South Africa Horseback Safari

From Game Drives to Gallops: Discovering South Africa on Horseback

I travelled to South Africa for a work conference, but I knew before I left home that I wanted to squeeze in something more — a riding safari. I had heard that exploring the bush on horseback was the most immersive way to experience Africa, and I decided on Horizon Horseback Safaris, tucked into the Waterberg region of Limpopo Province.

First Impressions

After landing in Johannesburg, I set out on the three-hour drive north. By the time I reached Horizon Lodge it was dark, and I had just missed sundowners on the porch overlooking the hippo-filled lake.

Dinner more than made up for it: a three-course feast with excellent South African wine. The dinner table was like the United Nations with guests from England, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Argentina, America, and Australia sharing stories around the long table as if we were old friends. For me, mealtimes are often the highlight of a riding holiday as guests all have a common interest with horses bringing us altogether.

Later I retired to my garden chalet with views of the lake. Comfortable rooms came with a mosquito net, and even an outdoor shower under the stars.

The Rhythm of Safari Life

Days at Horizon begin early. Breakfast was served at 7.30 am and by 8.30 am we were in the saddle, if we were moving to the next lodge our bags were left to be transported to the next lodge. The mornings were cool, but by 10 am the air warmed quickly, often reaching 25 degrees. Winter is dry and crisp, excellent for spotting game, while summer brings heat, rain, and young animals. There really is no bad time to come.

Horizon has access to more than 15,000 acres of bush, and rides are tailored to riders’ ability. Beginners are welcome, while experienced riders enjoy long canters and closer encounters with game. Groups are kept small with no more than eight riders with two guides, one leading and one at the back. Safety is paramount, particularly around buffalo, which can be unpredictable. One thing that attracted me was there are no lions or elephants in the area, so it was very safe riding.

On our first ride we spotted kudu, sable antelope, zebra, buffalo, giraffe, warthog, and ostrich. We alternated between walking quietly through thicker bush, trotting across open plains, and stretching out into canters where the ground allowed. It felt both exhilarating and peaceful: wild animals grazing only metres away, while the horses quietly carried us closer.

Horses and Horsemanship

With more than 100 horses, Horizon’s herd in South Africa is truly impressive. They live out as one large group, coming in twice a day for a wet feed of pellets, with unlimited hay always available. Most of the horses go barefoot on the sandy terrain, though some with sensitive feet wear front shoes. A farrier visits every six to eight weeks, staying on site for two to three days to trim and shoe.

The horse manager keeps a close eye on the herd daily. Each horse is ridden once a day and then enjoys a full 24 hours’ rest. Horses that need extra care receive additional feed, and those in work are given electrolytes. African horse sickness is a major concern in South Africa, spread by midges, so all horses are vaccinated twice ahead of the rainy season in October. Every horse has its temperature checked each morning, and even the slightest sign of illness is carefully monitored.

The horses are hardy, fit, and relaxed, generally standing between 15hh and 16hh. They are all ridden in snaffle bridles, while the saddles locally made and similar in style to a McLennan, were exceptionally comfortable, topped with soft sheepskin covers. Each bridle carries a name tag, and I loved learning the personalities behind the names: Hollywood, Bravo, Overbooked, McVitie, Hillbilly Blue, and The Duke were just a few of my favourites.

The herd is a wonderful mix, with mainly locally bred Boerperd crosses, but also Appaloosas, Friesian crosses, Arab crosses, and more. The guides personally train the young horses, gradually introducing them to the bush and its wildlife. Once a horse learns that giraffes, zebras, or wildebeest are nothing to fear, they settle quickly, even grazing calmly while riders pause to capture photos of the animals.

Lodges and Lifestyle

Horizon runs four main programs across several lodges, including two in Botswana, each offering its own unique character. I joined the South Africa set itinerary, which included an overnight stay at Bellevue Lodge, my favourite stop. After a four-hour morning ride, filming giraffes and tracking buffalo along the way, we arrived at the lodge in time for lunch. The afternoon was spent relaxing by the pool, and later, with a drink in hand, we watched as animals gathered at the waterhole right in front of the lodge. Every lodge has its own pool and quiet corners to unwind, creating the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Another highlight was Camp Davidson, a glamping-style lodge that felt a little more adventurous while still providing creature comforts, including a flush toilet and a beautifully set dining area. Evenings here were unforgettable: sitting by the fire under the stars, with a qualified astronomer pointing out the Milky Way and southern constellations, was truly magical.

Community Connections

Every Friday, guests can ride to the nearby Boschdraai Primary School, a tradition that highlights Horizon’s long-standing ties with the local community. The farm once grew tobacco and the village housed agricultural workers, many of whose children attended the primary school. Today, tourism is the main industry, but the school still thrives with Horizon’s and the guest’s support.

The children sang songs, showed us their vegetable gardens, and proudly displayed their classrooms. Guests often bring pencils, books, or small donations, and the experience of connecting with the local community was moving.

Guiding and Storytelling

Horizon’s guides are all certified to at least Level 1, and their knowledge of the animals and birdlife was extraordinary. They taught us to recognise bird calls—one favourite was the ring-necked dove’s familiar “work harder, drink lager” chant, which had us laughing every time we heard it. Out in the bush, they shared entertaining tales, like the legend of the waterbuck’s white ring, said to be caused by a shaman spilling a pot of paint.

What stood out most was that beyond the facts and figures, their passion for the bush shone through in every story they told. Horizon also welcomes international volunteers, who stay for three months at a time to assist with both the horses and the guests, adding an extra layer of warmth and enthusiasm to the experience.

Reflections

A riding safari is about so much more than just riding. It is the rhythm of life in the bush, the privilege of watching a giraffe step silently across your path, and the camaraderie of travellers from all corners of the world sharing wine around a table. The special bush breakfasts, the sundowners on the porch or in a special place in the bush. Afternoon teas with delicious cake and so much more.

For me, Horizon Horseback Safaris captured it all: beautifully cared-for horses, expert guiding, welcoming lodges, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. I left with memories of cantering alongside Giraffes and Zebra and watching Buffalo, Kudu and Warthogs at sunset, but also with friendships forged in the saddle and at the dinner table.

South Africa had called me for work, but it was the days on horseback in the Waterberg that will stay with me the longest.

If you would love to experience an African Horseback Riding Safari email us at info@snaffletravel.com.au

We have also written an article for Equestrian Hub in the October 2025 issue.