RIDING OPTIONS & TERRAIN

Centre-based/Safari/Working Ranch.
The riding is tailor made to the guests requirements and ability and can be anything from a gentle ride with a couple of trots to a fast ride with lots of cantering and galloping. There is also a superb cross-country course available. Alternatively you can try your hand at polocrosse, cattle mustering or western games. The terrain is very varied, from sandy open plains to rocky koppies and thick bushveld.

Outrides
The Ranch is superb riding country. The going is easy, the horses run unshod on perfect sandy soil, and though the bushveld is thick in places, most of the countryside is open and flat and perfect for extended canters. Rocky koppies provide an ideal vantage point from which to appreciate the vastness of the Waterberg plateau. Swimming the horses in one of the many dams is an excellent way to cool down after a long morning ride. Leisurely viewing of the resident hippo family, either sunbathing in the winter sun or wallowing in the dam, has proved to be a popular interlude during a ride.

Cattle Mustering
The 1200 strong cattle herd on the Ranch are stud Bonsmaras, a hardy African breed suited to the region's harsh conditions. Guests can join in the daily routine of herding and yard work, check calving cows or drive a herd between widely spread pastures. The Bonsmara is a non-aggressive breed and the ideal animal with which to experience the challenge and excitement of mustering cattle. Herding cattle also stimulates one to work closely with the horse and gives a rewarding purpose to a morning ride.

Polocrosse
An amalgam of polo and lacrosse, polocrosse is easy to learn and one of the most exhilarating sports on horseback Guests who have never played are introduced to the game slowly, running through the basic rules and showing the tricks of the trade when it comes to stick work. Then it is- 'in at the deep end' - with a full game. One chukka is usually all it takes to bring out the competitive spirit!

Cross-Country Jumping
For experienced riders, the challenging cross-country course ranges from welcome level log piles to over 30 taxing open jumps. Triple 'B' Ranch hosts an annual international 3-phase event affiliated to the Transvaal Horse Society. The course was designed by South Africa's top course builder, Johnny Perreira.

Western Games
Those interested in yet another challenge can join in the fun of western games. Barrel racing and pole bending are fun ways of schooling yourself in the art of light commands and quick responses.

Triple B Game Viewing
Those staying at the Triple B lodge can enjoy leisurely rides within the Triple B Ranch private reserve throughout their visit. The reserve borders the Horizon homestead and offers the opportunity of riding with plains game such as giraffe, zebra, kudu, impala, hartebeest, and bushbuck and many of the smaller mammals such as duiker, steenbok and black-backed jackal, baboons, vervet monkey and warthog. As the Melk River forms the eastern boundary of the reserve, regular sightings of hippos are also possible.

2-Night Wilderness Safari
For intermediate riders wanting a more concentrated game viewing experience, Triple B offer a two-night wilderness safari. The reserve you ride into is a 4-hour ride from Triple B Ranch. This reserve boasts many species of game, including white rhino, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, ostrich and a host of antelope. Brown hyena, porcupine, anteaters and caracal are also occasionally seen. The safari can be booked and paid for locally (aprox R800 per person)

ABOUT THE RIDING

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

Type of Tack: Horizon use mainly customised McClellan saddles, which give a comfortable and secure western type ride. English and Australian stock saddles are also available.

Hours in the Saddle: 3 to 7 hours per day - but this is dependent on your requirements.

Riding Ability Required: Beginner upwards. The riding is tailor made to the guests requirements and ability and can be anything from a gentle ride with a couple of trots to a fast ride with lots of cantering and galloping.

Maximum Weight: 110 kgs (17st)

Number of Guides per Ride: 2.

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 1/10

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 comprises Anglo-Arabs, TBs, Boerperds and crossbreeds, ranging in size from 14.1hh to 16.3hh. All the horses are honest, forward-going and highly responsive. Many have been reared, backed and schooled at Horizon by Shane, who has been using "round pen reasoning" techniques on young and problem horses for over 15 years. With over 60 mounts to choose from, for a maximum of 10 guests at Horizon Horseback Adventures and 8 on safaris, Horizon are in a position to closely match horse to rider ability and inclination. Experienced riders will have a stimulating ride on an intelligent horse, whilst novices are able to build confidence as both guide and mount informally coach them.