IMPORTANT NOTE:
Before we can confirm your booking, we will need all riders to send a video of themselves riding on the flat, including upwards and downwards transitions between walk, trot and canter and changes of direction.
On the first afternoon ride in South Africa, there will be a short, simple riding test out in the bush. Guests will be asked to take part in a single file group canter. Then they will ride their horse away from the group between three points, varying the pace between a collected and an extended canter. The first exercise is to demonstrate that the rider is able to control their horse at an even pace within a group canter, without overtaking or allowing large gaps to develop within the group. The second is to demonstrate their ability to control their horse independently from the group.
Those that fail will not be allowed to ride in the group. They will be brought down to the lodge once a day for a smaller, slower ride, either on their own or with other riders of similar ability staying in the lodge. They will not be allowed to ride to Savannah or Seringa Lodges.
There will still be a test in Botswana and someone who passes in South Africa may still fail the Botswana requirements. Those who fail the test in South Africa will not be able to ride in Botswana.
Sample Itinerary -
subject to changes
Combining Camp Davidson, Waterberg, South Africa & Mashatu Game Reserve, Tuli Block, Botswana
No game drive is included in this package. However, it is possible to book a Game Drive in Mashatu for an extra fee (subject to availability).
NOTE: Please note that due to changes in weather and other unforeseen events, the itinerary and accommodation used may change at the last minute.
Day 1 (Friday): Arrival
Guests will be met at Johannesburg International Airport and transferred to Camp Davidson in time for a late lunch. That afternoon you will be introduced to your safari horse. We will ensure that you are matched with a horse to suit your ability and experience before heading off on your ride. This first introductory ride is a relaxed affair, giving riders the opportunity to settle into their new surroundings. Crossing the plains, enjoy your first close encounter with wildlife on horseback: ostrich, impala, zebra, kudu, eland, giraffe, warthog and jackal are all frequently seen in the open bushveld.
A stunning lookout spot for sundowner drinks is a welcome moment to take in your first taste of Africa after a long journey. A three course supper is served at Camp Davidson that evening.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 2 (Saturday): South African Game Ride
Today’s ride sets off from the high country overlooking a beautiful wilderness area to the east, and heads south, winding along the banks of Sunset Lake with its resident pod of hippos and the odd sly crocodile, before trekking upstream to an adjoining reserve. The lake itself is rich in birdlife, including the impressive Fish Eagles, dainty Dabchicks, elegant Jacanas and a variety of geese. Later, riding through the open savannah, wildebeest and zebra can be encountered. The riding is varied, from canters along sandy tracks to winding through rocky outcrops and densely wooded areas. The ride then crosses the reserve and returns to Camp Davidson in time for lunch. Guests can then relax by the pool, before a shorter afternoon ride.
In the evening there is the option of a night sky safari with a local astronomer, Dr Calcott, who will guide you through the amazing constellations (subject to weather conditions and availability - Additional cost R300 pp, Min. 4 pax). The absence of light pollution enables us an incredible chance to view some of the amazing wonders of the universe.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 3 (Sunday): Game Ride, Jumping & Swimming with the Horses
Setting off in a westerly direction, this ride tracks past a brown hyena den, skirts past the upper reaches of the Horizon dam before crossing a wide grassy valley. At one point, the ride enters into dense woodland, home to shy species such as kudu, bushbuck and Vervet monkeys. Emerging from the woods, the horses have a chance to stretch their legs along open sandy tracks. Finally the ride swings back to the
north, through mixed bushveld and fascinating rock formations.
Two highlights of this ride are the jumping lanes and the chance for riders to swim their horses bareback in the Horizon dam next to the main lodge. For many guests, this is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. Once dried off and back in the saddle, the ride climb back up to Camp Davidson is particularly intriguing, as it follows a mountain pass cut through boulders and outcrops.
After lunch, enjoy a sundowner ride across the plains on the reserve. We are very fortunate to have a large herd zebra. Over the years, the herd has become quite habituated to the horses and it is now possible to ride really close and experience being part of the zebra herd. A wonderful way to watch the foals frollick.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 4 (Monday): Camp Davidson to Savannah Lodge
We will pack up and leave Camp Davidson after breakfast, and go to Savannah Lodge. The bags will go ahead whilst we make our way to the Lodge.
Having left Camp Davidson for the final time, this ride heads south to the Game Conservancy. The ride traverses a wide wetland, home to reedbuck and grass owls, before entering dense woodland dotted with wild fig trees and large fruited bush willows. Here it crosses the watershed and descends through open grasslands with sweeping views to the upper reaches of the
Conservancy’s main water system. The route passes the favored habitat of waterbuck and Cape buffalo. The open plains that follow are aptly known as “Little Serengeti”; large herds of blesbuck, eland, wildebeest and kudu are all on view, as are groups of 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 ride continues to explore this game rich area, closing with sundowners overlooking the African plains.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Savannah Lodge
Day 5 (Tuesday): Transfer to Botswana
We depart the lodge early and enjoy an exhilarating ride back to the Horizon Lodge in time to change before departing for Botswana at 09:30 am.
We arrive in Botswana in time for a light lunch. Enjoy an introductory ride to check you are suited to your horse, before embarking on your first ride out to our Two Mashatus Camp. This will be your first opportunity to experience the beauty of the Mashatu Game Reserve and view the wildlife on horseback. Mashatu Game Reserve is home to the largest herd of wild free-roaming elephants on private land in Africa, and, although not a guarantee, it is almost assured that there will be great viewing of these incredible creatures.
This evening, you overnight at the Tree Camp.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Tree Camp
Day 6 (Wednesday): Game Ride & Optional Game Drive
After breakfast, it’s time to mount and depart from the dense woodland that hugs the Limpopo River and head towards the rocky hills that delineate the edges of the great river valley. As the ride traverses the heartland of Mashatu, you will encounter plentiful game: plains game, many giraffe and herds of elephants.
You will arrive back at Two Mashatus Camp in time for lunch and a cooling afternoon rest in the shady camp or lazing by the pool. That afternoon the group has the choice of an afternoon ride or a game drive to the south western side of the reserve. This is an area not reached on horseback during the African Explorer safari. It 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 or the Mmamagwa hills, which vast vistas into the setting sun.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Two Mashatus Camp
Day 7 (Thursday): Morning Ride & Bush Walk
Ride out following the movements of wildlife in the area. The tempo of the rides is always varied and depending on the terrain, there are opportunities to enjoy the spirit and fitness of the horses.
The afternoon brings a chance to again choose between another ride or a bush walk in the northern area of Mashatu Game Reserve and enjoy the rich birdlife, spot crocodile in the pools and learn about the magnificent trees lining the banks.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Two Mashatus Camp
Day 8 (Friday): Departure
The last ride in the Limpopo Valley is a great opportunity to take one last picture of elephants and enjoy a long and winding canter through the scattered Mustard bush with your guides.
Arriving back at the stables and reception mid-morning, there is plenty of time for a quick shower, before saying farewell to safari companions and new found friends. Transfer back to Johannesburg International Airport.
Meals included: Brunch
Sample Itinerary: Special Program for 2024 - subject to changes
Please note that this is only an example as is subject to change, due to weather or other logistics.
No game drive is included in this package. However, it is possible to book a Game Drive in Mashatu for an extra fee (subject to availability).
Day 1 (Monday): Arrival
Guests will be met at Johannesburg International Airport and transferred to Camp Davidson in time for a late lunch. That afternoon you will be introduced to your safari horse. We will ensure that you are matched with a horse to suit your ability and experience before heading off on your ride. This first introductory ride is a relaxed affair, giving riders the opportunity to settle into their new surroundings. Crossing the plains, enjoy your first close encounter with wildlife on horseback: ostrich, impala, zebra, kudu, eland, giraffe, warthog and jackal are all frequently seen in the open bushveld.
A stunning lookout spot for sundowner drinks is a welcome moment to take in your first taste of Africa after a long journey. A three course supper is served at Camp Davidson that evening.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 2 (Tuesday): South African Game Ride
Today’s ride sets off from the high country overlooking a beautiful wilderness area to the east, and heads south, winding along the banks of Sunset Lake with its resident pod of hippos and the odd sly crocodile, before trekking upstream to an adjoining reserve. The lake itself is rich in birdlife, including the impressive Fish Eagles, dainty Dabchicks, elegant Jacanas and a variety of geese. Later, riding through the open savannah, wildebeest and zebra can be encountered. The riding is varied, from canters along sandy tracks to winding through rocky outcrops and densely wooded areas. The ride then crosses the reserve and returns to Camp Davidson in time for lunch. Guests can then relax by the pool, before a shorter afternoon ride.
In the evening there is the option of a night sky safari with a local astronomer, Dr Calcott, who will guide you through the amazing constellations (subject to weather conditions and availability - Additional cost R300 pp, Min. 4 pax). The absence of light pollution enables us an incredible chance to view some of the amazing wonders of the universe.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 3 (Wednesday): Game Ride, Jumping & Swimming with the Horses
Setting off in a westerly direction, this ride tracks past a brown hyena den, skirts past the upper reaches of the Horizon dam before crossing a wide grassy valley. At one point, the ride enters into dense woodland, home to shy species such as kudu, bushbuck and Vervet monkeys. Emerging from the woods, the horses have a chance to stretch their legs along open sandy tracks. Finally the ride swings back to the
north, through mixed bushveld and fascinating rock formations.
Two highlights of this ride are the jumping lanes and the chance for riders to swim their horses bareback in the Horizon dam next to the main lodge. For many guests, this is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. Once dried off and back in the saddle, the ride climb back up to Camp Davidson is particularly intriguing, as it follows a mountain pass cut through boulders and outcrops.
After lunch, enjoy a sundowner ride across the plains on the reserve. We are very fortunate to have a large herd zebra. Over the years, the herd has become quite habituated to the horses and it is now possible to ride really close and experience being part of the zebra herd. A wonderful way to watch the foals frollick.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 4 (Thursday): Camp Davidson to Savannah Lodge
We will pack up and leave Camp Davidson after breakfast, and go to Savannah Lodge. The bags will go ahead whilst we make our way to the Lodge.
Having left Camp Davidson for the final time, this ride heads south to the Game Conservancy. The ride traverses a wide wetland, home to reedbuck and grass owls, before entering dense woodland dotted with wild fig trees and large fruited bush willows. Here it crosses the watershed and descends through open grasslands with sweeping views to the upper reaches of the
Conservancy’s main water system. The route passes the favored habitat of waterbuck and Cape buffalo. The open plains that follow are aptly known as “Little Serengeti”; large herds of blesbuck, eland, wildebeest and kudu are all on view, as are groups of 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 ride continues to explore this game rich area, closing with sundowners overlooking the African plains.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Savannah Lodge
Day 5 (Friday): Transfer to Botswana
This morning is an early start leaving the Lodge by 7 am for a brisk ride back to the stables where the minibus awaits for your onward journey to Botswana. We depart the stables at 9.30 am and travel to the Mashatu stables where we will enjoy a light lunch on the banks of the Limpopo River, receive a safety briefing and meet the horses. We take great care to match horse to rider based on a guest’s riding experience and ability. However, before embarking on the safari, each guest will be given a simple riding test in order to ensure that they are suitably balanced in the saddle and are able to direct their horse in an independent manner. While the journey is not an endurance test, it does involve long hours in the saddle and, with the possibility of close encounters with elephant and the big cats, riders need to be able to gently and confidently control their mounts.
The route on this afternoon is from the Mashatu stables to Tree Camp (about 2 hours). The trail rises from the Limpopo River floodplains, with good opportunities for those first exciting encounters with elephant, giraffe, zebra and wildebeest. The route, following ancient elephant paths, winds upwards towards the centre of the Reserve and the upper reaches of the Majali River where the extraordinary Tree Camp awaits. Wrapped around the trunks of a giant mashatu and two ancient leadwood trees, Tree Camp perches several meters up, out of "trunks reach" overlooking the banks of the Majale River and offers spectacular panoramic views of the adjacent cliffs and floodplain opposite where Mashatu's legendary herds roam. Sleeping quarters are five beautiful and spacious canvas roofed areas with four-poster beds, each facing into the spacious dining and resting area. The elevated platform offers a unique camp you will remember for years to come.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Tree Camp
Day 6 (Saturday): Upriver along the Majali
The day’s riding explores an area of the Northern Tuli which is hardly visited by humans. The route follows a stream to its source before arcing to the west on high ground and then descending to the upper reaches of the Majali River. It then follows the river all the way back to Tree Camp. This is a relaxed ride during which guests become immersed in the wilderness. There are good opportunities to see elephant, giraffe, zebra, eland and kudu, but it is the sense of being completely away from manmade features that is so compelling on this ride.
In the afternoon, there will either be a bush walk or, if it did not happen the previous day, a possible game drive with Mashatu Game Reserve (once again subject to availability).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Tree Camp
Day 7 (Sunday): Tree Camp to Two Mashatus
With an early departure from Tree Camp, this ride offers sweeping views to the east and south, bathed in early morning light, as it traverses along the edge of a ridge near the centre of the reserve. The path then descends to a game rich area along the Majali River. The deep river pools are the favourite haunt of baboon and impala. Sooner or later the great herds of elephant come past for their daily drink, to play in the water and enjoy a dust bath. The final part of the ride is across open plains with some fast canters, and then through cool riverine vegetation along the approach to Two Mashatus Camp. This is the original Tuli Trail camp and is beautifully situated nestled amongst giant mashatu and apple leaf trees close to the banks of the Limpopo River. This area typically boasts the highest density of elephants in the reserve, who sometimes roam through the camp in a gentle yet determined way. It is also excellent for lion and leopard as well as baboon, bushbuck and waterbuck.
Guests sleep in A Frame spacious safari tents with en suite facilities. After four to five hours in the saddle, this is the perfect place to relax. On hot days the swimming pool at Two Mashatus is particularly welcoming.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Two Mashatus Camp
Day 8 (Monday): Departure
The final ride back to the Stables follows the Limpopo River upstream. The route passes game rich habitat, including a hyena den and a large wetland which can be home to large flocks of waterfowl. Other notable sightings include Kori Bustard, the largest flying birds in Africa, bat eared foxes and ostrich. Once at the Stables it is time for a shower and meal on the banks of the great river, and then a short journey to the Limpopo Valley Airfield for the flight to Johannesburg in South Africa.
Meals included: Brunch
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Sample Itinerary: NEW (valid from June 2024) -
subject to changes
No game drive is included in this package. However, it is possible to book a Game Drive in Mashatu for an extra fee (subject to availability).
NOTE: Please note that due to changes in weather and other unforeseen events, the itinerary and accommodation used may change at the last minute.
Day 1 (Tuesday): Arrival
Guests will be met at Johannesburg International Airport and transferred to Camp Davidson in time for a late lunch. That afternoon you will be introduced to your safari horse. We will ensure that you are matched with a horse to suit your ability and experience before heading off on your ride. This first introductory ride is a relaxed affair, giving riders the opportunity to settle into their new surroundings. Crossing the plains, enjoy your first close encounter with wildlife on horseback: ostrich, impala, zebra, kudu, eland, giraffe, warthog and jackal are all frequently seen in the open bushveld.
A stunning lookout spot for sundowner drinks is a welcome moment to take in your first taste of Africa after a long journey. A three-course supper is served at Camp Davidson that evening.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 2 (Wednesday): South African Game Ride
Today’s ride sets off from the high country overlooking a beautiful wilderness area to the east, and heads south, winding along the banks of Sunset Lake with its resident pod of hippos and the odd sly crocodile, before trekking upstream to an adjoining reserve. The lake itself is rich in birdlife, including the impressive Fish Eagles, dainty Dabchicks, elegant Jacanas and a variety of geese. Later, riding through the open savannah, wildebeest and zebra can be encountered. The riding is varied, from canters along sandy tracks to winding through rocky outcrops and densely wooded areas. The ride then crosses the reserve and returns to Camp Davidson in time for lunch. Guests can then relax by the pool, before a shorter afternoon ride.
In the evening there is the option of a night sky safari with a local astronomer, Dr Calcott, who will guide you through the amazing constellations (subject to weather conditions and availability - Additional cost R300 pp, Min. 4 pax). The absence of light pollution enables us an incredible chance to view some of the amazing wonders of the universe.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Davidson
Day 3 (Thursday): Camp Davidson to Savannah Lodge
We will pack up and leave Camp Davidson after breakfast and go to Savannah Lodge. The bags will go ahead whilst we make our way to the Lodge.
Having left Camp Davidson for the final time, this ride heads south to the Game Conservancy. The ride traverses a wide wetland, home to reedbuck and grass owls, before entering dense woodland dotted with wild fig trees and large fruited bush willows. Here it crosses the watershed and descends through open grasslands with sweeping views to the upper reaches of the
Conservancy’s main water system. The route passes the favored habitat of waterbuck and Cape buffalo. The open plains that follow are aptly known as “Little Serengeti”; large herds of blesbuck, eland, wildebeest and kudu are all on view, as are groups of 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 ride continues to explore this game rich area, closing with sundowners overlooking the African plains.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Savannah Lodge
Day 4 (Friday): Transfer to Botswana
This morning is an early start leaving the Lodge by 7 am for a brisk ride back to the stables where the minibus awaits for your onward journey to Botswana. We depart the stables at 9.30 am and travel to the Mashatu stables where we will enjoy a light lunch on the banks of the Limpopo River, receive a safety briefing and meet the horses. We take great care to match horse to rider based on a guest’s riding experience and ability. However, before embarking on the safari, each guest will be given a simple riding test in order to ensure that they are suitably balanced in the saddle and are able to direct their horse in an independent manner. While the journey is not an endurance test, it does involve long hours in the saddle and, with the possibility of close encounters with elephant and the big cats, riders need to be able to gently and confidently control their mounts.
The route on this afternoon is from the Mashatu stables to Tree Camp (about 2 hours). The trail rises from the Limpopo River floodplains, with good opportunities for those first exciting encounters with elephant, giraffe, zebra and wildebeest. The route, following ancient elephant paths, winds upwards towards the centre of the Reserve and the upper reaches of the Majali River where the extraordinary Tree Camp awaits. Wrapped around the trunks of a giant mashatu and two ancient leadwood trees, Tree Camp perches several meters up, out of "trunks reach" overlooking the banks of the Majale River and offers spectacular panoramic views of the adjacent cliffs and floodplain opposite where Mashatu's legendary herds roam. Sleeping quarters are five beautiful and spacious canvas roofed areas with four-poster beds, each facing into the spacious dining and resting area. The elevated platform offers a unique camp you will remember for years to come.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Tree Camp
Day 5 (Saturday): Tree Camp to the Kgotla
The safari passes through the center of Mashatu to the ancient rock formations synonymous with the Limpopo Valley. Giant Baobab trees continue to scatter the landscape as they have for centuries and ancient elephant trails make for wonderful tracks for long canters through open bush veld. Whilst riding alongside the banks of the Motloutse River, discover the old Leadwood ‘Kgotla’ (or enclosure used for the traditional law court of a Botswana village). This open-air enclosure forms the perfect, secure camp for the night.
In the afternoon, we search for the area’s resident lions on a game drive and draw the day’s adventures to a close with sundowners at the ancient “Amphitheatre” rocks. Back at the Kgotla, dinner is enjoyed around a large log fire. The night is spent with a ceiling of stars and Africa’s nighttime melody to sing you to sleep; a veraciously rare experience which is just about as far away from city life and the modern world as anyone can imagine.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at The Kgotla
Day 6 (Sunday): Ride around The Kgotla
The sandstone formations, including the famed Solomon’s Wall, one of the numerous dolorite dykes in the area, are explored on horseback. Some of the oldest civilizations in southern Africa settled in this valley. Archaeological evidence in the area includes middle and late stone age tools, rock art and the legendary Mapungubwe Dynasty. Mapungubwe means “Place of the Jackal” in the Venda language and this dynasty existed around 1220 AD. The Mapungubwe topography itself is ancient and timeless, and combined with marvelous wildlife sightings, it makes for an incredible riding experience. This afternoon enjoy a short drive to the Mmamagwa Hills.
For the most visually stunning and ethereal sundowner, we visit the Mmamagwa Hills. A short climb up the sandstone ridge, brings us to the site of the Mmamagwa Ruins, which is of a similar period to Mapungubwe (13th century). To date these ruins have not been excavated and have been left alone. It is conceivable that similar treasures to those found at Mapungubwe (for example the golden rhino) could be buried here. After a short climb, enjoy sundowners beneath a beautiful baobab tree with a breath-taking view of the area.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at The Kgotla
Day 7 (Monday): The Kgotla to Tree Camp
Wind up Elephant Valley along ancient trails stamped into the soil by centuries of migrating elephants, before heading north towards upper reaches of the Majale River. This area is peppered with enormous baobab trees and is one of the more remote areas of the reserve.
After an exhilarating ride through this timeless countryside, enjoy a relaxing lunch at Tree Camp.
An afternoon ride, a bush walk or, subject to availability, a game drive to enjoy the central area of the reserve.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Tree Camp
Day 8 (Tuesday): Departure
With an early departure from Tree Camp, this ride offers sweeping views to the east and south, bathed in early morning light, as it traverses along the edge of a ridge near the centre of the reserve. The path then descends to a game rich area along the Majali River. The deep river pools are the favourite haunt of baboon and impala. Sooner or later the great herds of elephant come past for their daily drink, to play in the water and enjoy a dust bath. The final part of the ride is first across open plains with some fast canters, and then through cool riverine vegetation along the approaches to Two Mashatus Camp.
Arriving back at the stables, you get to say farewell to safari companions and newfound friends, it’s time for your onward journey.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
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Non-Riders
In South African an accompanying non rider can enjoy onsite bush walks and a variety of excursions such as, guided hike pp $30pp, elephant riding $100, local town and township visit $20pp, big five game drives $40pp.