Three delicious meals are served a day, with afternoon tea and cake before the afternoon ride. The room also contains a four poster day bed, suitable for a child sharing with parents. The room has a mini-bar with tea and coffee making facilities. Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team. For those who are hooked on Africa, there comes a time when you want a totally different safari experience. Recommended. 12 Nights South Africa & Botswana Scenery & Wildlife Focused Horse Safari For intrepid travellers, this is a combination of incredible horseback game viewing and endless deserted beaches. Kingfisher faces the lodge while Flycatcher has a private garden facing the boma. On site activities; For those winter evenings there is a cosy seating area inside with an open fire. Situated on a private game reserve in the spectacular, malaria-free Waterberg region of South Africa, Ant's offers the very best experience of the bush, either at one with wildlife on horseback, in the luxury of a privately-guided game drive or at more intimate level on foot. The yearly Game Census week is usually sold out far in advance. You can choose your own pace, whether that is galloping through the bush on horseback alongside a herd of giraffe or viewing game in more relaxed fashion from a vehicle. Ant takes great pride in their sumptuous home cooking, dining outside whenever possible under shady trees. Ant Baber drove the group of tired but happy riders down . This scenically diverse landscape of open savannah plains, river valleys and panoramic mountainous views offers an exhilarating riding experience. This journey embraces the true definition of a safari: an expedition to observe animals in their natural habitat. Ants is unique in thatthe horses live out in the bush and graze in and amongst the game, thus giving guests possibly the closest wildlife encounter on horseback in Africa -the game see the horses as just another animal. We know people wo have returned far more times than us.. We have witnessed Horizon grow and develop over the years, but it has never lost the comfortable, welcoming, family atmosphere. 2023 Ant Africa Safaris - Ants Nest + Ants Hill. Tea and coffee facilities are also available. A Standard Room Plus this is a charming double room, built in the traditionally African circular form with high thatched roof, set to the side of the main house. 19. It was the beginning of my most amazing adventure ever! For those who prefer walking, guides will lead you through the bushveld on foot. The accommodation was fabulous, the food superlative and the hosts all amazing. It has an en-suite bathroom and spacious outside balcony with carved day-bed which is the perfect place to chill out after a long morning ride. These rooms can all be booked as a single, twin or double and each has its own en-suite. Types of Visa and Cost The peaceful and shady riverine forest will be used to escape the heat of the day, alongside the opportunity for a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters of the flowing streams. 2023 Low Season: 10 Jan - 19 Mar; 1 - 26 May; 5 - 30 Jun; 1 - 30 Sept; 1 Nov - 14 Dec. High Season: 20 Mar - 30 Apr; 27 May - 4 Jun (Game Census); 1 Jul - 31 Aug; 1 - 31 Oct; 15 Dec - 9 Jan 2024, Ride time per day: 2-6 hours or as desired, Riders who booked this ride also considered. If youre lucky to have the lovely Charlotte host dinner, she. No chance with all the delicious and varied food. Johannesburg Airport (JNB) or close to airport hotels. Arab crosses, all paces, as little or as much horseback riding as guests wish. 6 riders, Max Capacity Various styles of rooms are available. The beautiful selection of rooms at Ants Nest or Ants Hill each have a distinctive style providing a peaceful haven from which to enjoy your stay. They often end morning game activities with a bush lunch, whilst at night sit around open fires under the stars. Rondavel: Enjoy and join in. Other information: On this riding holiday you are the guests of Anthony Baber withhis team of wonderful staff, horses and Labradors. We want to share Africa with the world, allowing riders to experience the romance and freedom of riding through unspoiled terrain on a mind-blowing adventure. accommodation listings available to book in Waterberg. London - Johannesburg return from 700 - 850pp. No Trips to Entebeni and Adventures with elephants. Even novice riders can take part and most guests get quite competitive after a chukka or two. Other guests will be happy to stick to just 2 or 3 different horses during their stay. 57. We take all ages, however, children under the age of 4 can only enjoy short pony rides around the lodge rather than riding out in the bush. This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Recommendation is around 15/$18 per day. Being on an intercontinental convergence zone, the Waterberg is home to over 350 different species of tree from baobabs to wild fig - a greater variety than the whole of western Europe. Regular standard room - usually with private bath. A deluxe cottage this stunning cottage is ideal for honeymooners with a king-size four poster bed, as well as day bed that can be used to accommodate a child sharing with their parents. 2 riders, Max Leading off the bedroom is an en-suite bathroom with bath, shower and an outside shower. Be prepared to have the trip of a lifetime! The food is AMAZING (Im gluten free and they did a fantastic job!) The game count is done by the whole reserve which is divided into blocks. Every day was an amazing and unique experience, but the days we rode with giraffe were my favorite. The incredibly hospitable team will welcome you as a guest and ensure you will leave as a friend! A local Big Five game reserve, so you can try to find the lion and elephant we would rather not ride with on horseback. Thank you for your comments and so glad you enjoyed everything your wonderful hosts offer at Ants, Davidson double/twin, Kingfisher and Flycatcher double pp, Rondavel, Eagle's Nest and Sable twin double pp, Weaver, Sable double, Lookout and Family double/twin double pp, Hideaway, World's View double/twin double pp, Single supplement per night Weaver, Sable double, Lookout and Family double/twin, Single supplement per night Hideaway, World's View double/twin, Rhino Conservation Fee per child (11 years and under), Rhino Conservation Fee per 3rd person in the room (extra bed), Davidson double/twin, Kingfisher and Flycatcher double pp per night, Davidson Suite, child 11 and under sharing w. 1 adult, Rondavel and Eagles Nest, double pp per night, Rondavel and Eagles Nest, child 11 and under sharing w. 1 adult, Weaver, Sable 1 & 2, Lookout, double pp per night, Weaver, Sable 1 & 2, Lookout, single supplement per night, Weaver, Sable 1 & 2, Lookout, child 11 and under in own room or sharing, Hideaway child 11 and under sharing w. 1 adult, Rhino Conservation Fee - per adult per night, Rhino Conservation Fee - per child per night (11 years and under)/extra bed, Davidson, Kingfisher and Flycatcher single supplement per night, Davidson Suite child 11 and under sharing w. 1 adult, Rondavel and Eagles Nest double pp per night, Rondavel and Eagles Nest single supplement per night, Rondavel and Eagles Nest child 11 and under sharing w. 1 adult, Weaver, Sable 1 & 2, Lookout double pp per night, Weaver, Sable 1 & 2, Lookout single supplement per night, Weaver, Sable 1 & 2, Lookout child 11 and under in own room or sharing, Single supplement per night Davidson double/twin, Kingfisher and Flycatcher, Single supplement per night Rondavel, Eagle's Nest and Sable twin, Single supplement Weaver, Sable double, Lookout and Family double/twin, Single supplement Hideaway, World's View double/twin. Introductions are made with some of the local characters such as Martha Mosima, and the group of village lady elders, for afternoon tea which is accompanied by traditional singing and dancing. 6, Max Excellent, the best holiday to be taken care of, relax, see some breathtaking animals and views and of course thoroughly enjoy the horse riding! If they persist, ask to speak to their supervisor. The cost of the transfer for 1-3 pax is approx. More experienced riders enjoy exciting canters down long sandy tracks. Hosts were so friendly. The key ingredient of any riding safari is the quality of the horses. The lodge is situated inside of the reserve, with around 21,000 acres to explore. The ensuite double bedroom upstairs with bath and shower opens up on to a private balcony with an outside bath overlooking the stunning valley below. Please contact us for a brochure. You can sometimes spot nocturnal species such as: leopard, caracal, aardvark, brown hyena, porcupine, bush pig, bat eared fox, stripped polecat, honey badger, serval cat, African civet, genets, wild cat and klipspringer. Around the reserve, there are a number of small jumps and jumping lanes that can be enjoyed by all level of rider on the out-rides. PLEASE NOTE: There is a rhino conservation levy on all bookings due to the ongoing rhino poaching crisis in southern Africa. 265 lbs. Eagles Nest: Boerperd After a warm up and few practice jumps, enjoy riding the course around the jumping lanes over small natural obstacles. can accommodate special dietary requests. Equestrian experience of a lifetime Discover Africa on horseback and have a wonderful horse riding holiday with Horizon Horseback! 285 reviews. Full child minding facilities are also available. Yes The herd of 90 horses is made up of big thoroughbreds and Arab-boerperd crosses and include some fabulous childrens ponies. The sundowners were amazing - nothing compares to an African sunset. Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces Morning rides last around three to four hours, and afternoon rides are usually shorter, around one to two hours. Often you can get so close to the game that the experience remains unforgettable. Ants Hill can cater for 16 guests and can be booked non-exclusively or exclusively to one group at a time. Horses have dedicated rest days each week and a varied routine, including schooling, lounging, jumping, mounted games and trail rides. Cleanliness 4.9. Bushman paintings and Iron Age villages To top it all Ants Hill overlooks a waterhole frequented by a variety of game. Horse Riding and Riding and Riding Safaris: This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 2023 Hidden Trails, Ltd. All rights reserved. (see details below). Is parking available at Horizon Horseback? You can add on an extra night or two at Camp Davidson at the beginning and end of your stay if you wish. Ants Nest and Ants Hill will give your children a life-changing experience. Each tent has comfortable beds and an en-suite bathroom area with the traditional bucket showers. The ride meanders through the village, with its traditionally painted houses, chatting to some of the villagers along the way, and eventually reaching the local school. Experienced riders only. Waterberg Horse Trails is set on the beautiful Waterberg Cottages farm and game reserve. Yes Ants Hill has a variety of cottages ranging from standard to superior deluxe, they are scenically appointed and each cottage has been creatively designed to suit all types of traveller from families to honeymooners and their varying budgets,see belowfor more details on each cottage: Hidden Trails does not We do recommend bringing bum-bags to carry items such as phones and cameras. They use comfortable McClellan saddles and have English saddles available. Child discounts (c. 30%) apply for children aged 2 - 11. Each day is organised to suit you and you will ride in small groups, with those of similar experience, to allow for some exhilarating and faster paced riding should you wish. Own or manage this property? Each horse has its own fitted tack. A full list of the game which can be found on the reserve can be found in the 'Further Details' for this ride. We offer several horseback safaris in Southern Africa, for any level of rider. A 2 night minimum stay applies. We have a weight limit of 110 Kgs (17 stone or ~ 242 lbs). Each guide was fun and knowledgeable! As of 2022 there are 52 countries with visa-free travel to SA including UK, EU, USA and Canada. A pool area allows guests to relax between activities, as well as the large lounging area, dining room and deck. Spend the day riding through Africas wilderness and experience the magic of tracking and finding herds of giraffe, zebra, eland, wildebeest, kudu and impala. Be cautious when visiting popular tourist attractions and destinations and in and around transport hubs, including airports. Everyone was superb - knowledgeable and attentive guides, great chefs who catered to every guest's dietary needs and preferences, wonderfully attentive and knowledgeable staff. For those with older children, this room is ideal in conjunction with Lookout as another option to Family Cottage or Worlds View. - Choose Continent - As for the food, I thought doing so much riding I may lose weight. +27 (0) 87 820 7233 or +27 (0) 87 820 7161 (land line) Every day a different ride seeing an abundance of wildlife and scenery. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details. The rate for the whole cottage is for up to 5 people with extra beds available at an additional cost. No The horses do actually swim, not just paddle, which is an absolute;y amazing feeling! Thank you Susie and Kirsty for helping me plan this amazing birthday getaway! Special food and meal times can be arranged and children are welcome to come to supper in their dressing gowns. Please enquire. Central America Prices above are for individual bookings. The spacious bedroom downstairs setup either as a twin, double or triple opens on to the private pool and has an ensuite bathroom featuring a bath with a view, a shower and an outside waterfall shower. If booking for 4 guests then a trailer will be needed for the luggage. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Both Mclellan and English saddles are available and each guest will receive a water bottle which fits into a bottle holder attached to the saddle. These walks are informative and interactive, enabling you to gain knowledge of African flora and fauna. Even if the airline tells you that your luggage can be checked through, it is not true. Hairdryers and safes are available in all rooms. Additional activities such as Big 5 Game Drives, Elephant interaction etc. The rides were amazing with so much wild life every single ride and the guides made me feel safe and they have so much knowledge they share on what you see on the safari. A Big 5 jeep safari is available on a large neighbouring reserve. Riding trousers (cycling shorts for men) and half chaps are recommended, the embassy or consulate for updated info. a big natural herd, and have a wonderful life. This lodge offers a personal and flexible home from home experience. The cakes at afternoon tea are hard to resist - so, as a downside, I did put on weight! Luckily the dam at the lodge is crocodile and hippo free (we arent quite that crazy)! Morning rides last around 3-4 hours (or less if requested by the rider), and afternoon rides are usually shorter, around 1-2hrs. If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 10177 and ask for an ambulance. At Ants, family safaris area speciality,they have an abundance of exciting and thrilling safari activities to offerchildren of all ages, allowing them to leave with an intimate knowledge of the bush. All Rights Reserved, Horse riding in the Waterberg, South Africa, Horse Riding Volunteering in South Africa, Mobile Fly Camping Okavango Delta Horse Safari, Polo Playing and Training in the Foothills of the Drakensberg, Wolwedans Lodge Riding Holiday in Namibia, Trail riding on well trained and responsive horses, Gratuities and any items of a personal nature. Approx size 35 sqm. Accommodations with superior The crafters specialise in beautiful handmade beadwork and leather products, including riding chaps. Another luxurious double bedroom with a private verandah is located above the main lodge. To top it all Ants Hill overlooks a waterhole frequented by a variety of game. See below for the different room types available suited toyour needs and budget: Perfect for families of up to five people or twocouples travelling together. Rhino tracking Pool could do with some shade on those hot days. this was my first safari, and will not be my last, and this trip exceeded my expectations by far :-) thank you to the Horizon team for taking care of me, and giving me this beautiful memory which will last forever. The horses were uniformly fabulous. Built on the edge of a gorge, this bush home offers breathtaking views across the Waterberg. Both Ants Nest and Ants Hill offer the opportunity for some of the greatest game viewing in the African bush from horseback. South Africa It is plentiful, and tasty, and vegetarians / gluten intolerant are well catered for. The Davidson: Special activities can be arranged for children while parents are out riding. more. The volunteer girls who help and are back ups are all great. British There are generally two rides out on the beautiful reserve, or riding activities per day. For those winter evenings there is a cosy seating area inside with an open fire. *Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees. An additional four poster bed is located just outside this bedroom, for a third child. Passport Note Both Mclellan and English saddles are available and each guest will receive a water bottle which fits into a bottle holder attached to the saddle. This gives unlimited flexibility with up to 3 or 4 different activities at any time. The zebras and kudus just appearing on the garden. Triple B Ranch Waterberg South Africa One of the oldest farmsteads in the Waterberg mountains of South Africa, Triple B Ranch was settled by the pioneering Baber family over 100 years ago! Rides are tailored to suit each individual guest, beginner and novice riders can take it at their own pace. The lodges are also available to book on an exclusive basis for private parties at reasonable rates, please enquire. Sunblock, The afternoon rides will be shorter and often taken at a more leisurely pace. High Season: 20 Mar - 30 Apr; 27 May - 4 Jun (Game Census); 1 Jul - 31 Aug; 1 - 31 Oct; 15 Dec - 9 Jan 2024 The double room has a four poster bed and en-suite bathroom, with doors opening up onto a private verandah area with outside seating. There are also discounted rates (c. 50%) for a third bed in a room for a child or adult. Our herd of over 90 horses live a blissful life on our private game reserve amongst the wildlife. Set in boulders on the edge of the cliff, the heated swimming pool offers fabulous views across reserve, enticing you to relax there for hours. Eastern Africa See more questions & answers about this hotel from the Tripadvisor community. It may be possible to buy more film and batteries in the nearby town but your usual makes might not be available so take along plenty of extra for the unique photo opportunities. We are dedicated to making sure that you and your family and friends have the most awesome equestrian vacation possible, in the most outstanding wildlife destinations in Southern Africa. There is no better way to savour the Waterberg and experience its unparalleled wildlife population than on horseback. TULI SAFARI For the ultimate wildlife mobile riding safari; seven nights in the Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana. Also the toll gates dont take international credit cards. This leads through to an exceptionally large bathroom and dressing area with bath and shower. Guided walks / walking safaris Please, consult Horseback safaris, Drakensberg Mountains, Wild Coast. Depending on the time of your flight there will usually be time to ride in either the morning or afternoon of your travel days. The terrain is mostly sandy tracks through the bush, and open plain areas. Each ride is led by two competent guides and the emphasis is on safety at all times. This room shares a bathroom with the loft bedroom, nestled under the thatched roofwhich is perfect for children. What you see on our web site is exactly how much your invoice will come to and this will not change once booked. You must be fully aware and understand that there are risks involved when around horses, in riding generally, and in visiting and staying in areas of Africa due to the presence of wild animals. HIV prevalence is high among the general population at 18.9%. AntsReserve (made up of Ant's Hill and Ant's Nest)is a private game reserve situated on the Triple B Reserve, home to the Baber family for generations. Which popular attractions are close to Horizon Horseback? We have been running horseback safaris in Africa since 1993. Only three hours from both Johannesburg International Airport and the Kruger National Park, Ant Africa Safaris is both remote yet easily accessible. ANTS NEST They are incredibly accommodating and really know their stuff so based on what you want they can really guide you and help with suggestions that will match your desires perfectly! Digital cameras and batteries can be charged at the lodge. There is acarved day-bed for relaxing in the shadewhile wooden steps take you down to a private garden and plunge pool. You can canter along open sandy tracks or traverse high ridges with spectacular vistas. Camping facilities with superior comforts like The open plan ensuite bathroom features a sunken bath and French doors which open out to the deck to bring the outside indoors. Mozambique Location 5.0. Passport valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure required by all nationals referred to in the chart. Even when had slightly hurt my back the rides were then tailored to suit. If youve never done this before, it is not to be missed! It has an en-suite bathroom and spacious outside balcony with carved day bed the perfect place to chill out in the heat of the day. Many friends have visited with us, quite a few of whom have since returned either with us, or under their own steam. However they sometimes ask for a lot of money. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. When we arrived as a family, Ant had a couple of horses saddled up for Amelia (15), Polly (14) and me. Applications to: Camp Davidson is even complete with a small pool in which to cool off after a morning in the saddle. Itcan be booked as either a twin or double room and is ideal for the single horse riding safari traveller. Permits may be extended if done so 30 days prior to expiry of original permit. 2023 Low Season: 10 Jan - 19 Mar; 1 - 26 May; 5 - 30 Jun; 1 - 30 Sept; 1 Nov - 14 Dec. There is a mini bar with tea and coffee making facilities. Their horses are well trained, in good shape and good looking and such a pleasure to ride. 22 +27 (0) 83 287 2885 (24/7) Guided Walks and Walking Safaris: Sable Suite: Lunch will be taken out in the bush under a shady tree on the banks of a river, which crosses an old wagon route once used by the pioneers to congregate for church each Sunday. Experience incredible wildlife and stunning scenery from the back of a horse. The international dialing code for South Africa is +27 and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. Please see 'Departure Dates' above for the next scheduled Game Census Safari. The verandah features a carved day bed for relaxing in the shade whilewooden steps take you down to a private garden and plunge pool. For those with jumping experience, riders can go jumping on a small cross-country course. Min T-shirts, Further discountsare applicable for a 3rd adult orchild sharing a room with 2 adults, as well as for children under 2 years old which includes child minding. For intrepid travellers, this is a combination of incredible horseback game viewing and endless deserted beaches. Does Horizon Horseback have airport transportation? Horizon Lodge is based on a small working ranch in the depths of the Waterberg. Otjiwa Safari Lodge . Enjoy the magnificent vistas created by the mountains and gorges of the Waterberg, at surprise bush breakfasts or traditional sundowners. Why not spoil yourself with a few days on a tropical beach after your safari? 259 per person one way. Buffalo, ostrich, kudu, zebra, waterbuck and impala are also encountered. The children at the school are always very keen to meet the riders and horses and often show of for riders by singing and dancing. These rooms cannot be a twin option and are sold separately with individual entrances. From the moment I arrived I felt like I was part of one big happy family. Tambo Intl Airport, per car (8-10 pax), one way ~, Private guide, per day (1 morning + 1 afternoon activities), Extra lunch, between 12pm to 2pm (on arrival or departure, not both) included free of charge, Surcharge for early pick-up from ORT to lodge between 4:00 am to 7:00 am, Surcharge for early pick-up from lodge to ORT between 4am to 7am, Boerperd The untamed Waterberg is rich in cultural, archaeological and biological diversity. I was so sad to leave, but I will definitely be back. I was fortunate to meet Taz who was so kind. Transfers: Discover Africa on horseback and have a wonderful horse riding holiday with Horizon Horseback.We have been running horse safaris in Africa since 1993. Our horses live out in a herd environment, allowing them to live as naturally as possible once they have carried you home safely. Basic lessons for non-riders are available at both reserves; many guests learn to ride and gain confidence here. There is a special rate for stays of 7 nights or more available throughout the year excluding 15 Dec to 8 Jan, 20 Mar to 30 Apr, 10 Jul to 31 Aug and during the Game Census. With its expansive views across the valley, this room has a king-sized four poster bed as well as a large four poster day bed and still lots more room for an extra bed should you havechildren sharing. The camp is made up of canvas tents set on a wooden deck and nestled in the sandstone ridges overlooking the valley. Guests can choose to do as a day ride or overnight at one of the lodges within the conservancy. Minimum stay 3 nights, but we recommend staying longer. There is a spacious sitting room with comfortable sofas and a fireplace, alongside a dining area and full bar with tea and coffee making facilities. Jumping can be for individuals or small groups. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. It is possible to arrange activities for your arrival and departure days, depending on flight times. Tag Archives: horse riding adventure Day 5 of The Waterberg Trust Challenge Ride 2018. . Consulate (or consular section at embassy or high commission); see Contact Addresses. Should you be an avid walker, you may also choose to do a full day walking safari, stopping in a scenic location to enjoy a bush lunch or even a dip in one ofthe many dams. View Ride Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill South Africa 2 matching itineraries These unique bush homes, Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill, are located on their own private game reserve in the beautiful Waterberg region of South Africa View Ride Arabian Horse Safaris (Okapuka Horses) Namibia 2 matching itineraries Following a morning at Horizon Lodge, in the afternoon you will ride out for Camp Davidson, nestled high in the bushveld above the Matlapeng Valley. Most of the South African smaller airports dont have customs clearance. The village consists of around forty Sotho dwellings, and a small primary school and creche. It continues to remain more accurate than a helicopter count and most importantly, causes zero disturbance to the wildlife. Visa Required? Strong Intermediate to Experienced Riders, As well as our wildlife viewing safaris, we also have other types of riding holidays available throughout Africa, from. AC or room service. expected. Together with ultimate flexibility, incredible personal service, huge variety of game, additional activities and the ability to take all levels or riders including children of all ages, setsAnts apart from other riding operations, particularly those in lion and elephant country. For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com. Scroll down for more details on each cottage and take your pick. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay. There is also a mini bar with tea and coffee making facilities. Both Ants Nest and Ants Hill offer the opportunity for some of the greatest game viewing in the African bush from horseback. Dependent on length of stay requested. On the first and last days of your trip you will be transferred to Johannesburg International Airport (approx.