Quick facts

Waterberg, South Africa

7 nights

£2132

Open all year

Max 8 persons

Based on lodge with excursions to two additional accommodations

Riding level: 3 – 5

Max weight: 85 kg

O.R Tambo International Airport

Quick facts

Waterberg, South Africa

7 nights

£2132

Open all year

Max 8 persons

Based on lodge with excursions to two additional accommodations

Riding level: 3 – 5

Max weight: 85 kg

O.R Tambo International Airport

Amenities

A swimming pool is available at all accommodations.

Wi-Fi is provided at Horizon Lodge and Camp Davidson, but connection at Bellevue is weak or sometimes unavailable.

Laundry service is available.

Electricity is provided at all camps.

Amenities

A swimming pool is available at all accommodations.

Wi-Fi is provided at Horizon Lodge and Camp Davidson, but connection at Bellevue is weak or sometimes unavailable.

Laundry service is available.

Electricity is provided at all camps.

About

This seven-night riding safari takes you into one of South Africa’s most captivating regions – the vast and diverse Waterberg. More than just a horseback holiday, the Signature Safari is an experience filled with adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable encounters with nature and wildlife.

The safari is designed for riders who want to experience the freedom of riding extensively and in varied ways. The diverse terrain – savannas, open plains, rock formations, wetlands, and lush forests – offers exciting rides that include fast-paced gallops, cross-country obstacles, and refreshing rides through water. Here, unique experiences await, such as polocrosse, bareback swimming with the horses, and riding to scenic spots for unforgettable sundowners. The wildlife in the area is rich and diverse. You ride side by side with zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and may spot rare species such as the sable antelope and nyala. You won't risk encountering lions and elephants while horseback riding, but you have the opportunity to book a classic Big Five safari in a nearby reserve. Here, you have the chance to see both elephants and rhinos, as well as big cats. The accommodation during the safari is as varied as the landscape. You will spend six nights at the beautiful Horizon Lodge by the tranquil lake, one night in the more bush-close glamping experience at Camp Davidson, located on a secluded ridge in the reserve, and one night in one of the unique lodges overlooking the Bellevue plains. Each location has its own charm and character, offering a magical variety. Signature Safari combines skilled guides, beautiful nature, and high-level riding pleasure. It is the ultimate riding journey in the South African bush – perfect for those who seek adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable encounters with the wilderness.

About

This seven-night riding safari takes you into one of South Africa’s most captivating regions – the vast and diverse Waterberg. More than just a horseback holiday, the Signature Safari is an experience filled with adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable encounters with nature and wildlife.

Gallery

Horseback safari guide in Waterberg, South Africa – passes two giraffes up close during a safari ride.
Horseback safari guide in Waterberg, South Africa – passes two giraffes up close during a safari ride.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – three riders on horseback stand close to five giraffes in a lush green landscape.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – three riders on horseback stand close to five giraffes in a lush green landscape.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – a rider on a horseback holiday passes two giraffes up close.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – a rider on a horseback holiday passes two giraffes up close.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – three zebras, one of them a foal, look toward the camera in golden light as two riders on horseback pass in the background.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – three zebras, one of them a foal, look toward the camera in golden light as two riders on horseback pass in the background.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – a group of riders on horseback during a riding holiday in Africa, surrounded by green landscape and tall grass. In the foreground, five sable antelopes are grazing.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – a group of riders on horseback during a riding holiday in Africa, surrounded by green landscape and tall grass. In the foreground, five sable antelopes are grazing.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – a rider gallops through shallow water, splashing around the hooves
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – a rider gallops through shallow water, splashing around the hooves
Riding holiday in Waterberg, South Africa – two riders ride bareback in bikinis as their horses wade through the water.
Riding holiday in Waterberg, South Africa – two riders ride bareback in bikinis as their horses wade through the water.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – two riders on horseback play polocrosse in the African sunset.
Horseback safari in Waterberg, South Africa – two riders on horseback play polocrosse in the African sunset.

Accommodation

During the safari, you will stay at three unique camps: Horizon Lodge, Camp Davidson, and one of Bellevue’s two lodges – Savannah or Syringa.

Horizon Lodge (5 nights)

Standard rooms at Horizon Lodge are Luxury Garden Chalets. These double rooms are separate from the main building: three suites overlook the lake and have a small veranda, while the rondavels are traditional African dwellings next to the lodge. All rooms have private bathrooms with either a shower, a bath, or both. There are also two double rooms in the main building – Standard rooms. These also have private bathrooms with a shower. For guests' comfort, there is a large living room, a dining room, and a spacious veranda. Three exquisite meals are served daily, with afternoon tea before the ride. All drinks are included, and we are happy to accommodate special dietary needs if required. The lodge also has a pool by the lake. Both Luxury Garden Chalets and Standard rooms can be booked as single rooms subject to availability.

Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – luxurious lodge accommodation on a horseback safari in Africa, featuring a beautifully made double bed with canopy and mosquito net, and an ensuite bathroom.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – luxurious lodge accommodation on a horseback safari in Africa, featuring a beautifully made double bed with canopy and mosquito net, and an ensuite bathroom.
Horse safari in Waterberg, South Africa. Beautifully made bed in a luxurious double room at Signature Safari, riding trip to Africa.
Horse safari in Waterberg, South Africa. Beautifully made bed in a luxurious double room at Signature Safari, riding trip to Africa.
Horse safari in Waterberg, South Africa. Large and spacious double room with a beautiful double bed surrounded by a mosquito net. Bright and large, ensuite bathroom, at Signature Safari, riding trip to Africa.
Horse safari in Waterberg, South Africa. Large and spacious double room with a beautiful double bed surrounded by a mosquito net. Bright and large, ensuite bathroom, at Signature Safari, riding trip to Africa.
Horse safari in Waterberg, South Africa. Beautiful, luxurious and bright double room. Windows with panoramic views of the lake, on the Signature Safari riding trip.
Horse safari in Waterberg, South Africa. Beautiful, luxurious and bright double room. Windows with panoramic views of the lake, on the Signature Safari riding trip.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – beautiful safari lodge with lake view, seen from the outside during a horseback safari in Africa.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – beautiful safari lodge with lake view, seen from the outside during a horseback safari in Africa.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – large pool set in lush surroundings as part of a safari lodge for horseback safaris in Africa.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – large pool set in lush surroundings as part of a safari lodge for horseback safaris in Africa.

Camp Davidson (1 night)

Camp Davidson is inspired by the old outspan camps of E.A. Davidson (great-grandfather of Dr Rupert Baber, one of the founders of Horizon Horseback), who in the early 1900s traveled through the region by wagon, selling goods along the way. Horizon has recreated that early camp atmosphere at Camp Davidson. Beautiful canvas tents on wooden decks are nestled among sandstone ridges with views over Horizon’s reserve. Each tent has its own bathroom with a shower. The camp is fully powered by solar energy and features a swimming pool with a deck. Wi-Fi is available in some of the tents as well as in the main tent.

Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Camp Davidson main area, beautifully rustic lounge area on a horseback safari in Africa.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Camp Davidson main area, beautifully rustic lounge area on a horseback safari in Africa.
Pool deck with a beautiful green view at Camp Davidson, horseback safari in Waterberg South Africa
Pool deck with a beautiful green view at Camp Davidson, horseback safari in Waterberg South Africa

Bellevue Lodge (1 night)

The Bellevue Reserve has two different lodges – Savannah and Syringa – and you will spend one night in one of these, most often Savannah. Both lodges are beautifully decorated with spacious and comfortable common areas as well as dining rooms both indoors and outdoors. Savannah is the lodge where you usually spend the night – a true African bush lodge at its finest. Four rondavels, each with their own bathroom, are placed on a shared deck. In a semicircle, they embrace the view of both the pool, the savannah, and the nearby waterhole frequently visited by wild animals. The common areas naturally flow out onto an elegant, covered veranda in traditional style. From here, the deck opens up with the pool in the foreground and the untouched wilderness as a backdrop. At the lodge's viewing point, you can settle down for an afternoon rest or take out the binoculars to observe the wildlife unfolding before your eyes. Syringa is a charming lodge made of white plastered stone that evokes more of a home feel than a hotel lodge. When you step inside, it feels like walking straight into someone's living room – warm, cozy, and personal. There are beautifully decorated double rooms and several stylishly tiled bathrooms shared among the guests. From the pool, which overlooks the savannah, you can enjoy the ever-present wildlife and the endless horizon. Not infrequently, you may be visited by ostriches that bravely approach the fence surrounding Syringa. Below are pictures from Savannah Lodge.

Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Savannah Lodge viewing deck with sofa and lounge setting overlooking a golden savannah filled with wildlife.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Savannah Lodge viewing deck with sofa and lounge setting overlooking a golden savannah filled with wildlife.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Savannah Lodge main area featuring a beautifully rustic lounge with dining table, sofas, fireplace, and warm lighting during a horseback riding holiday in Africa.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Savannah Lodge main area featuring a beautifully rustic lounge with dining table, sofas, fireplace, and warm lighting during a horseback riding holiday in Africa.
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Savannah Lodge viewing deck with lounge sofa overlooking a green savannah
Signature Safari, Waterberg, South Africa – Savannah Lodge viewing deck with lounge sofa overlooking a green savannah
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.
Tree Camp i Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana – unikt boende byggt på en platå i ett träd, med säng omgiven av myggnät under ridresa med Africa by Horse.

Signature Safari • Day by day

Day 1

Upon arrival at OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, you will be met by Horizon Horseback's partner Saddlebag Shuttles. The journey north to Waterberg takes about three hours and offers beautiful views along the way. Once you arrive at Horizon Lodge, lunch awaits in the lush garden, followed by afternoon tea in a relaxing setting. After that, it's time for the first introduction to the horses in the reserve. The initial ride is a gentle start to the adventure and allows you to explore the bush from horseback. There is a chance to encounter zebras, giraffes, and hippos on the very first day. Relaxing walks alternate with freer gallops along sandy trails, and the day concludes with sundowners out on the vast plains. Horizon takes great care in matching the right horse with the right rider, considering both the level of experience and personal preferences. Throughout the week, you will have the opportunity to try several different horses, with the possibility to request the ones you connect with best for future rides.

Day 1

Upon arrival at OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg, you will be met by Horizon Horseback's partner Saddlebag Shuttles. The journey north to Waterberg takes about three hours and offers beautiful views along the way. Once you arrive at Horizon Lodge, lunch awaits in the lush garden, followed by afternoon tea in a relaxing setting. After that, it's time for the first introduction to the horses in the reserve. The initial ride is a gentle start to the adventure and allows you to explore the bush from horseback. There is a chance to encounter zebras, giraffes, and hippos on the very first day. Relaxing walks alternate with freer gallops along sandy trails, and the day concludes with sundowners out on the vast plains. Horizon takes great care in matching the right horse with the right rider, considering both the level of experience and personal preferences. Throughout the week, you will have the opportunity to try several different horses, with the possibility to request the ones you connect with best for future rides.

Day 2

The day begins with a ride through grassy areas and woodlands that invite riding. Here, a rich mix of wildlife lives – everything from elegant sable antelopes and kudu to waterbucks, reedbucks, impalas, and red hartebeests. You may also encounter the ranch's own red cattle grazing freely, often side by side with the antelopes. As you approach the lodge, weather permitting, a thrilling gallop awaits along the lakeshore. In splashy canters, it's impossible to stay completely dry afterwards! For those who wish, there’s also the opportunity for bareback bathing in the fresh water. In the afternoon, after enjoying a well-deserved break and lunch, it's time to ride where the trail passes ponds and hippos sometimes make an appearance. In the evening light, the landscape changes – herds gather, the air is filled with life, and the atmosphere becomes almost dreamlike. Sharing this moment with the horse amidst you and the wildlife around is something truly special.

Day 2

The day begins with a ride through grassy areas and woodlands that invite riding. Here, a rich mix of wildlife lives – everything from elegant sable antelopes and kudu to waterbucks, reedbucks, impalas, and red hartebeests. You may also encounter the ranch's own red cattle grazing freely, often side by side with the antelopes. As you approach the lodge, weather permitting, a thrilling gallop awaits along the lakeshore. In splashy canters, it's impossible to stay completely dry afterwards! For those who wish, there’s also the opportunity for bareback bathing in the fresh water. In the afternoon, after enjoying a well-deserved break and lunch, it's time to ride where the trail passes ponds and hippos sometimes make an appearance. In the evening light, the landscape changes – herds gather, the air is filled with life, and the atmosphere becomes almost dreamlike. Sharing this moment with the horse amidst you and the wildlife around is something truly special.

Day 3

Day 3 and it's time to explore new territories. Early in the morning, you leave Horizon Lodge and ride towards the next destination – either Savannah or Syringa Lodge. The ride begins in familiar surroundings, but soon the landscape changes. Dense bush gives way to wide grasslands – a view that is truly spectacular. In this reserve, with a bit of luck, you may encounter some of the animals not found in Horizon's reserve – sable antelopes with their characteristic long, curving horns, and perhaps even buffalo, part of the big five. Upon arrival, there is time to relax by the pool before you saddle up for an afternoon ride. The ride goes through the southern parts of the reserve, and here the landscape offers one of the most beautiful views you can find. A magical ending to yet another day in the bush.

Day 3

Day 3 and it's time to explore new territories. Early in the morning, you leave Horizon Lodge and ride towards the next destination – either Savannah or Syringa Lodge. The ride begins in familiar surroundings, but soon the landscape changes. Dense bush gives way to wide grasslands – a view that is truly spectacular. In this reserve, with a bit of luck, you may encounter some of the animals not found in Horizon's reserve – sable antelopes with their characteristic long, curving horns, and perhaps even buffalo, part of the big five. Upon arrival, there is time to relax by the pool before you saddle up for an afternoon ride. The ride goes through the southern parts of the reserve, and here the landscape offers one of the most beautiful views you can find. A magical ending to yet another day in the bush.

Day 4

Today you guide the horses back towards Horizons lodge, through the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the Bellevue reserve. After the three-hour ride back, lunch and relaxation await. This afternoon, the four-legged friends get some well-deserved rest, and you have the opportunity to book a game drive in a nearby reserve. Here, you can experience encounters with several of the animals that make up the big five: elephant, lion, and rhinoceros. With a bit of luck, you might also see playful cheetahs frolicking in the tall grass.

Day 4

Today you guide the horses back towards Horizons lodge, through the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the Bellevue reserve. After the three-hour ride back, lunch and relaxation await. This afternoon, the four-legged friends get some well-deserved rest, and you have the opportunity to book a game drive in a nearby reserve. Here, you can experience encounters with several of the animals that make up the big five: elephant, lion, and rhinoceros. With a bit of luck, you might also see playful cheetahs frolicking in the tall grass.

Day 5

Venturing into the reserve on horseback is always a little adventure in itself, where no ride is like another. After a few morning hours in the saddle, you reach an enormous fig tree where a well-deserved "bush breakfast" cooked over an open fire awaits – a true highlight in the outdoors. When afternoon arrives, it is once again time to leave Horizon Lodge behind and head towards Camp Davidson, where a night in beautiful glamping tents and a campfire under the starry sky awaits. The path follows the mountain ridge on narrow passages with views of the landscape below. In the area, you may encounter baboons and the small antelope known as the klipspringer.

Day 5

Venturing into the reserve on horseback is always a little adventure in itself, where no ride is like another. After a few morning hours in the saddle, you reach an enormous fig tree where a well-deserved "bush breakfast" cooked over an open fire awaits – a true highlight in the outdoors. When afternoon arrives, it is once again time to leave Horizon Lodge behind and head towards Camp Davidson, where a night in beautiful glamping tents and a campfire under the starry sky awaits. The path follows the mountain ridge on narrow passages with views of the landscape below. In the area, you may encounter baboons and the small antelope known as the klipspringer.

Day 6

You leave Camp Davidson behind and hopefully have slept well surrounded by the sounds of nature at night. Your morning ride may lead you to Sunset Lake, where hippos and fish eagles like to reside. The ride offers delightful gallops and surely even more of "the plains" beautiful wildlife: wildebeests, zebras, kudus, and impalas. In the afternoon, a new experience awaits as you get to try your hand at polo crosse! This is typically accompanied by refreshments in the form of sundowners. The conversation topic for the evening's dinner is guaranteed to be the highlights of the match.

Day 6

You leave Camp Davidson behind and hopefully have slept well surrounded by the sounds of nature at night. Your morning ride may lead you to Sunset Lake, where hippos and fish eagles like to reside. The ride offers delightful gallops and surely even more of "the plains" beautiful wildlife: wildebeests, zebras, kudus, and impalas. In the afternoon, a new experience awaits as you get to try your hand at polo crosse! This is typically accompanied by refreshments in the form of sundowners. The conversation topic for the evening's dinner is guaranteed to be the highlights of the match.

Day 7

Today, you will head to a nearby reserve where you will once again carefully make your way through the South African bush – here you can find both sable antelopes and buffaloes. The afternoon ride will be the last one where you can enjoy the twilight and sunset, and by this point, you have probably found a favorite among the horses you have ridden. The evening offers a wine tasting with carefully paired small dishes and then a final three-course dinner.

Day 7

Today, you will head to a nearby reserve where you will once again carefully make your way through the South African bush – here you can find both sable antelopes and buffaloes. The afternoon ride will be the last one where you can enjoy the twilight and sunset, and by this point, you have probably found a favorite among the horses you have ridden. The evening offers a wine tasting with carefully paired small dishes and then a final three-course dinner.

Day 8

A final breakfast and a last ride. You set off to find the animals you have not yet encountered, and perhaps this will offer even more splashy canters along the lakeside. As you pack up the last of your things for departure and wave goodbye, you have memories to cherish for the rest of your life.

Day 8

A final breakfast and a last ride. You set off to find the animals you have not yet encountered, and perhaps this will offer even more splashy canters along the lakeside. As you pack up the last of your things for departure and wave goodbye, you have memories to cherish for the rest of your life.

The itinerary serves as a guideline. Changes may occur due to the movement of game, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances. Any adjustments made will always be with the safety and best interests of the safari experience in mind.

More information

Food and drinks

A stay at Horizon is not just about riding and nature experiences – the food is an equally important part of the whole. Every meal is carefully prepared and characterized by South African hospitality, where generosity and richness of flavor go hand in hand. The days begin with a hearty breakfast buffet where you can choose from both hot and cold options. Here, the selection varies from yogurt and fresh fruit to freshly made pancakes and eggs in all forms – omelette, scrambled eggs – and of course freshly baked bread. Lunch is always substantial and varies from fresh salads and pies to burgers, grilled dishes, and other rustic favorites. In the afternoon, classic afternoon tea is served – often with homemade pastries that feel somewhat magical after hours in the saddle. Evenings conclude with a three-course dinner where local ingredients meet international flavors, always well-cooked and inviting. The drink experience is at least as important. The South African wines are world-class and generously served with dinner. For those who prefer something lighter, there are local beers or ciders like Savannah and Hunters – true classics in South Africa. And of course: a gin & tonic at sunset is a must on every riding safari.

Food and drinks

A stay at Horizon is not just about riding and nature experiences – the food is an equally important part of the whole. Every meal is carefully prepared and characterized by South African hospitality, where generosity and richness of flavor go hand in hand. The days begin with a hearty breakfast buffet where you can choose from both hot and cold options. Here, the selection varies from yogurt and fresh fruit to freshly made pancakes and eggs in all forms – omelette, scrambled eggs – and of course freshly baked bread. Lunch is always substantial and varies from fresh salads and pies to burgers, grilled dishes, and other rustic favorites. In the afternoon, classic afternoon tea is served – often with homemade pastries that feel somewhat magical after hours in the saddle. Evenings conclude with a three-course dinner where local ingredients meet international flavors, always well-cooked and inviting. The drink experience is at least as important. The South African wines are world-class and generously served with dinner. For those who prefer something lighter, there are local beers or ciders like Savannah and Hunters – true classics in South Africa. And of course: a gin & tonic at sunset is a must on every riding safari.

Horses and equipment

The number of horses at Horizon Horseback in South Africa amounts to nothing less than 110. When they are not out on horseback rides, they roam freely across the reserve's vast areas. The horses are all-round trained and very skilled safari horses – a mix of local breeds, Boerperd (South Africa’s own breed) hybrids, Appaloosas, and Thoroughbreds. There are ponies for the younger riders as well as large and weight-bearing quadrupeds. A trail saddle has been developed for long rides in varied terrain, where comfort and functionality are the focus. The wide, well-padded seat allows the rider to sit comfortably for many hours in the saddle, while the larger surface area distributes weight evenly across the horse's back. The saddle is also equipped with practical attachment points for saddle bags and other equipment, making it particularly well-suited for safari riding and long-distance rides where both horse and rider need endurance. Each horse has its own matched bridle and bit.

Horses and equipment

The number of horses at Horizon Horseback in South Africa amounts to nothing less than 110. When they are not out on horseback rides, they roam freely across the reserve's vast areas. The horses are all-round trained and very skilled safari horses – a mix of local breeds, Boerperd (South Africa’s own breed) hybrids, Appaloosas, and Thoroughbreds. There are ponies for the younger riders as well as large and weight-bearing quadrupeds. A trail saddle has been developed for long rides in varied terrain, where comfort and functionality are the focus. The wide, well-padded seat allows the rider to sit comfortably for many hours in the saddle, while the larger surface area distributes weight evenly across the horse's back. The saddle is also equipped with practical attachment points for saddle bags and other equipment, making it particularly well-suited for safari riding and long-distance rides where both horse and rider need endurance. Each horse has its own matched bridle and bit.

Riding, riding level and hours in the saddle

The riding at Horizon is both varied and changing – one moment you are riding through forest and hilly terrain, the next moment the landscape opens up into wide plains with sandy paths inviting you to delightful gallops. During the safari, you will experience everything from fast, splashy canters and natural jumps to swimming with the horses in the lake and playful polocrosse. For this Signature Safari (7-day set itinerary), a minimum riding level of 3 – Intermediate is required. You should feel confident in all gaits and be capable of longer gallops in varied terrain. For those who are beginners or have limited experience, there is the option of the Signature Safari – Flex Itinerary, where the riding is adapted to each participant's level – you can have no prior experience at all. Go back to Destinations and look for Flex Itinerary if you are a complete beginner! A typical day involves around five hours in the saddle, with three hours in the morning and two in the afternoon. The exception is Wednesdays when the afternoon is a rest day and no riding takes place, allowing both horses and riders a chance to recover.

Riding, riding level and hours in the saddle

The riding at Horizon is both varied and changing – one moment you are riding through forest and hilly terrain, the next moment the landscape opens up into wide plains with sandy paths inviting you to delightful gallops. During the safari, you will experience everything from fast, splashy canters and natural jumps to swimming with the horses in the lake and playful polocrosse. For this Signature Safari (7-day set itinerary), a minimum riding level of 3 – Intermediate is required. You should feel confident in all gaits and be capable of longer gallops in varied terrain. For those who are beginners or have limited experience, there is the option of the Signature Safari – Flex Itinerary, where the riding is adapted to each participant's level – you can have no prior experience at all. Go back to Destinations and look for Flex Itinerary if you are a complete beginner! A typical day involves around five hours in the saddle, with three hours in the morning and two in the afternoon. The exception is Wednesdays when the afternoon is a rest day and no riding takes place, allowing both horses and riders a chance to recover.

Guides and safety

At Horizon, all rides are led by experienced and knowledgeable guides who know the area inside and out. They are happy to share their knowledge about both the horses, nature, and the rich wildlife you encounter along the way. The ride primarily takes place in Horizon's own reserve where there is only plain game – that is, species such as zebra, giraffe, and various types of antelope – which makes the riding safe and relaxing. During rides in other reserves, you may encounter larger and more powerful animals such as buffalo or sable antelope, and the guides will assist you with extra care, prioritizing your safety. With their experience and presence, you can lean back and enjoy the ride, nature, and wilderness with complete trust.

Guides and safety

At Horizon, all rides are led by experienced and knowledgeable guides who know the area inside and out. They are happy to share their knowledge about both the horses, nature, and the rich wildlife you encounter along the way. The ride primarily takes place in Horizon's own reserve where there is only plain game – that is, species such as zebra, giraffe, and various types of antelope – which makes the riding safe and relaxing. During rides in other reserves, you may encounter larger and more powerful animals such as buffalo or sable antelope, and the guides will assist you with extra care, prioritizing your safety. With their experience and presence, you can lean back and enjoy the ride, nature, and wilderness with complete trust.

Climate

Waterberg is located in a malaria-free part of Limpopo province and is characterized by a pleasant subtropical climate all year round. The region is at a high altitude, which means that the temperature is often cooler and more pleasant than in other parts of South Africa. Summer (November to March) is the warm and green season. Daytime temperatures can rise above 30 degrees, but evenings are usually cooler. During this period, most rain showers occur, often in the form of short, heavy thunderstorms in the afternoon that quickly pass, leaving a fresh scent of wet earth and lush bushland. Winters (May to August) are dry and mild, with sunny days and temperatures usually hovering around 20-25 degrees. However, evenings and nights can become chilly, sometimes close to freezing, so warm clothing is needed for morning and evening activities. Spring and autumn serve as transitional periods with very stable weather, mild temperatures, and perfect riding conditions.

Climate

Waterberg is located in a malaria-free part of Limpopo province and is characterized by a pleasant subtropical climate all year round. The region is at a high altitude, which means that the temperature is often cooler and more pleasant than in other parts of South Africa. Summer (November to March) is the warm and green season. Daytime temperatures can rise above 30 degrees, but evenings are usually cooler. During this period, most rain showers occur, often in the form of short, heavy thunderstorms in the afternoon that quickly pass, leaving a fresh scent of wet earth and lush bushland. Winters (May to August) are dry and mild, with sunny days and temperatures usually hovering around 20-25 degrees. However, evenings and nights can become chilly, sometimes close to freezing, so warm clothing is needed for morning and evening activities. Spring and autumn serve as transitional periods with very stable weather, mild temperatures, and perfect riding conditions.

Passport and visa

For Swedish and other Scandinavian citizens, no visa is required for tourist trips to South Africa lasting less than 90 days. Upon entry, you will receive a so-called visitor's permit stamped in your passport, indicating how long you are allowed to stay. We recommend that upon departure, you have a passport that is valid for at least six months to avoid problems. The passport should also have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. For travel with children under the age of 18, special entry regulations may apply, such as requirements for a birth certificate or proof of custody, depending on whether the child is traveling with one or both parents. Always check the current regulations via the South African embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' travel information before departure.

Passport and visa

For Swedish and other Scandinavian citizens, no visa is required for tourist trips to South Africa lasting less than 90 days. Upon entry, you will receive a so-called visitor's permit stamped in your passport, indicating how long you are allowed to stay. We recommend that upon departure, you have a passport that is valid for at least six months to avoid problems. The passport should also have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. For travel with children under the age of 18, special entry regulations may apply, such as requirements for a birth certificate or proof of custody, depending on whether the child is traveling with one or both parents. Always check the current regulations via the South African embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' travel information before departure.

Health Recommendations

Waterberg is located in a malaria-free part of South Africa, which makes the area particularly comfortable and safe to travel in. Most visitors manage without special vaccinations beyond what is usually recommended for travel in South Africa. However, it may be wise to review your basic vaccinations, such as tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis A. Remember that sun protection is important – the sun in the bush is strong all year round. Bring high-factor sunscreen, a sun hat, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. When riding, long-sleeved clothing is always recommended to protect against the sun and insect bites. We always recommend that you visit your nearest vaccination advisory service or health centre before your trip. There you will receive current information and recommendations tailored to you and your chosen destination.

Health Recommendations

Waterberg is located in a malaria-free part of South Africa, which makes the area particularly comfortable and safe to travel in. Most visitors manage without special vaccinations beyond what is usually recommended for travel in South Africa. However, it may be wise to review your basic vaccinations, such as tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis A. Remember that sun protection is important – the sun in the bush is strong all year round. Bring high-factor sunscreen, a sun hat, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. When riding, long-sleeved clothing is always recommended to protect against the sun and insect bites. We always recommend that you visit your nearest vaccination advisory service or health centre before your trip. There you will receive current information and recommendations tailored to you and your chosen destination.

Rates 2026

Low season

4 January–28 February

£2132

Low season

4 January–28 February

£2132

Mid season

1 March–27 June

£2319

Mid season

1 March–27 June

£2319

High season

28 June–3 January 2027

£2698

High season

28 June–3 January 2027

£2698

Including

7 nights per person in shared Luxury Garden Chalet All food and drink included 1 night at Bellevue Lodge, 1 night at Camp Davidson

Excluding

Flight tickets Airport transfer Travel insurance Game drive

Including

7 nights per person in shared Luxury Garden Chalet All food and drink included 1 night at Bellevue Lodge, 1 night at Camp Davidson

Excluding

Flight tickets Airport transfer Travel insurance Game drive

Transfers & single room supplement

Transfers & single room supplement

Below you will find prices for airport transfers to and from O.R. Tambo International. Regarding single room supplements, the prices are the same per person (and season) for a shared Luxury Garden Chalet as for a Standard single room. In the Luxury Garden Chalet, there is also the option to accommodate three people – contact us for updated prices.

Airport transfer

£150

Per person round trip in group transfer ORT – Horizon Lodge, Sunday at 11:00 Horizon Lodge – ORT, Sunday at 13:00

Sign up for the newsletter

Follow along behind the scenes and get a first look at unique offers.

Sign up for the newsletter

Follow along behind the scenes and get a first look at unique offers.