Horizon Safari

Horizon Safari, based at Dinaka, is unquestionably for “lovers of luxury” and those who want a guaranteed game viewing experience. Species on the reserve include; not only rhino, hippo, buffalo, giraffe, leopard, ostrich and two species of zebra, but also over 20 species of antelope, including the rare sable. Situated along the Waterberg escarpment, the reserve is one of South Africa's last remaining wildernesses, and its views are mountainous whilst its environment consists mainly of extensive plains. This gives riders the opportunity to view larger herds of game not normally seen in montane bushveld. Each visit provides a truly magical game experience. During your stay you will ride through beautiful mountains where the rare and endangered Cape Griffon nests; gallop across open sandy tracks; canter for miles looking at the wonder of nature surrounding you; take your horse for a refreshing swim in the cool water of one of the many lakes; jump the natural obstacles and enjoy hacks through thick woodlands taking you on a mystical ride. Guest accommodation is in twin-bedded, luxury thatch lodges, with en-suite bathrooms overlooking a picturesque lake with spectacular views across the plains. As rides are taken during the cooler hours of the day, when the game is more active, there is plenty of time to relax and cool off in the plunge pool. The reserve is owner-operated, boasting warm hospitality and personal attention to detail. Meal times are an event in themselves and provide an impressive array of dishes. Daily afternoon tea is an irrefutable delight! 

Day 1

You will be transfered from Johannesburg Airport at 10am by a driver to the lodge on the reserve, a stunning stone and thatch safari lodge set high above a large hippo dam, offering a sweeping view of the surrounding plains. Relax and unpack after lunch and in the afternoon,  acquaint yourself with your horse going in search of game in the soft afternoon light. This ride will give you your first taste of the stunning variety of game. After the ride its back to the lodge for sundowner drinks overlooking the lake and a traditional African evening meal.

Day 2

You will be taken on a ride to visit the ‘Small Serengeti Plains’. The open plains provide great opportunities to experience that dream canter alongside herds of antelope as they gallop and pronk across the open savannah. Back at the lodge guests can sunbathe above the hippo dam and watch these family orientated creatures interact and play in the heat of the day. The afternoon ride will take you out with the explicit purpose of tracking the majestic white rhino.  These prehistoric animals are one of the incredible success stories of the reserve which holds one of the oldest breeding herds in the country. Being next to these magnificent creatures is a highlight of any safari but being with them on horseback is a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 3 

This ride will take you deep into the heart of the Waterberg escarpment. Here we will be on the lookout for the breeding colony of the cape vultures and some of the reserves more elusive mountain species – leopard, mountain zebra, klipspringer and the yellow spotted rock hyrax. The path follows a crystal clear stream and passes several picturesque dams along the way. Here is also the chance to spot the odd African rock python bathing in the sun. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed at one of the dams along the way, returning to the lodge in the early afternoon in time for afternoon tea. That afternoon you are free to use the plunge pool or join the guides for an afternoon bush walk and a chance to study in depth the flora and fauna of the area.

Day 4 

A ride to another area of the reserve towards the western boundaries with beautiful views. These long and winding tracks offer the perfect opportunity for fast and exhilarating riding. The afternoon provides a perfect photo opportunity and a break to both horse and rider. A guide will escort you on an informative game drive where you will get the chance to learn more about reserve management and get up close and personal with cape buffalo and rhino. The guide who is responsible for the monitoring of the reserve rhino population will give you a very special opportunity to approach and observe these prehistoric creatures. The drive also offers the chance to catch a glimpse of some of the reserve’s nocturnal animals such as brown hyena, spring hare porcupine and aardvark. Enjoy your final evening around the fire.

Day 5

In the morning there is the last chance for one more gallop along these endless sandy lanes and after a hearty brunch you will depart the lodge at 11am and head to your next destination.

2012 prices:

4 nights, full board, £1,080pp

2012 dates:

1st March - 31st December

Spring/Summer is Sept-March with the rainy season from Nov-March. Nov & Feb are the hottest months. 

Autumn/Winter is May-Aug with little rain

Single Supplement: £216 for guaranteed single room

Includes: lodge accommodation, meals & drinks

Not Included: Flights and Travel Insurance

Meeting Point: Johannesburg Airport

Indicative flight price: London to Johannesburg £800 - £1500pp return depending on time of year

Transfer: £90 return per person

No of hours in the saddle: 4-6 per day

Max Weight: 90kg

Group Size: 8

Suitable for non-riders: No

Call us on +44 (0)1225 424413 or email contact@redlandsequestrian.com to check the ride availability and dates, once we have confirmed availability you can download and fill in a booking form:

• UK Rides Booking Form
• Worldwide Rides Booking Form

Each rider in the party must also complete a riding ability questionnaire before we can complete the final confirmation of your holiday booking.