The HORIZON HORSEBACK portfolio offers arguably the best horse riding holidays and safaris in South Africa. They can be enjoyed separately, or combined to make a wonderfully varied African horseback vacation.
Based in the stunning, beautiful malaria-free Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, the Horizon Horseback portfolio offers one of the most varied and exciting horse riding vacations anywhere in the world. Our emphasis is on horses and horsemanship and with our herd of over 80 much-loved horses, Horizon can cater for all levels of rider, making it the ideal riding holiday for both novice and experienced rider. While Horizon is the perfect destination for those who truly love horses, it is also renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and ability to make guests feel completely at home.
At Horizon Horseback Adventures guests can experience a number of riding options: cattle mustering, horse riding with game, polocrosse, swimming on horseback, gymkhana, Western games, cross country jumping, natural horsemanship demonstrations and a variety of outrides, all on 12,000 hectares of wonderful riding country, across miles of unspoilt and picturesque savannah.
Horizon Horseback Safaris operates on some of the Waterberg's most prestigious private reserves and caters for guests whose primary interest is to encounter African wildlife on horseback. Our horse riding safaris offer quality game viewing on horseback and exhilarating encounters with three of Africa's Big Five. For the complete "Big Five" riding experience, Horizon Horseback Safaris combines with Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris in Botswana, to ensure riders an unsurpassed and affordable opportunity to encounter on horseback not only rhino, buffalo and leopard found in the Waterberg, but also elephant and lion in Botswana.
ABOUT US
Established in 1993, Horizon Horseback has built an enviable reputation for horsemanship, adventure, good food and a refreshingly relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The Horizon Horseback portfolio is run by Shane and Laura Dowinton, both originally from the UK. They met whilst working in Australia and are now confirmed lovers of Africa. Their patience and love of horses is shown with every one of their much-loved herd.
At Horizon, we take pride in the care and quality of our horses. Our herd comprises Anglo-Arabs, Thoroughbreds, Boerperds and crossbreeds, ranging in size from 14.1 to 17.2 hands. All our horses are honest, forward-going and highly responsive. Shane and Laura are aided by a friendly and enthusiastic team, chosen for their love of life, horses and people. Together, they create one of the most welcoming and relaxed riding destinations in Africa.
GENERAL INFORMATION
All of Horizon Horseback's holidays take place in the Waterberg, in northern South Africa's Limpopo Province. It is an area renowned for its wilderness quality and conservation importance, which is reflected in its status as a UNESCO recognised biosphere reserve. This area is only a two and a half hour drive from Johannesburg International Airport. You may choose to make your own way to us by hire car, or we can arrange for a private transfer.
To enter South Africa, you must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months after your return date. The Waterberg is a malaria-free area, but please check with your doctor or travel bureau for the latest advice.
The safaris are only available to intermediate and experienced riders, as we will be covering large distances each day and riding through rhino country. Riding time each day will vary from 3-6 hours. The Horizon Horseback Adventures holidays are suitable for all riders, from novice to highly experienced. All rides are accompanied by at least two guides.
What to bring
The hottest season is summer, from November to March. The rainy season extends from late November to February, with short showers in the late afternoon, and an occasional evening thunderstorm. The winter months of June, July and August are warm and dry, but evenings are chilly so it is advisable to bring warm clothing.
We suggest bringing the following:
- Your own well-fitting hard hat - the wearing of hard hats is MANDATORY.
- Short boots and chaps. Long rubber boots are not advised. Handmade full-length chaps can
- be purchased on arrival at Triple B Ranch.
- Lightweight rain coat.
- Sun protection cream factor 20 or higher.
- Camera and battery charger.
ADVENTURES
Horizon Horseback Adventures is a wonderful, varied holiday destination for riders of all abilities. Rides are organised to suit each client. We also run special options for family vacations when we accept children of all ages. Past experience has shown that Horizon Horseback Adventures is the perfect setting for families whose children enjoy riding.
SAFARIS
Horizon Horseback Safaris offers two exhilarating safaris; both encounter 'dangerous' game and therefore are for competent riders only.
Dinaka Safari - hosted on a pristine private reserve of 10,000 hectares in the Waterberg. The luxury lodge is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking a beautiful lake with the plains beyond.
Big Five Safari - The first 4 days are spent in the luxury Dinaka lodge in the Waterberg (as above), followed by 4 days in Botswana where accommodation is either a mobile or static tented camp, depending on the season.
WHERE: Vaalwater, South Africa
CONTACT US NOW TO BOOK YOUR HORSEBACK ADVENTURE!!