South Africa
South Africa is famous for so many things: Nelson Mandela, Kruger National Park, excellent wineries in the Cape and is also a country that takes great pride in everything equine. There are many studs and ranches throughout the country dedicated to breeding registered Thoroughbreds, Arabs, Warmbloods, Sport Horses and even Lipizzaners. The Boerped is a South African bred horse, combining the athleticism of the THB with the sensibility of the farmer’s horse with influences from Spanish bloodlines. They are strong, hardy and can do pretty much anything – from jumping to endurance, dressage, showing and they make fantastic safari horses!
Especially recommended for families with children of all ages, for first-time safari riding as well as those looking for value for money. Riding opportunities include multi-day beach rides, Big Game riding in private game reserves, learning to play polocrosse, natural horsemanship, ranch riding and riding with gentle game. There really is something for everyone!
The cost of rides in South Africa is largely the same year-round (apart from holidays). Weather patterns vary regionally but there are 2 main seasons: Winter & Summer.
Winter – From around March-September. Daytime temps 25 degrees. Nights can be very chilly (in more mountainous areas there is snow in winter but the rides are not based in these areas)
Summer – October-February. Daytime temps 25-35 degrees. Warm nights with rains from November to March normally.
Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban are all large international airports served by the major international airlines.
Local and regional flights with BA, Kulula and Mango.
By Road Main roads are in good condition but distances are great and care does need to be taken for those who are not familiar with driving in South Africa. (Please contact us for more info!)
Victoria Falls –Direct flights to Victoria Falls Town or Livingstone from Johannesburg daily.
Botswana – for an additional riding experience especially in remote wilderness and wildlife areas. Direct flights to Maun and Kasane from Johannesburg with Air Botswana and SA Airlink and from Cape Town to Maun and Gaborone with Air Botswana
Mozambique – for a relaxing, luxurious, beach side holiday where diving is simply extraordinary. Direct daily flights to various destinations in Mozambique
Namibia – Direct flights from Johannesburg to Windhoek. Incredible long distance and experiential rides (contact us) as well as the infamous Skeleton Coast. Distances are great in Namibia, however, so allow time to explore.
Non-riding safaris are offered by most of the South African rides – so please enquire for more information!
