Your journey begins…
This 7-night safari covers 260 miles through Mopane savannah and river valleys, with stays at 3 unique camps in the Mashatu Game Reserve. Guests will experience an authentic horseback safari, with the comfort of hot showers, gourmet meals, and classic safari luxury.
- Unparalleled wilderness experience
- Close encounters with wildlife
- Suitable for experienced riders – fast past with exhilarating canters
- Expertly guided
Day 1
Guests are met at O.R. Tambo International Airport, South Africa, by a representative and are transferred to Lanseria International Airport for their charter flight to Limpopo Valley Airfield. They are then taken via road transfer to Mashatu.
Arriving at the border, guests are transferred to the reception overlooking the Limpopo River. A light lunch is served before an introductory ride to ensure everyone is suited to their horse. The ride explores Mashatu Game Reserve, home to Africa’s largest wild elephant herd. The day concludes with unwinding in the thatched lounge, enjoying a 3-course dinner, and meeting fellow adventurers.
Overnight at Two Mashatus Camp – Fully inclusive.
Day 2
The day begins with the dawn chorus and breakfast. The ride continues through the lush Limpopo woodlands to the rocky hills marking the river’s edge, encountering plains game, giraffes, and elephants. Lunch is at Tree Camp, followed by a choice between a ride or a bush walk along the Matabole River. Sundowners await at camp.
Overnight at Tree Camp – Fully inclusive.
Day 3-4
Exploring the heart of Mashatu, guests enjoy views of ancient rock formations and towering baobabs. Following elephant trails through open bushveld, they arrive at Leadwood Kgotla, an open-air camp. Guests enjoy a game drive, followed by sundowners at Amphitheatre rock and dinner around the fire.
The following day, the ride continues through the sandstone formations, including Solomon’s Wall. The guests explore archaeological sites, including tools, rock art, and the Mapungubwe Dynasty. They then enjoy sundowners beneath a baobab tree.
Overnight at Kgotla Camp – Fully inclusive.
Day 5
Riding along ancient elephant trails to the remote upper Majale River, guests enjoy a relaxing lunch at Tree Camp. The afternoon offers a choice of a ride, bush walk, or game drive along the northern banks of the Majale, Matabole, and Jwala rivers.
Overnight at Tree Camp – Fully inclusive.
Day 6
The ride continues through the Pitsane River Valley, where elephant-dug waterholes attract herds of game. Guests will visit the site of a historical skirmish and explore the area where the Zeederberg stagecoach line once ran. After lunch at Two Mashatu Camp, a guided bush walk to a koppie for sundowners is enjoyed.
Overnight at Two Mashatus Camp – Fully inclusive.
Day 7
Meandering through the plains between the Majale and Pitsane Rivers, guests may encounter game and enjoy stunning views of the Limpopo River Valley. They visit an old war fort and explore a cooler wetland area. Summer months offer the chance to canter through the Limpopo River. The day ends with relaxation in camp before a final ride or bush walk for sundowners.
Overnight at Two Mashatus Camp – Fully inclusive.
Day 8
The final ride in the Limpopo Valley allows guests to capture one last picture of the elephants and canter through the Mustard bush. They return to camp for a hot shower and brunch before bidding farewell to their safari companions.
Guests may either depart by road transfer to a lodge in the Waterberg region of South Africa, or opt for a scheduled charter flight from Limpopo Valley Airfield to O.R. Tambo International Airport.
– Breakfast.
Inclusions
Accommodation: As per itinerary
Meals: As per itinerary
Road Transfers: O.R. Tambo International Airport to Lanseria International Airport; Limpopo Valley Airfield to Mashatu Reception; Mashatu Reception to Limpopo Valley Airfield
Charter: Lanseria International Airport to Limpopo Valley Airfield
SOA Green Seat Levy
Exclusions
- International and regional scheduled flights and visas
- All alcoholic and soft drinks
- Gratuities and items of personal nature
- Travel, medical and personal accident insurance
Important Information
Riding Level:
Advanced intermediate to experienced; riders must control a horse at all paces. Jumping is beneficial but not required.
Riding Test:
A short test before each safari to ensure competency; the manager’s decision is final.
Distance and duration:
20-30 km daily, up to 5.5 hours in the saddle.
Horses:
A herd of 50 in Botswana, including boerperd, thoroughbred, warmblood, and Arab crosses.
Saddles:
McClellan trail rider saddles for long-distance comfort.
Hard Hats:
Mandatory.
