A Journey of a Lifetime in South Africa!
Imagine waking to the sounds of the South African bush, saddling up and riding out into the wilderness as giraffe move through the trees and wildlife watches quietly. Then, as the heat of the day arrives, returning to beautiful surroundings to relax, unwind and enjoy the magic of being on safari.
This is so much more than a riding holiday. It’s an unforgettable journey combining incredible days of horseback safari, spectacular wildlife encounters, relaxation, friendship and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into conservation.
With a herd of over 120 horses, there is a horse for everyone, and every ride offers the chance to experience Africa in the most intimate way possible-from gentle bush trails to exhilarating canters across open landscapes depending on your experience. Because the horses live freely amongst the wildlife, we can get remarkably close to the animals from the saddle.
And when we’re ready to swap the saddle for four wheels, our adventure continues at Dinokeng Game Reserve, where we’ll head out in open safari vehicles in search of the Big Five and experience conservation in action.
Along the way, there’s time to slow down too. Relax beside the pool, share long lunches and sundowners, and simply soak up the beautiful surroundings with a wonderful group of like-minded women.
Most importantly, this is a journey with purpose. Our stay helps support the wildlife, conservation and communities that make these incredible places possible, allowing us to experience Africa while contributing to its future.
Adventure, horses, wildlife, luxury, friendship and a little bit of magic – this is South Africa at its very best.
Trip Highlights
Big Five Encounters in Safari Vehicles
Experience thrilling close encounters with lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos. Climb aboard open safari vehicles and venture deep into the African bush, tracking these iconic animals in their natural habitat.
Horseback Safari
Ride through the African bush surrounded by extraordinary wildlife.
Ride alongside giraffe, zebra, rhino, buffalo and antelope in their natural environment.
Unforgettable Riding
Experience the freedom and exhilaration of riding through spectacular South African Waterburg landscapes, with unforgettable wildlife encounters along the way.
Finish incredible days with breathtaking sunsets, a drink in hand and unforgettable company.
Ride One of 120 Horses
With over 120 horses in the herd, there’s a special horse for everyone, with each rider thoughtfully matched to a horse suited to their experience and riding style. Living freely amongst the wildlife, these incredible horses allow us to get closer to Africa’s wildlife from the saddle – making every ride a truly unforgettable experience.
In between rides, escape the heat of the African sun and slow the pace. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, a leisurely lunch or simply relax and recharge in beautiful surroundings before heading back out into the bush.
Make a Difference
Your stay directly helps support wildlife conservation and the protection of these precious animals. By choosing to travel with us, you’re not just experiencing Africa – you’re helping make a difference to its future.
Conservation Immersion
Learn about vital conservation efforts and contribute to protecting its wildlife
Spend a unique day with the Dinokeng Wildlife Team and veterinarian experiencing real conservation in action.
Combine horseback safari, Big Five game drives, conservation, relaxation and incredible friendships into one unforgettable journey.
Gallery
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 | 28 September - Welcome to South Africa!
Today is all about arriving, settling in and getting into the holiday spirit. Arrive in Johannesburg and transfer to our hotel, where we’ll have time to check in, freshen up and relax after the journey.
There will be plenty of time to unwind, meet the rest of the group and enjoy our first taste of South African hospitality. This evening we’ll come together for a relaxed welcome dinner, raise a glass to the adventure ahead and get to know our fellow travellers.
Tomorrow, the real adventure begins…
We’ll leave the city behind and head into the spectacular Waterberg wilderness for our horseback safari!
Accommodation: Johannesburg Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 | 29 September - Into the Waterberg
After breakfast, we’ll leave Johannesburg behind and travel together into the breathtaking Waterberg region.
Just a few hours from the city, the landscape changes dramatically as we enter a world of rolling hills, open grasslands and spectacular African bush. Our destination is The Waterburg Region.
After arriving at our beautiful lodge, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before settling into our surroundings and getting to know the horses that will become such an important part of our adventure.
Then it’s time for our first ride .
We’ll head out into the reserve for our first taste of horseback safari, getting to know our horses while beginning to explore the incredible wildlife around us. As the sun begins to set, we’ll stop for our first unforgettable African sundowners, watching the landscape glow in the evening light.
Then back to the lodge for dinner.
Please note:
Riding weight limit strictly: 15.10stone/220lbs/100kg.
All riders must bring their own riding hat and riding boots.
Accommodation: Nest Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 - 5 | 30 Sept - 2 Oct - Ride, Relax, Explore, Repeat
Over the next three days, we’ll settle into the wonderful rhythm of life on safari – early mornings in the saddle, incredible wildlife encounters such as rhino, giraffe, buffalo, antelope, zebra, long leisurely brunches, lazy afternoons and golden-hour rides through the African bush.
Each morning begins with the horses waiting at the yard and the reserve slowly waking around us. Before heading out, the group will be split according to riding ability, with beginner, intermediate and advanced riders riding in groups suited to their experience and confidence. This means everyone can enjoy the safari at a comfortable pace, while those looking for a little more adventure can be given the opportunity to stretch themselves.
We’ll set off for two to three hours, exploring different areas of the reserve and following game trails deep into the wilderness. Every ride will be different, and there’s always that sense of anticipation about what might be waiting around the next corner.
We may find ourselves riding quietly alongside giraffe moving through the trees, watching rhino grazing peacefully or following a herd of zebra across the plains. And, where the terrain, conditions and group ability allow, there may be opportunities for exhilarating canters across open ground – those unforgettable moments when horse and rider are simply moving freely through the landscape.
There is something incredibly special about experiencing Africa from the saddle. We won’t just be observing the wilderness; we’ll be immersed in it – feeling the breeze, hearing the sounds of the bush and experiencing wildlife at ground level.
After our morning adventures, we’ll return to the lodge for a leisurely brunch before the afternoons unfold at our own pace. These are our moments to slow down and enjoy the luxury of having nowhere else to be. Relax beside the pool, indulge in a massage, enjoy a glass of wine, read a book or simply sit back and take in the spectacular surroundings.
For those who want to keep exploring, there will be plenty of opportunities for adventure, with options such as mountain biking, fishing and guided bush walks. (Optional excursions at an additional cost.)
And then, as the heat of the day begins to fade, we’ll head back to the horses.
The afternoon and evening rides will bring a completely different atmosphere. The light becomes softer, the landscape turns golden and the bush begins to come alive again. We’ll ride out into the setting sun, taking our time to enjoy those magical moments when Africa feels almost impossibly beautiful.
We’ll enjoy sundowners, dinner and the chance to share stories from the day.
Enjoy these days of riding, adventure, relaxation and wild Africa – experienced not from behind a window, but from the back of a horse, surrounded by the sights, sounds and spirit of the bush – Remember, you can choose how much riding you want to do, this is your trip!
Accommodation: Nest Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 | 3 October - One Last Ride
Our final ride has arrived- but we’re not finished just yet.
We’ll enjoy one last spectacular morning ride, making the most of every moment in the saddle.
After five incredible days of riding, wildlife and adventure, today is all about you.
We’ll leave the Waterberg behind and make our way towards a beautiful spa for some well-deserved R&R.
Think soothing treatments, massages, beautiful surroundings and plenty of time to unwind after our days in the saddle – (treatments are an additional extra).
We’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch, perhaps a glass of South African wine, and simply relax.
No schedules.
No rushing.
Just time to recharge, chat, laugh and soak up the feeling of being on holiday. Our chance to properly recharge before the final chapter of our adventure begins.
But rather than saying goodbye to the adventure, we’re simply turning the page.
Our journey continues…time for some R&R
Please Note: Spa treatments extra
Accommodation: Nest Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 | 4 October - The Big 5!
Today we’ll load up the vehicles and travel together to Dinokeng – Big 5 Game Reserve.
As we leave our previous safari behind, the landscape begins to change and the anticipation builds.
We’ll arrive and settle into our accommodation and enjoy a welcome lunch before taking some time to relax.
Then the next adventure begins. We’ll climb aboard an Open Safari Vehicle and head out into the reserve on our first game drive in new surroundings.
This is safari in its most exhilarating form – the vehicle moving quietly through the bush, guides reading the tracks and signs around us, and everyone scanning the landscape for that first glimpse of something extraordinary.
There is nothing quite like the moment someone whispers: “There!”
And suddenly the whole vehicle is searching. Elephant? Lion? Cheetah?
You simply never know what might appear around the next bend.
As the afternoon fades into evening, we’ll stop for sundowners and watch the African landscape transform once again.
Then back to the lodge for dinner, stories and a glass of wine
Overnight: Dinokeng
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8 | 5 October - Into the Wild, Chasing the Big Five
Rise early for a morning game drive as the bush comes alive. With the cool morning air and golden light, we’ll head out in search of some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, with a particular focus on lions, cheetahs and elephants. Every drive is different, and you never know what might be waiting around the next corner.
Back at the lodge, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before spending some time in the photographic hide, offering a unique opportunity to quietly observe wildlife from close range and capture those unforgettable moments through the lens.
As the afternoon cools, we’ll head out once again for our second game drive. We’ll follow tracks, listen for alarm calls and explore the reserve in search of more incredible sightings.
And then, as the sun begins to sink, we’ll stop in the bush for sundowners. With a drink in hand and the African landscape glowing in the evening light, it’s the perfect way to end an extraordinary day in Big Five country.
Overnight: Dinokeng
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 | 6 October - Conservation in Action
Today is one of the most unique experiences of the trip.
It takes us behind the scenes and into the fascinating world of wildlife conservation, joining the Dinokeng Wildlife Team and an experienced wildlife veterinarian out in the reserve.
This is a very different kind of safari. Rather than simply observing wildlife from a distance, we’ll have the rare opportunity to see what happens when the conservation team needs to step in to care for, monitor or protect an animal.
Depending on the needs of the reserve and the animals at the time, we may have the opportunity to witness or assist with genuine conservation work involving some of Africa’s most iconic species, which could include rhino, lion or cheetah.
Being so close to this work offers a rare insight into the skill, care and decision-making that goes into managing a wild population.
Possible experiences may include:
- Lion and cheetah collaring – witness or assist the team as a tracking collar is fitted or checked, and discover how it helps them monitor these elusive predators.
- Rhino dehorning, notching or tracker implant – witness this important anti-poaching measure and learn how it helps protect these magnificent animals.
- Wildlife veterinary procedures – observe veterinary care taking place in the field, depending on the needs of the animals.
- Monitoring vital signs – see how the team assesses an animal’s condition and responds to its health and wellbeing.
- Meet the wildlife veterinarian – ask questions and hear first-hand about the challenges and rewards of working with wild animals.
Throughout the experience, the veterinary team will explain what they are doing, why it matters and how decisions are made in the field. There will be the opportunity to ask questions and gain a fascinating insight into the work that goes on behind the scenes to protect and manage a healthy, thriving wildlife population.
This isn’t a staged experience-it’s conservation as it really happens, giving us a rare glimpse into the dedication, skill and passion it takes to protect Africa’s wildlife.
After lunch, we’ll head out once again for our final afternoon game drive.
As the bush awakens from its midday stillness, we’ll explore the reserve in search of some of Africa’s most iconic species.
Picture elephants moving through the trees, lions resting in the shade, cheetahs surveying the plains, giraffe gracefully moving between the acacias, rhino disappearing into the bush and hippos wallowing in the water.
And as our final safari sunset approaches, we’ll pause to take it all in.
Two very different safari experiences.
One incredible adventure.
And memories that we’ll be talking about for years to come.
Overnight: Dinokeng
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 | 7 October - Until Next Time, Africa
Our final morning arrives far too quickly.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and one last game drive at 6am, and take some time to reflect on everything we’ve experienced;
- Our first night in Johannesburg.
- Five extraordinary days on horseback. Wildlife encounters from the saddle.
- Sundowners in the bush. A day of pure relaxation. A day to simply unwind.
- And finally, three unforgettable nights exploring Dinokeng and experiencing conservation in action.
After breakfast, we’ll say our goodbyes and begin our onward journey to the airport, taking with us photographs, stories, friendships and memories that will stay with us long after we’ve left Africa behind.
Until next time, Africa.
Please only book flights from 15h00 onwards as we will only arrive at O R Tambo at noon.
Meals included: Breakfast
Riding Levels
To make sure everyone has the best possible experience, the group will be divided into riding groups according to ability, experience and confidence. This allows each group to ride at a suitable pace and ensures that everyone is matched with the most appropriate horse.
Beginner / Novice
This group is for riders with little or limited riding experience.
You have ridden a number of times and are comfortable at walk and able to do a rising trot. You may have had some lessons or occasional hacks, but have limited experience riding outdoors. You enjoy a more relaxed pace.
Intermediate
You have good basic riding experience and are reasonably confident and balanced in the saddle.
You are comfortable at walk, rising trot and canter, and have had experience riding outside of a riding arena, such as hacking or trail riding.
You are confident enough to ride independently in an open environment and are comfortable on a horse that may be forward-going or react to its surroundings.
You may have been riding for several years, but do not necessarily ride regularly or own your own horse.
This group is ideal for confident recreational riders who enjoy riding outdoors and are ready for an adventurous safari experience.
Advanced / Experienced
This group is for very confident and experienced riders.
You ride regularly and/or have ridden for a number of years, and are fit, balanced and confident on a forward-going horse outdoors and at all paces.
You are comfortable riding different horses and can confidently manage your horse in an open environment. You have experience hacking, trail riding or riding in open country and are comfortable with a horse reacting to wildlife or its surroundings.
Previous or current horse ownership, regular riding or competition experience would generally place you in this category.
This group is for experienced riders who are looking for a more adventurous and potentially faster-paced riding experience.
A note about choosing your level
Please choose your riding level based on your current ability and confidence, rather than how long ago you last rode.
A riding safari is very different from riding in an arena. You will be riding outdoors, over natural terrain and in an environment where horses may react to wildlife and their surroundings. For this reason, confidence riding outdoors is just as important as your technical riding ability.
The final groups may be adjusted by the riding team once everyone has arrived, so that each rider is paired with the most suitable horse and group.
Our priority is for everyone to feel safe, confident and, most importantly, have an incredible experience in the saddle.
PLEASE NOTE
Weight limit strictly: 15.10stone/220lbs/100kg.
All riders must bring their own riding hat and riding boots.
The itinerary is subject to change. Whilst we do our best to follow the published itinerary, activities, timings and locations may be amended due to weather conditions, wildlife movements, road conditions, park regulations or other operational requirements.
Accommodation, room sizes and facilities may vary between rooms, lodges and hotels.
We reserve the right to substitute accommodation with an alternative of a similar standard should circumstances require.
Images used on this website and in promotional materials are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee specific wildlife sightings, accommodation rooms, views or experiences.
Safari activities take place in natural environments. Guests should expect varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, dust, and other environmental factors associated with travel in the African bush.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Animals are free-ranging, and sightings will vary according to season, weather conditions and animal behaviour.
Travel in remote areas forms part of the safari experience. Infrastructure, services and facilities may differ from those typically experienced in the UK, Europe or North America.
Most activities and transfers will be conducted as a group; but this is dependent on group numbers.
Prices quoted in USD are subject to exchange rate fluctuations and may vary at the time of booking.
Booking fees apply on the We Travel booking site.
We cannot be held responsible for delays, disruptions or alterations caused by circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to adverse weather, natural events, government actions, transport disruptions, strikes or supplier-related issues.
Information published on this website is believed to be accurate at the time of publication but may be updated or amended without notice.
Additional Information
Riders
For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, if your riding ability does not meet the required standard upon arrival, you will unfortunately not be permitted to ride. Our priority is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, so we encourage you to carefully assess your riding skills before booking. If you are unsure about your ability, please feel free to contact us for further guidance – info@wildheartedadventures.com.
Weight limit strictly: 15stone/210lbs/95kg.
Daily Alternatives
If you prefer a vehicle over horseback riding, game drive vehicles are available daily as an alternative to the horse riding experiences. Explore the wildlife and beauty of the reserve from the comfort of a four-wheel-drive vehicle with the guidance of expert safari guides.
Non-Riders
Non-riders are also welcome to join the safari experience! If you prefer not to ride, you can still fully immerse yourself in the adventure by participating in daily game drives in a specially outfitted Land Rover, on foot, or by mountain bike – the experience is just as mind-blowing.
All activities are designed to ensure that every guest, regardless of their preferred mode of exploration, enjoys a truly exceptional experience.
Other Information
Please be aware that the Lodges are located in the wild, and room sizes vary. Where a single room is booked, sometimes this will be a lodge on it’s own, and sometimes a room within a larger lodge. They will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage booking early.
We reserve the right to adjust hotel accommodations if necessary. Rest assured, we strive to maintain the highest level of comfort and service.
Our travels will be conducted exclusively as a group, and wherever possible, tours will be private, provided we meet the minimum participant numbers required.
FAQ
What's Included
All accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
All meals as specified in the itinerary
Drinks are included on the riding safari only but not in other lodges
All land transportation, and airport transfers with local driver
Local English-speaking guides at most sights during the tour
All other services as mentioned in the program above
- Pre-departure support (whatsapp group)
- On-site support
What's not included
International Flights in and out of Johannesburg International – Please only book flights from 15h00 onwards on the final day as we will only arrive at O R Tambo at noon.
Any service surcharges
Travel insurance
Meals not stated in the itinerary
Drinks not stated in the itinerary
Tipping and Gratitude – Approx £25 a day
Incidental expenses (such as room service, minibar, telephone calls, laundry)
Personal expenses, (souvenirs etc)
Optional Excursion(s).
Your hosts
This incredible South African riding adventure is hosted by Anna, whose warmth, inspiration, and charm set the perfect tone for our retreat. With Anna at the helm, our adventure promises to be an enriching blend of adventure and camaraderie.
Anna Miller
Anna is the visionary founder of Wild Hearted Adventures, whose warmth, inspiration, and charm set the perfect tone for our retreat. Her boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm will inspire you to embrace every moment of this experience.
She is also a travel writer and the creative mind behind the popular family travel blog, Twins and Travels.
At times, unforeseen circumstances may require a change in your assigned host. However, rest assured that you’ll always be in the capable hands of a passionate, knowledgeable, and exceptional host from the Wild Hearted team, ensuring an unforgettable experience.