South Africa has so much to offer with diverse scenery, majestic wildlife and an amazing culture. We offer a selection of unforgettable horse riding adventures and safaris in the Waterberg area of northern South Africa, which is malaria free. Just three hours north of Johannesburg, this riding destination has a choice for everyone – from honeymoon couples to adventurous families, single riders and groups of friends. Accompanying non-riders are also welcome.
The flexible day itineraries include rides across the bushveld to view wildlife, mustering cattle, swimming horses in the lake, trying your hand at polocrosse or competing in Western games. There is even a course for riders experienced in cross country jumping.
Horse riding safaris in Africa are simply incredible. Becoming part of a herd of zebra as they canter across the plains or quietly approaching a browsing giraffe or basking hippopotamus is a magical experience. While riding, you may see some of the plain’s game, including giraffe, hippopotamus, jackal, hartebeest, impala, kuda, zebra and baboon.
Children are welcome. Early dinners can be easily arranged for younger children and separate rides are available for family groups. It is also possible to arrange a few nights stay at Camp Davidson, which has been built high in the bushveld above the Matlapeng Valley. Staying at Camp Davidson offers you the opportunity to explore from a tented camp nestled in the heart of the wooded mountains of the Waterberg.
Riding in big game areas where there are elephant, buffalo and lion is restricted to experienced riders, but we do offer safaris and trail rides for those who are beginners.
Our horse riding safaris are suitable for novice to experienced riders. There is a wide selection of horses to suit all riding abilities. The pace of rides is varied to suit you, with plenty of challenging riding for the experienced rider. Saddles are predominately English, with some Western available.
This unique riding holiday has no set itinerary and can be tailored to you. Arrival and departure dates are fully flexible. Guests are organised into smaller groups, so that riders of all abilities can enjoy a suitable pace. Most rides start in the morning, with 3-4 hours in the saddle, followed by a swim or walk in the local bushveld. In the late afternoon, once the heat has cooled, enjoy a second ride with your group.
The African Explorer Safari has set dates and itinerary. Includes riding in two countries over 8 days amongst many game species, including elephant and lion. This safari is for those advanced riders who are looking for a wonderful game viewing experience on horseback, combined with an element of African culture. Accommodation includes four nights at Camp Davidson and three nights at Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris in Botswana’s Tuli Block.
The farmstead overlooks a beautiful lake with a backdrop of open bushveld. With no television or newspapers, this is the perfect place to get away. A large colonial verandah provides the ideal spot for relaxing with a drink, while absorbing the surroundings and enjoying the company of friends. There is also a jetty on the lake to give sunbathers a private haven.
The luxury chalets afford the most privacy as they are set apart from the other rooms. The Hippo Lodge rooms are of an equally high standard, but the rooms have shared verandahs.
At Camp Davidson, you stay in canvas tents sited on decking and nestled amongst the sandstone ridges overlooking the valleys. There are comfortable beds made up with sheets and duvets. Each tent also has an ensuite bathroom area with bucket showers. There are jug and basin hand washing facilities, and flushing toilets. You are also welcome to cool off after a hot dusty ride at the pool.
Horizon Horseback is located in the Limpopo province of northern South Africa, approximately 300km from Johannesburg in the bushveld region of the Waterberg plateau. The nearest village is Vaalwater and the closest airport is Johannesburg.