ABOUT THE RIDING

Style of Riding: Although the horses are schooled in the English style of riding they are used to being ridden one handed on a loose rein.

Type of Riding: Safari/Trail Ride The riding is challenging and technical since it is wilderness riding with steep climbs and descents, river crossings and tricky rocky terrain to cross. There are some opportunities for fast riding on the plains. Although there are no lions in the reserve, there are elephants, buffalo and rhino so evasive action may be necessary.

Type of Tack: Australian or South African stock saddles designed for comfort and long hours in the saddle. Pelham bridles are used for control, although you will normally ride on a loose rein.

Hours in the Saddle: 3 to 7 hours per day.

Riding Ability Required: Intermediate upwards. Confident novice riders can be accepted, but should have an independent seat and be secure in the saddle should they need to react quickly.

Maximum Weight: 100 kgs (16st)

Number of Guides per Ride: 1.

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 3/8

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 horses have all been individually chosen for their temperament and suitability. The herd of 30 ranges from 14hh to 17.2hh and includes SA Boerperd, TB x shire and Quarter Horse x. The horses are all well schooled and are surefooted in the mountains, across slippery streams and galloping over the plains. Here are a few you might meet.

Komati - 14.3hh bay Boerperd. A small horse with lots of attitude and the biggest, bravest heart. This lovely gelding doesn't ever refuse a challenge, whether it is crossing swollen rivers with Lucy or heading off buffalo with Steven he doesn't ever falter and will never let you down. Superbly responsive and sure footed and real favorite in the yard and on safari

William - 15.1hh light bay QH x Boerperd. The cheeky pony! Always up to mischief but completely lovable and enjoys his hugs every day. Forwarding going ride that can turn on a sixpence and never ever fails to deliver 100% enjoyment to the guests.

Bosman - 15.3hh strawberry roan Boerperd stallion. A beautifully mannered horse with real presence. Takes everything in his stride and never flaps whether it is a rhino, buffalo or elephant in front of him. Smooth action and one of the most comfortable hand canters in the business

Shartu - 15.2hh Friesian x. The 'mountain' horse, beautifully built and strong as an ox. One of the most surefooted mounts in the yard. He takes his riders safety very seriously and it is a joy to watch him ford those rivers checking out each stone to ensure that he takes his rider across safely. He loves his food as much as he loves his work, and the guests lunch boxes are always a prime target for this clever and resourceful horse.

Topaz - 15.3hh bay Boerperd. This horse wanted to be a polo pony, he has natural balance that enables him to fly over the most difficult terrain and a turn of speed that always amazes the guests when he is set free. Also the yard clown, always wanting to play and can be often found in the staff village trying to get in to their rooms or stealing food from the tables at camp

Jameson - 15.3hh stunning chestnut Boerperd. Lovely action and very responsive. He is a sensitive horse who responds beautifully to his riders and is one of the most popular mounts in the yard being able to turn his hoof to most challenges.

Pilgrim - 15.3hh dapple grey Boerperd. Another horse with a superb action, he literally floats when he moves. Incredibly reliable and comfortable and always takes a hand with the new horses in the yard to show them the ropes.

Quest - 17.2hh Clydesdale x TB. Just four and a half years old, and a gentle giant with a great future ahead of him. Incredibly powerful and a lovely ride, only completed a couple of safaris to date as he is still growing! But showing all the potential to be a fantastic safari horse as he is responsive and can open up across those plains to produce an exhilarating gallop.