Accommodation
Guest accommodation is in twin-bedded, luxury thatch lodges, with en-suite bathrooms. The lodges are situated high on a ridge overlooking a picturesque lake below and have spectacular views across the plains. This is a prime spot to relax whilst observing the activities of passing wildlife, or the occasional antics of the hippo in the water below. 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.
Meals
Good quality home-style cooking. Breakfast is a light meal comprising of cereals, toast, yoghurt and fruit. Lunch normally includes home made breads, salads and a pizza or quiche. Dinner is always a 3 course meal. Locally made drinks are included.
Staff
Experienced local leaders.
Age Restriction
Not suitable for under 16 years of age
What To Bring
South Africa's seasons are reversed. Summer falls during our winter months and winter during our summer months. November to March can be hot during the day and rain may be experienced.
Between April and October the days are generally sunny and warm. Early morning and nights can be cold between May and September and cold snaps can occur during the mid-winter months. However the dry winter months are absolutely perfect for riding and game viewing is at its best.
We strongly recommend the use of neutral-colour clothing (khaki, brown, beige and green) that blends in with the bush (no brightly coloured or white clothing).
- Swimming Costume
- Jodhpurs or riding trousers.
- Short riding boots or ride/walk boots such as Ariat Terrain.
- Half chaps.
- Long sleeved shirt and/or T shirts,
- Fleece.
- Underwear - cycling shorts are ideal for long days in the saddle.
- Waterproof/windproof jacket.
- Sun hat.
- Casual clothes for evening.
- Trainers or comfortable shoes for evening.
- Head torch
- Personal toiletries.
- Sun block.
- Lip balm.
- Camera, film, batteries and binoculars.
Riding hats are not mandatory. However, we strongly recommend that you always ride in a hat and that it conforms to BHS requirements (PAS015, BSEN1384). Riding without a hat could effect a claim on insurance. Riding hats are absolutely essential for children under 18 and must be worn by everyone when playing polocrosse or jumping the cross country course.
Group Size
2-8
Other Information
ABOUT THE RIDING
Style of Riding: English but most can also be neck reined.
Type of Riding: Safari/Centre-Based with overnight trail ride. The going is good so there is plenty of fast riding, with long extended canters. Some jumping may be necessary.
Type of Tack: Mclellan's, Australian stock and English GPs are all used.
Hours in the Saddle: 4 to 6 hours per day.
Riding Ability Required: Intermediate upwards.
Maximum Weight: 110 kgs (17st)
Number of Guides per Ride: 1 plus groom.
Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 2/8
Looking after the horse: You are not expected to groom or tack up but may assist if you would like to.
ABOUT THE HORSES
The herd comprises Anglo-Arabs, TBs, Boerperds and crossbreeds, ranging in size from 14.1hh to 16.3hh. All the horses are honest, forward-going and highly responsive. Many have been reared, backed and schooled at Horizon by Shane, who has been using "round pen reasoning" techniques on young and problem horses for over 15 years. With over 70 horses to choose from, for a maximum of 10 guests at Horizon Horseback Adventures and 8 on the Dinaka safari, Horizon are in a position to closely match horse to rider ability and inclination.
