South Africa: Horseback safari in the Waterberg
From 4.532 €

South Africa: Horseback safari in the Waterberg

holiday package
Created: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Ref ID: 21043862
prezzo del pacchetto per persona From
4.532 €
Based on 2 adults
Itinerary
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Day 1: Johannesburg

The Waterberg area is among the best-known in South Africa; for those who decide to embark on a horseback safari, it’s a classic... Also known as the cradle of humanity, this is where it all began, a million and a half years ago... the first humans walked on this sun-scorched land; now protected by UNESCO as an International Human and Biosphere Reserve. It is the only savanna biosphere reserve in southern Africa and features a mix of rock formations that have formed over millions of years, important San (Bushman) rock art sites, and abundant bushveld plains, resulting in a vast array of fauna and flora. We are located just three and a half hours north of Johannesburg, in a malaria-free area that will put even the most timid at ease; we will be based on a private family-run estate, where you will also experience the thrill of two nights in a tented camp. Situated on a vast plateau at an altitude of about 1,500 meters, it offers mild temperatures throughout the year, beautiful landscapes, and a wide variety of wildlife. An equestrian experience open even to intermediate-level riders, thanks to a park of over 60 horses. The Waterberg will be your window to Africa.

ITALY/JOHANNESBURG/WATERBERG (-/L/D)
Pick-up at the airport and group departure at 10:30 AM (private transfer at different times available upon request for an additional fee). Transfer to the lodge, approximately 300 km away (around 2.5 hours), located in the Limpopo province in the Waterberg region. Lunch upon arrival, followed by the first horseback safari of about two hours in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.


Day 2: Johannesburg

TO DAY 7: PRIVATE RESERVE IN WATERBERG (B/L/D)
Two horseback rides are scheduled each day: one at 8:30 AM for about 3 hours and another at 5:00 PM for about 1.5 hours. This beautiful private reserve, which also operates as a cattle farm, offers the chance to observe wildlife on horseback without encountering the "Big Five," as they are not present on the property. You will come across numerous antelopes, zebras, ostriches, small mammals, hippos, and eagles.

Other equestrian activities are also available, such as polo cross (a fun local sport), show jumping in the arena, cross-country riding, and swimming with the horses in the lake in front of the lodge.

During the week, you will spend one night at Camp Davidson and another at Bellevue Plains Lodge or Sannah Lodge. Upon request, a 4x4 safari to the Entebene Reserve to see the "Big Five" can be arranged (extra fee of £98, subject to availability).


Day 8:

WATERBERG/JOHANNESBURG/ITALY (B/L/-)
Breakfast, followed by a final horseback safari, lunch, and group departure for the airport at 2:00 PM or continuation of your journey. Ensure your departing flight is scheduled no earlier than 7:30 PM (private transfer at different times available upon request for an additional fee).

Note: The program described above is indicative. Guides may modify it due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. It is also possible to start your stay on any day of the week with a different duration (minimum 5 nights). In this case, nights at Camp Davidson and Bellevue Lodge are subject to availability and payable on-site (£55 and £90, respectively).

Note: (B/L/D): B = breakfast; L = lunch; D = dinner
Difficulty Level: From ° to °°°°°

DURATION: 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS
DIFFICULTY: FROM ° TO °°° (FROM EASY TO INTERMEDIATE)
ACCOMMODATION: lodge + comfort tented camp
EQUIPMENT: Mc Clellan saddles, very comfortable, invented by officer George Mc Clellan and used during the US Civil War since 1859. Still in use today, they have the peculiarity of being adaptable to any horse. Particularly light and comfortable, they are perfect for spending many hours in the saddle. HORSES: a stable of nearly 90 horses, mostly locally bred crossbreeds. They live freely on the estate and are ridden in rotation.
PACE: 4 to 5 hours in the saddle. There will be a ride in the morning and one in the afternoon, taking advantage of the cooler hours. All three gaits will be used, with long trots and gallops. Besides safaris, other horseback experiences are also offered: polo cross, jumping, cattle work. It is necessary to have control of the horse in open spaces and be in good physical condition; less experienced riders can participate in activities suitable for their abilities.
WHAT TO BRING: riding clothing, protective helmet. Prefer khaki/sand colors to avoid disturbing the animals. Water bottle, waist bag, sunscreen, repellent, swimsuit.
MINIMUM AGE: Children of any age are accepted
TYPE: Horseback Safari with accommodation in lodge + comfort tented camp

ACCOMMODATION: Horizon Lodge is located about 2.5 hours from Johannesburg Airport, in the Waterberg area. It offers its guests 7 chalets for 2/3 people and 2 standard rooms for single use. Cozy common area where meals are served, pool with loungers and hammocks. Wi-fi area (on request). The program includes 5 nights in the lodge + 2 nights in tented camp, Davidson and Bellevue Plains, semi-permanent tented camps, with comfortable tents furnished in English style. Pool available to guests. Meals are served in the common area, traditional and very tasty cuisine with a selection of game meats. Vegetarian diets available upon request. Aperitifs and snacks are also included.

SUPPLEMENTS:
TRANSFER pvt ONE WAY (fino a 12 pax) ALL YEAR ANY TIME: 470 euro

prezzo del pacchetto per persona From
4.532 €
Based on 2 adults
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This idea includes
Destinations 1
Accommodations 2
Tours 1
Tour summary
Guide languages
English
Included
Full-board accommodation (including beverages)
Group transfers to/from Johannesburg airport (at specified times)
Support vehicles and staff at the lodge/camp
7 nights’ accommodation (5 in the lodge + 2 in tented camp)
6 and a half days on horseback
Horses and equipment provided
Expert local English-speaking guide
Basic insurance covering medical assistance, medical repatriation, and baggage damage
Excluded
International flights to/from Johannesburg
Transfers outside the specified times
"Big Five" safari at the Entebene Reserve (subject to availability – payable locally, £98)
Meals not mentioned, airport taxes, imported alcoholic beverages at the camp, tips, and personal expenses
Anything not listed under "The price includes"
Supplemental insurance or cancellation coverage
Accommodation
- Lodge
- Campo tendato