ABOUT THE RIDING

Style of Riding: English but most can also be neck reined.

Type of Riding: Safari/Centre-Based.The terrain is extremely varied. Beach, grasslands, forested dunes and bushveld. The going is mainly good so there is plenty of fast riding, with long extended canters.

Type of Tack: Both English and RSA trail saddles are used. The English saddles are Wintec GPs 2000 Cair, with each saddle fitted to the individual horse. In addition Trident Trail ranger saddles are used, these are an all leather South African saddle that has a high pommel and large deep seat based on the McClellan tree. They are easy to ride in, and very comfortable.

Hours in the Saddle: 4 to 6 hours per day.

Riding Ability Required: Intermediate upwards. Riders must have enough experience to handle a horse at any pace and speed. The safari takes place in a big game area and for the safety of the individual and the group everyone must be capable of riding quickly away from possible danger.

Maximum Weight: 100 kgs (15st).

Number of Guides per Ride: 1 plus back-up rider.

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 2/6.

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 mostly consists Boerperds with some Thoroughbreds, Thoroughbred crosses and Boerperd crosses. Boerperds are a South African breed probably of Arab-Barb descent, which were the first horses to come to South Africa from Java when the Dutch arrived in about 1653. These developed into the Cape Horse who were then crossed with English Thoroughbreds. They are known as being strong, hardy and well muscled, usually 14.2hh to 16.2hh, sure footed and to have kind temperaments and generous natures. They were widely used by the Boer soldiers in the Anglo Boer war of 1899 to 1902. All of the horses live out to free graze year round and are unshod as the terrain and temperate conditions are well suited to this. The horses are all fit, regularly schooled, well kept and responsive.