guests will ride to an area renowned for its abundant and varied species, known as ‘Small Serengeti’ here you will be able to watch and interpret the behaviour of the Springbok and Blesbok that always occur on these plains. Riding back to the lodge your guides will introducing you to some of the bush skills essential to those living in the African wilderness. Lunch time brings another chance to siesta or perhaps a chance to view the hippo at play in the dam in front of your bedroom window. The afternoon ride will be into a Terminalia woodland with the added challenge of jumping natural obstacles, this area is known to be a favorite habitat of the giraffe as well as being home to what we call the “zebra race track”! Day four: The morning ride will take you out with the explicit purpose of tracking the majestic white rhino, these prehistoric animals are one of the incredible success stories of the Dinaka reserve which holds one of the oldest breeding herds in the country. Being next to these magnificent creatures is a highlight of any safari but being with them on horseback is a truly unforgettable experience. After lunch at the lodge you will pack your toothbrush and few chosen items before departing on your overnight wilderness experience.This camping expedition will take you to an ancient refuge used by Mizilikatse as he and his people fled the wrath of the warlord Shaka. This will be a true African experience taking you up into the remote mountain pass with minimal equipment and no vehicle backup with your canopy being simply a star filled night. Day four: After waking up to the smell of coffee boiling on an open fire and the sound of your horse munching contentedly beside you, your route off the mountain follows a valley that leads deep into the Waterberg escarpment. The trail follows the game paths made by the giant eland and mountain zebra. It is a most taxing, but also a most rewarding ride, in terms of the normally inaccessible terrain and stunning scenery. The ride brings you back to the lodge in time for lunch and a hot shower. The afternoon gives a chance to rest weary bones and experience game from a whole new perspective with a guided bush walk. Day six: Today the group will have a chance to explore the Waterberg further, this time in a vehicle and join a big five game drive. Guests will be given the option of visiting a nearby game reserve (about a 45 min drive from Dinaka),This beautiful reserve is home to The Big 5 and offers wonderful opportunities to view lions and if you are lucky, elephants from the safety of a vehicle. Back at Dinaka the afternoon's ride is a delightful opportunity for photography. A visit to ‘jackal dam’, which is a particularly attractive spot in the late-afternoon light, where the horses splash amongst the water lilies. Day seven: Today brings a full day's ride to another area of the reserve, where Dinaka runs its highly successful breeding programme of rare species, which include white blesbok, red wildebeest, and bontebok. A packed lunch is enjoyed en-route at the reserve's only known hippo free lake giving riders a chance to experience the thrill of swimming with their horse in the African bush. After lunch the ride crosses a particularly fertile plain where riders can experience the exhilaration and thrill of cantering amongst large herds of game, with many different species galloping together across the plains. You then make your way back to the lodge in time for afternoon tea and a welcome break to both horse and rider in the form of a game drive. A Dinaka guide will escort you on an informative drive, where you will visit another area inhabited by yet more rare species such as buffalo, sable and black impala. This drive ends with a surprise dinner in the bush where guests relax around the fire, enjoy the African night sky and toast their experiences whilst a feast is served. Day eight: One last opportunity to enjoy riding on this stunning reserve with its amazing array of wildlife. A final gallop on your favourite mount along the endless sandy tracks, before returning to the lodge to enjoy another of their infamous brunches. Guests then depart after brunch. |
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| Accommodation: |
Accommodation is in the luxurious, owner-operated Dinaka lodge offering warm hospitality and attention to detail. Meal times are an event in themselves and provide an array of impressive dishes. Afternoon tea is served daily and is an irrefutable delight. Guest accommodation is in luxury thatched cottages, each with en-suite bathrooms. Situated on a high ridge the lodges overlook a picturesque lake and spectacular views across the plains. This makes for the perfect relaxation spot whilst observing the passing wildlife or occasional antics of the hippo in the lake below. Accommodation on night four when guests venture out on an overnight camping expedition in the wilderness, exchanges luxury for history and culture. With minimal equipment and your only canopy being a star filled night, this trip shares with you a true African experience. |
| Minimum group size: | 4 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Riders should be experienced and comfortable in all paces and have a reasonable level of fitness. |
| Type of ride: | Safari |
| Total riding time: | As itinerary |
| Departure dates: | 26 September-3 October (fully booked). 24-31 October (fully booked), 22-29 November, 6-13 December 2008. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Big Five Limpopo Safari
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The Tuli Block, home to Mashatu Game Reserve and known as "the land of the giants" is an area of great diversity, magnificent vistas and land formations as old as time itself. It is also home to a multitude of wildlife species and remains untouched by the invasion of man. The riding trails cover both the riverine terrain and the true African mopane bushveld, including the famous sandstone formations of the Tuli. The richness of the Mashatu horse riding experience is complemented by regular sightings of lion, leopard, elephant and hyena. The itinerary may vary dependent on circumstances. Day one: 11.00 am. Guests are met at the Johannesburg Intercontinental Hotel. A driver will then transfer all guests to Dinaka, a stunning stone and thatch safari lodge set high above a large hippo dam, offering a sweeping view of the surrounding plains. You will arrive in time to relax, explore the beautiful surroundings and to meet with their guides and fellow safari group. A late lunch will be served to revive the weary travellers. Late afternoon, you will have the opportunity to become acquainted with your selected horse, to take in the wonderful open spaces around you, and to go in search of game in the soft afternoon light. This ride will provide a taste of the stunning variety of game on Dinaka. The day will finish with sundowner drinks and a sumptuous three course evening meal. Day two: The guides will take you on a ride to visit the ‘Small Serengeti Plains’ where you will be able to look and interpret the behaviour of various plains game species. Your guides will have a surprise of bush “games” up their sleeve. On the Dinaka plains riders will encounter the dense game populations this beautiful reserve is renowned for. Sightings of up to 15 rhino, together with eleven other species in your view, are not uncommon. The open plains provide great opportunities for fast riding. Riders are also able to experience that dream canter alongside herds of antelope as they gallop and pronk across the open savannah. Back at the lodge guests can sunbathe above the hippo dam and watch these family orientated creatures interact and play in the heat of the day. This afternoon you may be able to go on a little cross country jumping or ride amongst beautiful big trees. Day three: Mountain exploration. After an early breakfast you will set out on a hunt for some of the reserves more elusive mountain species - leopard, mountain zebra, mountain reedbuck, baboons, African rock python, rock daisies, klipspringers and cape vultures. This ride follows a valley that leads deep into the Waterberg escarpment. The path follows a crystal clear stream and passes several picturesque dams along the way. The bush is dense and full of birdcalls. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed at one of the dams along the way, returning to the lodge in the early afternoon in time for a cooling swim and siesta. The afternoon is a gentle pre-sunset ride to one of the larger dams hosting some of the many hippos on the reserve. Day four: A ride to another area of the reserve, where Dinaka runs its highly successful breeding programme for highly valued species, which include white blesbuck, sable antelope and bontebok. En route the ride crosses a particularly fertile plain where riders can experience the exhilaration and thrill of cantering amongst herds of game, with many different species galloping together across the plains. The afternoon proves a welcome break to both horse and rider. A Dinaka guide will escort you on an informative game drive, where you will visit another area inhabited by the buffalo and some unusual red wildebeest. The guide, who is responsible for the feeding and monitoring of the rhino on the reserve, will accompany the guests for a very special opportunity to approach and observe some of the rhino on foot. The last night is the final ‘braai’ evening where guests relax around the fire, enjoy the African night sky and toast their experiences whilst a feast is served. Day five: In the morning there is a last chance to find any species not yet found and one last gallop along these endless sandy lanes. After a hearty brunch, and sad goodbyes, guests are transferred to their next destination - on the other side of the Botswana border! You will leave the lodge at approximately 10.30 to go to Limpopo Valley – a transfer of approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival at the stunning camp afternoon tea will be served and guests will have a chance to settle in and relax. The afternoon will also bring a introductory ride to familiarise riders with their horses. The ride goes to the Confluence camp, where the Majale and the Limpopo meet. This ride follows the course of the Limpopo, which has the majestic Mashatu trees all along its course. Upon arrival at the camp, you will be met by the luxury of a well-deserved sundowner overlooking the river and a hot shower under the stars. Our well renowned bush cook serves dinner before retiring to your very comfortable beds set up in the comfort of your tent. Let the night bush sounds serenade you to sleep…. Day six: (please also see alternative static camp itinerary) After an early rise and a light breakfast you will head out to explore the Limpopo Valley, including a natural marshland called ”Nels Vlei”, the Majale island witch is guaranteed to keep you on your toes, as this is where the Majale Island pride of lions hang out. Possibly you will pass by Kanda Corner where the giraffes sometimes are browsing on the mopane bush, as well as the aptly named Elephants Valley! The morning ride is 6-7 hours as you explore the area teeming with general game, while heading in a northerly direction. Lunch will be enjoyed at Jwala Camp under the shade of the Ana tree whilst the horses graze around you. In the afternoon you will be taken on a walk into the hills of Jwala to explore up close the beauty of the area. Here your guide will enlighten you to the wonder of the following tracks and signs of the bush. On return to camp sundowners await you around the campfire and dinner is served under the Ana tree. Enjoy the peace and quiet interrupted only by the occasional sounds of lions, hyenas and jackals. Day seven: Today is another early start as you will be again in the saddle for up to 6-7 hours; a good breakfast will fortify you for this day! The route goes in a westerly direction and takes you to the most outlying part of Mashatu, the Kgotla Camp amidst the most amazing sandstone formations and with some amazing baobabs trees. You will be following mostly old elephant trails, made over great periods of time, truly the land of the giants!! This ride brings the opportunity of jumping some of the fallen logs, pushed over by elephants. Lunch will await you under a splendid Mashatu tree, and then after a lunchtime siesta you head out to the Mmmagua ruins to experience how ancient communities in the area used to live. You will also meet the Baobab where Cecil John Rhodes engraved his initials while he was in the area. It is a fascinating insight into the area and its history. Back at the camp, dinner is served under the stars, and tonight you also get to sleep out under the stars as you are inside a “boma”. An unbeatable experience! Day Eight: The dawn chorus will awake you, as a sumptuous breakfast is prepared over the fire. Another long day in the saddle; up to four hours in the morning followed by a good break during the heat of the day, and another two hours in the afternoon are spent in the saddle. You pass through a range of vegetation types: riverine forests, savannah acacias, terminalia shrubland and areas abundant in shepard's trees, there is a good chance of seeing elephants, many species of birds and a wide range of antelopes. You also have to thread your way through the “maze of Elephants and Thorns” and pass by a local community, Lentswe le Morit. Upon reaching the “Liana” camp you will be met by a refreshing drink in a dry riverbed, over hung with the Liana or Babbon vine. This afternoon you have the choice of going on a game drive in search of the cats which you will no doubt prefer to see from the safety of a vehicle! Sundowners are enjoyed in the bush, usually overlooking a Kopie, and you can soak up the atmosphere of a true African experience…Back at camp another delicious meal, cooked over the fire is served. As the night draws to a close you can enjoy a night cap around the fire. Day nine: After a final breakfast around the fire, you will head off for one last ride in the direction of Nels Vlei, a good chance to catch a final glimpse of elephants. Some final jumps over our natural cross country course and your ride comes to an end. A last pat and a fond farewell to you horse, you have the chance to have a good shower and last lunch before heading off for the border and the 5.5 hours drive to Johannesburg. Alternative Limpopo Static Camp Day six: After an early rise and a light breakfast you will head out to explore the Limpopo Valley, including a natural marshland called ”Nels Vlei”, the Majale island witch is guaranteed to keep you on your toes as this is where the Majale Island pride of lions hang out. Possibly out to Kanda Corner where the giraffes sometimes are browsing on the mopane bush, as well as the aptly named Elephants Valley! The morning ride is 3-4 hours as you explore the area teeming with general game. Lunch will be enjoyed under the Mashatu Tree back at the Confluence Camp, as the horses graze around you. In the afternoon you will be back on a fresh horse and you can enjoy the thrill of a natural cross-country course or a leisurely ride along the Limpopo. Dinner is another unforgettable meal under the stars. Day seven: Today is another early start as you will be again in the saddle for up to four hours, a good breakfast will fortify you for this day! This fascinating ride will focus on the history of the area with interesting tales about the Anglo-Boer War. Depending on where the game is, you could end up on the Pitsani Plains enjoying a fast gallop, and if you’re really lucky zebras, wildebeest and giraffe will join you! In the afternoon guests can choose to go on a game drive (or can go for another leisurely afternoon ride). If you choose to go on the game drive, you will spend the late afternoon and evening on the "hunt" for the beautiful and awesome cats which are so much a part of the Mashatu experience. Sundowners are enjoyed on a great koppie and at nightfall the spotlight is used for following Africa’s big cats on ‘the hunt’. Day eight: The dawn chorus will awake you, as a sumptuous breakfast is prepared over the fire. Another long day in the saddle,four hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon. You pass through a range of vegetation types: riverine forests, savannah acacias, terminalia shrubland and areas abundant in shepard's trees, there is a good chance of seeing elephants, many species of birds and a wide range of antelopes. The afternoon ride will head towards the rocky outcrop close to Rock Camp where waterbuck, rock daisies, and black eagles are likely to be spotted. On your way back you can head out to the Dam wall for a great view of Mashatu! Your dinner will be cooked in front of you tonight as its “Braai night” enjoy the comfort of a well earned meal around the fire. Day nine: After a final breakfast around the fire, you will head off for a last ride in the direction of Nels Vlei, a good chance to catch another glimpse of elephants. Some final jumps over our natural cross country course brings your ride to an end. A last pat and a fond farewell to you horse, you have the chance to have a good shower and a quick lunch before heading off for the border and the five and a half hour's drive to Johannesburg. |
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| Accommodation: | The impressive stone and thatch lodge, set high above a large hippo dam with sweeping views of the surrounding plains, will be your home for the first four nights. The stunning luxury lodge, which is perched on the edge of cliffs overlooking a beautiful lake and the plains beyond. The accommodation has four twin bedded rooms all with ensuite bath and shower facilities. There is a comfortable communal dining room and also a large reeded outdoor barbecue area. There is a verandah overlooking the lake perfect for sunset drinks. |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Riders need to be comfortable at all paces and expect some fast riding. You need to be riding fit for this safari. |
| Type of ride: | Safari |
| Total riding time: | Long hours in the saddle |
| Departure dates: | Dates (Limpopo Mobile Camp): 6-14 September (fully booked), 13-21 September (fully booked), 20-28 September (fully booked), 4-13 October (fully booked), 11-19 October, 1-9 November(fixed camp), 8-16 November (fixed camp), 15-23 November (fixed camp). |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Big Five Jembisa Limpopo Safari
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This is an area of great diversity, magnificent vistas and land formations as ancient as time itself. It is also home to a multitude of wildlife species and remains untouched by the invasion of man. The riding trails cover both the riverine terrain and the true African mopane bushveld, including the famous sandstone formations of the Tuli. The richness of the Mashatu horse safari experience is complemented by the prevalence of regularly sighted species such as lion, leopard, elephant and hyena. Day 1: Guests will be transferred from Johannesburg airport to Jembisa, ( a 3.5 hour journey) to a stunning stone and thatch safari lodge in the Waterberg, where they will arrive in time to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings and to meet with their guides and fellow safari group members. Lunch will be served to revive the weary travellers. Late afternoon, guests will have their first opportunity to acquaint themselves with their selected horses, to take in the wonderful open spaces around them, and to go in search of game in the soft afternoon light. The day will finish with sundowners on a rocky expanse with views over the mountains, followed by a sumptuous three course evening meal. Day 2: In the morning guests go on a long and adventurous ride that explores the escarpment area. Riders pause en route to climb down a rocky ledge and observe san rock art, evidence of the hunter gatherers who lived in the area over 400 years ago. The ride explores kloofs and valleys, riding through varied terrain that is home to white rhino, giraffe and a variety of plain’s game. The lengthy morning's ride is rewarded by a superb bush brunch set up under a shady thatched awning with wonderful views of the reserve and looking down at a watering hole below. Guests can relax and sip champagne, whilst sharing the morning’s experiences and feasting on a delicious spread. The afternoon provides a welcome respite and an opportunity to visit an orphan black rhino that resides close by. The owner Konita Walker, wife to renowned artist and conservationist Clive Walker, is always keen to share her experiences over the past 12 years raising not only orphaned white and black rhino, but also orphaned hippo. Day 3: Riders set off prepared for a full day’s riding with a picnic lunch. You will ride across the Phalala river, where the hippo are often seen basking beneath the bridge, and into a neighbouring reserve where rarer game species can be encountered. This 5,000 hectare reserve is the home to white rhino, buffalo and the rare and exquisite roan and sable antelope. You will have almost certainly encountered your first two of the “big five” by the end of the day!! Following a lengthy rest welcomed by both horse and rider together with an elaborate picnic lunch, guests continue with a late afternoon ride into the plains where the rhino are most likely to be seen. The rhino females are often seen with a calf at foot, or larger groups occasionally congregate more socially. This evening the horses are left in a camp on this reserve while guests are driven back to Jembisa lodge for dinner set attractively under an umbrella of trees. Day 4: After an early rise, guests are transported back across the valley to continue riding on the far side of the reserve in an area abundant with wildlife. You return to the lodge for another impressive lunch and guests can relax or take the opportunity to have a massage in their room or outdoors on the deck. In the afternoon you return to ride back through the reserve, picking your way carefully across the river and stopping to enjoy a sundowner at a secluded ‘look out’ vantage point on the edge of the escarpment. The final evening’s dinner is a ‘braai’ evening, set up on the deck amidst a glow of lanterns. Day 5: After a final spin on the horses, some last minute photographs, and a hearty brunch, guests are transferred to their next destination - on the other side of the Botswana border! You will depart the lodge at approximately 11.30 to your next camp– a transfer of approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival at the stunning camp, afternoon tea will be served and guests will have a chance to settle in and relax. The afternoon will also bring a introductory ride to familiarise riders with their horses, as well as to give a little taste to just what is in store over the next four days. The ride returns to camp in time for sundowners around a log fire, centered in the beautiful gardens. Once the sun has disappeared a hearty dinner is served. The evening will draw to a close with a nightcap at the bar. Day 6: After an early rise and a light breakfast you will head in an easterly direction along the Limpopo river in thick riverine forest to the Majale-Limpopo Confluence. Arouse the explorer within you as you gallop on the Pitsani plains along side the Majale river' This is a fast and exhilarating ride and 4-5 hours will be taken up exploring the open plains teeming with general game. Lunch will be enjoyed back at Fort Jamesons under the giant Mashatu tree with a chance for swimming and relaxing. The afternoon ride can bring one of two things: either the thrill of a pre-novice cross-country course or a leisurely ride to Nyslvlei where elephants can often be seen grazing in this non-perennial marshland. On return to camp sundowners await you around the campfire and dinner is served under the Mashatu tree. Day 7: This ride follows the Zeederburg Stagecoach Trail from Rhode's Drift past the eastern side of the Boer War battle site at Nylsvlei and up to the remnants of Bryce's Store. This fascinating ride will focus on the history of the area with interesting tales about the Anglo-Boer War. Today's ride will be approximately six hours, the longest of the three days. A picnic lunch will be provided. Large herds of antelope are encountered in this area. After a time to relax, the ride will return to Fort Jamesons for tea and a scrumptious snack under an impressive mashatu tree. In the afternoon guests will be taken on a game drive. Spend the late afternoon and evening on the "hunt" for the beautiful and awesome cats which are so much a part of the Mashatu experience. Sundowners are enjoyed on a great koppie and at nightfall the spotlight is used for following Africa’s big cats on ‘the hunt’. Day 8: Excellent elephant sightings are practically guaranteed on this day’s ride that passes through a range of vegetation types: riverine forests, savannah acacias, terminalia shrubland and areas abundant in shepard's trees. Following this four-hour ride, lunch and an afternoon swim can be enjoyed. Alternatively, some quiet time can be spent sitting in the hide overlooking the watering hole. The afternoon ride will head towards the rocky outcrop close to Rock Camp where waterbuck, rock daisies, and black eagles are likely to be spotted. This ride brings a bit of pace and adventure, with lots of small jumps and an opportunity to explore the open plains and enjoy the exhilaration of riding among herds of galloping wildebeest and zebra. A short stop at Pete's Pond will provide an opportunity for some fascinating bird watching and wildlife approaching to quench their thirsts. Day 9: After a final chance to encounter elephants on horseback, and a relaxed last brunch under the Mashatu tree you will depart Limpopo at 12.00 and be driven to Johannesburg Airport for your onward flight – a 5.5 hour journey. |
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| Accommodation: |
Jembisa is a luxury lodge wih many first class facilities. There are five luxury en-suite bedrooms, three with private balconies and a children's bunkroom. All bathrooms have both shower and a bath. There is a natural saltwater pool and a tennis court. There is also a secluded deck overlooking the river. Your camp in Botswana is situated along the Limpopo River and approximately 3.5kms from the Limpopo Valley Airfield. The camp consists of five log cabins and one double room all en suite, and a large entertainment area. Each log cabin has two extra large single beds, private en suite facilities (including a shower, flush toilet and wash basin with hot/cold running water). |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Intermediate and above. You will be riding for long hours so you need to be fairly fit. |
| Type of ride: | Safari over varied terrain |
| Total riding time: | 4 - 6 hours per day |
| Departure dates: | 12 May- 20 June, 9-17 June, 30 June-8 July |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Lodge Based Activity Week
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The riding country on this ranch is superb. The horses run unshod on perfect sandy soil and although the bushveldt is thick in places, most of the countryside is open, flat and perfect for extended canters. There are gently rolling hills leading to picturesque views on all sides. The occasion rocky koppie provides an ideal vantage spot from which to appreciate the vastness of the Waterberg plateau. Swimming the horses in one of the many dams is an excellent way to cool down after a long morning ride. Outrides within the private game reserve offer the opportunity to ride with species such as giraffe, zebra, impala, red hartebeest, eland and reedbuck as well as many of the smaller mammmals such as jackal, baboons, monkeys and warthog. Viewing game on horseback is a deeply enriching experience as the animals seem to have little fear enabling you to get closer then you ever thought possible. Guides will show you how to follow game tracks and learn local bushlore. Leisurely viewing of the energetic resident hippo family always proves to be a popular interlude to a ride. For those wanting extended game viewing opportunities, a two day safari that crosses the Melkrivier into neighbouring properties is included. The area boasts many species of game including white rhino, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, ostrich and a host of antelope. On these trips, meals are served from the camp fire and accommodation is in thatched huts sleeping up to three people each with en-suite facilities. Experienced riders will enjoy the challenging cross-country course which ranges from log piles to over thirty taxing open jumps. The course was designed by South Africa's top course builder, Johnny Perreira. Those interested in yet another challenge on horseback can join in the fun of western games. Barrel racing and pole bending are fun ways of schooling yourself in the art of light commands and quick responses. Polocrosse is an amalgam of polo and lacrosse and is easy to learn. It is one of the most exhilarating sports on horseback. Guests who have never played before are introduced to the game slowly, running through the basic rules and showing the tricks of the trade when it comes to stick work. Then it is 'in at the deep end' with a full game. One chukka is usually all it takes to bring out the competitive spirit. The game is so addictive that many of our previous guests have taken it up upon returning home. The 1200 cattle herd on the ranch are stud Bonsmaras, a hardy South African breed bred for their quiet temperament, beef production and disease resistance. Guests can join in the daily routine of herding and yard work, checking the progress of calving cows or drive a herd between widely spread pastures. Given its non aggressive nature, these cattle are the ideal animals with which to experience the challenge and excitement of mustering cattle. Herding cattle also stimulates you to work closely with your horse and gives a rewarding purpose to a morning ride. |
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| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 10 |
| Ability description: | Riders of all abilities will enjoy this ranch stay |
| Type of ride: | Ranch based activities |
| Total riding time: | Ride time dependent upon chosen activities |
| Departure dates: | All year around |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Family Programme
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Your hosts at the lodge understand the need for family holidays to be flexible and therefore do not impose a fixed itinerary. However, to allow you to appreciate the many activities on offer an example itinerary is detailed below. This is by no means set in stone and can be individually tailored to suit the needs of every member of the family. Activities are designed to meet specific interests so that a number of options are availble for both riders and non riders. These include guided bush walks, volleyball, game drives, swimming - with or without your horse; farm and cultural tours, baseball and visits to the local rhino museums and orphan rhinos. The large selection of horses here is perfect for family holidays with a mount to suit every age and ability. Your hosts have a philosophy of working calmly and gently with their horses creating a relationship that is based on trust and confidence. This results in contented, calm, responsive and honest horses; ready and waiting to guide you through this extra special area of Africa. Your hosts will match every horse and rider perfectly with experienced riders to enable them to enjoy exhilarating rides on intelligent and forward going horses. The novice or less confident rider will be matched with an experienced and genuine horse who will build confidence as they share with their riders this extra special experience. Your hosts, with years of experience and a daughter themselves provide a genuine and welcoming atmosphere that allows for fun and excitement as well as relaxation. As they welcome you into the lodge your hosts will share with you its life and beauty along with the community of the Waterberg. In fact, after spending their holiday in such a welcoming retreat many guests become lasting friends. Day one: Arrive in time for lunch and a chance to unpack and relax. Enjoy a first ride in the game area in search of plains game such as giraffe and zebra. End the day with sundowner drinks. Day two: The group can be split into adults and children. The youngsters can go off to muster cattle and try their hand at cutting whilst the adults ride to the ranch owner’s homestead at Boschdraai for a tour of the farm, school and crèche. After lunch those interested can take the staff on at baseball, basketball or volleyball. Others can simply enjoy the joys of an African siesta. In the afternoon there is a chance to try the crosscountry course or perhaps ride around the hippo pools. Day three: An introduction to polocrosse, this fun and addictive game can be enjoyed by all. Splitting the group into teams of three, basic instruction is followed by the fun of the game. This is then followed by a cooling swim with the horses. After lunch some of the party may like to visit the goat cheese farm or the rhino museum, returning to the lodge in time for a short afternoon sundowner ride. Day four: You will embark on a two-day wilderness safari. Here rides will be in search of a wide variety of game. This is a wonderful experience where you will be taught the signs of the wild and medicinal values of the bushes and trees. Tonight will be spent at a rustic bush camp on the banks of the Melk River. Dinner is served from an open fire whilst your canopy is the star filled Africa sky. Day five: A quick campfire breakfast and then it’s off with your picnic lunch to explore the reserve and its wildlife, resting at the river mid-morning for a swim and a chance to cool off. This afternoon you will ride back to the homestead in time to relax before dinner. Day six: Today offers the option to join an excursion to one of the local big five game reserves for a game drive or perhaps to go elephant back riding. This can be followed by a visit to the curio shops in the local town arriving back at the lodge in time for a late lunch and siesta. In the afternoon you can enjoy another session of polocrosse. Day seven: A morning of EQ, a homespun bushveld sport that involves orienteering and accomplishing a set of challenges such as river crossing and target shooting. It’s a fun morning and one enjoyed by all ages. In the afternoon you can again break into smaller groups to explore the wilderness area or enjoy one of the long and fast rides on the ranch’s many kilometres of sandy tracks. Day eight: For today's treasure hunt the teams will compete to be the first to solve the clues, which will eventually lead to a champagne breakfast in the bush. This is followed by a short ride back to the ranch followed by a swim with the horses. Those keen can then join those at the main house's tennis court and heated pool. The afternoon ride can be one last chance to see the giraffes and the hippos. Day nine: Last ride of your choice and departure after lunch. |
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| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: | Beginners to experienced |
| Type of ride: | Based rides |
| Total riding time: | Flexible |
| Departure dates: | All year around |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |