Equestrian Safari in AFRICA : "DISCOVERY" HORSEBACK RIDING SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA

SAFARI A CHEVAL EN AFRIQUE DU SUD
PROGRAMME INDICATIF *

DAY 1 - SUNDAY: Transfer from the airport and first meetings – Introductory ride The riders are personally welcomed at the OR Tambo airport in Johannesburg. The transfer to Horizon Lodge in the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve in Limpopo Province takes approximately three hours. After a light lunch in the Lodge gardens, and later tea, the riders discover the horses. The first ride is an introduction to the reserve and an excellent opportunity for first encounters with species such as zebra, giraffe and hippopotamus. Gaits range from easy walking to galloping on sandy tracks. Sunset aperitif in the open plains. Since the first two nights of the safari are at Horizon Lodge, the center offers a herd of almost 100 horses, you have plenty of time to ensure that
the most suitable horse is available for the long days in the saddle of the last five days of safari.

DAY 2 - MONDAY: Open plains, swimming with horses and game galore. This morning's ride is quite sporty. The route follows the center of an open valley that is home to species such as kudu, sable, reedbuck, red hartebeest, waterbuck and impala. The sandy tracks are excellent and the route crosses open meadows and winds through dense forest. Dark red cattle raised on the property are often encountered on this route. When conditions permit, the final stretch of the ride involves fast gallops along the lakefront adjacent to Horizon Lodge. It's a great experience, but don't expect to stay dry. There is also the possibility of cooling off while experiencing the exhilaration of swimming on horseback. The afternoon walk heads east following the river passing a series of dams where encounters with hippos are likely and returns across the open plains. At this time of day, there is often a lot of activity on the plains. It is a truly magical experience to be able to ride so close to these wild animals, completely relaxed in the presence of the horses.

DAY 3 - TUESDAY: An early start is necessary for the long drive to either Savannah Lodge in the far southwest of the reserve, or Seringa Lodge in the southeast. In places the bush is thick but often the landscape opens up to grasslands with panoramic views to the south and west. Crossing this landscape gives riders a feeling of the immensity of the African plains. The area has a very high concentration of game with herds of over 300 blesbuck, or 80 elk, are often seen. Other species are often encountered, such as the red hartebeest, the tsessebe and the ostrich. There are lots of zebra, wildebeest, impala and giraffe, and smaller groups of sable, roan and waterbuck. The final stretch to Savannah Lodge is along a wooded creek where kudu and bushbuck are likely to be seen. After a moment of relaxation around the swimming pool, it is time to reach the southernmost areas of the reserve in search of Cape buffalo. They are members of Africa’s famous “Big Five” who deserve their reputation. Riders must be alert and responsive to instructions from guides. This area is known for its spectacular sunset over the distant headlands of the Waterberg Escarpment – ​​the perfect end to an eventful and memorable day in the African wilderness.

DAY 4 – WEDNESDAY: Return from Bellevue and “Big Five” safari Another long journey through game-rich country brings riders back to the heart of safati. The route taken is different from that of the outward journey: an exciting journey crossing diverse landscapes and different ecosystems. Game species generally prefer different habitats, with nyala and bushbuck for
example occupying dense forest-like sections of the reserve while blesbuck and hartebeest remain in the open plains, and, unsurprisingly, waterbucks and reedbucks are normally seen near streams and other watercourses. 'water. The route offers excellent opportunities to see giraffes, which is always a highlight. After more than five hours in the saddle, the afternoon activity is an optional (not included) car safari in the surrounding area. Discovery of the Entabeni or Welgevonden animal reserves. Although it involves an hour or more of travel to reach these destinations, the opportunity to see lions, elephants and rhinos in their natural environment makes this excursion worthwhile.

DAY 5 – THURSDAY: Bush Breakfast and Camp Davidson. This day's route goes deep into the reserve. After about three hours in the saddle, riders arrive under a giant wild fig tree for a delicious bush breakfast prepared over a fire. After this hearty meal, the route back to the lodge passes through a dense forest area. That afternoon, riders depart Horizon Lodge and head to Camp Davidson for a special night under canvas. The camp is perched on a ridge overlooking a vast wilderness area to the east. It's not a long drive, but the route is exciting, following a narrow path along the edge of the ridge. Wildlife often encountered in the area includes: baboon, bush pig, kudu and klipspringer. Porcupines are frequent nocturnal visitors to the camp and leopards outside the tents are not uncommon.

DAY 6 - FRIDAY: Sunset Lake, splashing gallop,. Today's route covers the north-eastern areas of the reserve, descending from camp until crossing a stream and open plain, then through undisturbed bushland to the headwaters of Sunset Lake. This lake is a favorite place for the reserve's hippos and is home to
crocodile, otter, fish eagle and other aquatic birds, such as the magnificent African jacana. You stay on the lookout for hippos. These animals, although they have the reputation of being among the most dangerous in Africa, are not a threat. The route offers the opportunity to do some beautiful splashing gallops. After the morning's efforts, you can relax around the swimming pool and enjoy the magnificent unspoilt setting. The afternoon activity is "polo-cross", a mix between polo and cross. The game is very addictive! Horses accustomed to the game are used and no previous experience is required. . Tonight’s dinner begins with a wine tasting.

DAY 7 – SATURDAY: Until the sunset spot. The route follows the valley to the eastern limit of the reserve, before crossing to the
the highlands near Camp Davidson, then you meander along game trails to the lodge. Beautiful extended gallops, interspersed with off-piste walks with panoramic views of the Waterberg highlands. In the afternoon, riders follow a route with optional cross-country jumps on the way to the sunset in a stunning location
with views of the hills. A slow return to the Lodge at dusk ends the day's adventure.

DAY 8 – SUNDAY: Last horseback safari and transfer to the airport. Riders now know all aspects of the horseback safari experience and in consultation with their guides can suggest a preferred ride for their final experience. This is one last opportunity to ride among Africa's incredible antelope species through a magnificent environment. After lunch in the garden, it is time to head back to Johannesburg airport.