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Horizon Horseback Adventures and Safaris

Overview

Horizon Horseback offers a range of riding safaris in the malaria-free Waterberg region South Africa and now also in Botswana via their sister company (see Horizon Botswana page). Regular winners of the 'Best Riding Safari in Africa' title in the prestigious Safari Awards, Horizon is a well-known h…

Highlights

  • Fun riding for all ages & abilities in split groups
  • Plenty of plains game such as giraffe, zebra, antelope
  • Discover your competitive edge and try polocrosse
  • Swim your horse in the dam amongst the lily-pads
  • Relax with sundowners, listening to the hippo calling

Essential Facts

  • 3 itineraries available
  • Max 10 riders per group
  • Average of 4 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 13st 5 lbs/ 187lbs / 85kg.
    more info Slightly heavier riders may be accepted if very experienced or tall - please enquire.

Description

Horizon Horseback offers a range of riding safaris in the malaria-free Waterberg region South Africa and now also in Botswana via their sister company (see Horizon Botswana page). Regular winners of the 'Best Riding Safari in Africa' title in the prestigious Safari Awards, Horizon is a well-known horse safari destination with a longstanding reputation for its friendly, relaxed atmosphere and focus on quality and service. Not only that, but they manage to combine the thrill and luxury of safari with surprisingly affordable prices. Just three hours north of Johannesburg, this destination has a choice for everyone from honeymoon couples to adventurous families, single riders to groups of friends (non-riders also welcome).

Guests can opt for a lodge based safari at the historic family property, or a mobile safari such as the 'African Explorer' which is organised in conjunction with Horizon Botswana. On the lodge stay riders stay on Horizon's main property, set in a private game reserve alongside a beautiful lake with hippo and surrounding plains game. The set-departure Signature Safari's and African Explorer Safari's also offer the chance to sleep under canvas, traditional 'safari style', by incorporating some nights in Horizon's own tented camp, Camp Davidson (these are only available for Intermediate riders upwards).

When based on the main property guests can ride safe in the knowledge that whilst they may see the beautiful likes of zebra and giraffe, there are none of the animals considered most dangerous (primarily elephants and big cats).

Lodge based safaris at Horizon can be tailor made to suit your needs. With a large herd of horses available, there is a suitable partner for every level of rider including safe mounts for beginners and children (and some spicier options for those who like some spirit!). The choices of riding are almost endless and include outrides through the game reserve, swimming with the horses in the lake (subject to local conditions), western games, polocrosse or perhaps even popping logs in the jumping lanes scattered through the reserve. Weddings can also be arranged here and you will find it the ideal setting for such special occasions.

All the team from Far and Ride have been lucky enough to ride here on different occasions and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Horses & Riding

Tack

McClellan trail saddles are used on safaris both in South Africa and Botswana. They are comfortable for both horse and rider when spending long hours in the bush.

Horses

Anglo Arabs, Thoroughbreds, Boerperds and cross breeds.

Riding

There are 3 itineraries:

  • Horizon Lodge Based Stay is a based ride
  • African Explorer is a trail ride
  • Set-date Signature Safari is a trail ride

Ages

No Age Limit

Health

No specific health requirements

Weight

13st 5 lbs/ 187lbs / 85kg. Slightly heavier riders may be accepted if very experienced or tall - please enquire.

Food & Accommodation

Food

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.

Accommodation

The main lodge accommodation comprises several rooms and chalets, all of which are en-suite with either a shower, a bath or both. Guests also have access to a spacious living area, dining room, stoep (verandah) and swimming pool which overlooks the lake.

Room options at the lodge include both standard rooms and garden chalets:

Standard Rooms (1):
Lodge Room

Garden Chalets (4):
Hippo 1
Hippo 2
Twin Peaks
Old Rondavel

Luxury Chalets (3):
Hippo 3 (upstairs Hippo room)
Rock Lodge (remote cottage by the lake)
Lakeside (remote cottage by the lake)

We will book you for either a standard room, garden chalet or luxury chalet (depending on your preference) but not specify which exact room you will be in unless requested.

In addition to the main lodge, Horizon also has a tented camp called 'Camp Davidson' where guests can stay for a more traditional 'under canvas' safari experience. The camp features luxurious canvas tents with decking and is completely run on solar energy. It also has its own small swimming pool. This accommodation is only available as part of the African Explorer or Signature Safari set itinerary.

Itineraries

Horizon Lodge Based Stay Standard / Luxury accommodation.

African Explorer Tented accommodation.

Set-date Signature Safari Tented / Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

Non-riding activities are available primarily at an added cost, although guided bush walks and attendance of the local Sunday church service are included free of charge. Other options include game drives, cycling, night sky safaris, Lekhalo Zipline visit, fishing, massages, visits to the Waterberg Living Museum of Bullseye Taxidermy, Vaalwater shopping trip or an excursion to the Telekeshi Ramasobane Cultural Village.

Travel

There are several airlines flying direct to Johannesburg (ORT). Many leave the UK in the evenings and after an overnight flight you will arrive the next morning hopefully without any jet lag! We will arrange your safe transfer. On arrival we ask that clients make their way to the information desk of the arrivals hall to meet their driver who will have a sign with their name on it.

Horizon Group Transfers:
Arriving: Daily leaving ORT at approx. 11:15 (arriving at Horizon approx. 14:15): you must arrive before 10:15am.
Departing: Daily leaving Horizon at approx. 14:00 (arriving at ORT after. 17:00): you MUST book flights departing 20:00 or later to allow time for traffic.

If your flights do not fit these timings, then private transfers will need to be organised for those whose flights arrive after 10:15 am and depart before 18:30 (please note that an additional cost will be incurred for this service and you may miss out on the first/last ride).

African Explorer Transfers include:
Day 1 - leaving ORT at 11:15am for Camp Davidson. Your flight MUST arrive before 10:15 and you should arrive to Camp Davidson at 14:30 in time for a late lunch. For 2024 safaris, your flight MUST arrive before 09:30.
Day 5 - depart from Bellevue on horseback at 06:30, riding to Horizon lodge. Depart Horizon at 09:30, by car, arriving at the stables in Botswana by 13:00 for lunch.
Day 8 - Departure day air transfer from Botswana to Lanseria, departing LVA (close to the stables) at 12:30, landing in Lanseria at 14:05. On the event of bad weather you will take a road transfer to ORT airport instead, arriving there at 18:00. You MUST book a flight leaving ORT after 20:00.

Please note that alternative transfers cannot be organised for those taking part in the African Explorer. Those who are not able to book flights to fit these times should consider spending an extra night in South Africa before or after the ride in order to meet the transfer times.

Testimonials

Peri T., July 3, 2023

Africa Explorer: It was a completely amazing once in a lifetime experience. We've made wonderful memories for a lifetime. Although the trip is expensive you can see where every penny goes, and why other places are much more. The horses were exceptional, every member of the team was fabulous, the animal viewing was both safe and incredible and plenty of wonderful food and drink too! Favourite memory? Too many to say just one! My lifetime ambition of seeing giraffes from a horse that I never thought I'd be able to do, the staff singing before dinner in Botswana, sitting and singing around the campfire all together esp for my daughters 21st! And seeing a honey badger!! One of the main things still on my mind though is how wonderful the horses were, how fantastically well they are looked after and how much they enjoyed their work with the amazing team of staff and volunteers.


Grainne M., March 21, 2023

I had the most amazing time... would recommend to anyone thinking of going to Horizon to do it, it's a very special place.


Jackie M., Feb. 17, 2023

Totally relaxing and well organised. Favourite memory? Getting close to a lion family on a game drive (off-site). Food & Accommodation? Exceeded expectations. Horses? The horses were all well cared for and well matched to the riders ability. The tack was in very good condition and cleaned daily, very soft and supple. Guides? The full time guides were extremely knowledgable and professional. The back up guides were mostly temporary volunteers but all capable and good company. Any improvements? Stay longer next time!


Hennie & Danno, June 29, 2022

Fantastic horses, amazing accommodation, plenty of nice food and a nice intro to safari riding... If you felt anything wasn't quite right, they listened and helped sort it.


Seema, Feb. 18, 2020

Very chilled and hospitable place, really well planned and thoughtful touches in the accommodation, really appreciated the daily laundry and the food was divine! The horse matching was excellent, the rides were varied with galloping on open plains, being able to look at the scenery and trust my horse was just amazing! I had been so well prepared by the Far and Ride team they answered all my questions and I can't wait to book my next trip with them.


Calvin and Susan, May 8, 2018

This was the trip of a lifetime! It was absolutely wonderful. Probably one of the best memories was cantering with the zebras and then having a family of warthogs spring up out of the grass right in front of us. Camp Davidson was really special too. (Horizon Lodge and Camp Davidson)


Chris & Gerry G. (Horizon & Jaci's Lodge combination), Nov. 3, 2017

A wonderful experience! Split between 2 very different locations and types fo safari. The first - horse riding on a secure reserve gave our group of 3 the opportunity to get close to the animals (a great range, excluding lion, elephant, buffalo) in a natural environment. Great riding - it felt safe at all times, despite the hippo and crocodile. Jaci's Tree Lodge safari - a great follow-on vehicle safari giving us close viewing of so many more (some endangered) species - overall a brilliant experience that just grew and grew with each day. (Accommodation?) Both locations - really excellent! Loved the horses (at Horizon) all individuals, but so responsive and willing to move! The fact that the herd of 80 plus horses were free on the reserve gave an added element to the horses' relationship with the Horizon team. (Favourite memory?) Horizon - walking on horseback so close to the giraffe, zebra, etc. The fast canters, gallops, the polocrosse and jumping - all great fun. Jaci's tree lodge - probably 2 young elephants play-fighting for over half an hour in the pool next to the lodge.


Samantha K., Oct. 17, 2017

It was an amazing experience. Wonderful holiday. (Favourite memory?) Swimming with the horses.


Jane L., May 18, 2016

The best riding holiday I've ever done (and I've done a lot over the years). Horizon blew me away - I cried when I left! Such a beautiful place and so well run, with the guests' and horses' needs at the heart of everything.


Anne L., April 8, 2015

I had a really good time, the people, staff and guests were great. The staff look after you very well and become more like friends than staff. I ended up with a couple of horses that I really trusted. The guides were very knowledgeable. It was the perfect holiday – action on the horses and relaxation and eating in between, and boy, was the food good. Not hotel stuff, but very good home cooked food. I even came home with a recipe from Ryno.


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

You will be collected from Johannesburg OR Tambo International airport and transferred c. 3 hours to the lodge, arriving in time for a late lunch. In the afternoon you will be able to join your first ride, which is a relaxed affair to give you the opportunity to settle into your surroundings. Crossing the plains, enjoy your first encounter with wildlife on horseback such as ostrich, impala, zebra, kudu, eland or giraffe.

A stunning lookout spot for sundowner drinks is a welcome moment to take in your first taste of Africa after a long journey, before returning to the lodge for a three course dinner.

Days 2 to 7

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

During a typical seven day holiday, guests have the chance to explore a wide area (21,000 acres) on horseback, venturing into different parts of the reserve and the conservancy. There are two riding activities per day - a longer morning ride (up to 3 - 4 hours) and a shorter afternoon ride (1 - 2 hours). Below we have detailed the different kind of rides you can experience during your stay, depending on your riding ability and preferences.

Out Rides and Game Viewing

Observing the local wildlife and seeing the bush from horseback is simply the best way! The sandy tracks wind through areas of thicker bush as well as open plains and the going is easy for both riders and horses. The game here doesn't view horse and rider combinations as a threat so you are able to ride close to animals such as giraffe and zebra.

Conservancy Ride

During your stay there is usually the opportunity for a full day ride, heading west into the conservancy game reserve. This route allows for long canters and the chance to see some different animals including large herds of wildebeest, hartebeest, sable, eland and blesbok. Buffalo, ostrich, kudu, waterbuck and impala may also be encountered. 

You eat lunch at the conservancy lodge and take a rest by the pool before making your way back to base, arriving in time for sundowners, although there is the option for an overnight out in the conservancy if you prefer (please enquire). 

Polocrosse

This is open to novice riders as well as those more secure in the saddle - your hosts will teach you how to play and find that guests often get quite competitive after a few chukkas! The game combines polo and lacrosse and uses a soft ball and lacrosse-like sticks. Players are divided into teams of three (a scorer, centre and defence) and the game starts with a line-out where the umpire throws the ball into play. The aim of the game is to pick up and throw or steal the ball in order to shoot and score a goal, but tactics may even include riding opponents off the pitch. Here at Far and Ride we LOVE the game with all of us having tried it during our own visits to Horizon. 

Swimming with your Horse (subject to local conditions)

This is one of the most popular activities at Horizon, especially for those who have not done it before. After a morning ride and providing conditions allow, you have the chance to take your horse swimming in the dam by the lodge. The motion of horses swimming underneath you is a wonderful feeling and it's the perfect way to cool off after a morning in the saddle. (Swimming cannot be offered when the hippo are resident in the dam).

Western Games

A team of guides run a western games afternoon which is full of great exercises to test the skills of both children and adult riders. Activities may include pole-bending, barrel-racing, threading a sword through a stirrup, hunting a marshmallow, musical horses and more. Brings out the team spirit in guests and is a real hit with younger riders especially. 

Jumping

There are a number of small jumps (inviting logs etc) and jumping lanes which are suitable for many levels of rider and incorporated into the out rides. 

Village Ride to the Local School

On the greater farm lies a small village called Lehlabile, comprising around 40 Sotho dwellings, a small primary school and creche. Many of the Horizon staff were born in the village and grew up there. This ride takes you through the village to the local school - you can see the traditionally painted houses, chat to villages and meet the children at the school. The children will often sing and dance for you and if you'd like to bring anything for them, they love donations of crayons, pencils, paper paint, play dough, secondhand books and toys

Day 8

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

On your final day there is usually time for one last ride on your favourite horse before a delicious lunch. You may have to check-out of your room if other guests are arriving but can relax in the communal spaces until your transfer arrives to whisk you back to Johannesburg airport.

Accommodation

Guests stay in a room or chalet at the main lodge.

Experience Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced

All abilities welcome. Rides are split so that experienced riders can enjoy faster riding, whilst beginners take things easy.

Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 1, 2023 - Dec. 31, 2023  (Any duration from 3 nights or more with flexible arrivals and departures)

At any time during: Jan. 1, 2024 - Dec. 31, 2024  (Any duration from 3 nights or more with flexible arrivals and departures)

Pricing

2023
Luxury Chalet, Single, Low Season
£345 $420 €395 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023
2023
Luxury Chalet, Sharing, Low Season
£230 $280 €265 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023
2023
Garden Chalet, Single, Low Season
£260 $315 €300 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023
2023
Garden Chalet, Sharing, Low Season
£230 $280 €265 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023
2023
Standard room, Single, Low Season
£230 $280 €265 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023
2023
Standard room, Sharing, Low Season
£196 $235 €225 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023
2023
Third person in any room, Low Season
£191 $230 €215 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2023. Applies to third person only.
2023
Luxury Chalet, Single, Mid Season
£380 $465 €435 per night
Mid Season : March - June 2023
2023
Luxury Chalet, Sharing, Mid Season
£255 $310 €290 per night
Mid Season : March - June 2023
2023
Garden Chalet, Sharing, Mid Season
£255 $310 €290 per night
Mid Season : March - June 2023
2023
Garden Chalet, Single, Mid Season
£280 $340 €320 per night
2023
Standard room, Sharing, Mid Season
£215 $260 €245 per night
Mid Season : March - June 2023
2023
Standard room, Single, Mid Season
£255 $310 €290 per night
Mid Season : March - June 2023
2023
Third person in any room, Mid Season
£210 $255 €240 per night
Mid Season : March - June 2023. Applies to third person only.
2023
Luxury Chalet, Sharing, High Season
£300 $365 €340 per night
High Season : July - December 2023
2023
Luxury Chalet, Single, High Season
£450 $545 €515 per night
High Season : July - December 2023
2023
Garden Chalet, Sharing, High Season
£300 $365 €340 per night
High Season : July - December 2023
2023
Garden Chalet, Single, High Season
£330 $400 €375 per night
High Season : July - December 2023
2023
Standard room, sharing, High Season
£260 $315 €295 per night
High Season : July - December 2023
2023
Standard room, Single, High Season
£300 $365 €340 per night
High Season : July - December 2023
2023
Third person in any room, High Season
£245 $300 €280 per night
High Season : July - December 2023. Applies to third person only.
2024
Standard Room, Single, Low Season
£245 $300 €280 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2024
2024
Third Person in any Room, Low Season
£200 $245 €230 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2024. Applies to third person only.
2024
Luxury/Garden Chalet, Sharing, Low Season
£245 $300 €280 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2024
2024
Luxury/Garden Chalet, Single, Low Season
£345 $420 €395 per night
Low season 6th Jan - 28th Feb 2024
2024
Luxury/Garden Chalet, Sharing, Mid Season
£270 $330 €310 per night
Mid season March - June 2024
2024
Luxury/Garden Chalet, Single, Mid Season
£380 $465 €435 per night
Mid season March - June 2024
2024
Standard Room, Single, Mid Season
£270 $330 €310 per night
Mid season March - June 2024
2024
Third person in any room, Mid Season
£225 $275 €260 per night
Mid season March - June 2024. Applies to third person only.
2024
Standard Room, Single, High Season
£320 $390 €365 per night
High season July - December 2024
2024
Third person in any room, High Season
£265 $320 €305 per night
High season July - December 2024. Applies to third person only
2024
Luxury/Garden Chalet, Sharing, High Season
£320 $390 €365 per night
High season July - December 2024
2024
Luxury/Garden Chalet, Single, High Season
£445 $545 €515 per night
High season July - December 2024
Included Accommodation, meals, drinks (including local beers, wines and spirits), horse riding and bush walks.
Not included Flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, tips or extra activities and services not mentioned.

Extras

2023 - Arrival +60 Airport Transfer £255 $310 €290
Paid to Far and Ride
ARRIVAL +60 transfers are timed to depart within an hour after your flight arrives and are charged each way per booking. You'll only have to wait for people arriving at the same time as you and not for later flights. Flights must arrive between 06:55 and 10:55am.
2023 - Group Airport Transfer (set time) £128 $156 €147
Paid to Far and Ride
GROUP transfers from and to Johannesburg airport are charged per person each way and are strictly at SET TIMES. You will have to wait for riders arriving on other flights.
2024 - Group Airport Transfer (set time) £138 $168 €159
Paid to Far and Ride
GROUP transfers from and to Johannesburg airport are charged per person each way and are strictly at SET TIMES. You will have to wait for riders arriving on other flights.
2024 - Private Airport Transfer £320 $390 €370
Paid to Far and Ride
PRIVATE transfers can be arranged outside of usual arrival times, or if you need to stop for shopping and don't want to share. These are charged per vehicle each way.
2023 - Private Transfer £300 $365 €340
Paid to Far and Ride
PRIVATE transfers can also be arranged outside of usual arrival times, or if you need to stop for shopping and don't want to share. These are charged per vehicle each way.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

You will be met at Johannesburg International Airport and transferred to Camp Davidson (approximately 3 hours) in time for a late lunch. In the afternoon you are introduced to your safari horse, ensuring that you are matched with a horse to suit your ability and experience before you head off on your first ride. This first ride is a relaxed affair to give you the opportunity to settle into your new surroundings. Crossing the plains, enjoy your first encounter with wildlife on horseback such as ostrich, impala, zebra, kudu, eland, giraffe, warthog and jackal.

A stunning lookout spot for sundowner drinks is a welcome moment to take in your first taste of Africa after a long journey before returning to Camp Davidson for a three course dinner.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Todays ride sets out from the high country overlooking a beautiful wilderness area to the east and heads south, winding along the banks of Sunset Lake where resident Fish Eagles and Spur-Winged Geese are often spotted, as well as a pod of resident hippo. Later ride through the open savannah where wildebeest and zebra can be encountered. The riding is varied, from canters along sandy tracks to winding through rocky outcrops and densely wooded areas. Weather and local conditions permitting there may be a chance to take the horses for a swim in one of the dams before returning to camp for lunch and a chance to relax by the pool.

The afternoon ride offers more chance for hippo viewing and some great long canters.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Todays ride heads to the game conservancy which is home to Bellevue Lodge. The ride traverses a wide wetland, home to reedbuck and grass owls, before entering dense woodland dotted with wild fig trees and large fruited bushwillows. Here it crosses the watershed and descends through open grasslands with sweeping views to the upper reaches of the conservancy's main water system. Your route passes the favoured habitat of waterbuck and Cape buffalo. The open plains that follow are aptly known as Little Serengeti and are filled with large herds of blesbuck, eland, wildebeest and kudu as well as elegant sable, swift red hartebeest and impressive journeys of giraffe and Cape buffalo. After a lunch at the lodge and a rest by the pool, the afternoon continue to explore this game rich area, closing with sundowners overlooking the African plains.

Overnight Bellevue Lodges.

Day 4

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

A morning ride from the lodge in search of buffalo before returning to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax and enjoy this beautiful setting before riding back to Horizon lodge in the afternoon. Say goodbye to your horses and head back up to Camp Davidson for a final night in South Africa.

Day 5

Riding: 2 - 4 hours

An early ride down from Camp Davidson to Horizon Lodge where there's time to quickly freshen up before jumping into the vehicle for the transfer to Botswana, which aims to depart at 9am. You'll arrive at Mashatu in time for lunch before changing into your riding clothes and heading out on your first afternoon ride to experience your new horses before arriving at the newly built Tree camp.

Day 6

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

An early wake up call with tea/coffee brought to your tent followed by breakfast around the camp fire. You will make an early start each day to enjoy the freshness of the morning and to maximise game viewing opportunities in the hours the wildlife are most active. Undoubtedly you will come across the large herd of elephant for which the Tuli is renowned as well as many different species of antelope, giraffe, zebra, bat eared fox, jackal, hyena and possibly even lion, leopard, wild dog and cheetah. 

Depart Tree Camp and explore the centre of the reserve and game rich Pitsane river area before arriving at Two Mashatus camp in time for lunch and a cooling afternoons rest beside the pool.

In the afternoon you can either ride or take a game drive to the south-western side of the reserve, which is an area not reached on horseback during this itinerary. It is an area which is rich in game with a resident pride of lion. The highlight of the drive is a sundowner in the ancient landscape of rock formations of the Mmagwa hills, with vast vistas into the setting sun.

Day 7

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Full morning ride from Two Mashatus camp.

The afternoon brings the chance to choose between a bush walk, afternoon ride or possibly a game drive with Mashatu looking for cats (subject to availability and an additional charge of USD 65 per person). Return to Two Mashatu camp for your last night in Africa.

Day 8

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

A final early morning ride back to the stables, taking one last photo of elephant of enjoying a long and winding canter through the scattered Mustard bush. At the stables there is time for a quick shower and brunch before heading back to the airport.

Light aircraft transfer back to Johannesburg airport for your flight home.

Please be aware that due to changes in weather and other unforeseen events, the itinerary may be changed at the last minute. We will endeavour to keep everyone informed of any changes and the reason for them.

Accommodation

3 nights Camp Davidson, 1 night Savannah Lodge, 1 night Tree Camp, 2 nights Two Mashatus Camp

Experience Experienced

You need to be a competent rider, able to post to the trot and take a forward seat in canter.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 10
Departure windows

March 10, 2023 - March 17, 2023

March 17, 2023 - March 24, 2023

March 24, 2023 - March 31, 2023

March 31, 2023 - April 7, 2023

April 7, 2023 - April 14, 2023

April 14, 2023 - April 21, 2023

April 21, 2023 - April 28, 2023

April 28, 2023 - May 5, 2023

May 5, 2023 - May 12, 2023

May 12, 2023 - May 19, 2023

May 19, 2023 - May 26, 2023

May 26, 2023 - June 2, 2023

June 2, 2023 - June 9, 2023

June 9, 2023 - June 16, 2023

June 16, 2023 - June 23, 2023

June 23, 2023 - June 30, 2023

June 30, 2023 - July 7, 2023

July 7, 2023 - July 14, 2023

July 14, 2023 - July 21, 2023

July 21, 2023 - July 28, 2023

July 28, 2023 - Aug. 4, 2023

Aug. 4, 2023 - Aug. 11, 2023

Aug. 11, 2023 - Aug. 18, 2023

Aug. 18, 2023 - Aug. 25, 2023

Aug. 25, 2023 - Sept. 1, 2023

Sept. 1, 2023 - Sept. 8, 2023

Sept. 8, 2023 - Sept. 15, 2023

Sept. 15, 2023 - Sept. 22, 2023

Sept. 22, 2023 - Sept. 29, 2023

Sept. 29, 2023 - Oct. 6, 2023

Oct. 6, 2023 - Oct. 13, 2023

Oct. 13, 2023 - Oct. 20, 2023

Oct. 20, 2023 - Oct. 27, 2023

Oct. 27, 2023 - Nov. 3, 2023

Nov. 3, 2023 - Nov. 10, 2023

Nov. 10, 2023 - Nov. 17, 2023

Nov. 17, 2023 - Nov. 24, 2023

Nov. 24, 2023 - Dec. 1, 2023

Dec. 1, 2023 - Dec. 8, 2023

Dec. 8, 2023 - Dec. 15, 2023

Dec. 15, 2023 - Dec. 22, 2023

Dec. 22, 2023 - Dec. 29, 2023

Dec. 29, 2023 - Jan. 5, 2024

Pricing

2023
Low Season (Jan, Feb), sharing
£2030 $2475 €2335
2023
Mid Season (March, April, Dec), sharing
£2250 $2740 €2585
2023
High Season (May-November), sharing
£2500 $3045 €2870
2024
High Season (May-November), sharing
£2860 $3485 €3285
2024
Mid Season (Mar, Apr, Dec), sharing
£2420 $2950 €2780
2024
Low Season (Jan, Feb), sharing
£2115 $2575 €2430
Included 7 nights accommodation (4 in South Africa and 3 in Botswana), all meals, all drinks (soft drinks and local beers, wines and spirits), riding and safari activities as per itinerary.
Not included Flights, transfers, travel insurance, conservation fee, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2023 - Airport Transfer (road and flight) £485 $590 €555
Paid to Far and Ride
Includes arrival day road transfer from ORT airport to Camp Davidson, Day 5 transfers from Camp Davidson to Botswana and departure day air transfer (charter flight) from Botswana to Johannesburg. Transfers are strictly at set times - please check with us.
2024 - Airport Transfer (road and flight) £520 $630 €595
Paid to Far and Ride
Includes arrival day road transfer from ORT airport to Camp Davidson, Day 5 transfers from Camp Davidson to Botswana and departure day air transfer (charter flight) from Botswana to Johannesburg. Transfers are strictly at set times - please check with us.
2023/2024 - Conservation Fee $10 per night
Paid locally
Conservation Fee payable locally for the nights in Botswana
2023/2024 - Single Supplement 50.0%
Paid to Far and Ride
Single supplement is only payable if not willing to share.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

You'll be met at Johannesburg airport and transferred to the lodge in time for a light lunch in the gardens. After a brief rest and afternoon tea you'll be introduced to the horses. Your first ride is a gentle one so you can get used to the tack, style of riding and spot your first wildlife - with luck the zebra, giraffe or even hippo will welcome you! After exploring the sandy tracks with a couple of canters you'll end with sundowner drinks on the open plains.

Day 2

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

This mornings ride is set to be sporty. Your route follows an open valley where you may spot kudu, sable, reedbuck, red hartebeest, waterbuck and impala. The sandy tracks make for excellent going and you can pick up the pace as it crosses the grasslands and weaves through woodland. After a couple of hours you'll reach a picturesque dam where you stop for a snack and can hopefully swim the horses (subject to local conditions).

The ride back to the lodge is more relaxed and you may encounter dark red pedigree cattle along the route. When conditions are suitable the last stretch of the ride involves a splashy canter along the edge of the lake adjacent to the lodge - a lot of fun but don't expect to stay dry!

After lunch and a siesta, the afternoon ride heads east, following the river past a series of dams when you may encounter hippo before returning across the open plains. At this time of day the plains can be busy as the herds mingle in the soft afternoon light - it is a magical experience to ride so close to these wild animals.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

An early start today as you ride from Horizon lodge to either Savannah Lodge in the far south west or Seringa Lodge in the south east. The first part of the route covers country you'll be familiar with but soon enters new terrain. In places the bush is thick but after a while the scenery opens up to grasslands with sweeping views giving the sense of vastness of the African plains. There's high concentrations of game and large herds of blesbuck and eland can be sighted. The last section to the lodge can also offer up kudu and bushbuck.

After lunch and relaxing around the pool you'll remount to ride to the edge of the reserve in search of buffalo - part of the Big Five and with a fearsome reputation. Stay alert and responsive to your guides instructions, and enjoy the sunsets this area is renowned for before heading back to the lodge for dinner.

Day 4

Riding: 5 hours

Another long ride through game-rich country as you return to Horizon lodge, taking a different route to yesterdays. Different game species prefer different habitats, with nyala and bushbuck favouring the dense forest-like sections of the reserve whilst blesbuck and hartebeest stick to the open plains and waterbuck and reedbuck unsurprisingly hang around the streams and waterways. Your route also provides excellent opportunities to spot giraffe.

After more than five hours in the saddle, your afternoon activity is a game drive in the nearby Entabeni or Welgevonden game reserves. Although this involves an hour or so of travel each way, the change to see lion, elephant and rhino in their natural environments will make it worthwhile.

Day 5

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

No two days in a game reserve are ever the same as you never know what animals you will encounter. Todays route takes you deep into the reserve to reach parts with a real wilderness quality.After about 3 hours of riding you reach a giant wild fig tree where you stop for a bush breakfast over an open fire. After this hearty meal you return to the lodge through dense forest where some shyer species like to shelter.

In the afternoon, you head to Camp Davidson for an exciting night under canvas. Camp is perched high on a ridge overlooking a vast wilderness area to the east and the ride up there follows a narrow trail along the ridge. Baboon, bushpig, kudu and klipspringer are often encountered whilst porcupine can be frequent nocturnal visitors to camp!

Day 6

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Head to the north-east of the reserve, descending from camp to cross a stream and open plain to reach Sunset Lake. A popular haunt for the hippo and also home to crocodile, otter, fish eagle and other water fowl. Ride along the waters edge, keeping a close eye out for hippo who may honk and blow as you pass! Depending on water levels it should be possible to have a splashy canter before leaving the lake behind to ride across the open plains back to Horizon lodge, with some decent canters along the way.

Relax by the pool after lunch and then head out for a game of polocrosse. An amalgam of Polo and Lacrosse, the game is highly addictive and sure to bring out your competitive side! The horses know the game and no previous experience is required by riders who will quickly pick it up and have a great deal of fun.

Day 7

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

One of the most memorable activities at Horizon is mustering the herd at dawn. Requiring an early start, but the memories will make it worthwhile. The horses to be used for the muster are not released into the grazing area the night before so that you can ride them this morning to find the herd in their vast pasture. Gather them up and gently canter them back to the yard along the edge of the lake as the sun rises. Once mustering is complete, head for a hearty breakfast before going on another magical ride to the eastern wilderness parts of the reserve with scenic views.

In the afternoon, follow a route interspersed with small optional cross country jumps on the way to sundowners in a stunning spot with views of the rolling hills. After a well-earned gin and tonic, the ride back to the lodge is slow and serene as night falls.

Day 8

Riding: 3 hours

Your last opportunity for a final ride on the reserve. Now you know the landscape you can request your favourite route to spot as much incredible wildlife as possible. After lunch in the garden, it's time to head back to the airport for your flight home.

Accommodation

Five nights are spent at Horizon Lodge, with one night at a Bellevue Plains Lodge and one night at Camp Davidson

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

You must be at least an intermediate rider who is comfortable in all paces in open spaces. There is some fast riding and the opportunity to pop over some small logs/jumps on some routes.

Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

At any time during: April 7, 2024 - Dec. 22, 2024  (Available every week, always starting on a Sunday)

Pricing

2024
Low Season (Jan/Feb), sharing Garden Chalet or Single Standard room
£1975 $2405 €2270
2024
Mid Season (Mar/Apr/May/June), sharing Garden Chalet or Single Standard room
£2150 $2620 €2470
2024
High Season (July - Dec), sharing Garden Chalet or Single Standard room
£2490 $3030 €2860
Included 7 nights accommodation, all meals, drinks (including local beers, wines and spirits), horse riding as described, one off-site game drive.
Not included Flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, tips or extra activities and services not mentioned.

Extras

2024 - Group Airport Transfer (set-time) £138 $168 €159
Paid to Far and Ride
GROUP transfers from and to Johannesburg airport are charged per person each way and are strictly at SET TIMES. You will have to wait for riders arriving on other flights.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.