When to Travel:

Available year-round
Saturday to Saturday

Duration:

8 days / 7 nights

Riding Level:

Intermediate-Advanced

Traverse the Mopane savannah and stunning river valleys on horseback, with accommodation in three unique and beautiful camps, each with distinct design and character. This journey embraces the true definition of a safari: an expedition to observe animals in their natural habitat. Running throughout the year, this safari is a 7-night, Saturday to Saturday adventure that covers a distance of over 120 miles. From horseback, the beauty of the African topography, fauna and flora will unfurl, and be complimented by a touch of classic safari luxury: hot showers, mouth-watering food, and memorable camps. As the wildlife in this area is not seasonal, wonderful game viewing experiences are possible throughout the year.

Horses

Horse breeds on safari range from Thoroughbreds to Boerperd (a South African breed) to Percheron crosses, along with a variety of mixes. Horses are selected based on their good temperament in the bush and stamina for long days covering distance during safaris. The horses have been exposed to all the wildlife seen on safari and are comfortable in this environment.

Riding Level

Advanced intermediate to experienced. Must be able to independently control a horse at all paces. Jumping – ability to jump natural obstacle, a benefit, but not essential as can be ridden around. Must be able to take a light seat at canter.

Riding Test: Before each safari, every rider will take a short riding test to ensure they are competent enough for the safari, and fall into the above guideline. The decision of the manager conducting the test is final.

Tack and Terrain

English tack (general purpose saddles) or McLellan trail saddles.

Terrain consists of open, grassy plains, hills, rocky outcrops, rivers, and mountains. Enjoy exploring the differing topography of the area: open bush, wooded riverine areas, wetlands, and strange rock formations home to large baobabs.

Accommodation

Two Mashatus Camp – Named for the two large Mashatu trees which shade the camp, it is made up of two traditional  rondavels for dining and lounge areas. Guest accommodation is in large A-frame tents set on teak platforms, each with en-suite bathrooms. Each tent is in the shade of a tree in the bush, not far from the main area. Each tent has a small deck area in front where guests can relax privately during the afternoons, as well as a small swimming pool under a Mashatu tree for guests to enjoy.

Tree Camp – This is a very unique camp with the feel of a treehouse. Nestled in the bough of a giant Mashatu tree and two ancient Leadwood trees, two guests each share an airy and cool sleeping pod 4 meters off the ground. Shared bathrooms are located along a short walkway, and the spacious dining and lounge area flows from beneath the sleeping pods, overlooking the Majale River.

Kgotla Camp – The “Kgotla” is an old traditional court enclosure from a nearby community, which was relocated to the banks of the Motloutse River on the western periphery of Mashatu. This open-air enclosure, made of Leadwood logs, provides a secure location for a camp. The camp has hot running water, beautiful open air showers and flushing toilets. Guests sleep on single beds around a large log fire in the center of the enclosure. Sleep in the open under the stars and listen to the resonance from an Africa evening.

Dining

A light breakfast will be taken first thing in the morning before riding Lunch will usually consist of a picnic in the bush, and dinner will be a decadent and delicious affair in camp, under the stars.

Itinerary

COMING SOON

Dates

Itineraries begin and end on Saturdays throughout the year. Contact us for availability.

Rates

2024 Rates

High Season: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

Mid Season: February, March

Low Season: January, December

Book Now

To book this trip, please fill out the form below and a member of our team will get in touch with you soon regarding the next step of your booking.