Horizon Horseback Adventures and Safaris, South Africa

Wild and Exotic sample itinerary for Big Five Safari at Dinaka, South Africa and Two Mashatus Safaris, Botswana 

For an unforgettable, big five riding adventure combine four nights at Triple B Ranch in South Africa and four nights in Botswana, with Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris.  This horseback safari combines responsive well-loved horses with the magic of riding with game in stunning wilderness areas. Dinaka is in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The safari is based on a private reserve in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains in a UNESCO biosphere reserve, one of the last true wilderness areas of South Africa.  Species to be seen include rhino, hippo, buffalo, black impala, giraffe, ostrich and zebra.  In addition riders will encounter a wide variety of antelope, including the impressive eland and sable and the exquisite steenbuck. Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris are in the Tuli Block, home to Mashatu Game Reserve and known as "The Land of the Giants".  This is an area of great diversity, magnificent vistas and land formations as ancient as time itself.  It is also home to a multitude of wildlife species and remains untouched by the invasion of man.  The riding trails cover both the riverine terrain and the true African mopane bushveld, including the famous sandstone formations of the Tuli. The richness of the Mashatu horse safari experience is complemented by the prevalence of regularly sighted species such as lion, leopard, elephant and hyena.  The Botswana part of the safari can now be done either as a Mobile camping safari or enjoying the added comforts of a static camp. 

For an unforgettable, big five riding adventures combine four nights in South Africa with Horizon Horseback Safaris and four nights in Botswana, with Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris.  This horseback safari combines responsive well-loved horses with the magic of riding with game in stunning wilderness areas.

Dinaka is in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The Safari is based on a private reserve in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains in a UNESCO biosphere reserve, one of the last true wilderness areas of South Africa.  Species to be seen include rhino, hippo, buffalo, black impala, giraffe, ostrich and zebra.  In addition riders will encounter a wide variety of antelope, including the impressive eland and sable and the exquisite steenbuck.     

Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris is in the Tuli Block, home to Mashatu Game Reserve and known as "The Land of the Giants".  This is an area of great diversity, magnificent vistas and land formations as ancient as time itself.  It is also home to a multitude of wildlife species and remains untouched by the invasion of man.  The riding trails cover both the riverine terrain and the true African mopane bushveld, including the famous sandstone formations of the Tuli. The richness of the Mashatu horse safari experience is complemented by the prevalence of regularly sighted species such as lion, leopard, elephant and hyena.  The Botswana part of the safari can now be done either as a Mobile camping safari or enjoying the added comforts of a static camp.  (Please see alternative itinerary in Appendix B)

Example itinerary

Day 1: 11.00 am. Guests are met at the Johannesburg Intercontinental Hotel, (see appendix A) Here guests can enjoy a choice of full English or continental breakfast and can relax whilst their fellow companions arrive.  Our driver will then transfer all guests to the Dinaka, a stunning stone and thatch safari lodge set high above a large hippo dam, offering a sweeping view of the surrounding plains.   Guests will arrive in time to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings and to meet with their guides and fellow safari group.  A late lunch will be served to revive the weary travellers.  Late afternoon, guests will have their first opportunity to acquaint themselves with their selected horse, to take in the wonderful open spaces around them, and to go in search of game in the soft afternoon light. This ride will give guests their first taste of the stunning variety of game on Dinaka.  The day will finish with sundowners and a sumptuous three course evening meal.

Day 2: We will take you on a ride to visit the ‘Small Serengeti Plains' where you will be able to look and interpret the behaviour of various plains game species. Your guides will have a surprise of bush "games" up their sleeve.  On the Dinaka plains riders will encounter the dense game populations this beautiful reserve is renowned for. Sightings of up to 15 rhino, together with 11 other species in your view, are not uncommon.  The open plains provide great opportunities for fast riding.  Riders are also able 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.  This afternoon you may be able to go on a little cross country jumping or ride amongst beautiful big trees

Day 3: After an early breakfast we will set out on a hunt for some of the reserves more elusive mountain species - leopard, mountain zebra, mountain reedbuck, baboons, African rock python, rock daisies, klipspringers and cape vultures.  This ride follows a valley that leads deep into the Waterberg escarpment.  The path follows a crystal clear stream and passes several picturesque dams along the way.  The bush is dense and full of birdcalls. 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 a cooling swim and siesta.  The afternoon is a gentle pre-sunset ride to one of the larger dams hosting some of the many hippos on the reserve.

Day 4: A ride to another area of the reserve, where Dinaka runs its highly successful breeding programme for highly valued species, which include white blesbuck, sable antelope and bontebok.  En route the ride crosses a particularly fertile plain where riders can experience the exhilaration and thrill of cantering amongst herds of game, with many different species galloping together across the plains. 

The afternoon proves a welcome break to both horse and rider.  A Dinaka guide will escort you on an informative game drive, where you will visit another area inhabited by the buffalo and some unusual red wildebeest.  The guide, who is responsible for the feeding and monitoring of the rhino on the reserve, will accompany the guests for a very special opportunity to approach and observe some of the rhino on foot.  The last night is the final ‘braai' evening where guests relax around the fire, enjoy the African night sky and toast their experiences whilst a feast is served.

Day 5: In the morning there is a last chance to find any species not yet found and one last gallop along these endless sandy lanes. After a hearty brunch, and sad goodbyes, guests are transferred to their next destination - on the other side of the Botswana border!  You will depart the lodge at approximately 10.30 to Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris - a transfer of approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival at the stunning camp afternoon tea will be served and guests will have a chance to settle in and relax. The afternoon will also bring an introductory ride to familiarize riders with their horses.   The ride goes to the Confluence camp, where the Majale and the Limpopo meet.  The ride follows the course of the Limpopo, which has the majestic Mashatu trees all along its course.    Upon arrival at the camp, you will be met by the luxury of a well-deserved sundowner overlooking the river and a hot shower under the stars.  Our well renowned bush cook serves dinner before retiring to your very comfortable beds set up in the comfort of your tent.  Let the night bush sounds serenade you to sleep....

Day 6: After an early rise and a light breakfast you will head out to explore the Limpopo Valley, including a natural marshland called "Nels Vlei", the Majale island which is guaranteed to keep you on your toes, as this is where the Majale Island pride of lions hang out. Possibly you will pass by giraffes, elands, kudus and other game which sometimes browse on the mopane bush, as well as ample elephants! The morning ride is 4-5 hours as you explore the area teeming with game, while heading in a northerly direction to Zederburg camp.  After arrival at the camp, and a well deserved lunch, your guide will enlighten you to the wonder of following tracks and signs of the bush during a bush walk.   On return to camp sundowners await you around the campfire and dinner is served. Enjoy the peace and quiet interrupted only by the occasional sounds of lions, hyenas and jackals.

Day 7:  Today's ride of about 4-5 hours takes you to our Liana camp. The ride is coming down from the Zederberg Hills and on to the open Pitsani plains with the possibility of a fast canter with zebras, wildebeest or giraffe. This ride brings the opportunity of jumping some of the fallen logs, pushed over by elephants. Lunch will await you under a splendid Mashatu tree, and then after a lunchtime siesta you head out on a bush walk. Back at the camp, dinner is served under the stars. Enjoy the comfort of sleeping under the baboon vines that the camp is named after, in an old river bed.  An unbeatable experience!

Day 8: The dawn chorus will awake you, as a sumptuous breakfast is prepared over the fire. Today's ride of about 4-5 hours will take you back to the Two Mashatus camp. This ride goes through the central game area and you have good opportunity to look for Leopards in the Mashatu trees overlooking the Majale river.  Follow the course of the river and enjoy the winding canters through the bush.  This afternoon you have the choice of going on a game drive, in search of the cats which you will no doubt prefer to see from the safety of a vehicle! Sundowners are enjoyed in the bush, usually overlooking a Kopie, and you can soak up the atmosphere of a true African experience...Back at camp another delicious meal, cooked over the fire is served, and as the night draws to a close you can enjoy a night cap around the fire. 

Day 9: After a final breakfast around the fire, you will head off for a final ride in the direction of Nels Vlei, a good chance to catch a final glimpse of elephants here, as this is one of their favourite areas.  Back at the stables a last pat and a fond farewell to you horse, you have the chance to have a good shower and lunch before heading off for the border and the 5.5 hours drive to JHB airport.

Please be aware that due to changes in weather and other unforeseen events the itinerary may be changed at the last minute. We will endeavor to keep everyone informed of any changes and the reason for them.

APPENDIX B

(Alternative last four days of Safari for those enjoying the Static camp during February, March and November)

Day 6: After an early rise and a light breakfast you will head out to explore the Limpopo Valley, including a natural marshland called "Nels Vlei", the Majale island witch is guaranteed to keep you on your toes as this is where the Majale Island pride of lions hang out. Possibly out to Kanda Corner where the giraffes sometimes are browsing on the mopane bush, as well as the aptly named Elephants Valley! The morning ride is 3-4 hours as you explore the area teeming with general game. Lunch will be enjoyed under the Mashatu Tree back at the Confluence Camp, as the horses graze around you.  In the afternoon you will be back on a fresh horse and you can enjoy the thrill of a natural cross-country course or a leisurely ride along the Limpopo. Dinner is another unforgettable meal under the stars.

Day 7:  Today is another early start as you will be again in the saddle for up to 4 hours; a good breakfast will fortify you for this day! This fascinating ride will focus on the history of the area with interesting tales about the Anglo-Boer War. Depending on where the game is, you could end up on the Pitsani Plains enjoying a fast gallop, and if you're really lucky zebras, wildebeest and giraffe will join you! In the afternoon guests can choose to go on a game drive (or can go for another leisurely afternoon ride).  If you choose to go on the game drive, you will spend the late afternoon and evening on the "hunt" for the beautiful and awesome cats which are so much a part of the Mashatu experience. Sundowners are enjoyed on a great koppie and at nightfall the spotlight is used for following Africa's big cats on ‘the hunt'.

Day 8: The dawn chorus will awake you, as a sumptuous breakfast is prepared over the fire. Another long day in the saddle, 4 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon... You pass through a range of vegetation types: riverine forests, savannah acacias, terminalia shrubland and areas abundant in shepard's trees, there is a good chance of seeing Elephants, many species of birds and a wide range of antelopes. The afternoon ride will head towards the rocky outcrop close to Rock Camp where waterbuck, rock daisies, and black eagles are likely to be spotted. On your way back you can head out to the Dam wall for a great view of Mashatu!  Your dinner will be cooked in front of you tonight as its "Braai night" enjoy the comfort of a well earned meal around the fire.

Day 9: After a final breakfast around the fire, you will head off for a last ride in the direction of Nels Vlei, a good chance to catch another glimpse of elephants here, as this is one of their favourite areas.  Some final jumps over our natural cross country course and your back at FJ. A last pat and a fond farewell to you horse, you have the chance to have a good shower and quick lunch before heading off for the border and the 5.5 hours drive to JHB.

Notes:

4 nights Dinaka safari                                                                          £1040
Plus 4 nights mobile / static camping whilst in Botswana            £1000
Total (9 day 8 night) (28/ 1/ 2010 - 30/11/2010)                               £2040

Prices quoted are based on two people sharing accommodation based on a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 guests on the ride. A 50% single supplement is payable for those not able to share same sex accommodation.

These safaris can also be booked for private groups. Please contact Wild and Exotic for further information.

The price does not include transfers. Big 5 Safari transfers are £230 per person. This rate includes arrival day transfer at 11am from Johannesburg international airport to Dinaka, fifth day transfer at 11am from Dinaka to Limpopo and departure day transfer at 11:30am from Limpopo to Johannesburg international airport.  

Things to bring: As well as comfortable riding clothes we recommend the following;  Your well fitting hard hat. A wide brimmed hat also is advisable as protection against the sun. Bumbag, Lipsalve, Sun protection cream factor 20 or higher, Short boots and chaps. Long rubber boots are not advised.  Swimming costume. Light weight long sleeved shirts. Light weight raincoat. Extra film and camera batteries. A good book.

Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic's terms and conditions, a copy of which will be enclosed with your booking form.

Accommodation: The Horizon Lodge overlooks a beautiful lake. The lake colonial veranda is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of South Africa, while listening to hippo and jackal calls. With no TV and no newspapers, it is the ideal place to get away from it all. All rooms are en suite with either shower or bath or both facilities. Three double rooms are seperate from the main lodge: two suites overlook the lake and have a small veranda area, the rondavel is a traditional african dwelling adjacent to the lodge with its own charm. There is a large living area, dining room and large stoep (or verandah) for guests to enjoy. Three sumptious meals are served everyday with afternoon tea  before an afternoon ride. All drinks are complimentary. Special dietary requirements can also be catered for on request.

Ranch Based Holidays: In order to meet individual preferences, Triple B Ranch does not run to a pre-determined itinerary. They offer guidelines as to what they believe their guests will enjoy each day, but the activities are organised to meet each guest's specific requirements. Rides are arranged in small groups so that experienced riders can enjoy stimulating and fast riding, whilst novices are brought on at a pace comfortable to them. Individual requests for private rides, flatwork coaching, or cross country lessons can also be accommodated. A number of non-riding activities are always on offer for those feeling saddle weary. Horizons Adventures is renowned not only for its great horses and riding, but also for its quality service and relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Over 17 years of operation it has developed tremendous customer loyalty with many guests returning time after time.

Horizon Adventures has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere; people arrive as guests and leave as friends. We enjoy sharing this wonderful place an our lives with our guests so come and be part of it.

The Riding Options: The Ranch is superb riding country. The going is easy, the horses run unshod on perfect sandy soil, and though the bushveld is thick in places, most of the countryside is open and flat and perfect for extended canters. Rocky koppies provide an ideal vantage point from which to appreciate the vastness of the Waterberg plateau. Swimming the horses in one of the many dams is an excellent way to cool down after a long morning ride. Leisurely viewing of the resident hippo family, either sunbathing in the winter sun or wallowing in the dam, has proved to be a popular interlude during a ride. 

Cattle Mustering: The 1200 strong cattle herd on the Ranch are stud Bonsmaras, a hardy African breed suited to the region's harsh conditions. Guests can join in the daily routine of herding and yard work, check calving cows or drive a herd between widely spread pastures. The Bonsmara is a non-aggressive breed and the ideal animal with which to experience the challenge and excitement of mustering cattle. Herding cattle also stimulates one to work closely with the horse and gives a rewarding purpose to a morning ride.

Polocrosse: An amalgam of polo and lacrosse, polocrosse is easy to learn and one of the most exhilarating sports on horseback. To guests who have never played before we introduce the game slowly, running through the basic rules and showing the tricks of the trade when it comes to stick work. Then it is- "in at the deep end" - with a full game. One chukka is usually all it takes to bring out the competitive spirit! 

Cross-Country Jumping: For experienced riders, our challenging cross-country course ranges from welcome level log piles to over 30 taxing open jumps. Triple ‘B' Ranch hosts an annual international 3-phase event affiliated to the Transvaal Horse Society.  The course was designed by South Africa's top course builder, Johnny Perreira.

Western Games: Those interested in yet another challenge can join in the fun of western games.  Barrel racing and pole bending are fun ways of schooling yourself in the art of light commands and quick responses. 

Riding amongst game: Triple B Ranch offers four horseback game viewing options for those wanting to experience the African Safari.  Viewing game on horseback is an enriching experience as the animals seem to have no fear, enabling you to get closer than you ever thought possible. Using the knowledge of local guides, you will explore game tracks, follow spoor and learn local bush lore. 

Triple B game viewing: Those staying at the lodge can enjoy leisurely rides within the Triple B ranch private reserve. The reserve borders the homestead and offers the opportunity of riding with plains game such as giraffe, zebra, kudu, impala, hartebeest, and bushbuck and many of the smaller mammals such as duiker, steenbok and black-backed jackal, baboons and bush pig. As the Melk River forms the eastern boundary of the reserve, Hippos are frequently seen in the deeper pools.

Born Wild 2 day safari: For those wanting even more opportunities for game viewing, we offer the Born Wild two-day safari. This reserve boasts many species of game, including white rhino, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, ostrich and a host of antelope such as waterbuck, kudu, gemsbok, nyala, klipspringer, impala and red hartebeest. Brown hyena, porcupine, anteaters and caracal are also occasionally seen. On these trips meals are served from the campfire and accommodation is in thatch huts, each with en-suite facilities and sleeping up to three people. The born wild trip would normally be incorporated into all eight-day bookings.

Bush walks and tour of Triple B Ranch: When out of the saddle, why not take the opportunity to enjoy a guided bush walk or a tour of Triple B, with the owner and great character, Charles Baber. Guests are also encouraged to meet locals from the nearby village and to visit their children at the farm crèche and school. The children love to see foreign faces and they may even sing for you! Alternatively spend the afternoon playing tennis or relaxing in the sun by the plunge pool with a good book. A trip into the local town of Vaalwater is always on offer for shopping and an insight into bushveld retail therapy!

Game drives: You may also wish to enjoy a game drive and visit the Lapalala Wilderness. This privately owned game reserve is home to one of the largest population of black rhino in South Africa and you can experience the thrill of hand feeding the orphan black and white rhino. Alternatively a half-day excursion to Entabeni, a private reserve with the added possibility of seeing lions and elephants, may make a pleasant interlude.