Horseback Safari Tour: A Unique Way to Encounter Africa’s Wildlife
Imagine riding through open plains, close enough to giraffes, zebras, and waterbucks to feel like part of the landscape. That’s the kind of experience the Horseback Safari Tour offers—an alternative, more intimate way to see wildlife without the noise and disturbance of traditional game drives. Based in Pretoria, this tour promises a memorable 4-hour adventure that combines the thrill of a safari with the serenity of riding a noble steed.
What really draws us in are three aspects: the opportunity to get close to animals on horseback, the inclusive nature of the experience for first-timers, and the knowledgeable guides who make safety a priority. One thing to keep in mind is that the maximum weight limit is 210 pounds (95 kg), so it’s good to check if that applies to you. Suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activities, nature lovers, and even horseback riding newbies, this tour seems to strike a thoughtful balance of adventure and accessibility.
Key Points
- Accessible for Beginners: No prior horseback riding experience needed, making this perfect for first-timers.
- Wildlife Close-Up: Ride through the reserve and observe animals like giraffes and zebras up close.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 riders, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
- Well-Informed Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide safety briefings and interesting insights.
- Inclusive and Comfortable: Helmets, chaps, and lockers are provided for comfort and security.
- Value for Money: At $65 per person, you get a 4-hour tour with wildlife viewing, safety equipment, and light refreshments.
An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Safari Experience
Looking for more options in Pretoria? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Setting: A Private Game Park near Pretoria
This tour takes place at Horseback Africa, located at Pinto’s Lodge in Cullinan, just a short drive from Pretoria. The setting offers wide, open spaces that mimic the natural habitat of giraffes, zebras, kudu, and waterbucks. The private nature of the park means fewer visitors and a more relaxed, personal encounter with wildlife.
Meeting and Preparing for the Ride
Guests gather at 08:30 am for the morning session, which lasts around 3.5 hours. The meeting point is straightforward, and the check-in process includes lockers for your belongings—handy for stashing bags or keys during the ride. The guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, setting a welcoming tone for first-time riders.
Before taking off, there’s a clear safety briefing by an experienced guide. They assess your riding skill level—whether you’re a novice or more confident—and pair you with a suitable horse. This personalized approach is appreciated, especially by those new to horseback riding, as it helps build confidence quickly.
The Ride: Close Encounters with Wildlife
The core of the experience is a roughly 2-hour ride through the reserve, where you’ll walk or trot past herds of wildlife. Reviewers have noted the guides’ ability to keep the group safe while sharing interesting facts about the animals, like giraffes’ feeding habits or zebras’ social structures. The narrow path options and small group size (maximum 10 riders) mean you’re able to get a closer, less intrusive view of the animals than you’d typically get from a vehicle.
One guest mentioned, “Incredibly friendly staff, great views, and interaction with wildlife,” emphasizing how the ride offers a more personal connection with the environment. The fact that even first-timers felt safe and comfortable was a common thread in reviews, thanks to the guiding staff’s attentiveness and safety equipment.
Safety Equipment and Comfort
The tour provides lightweight helmets and leather chaps, which are not only practical but also add to the comfort of the ride. Reviewers frequently mention that the safety gear fits well and contributes to a feeling of security, especially for those who’ve never ridden before. Lockers are available—again, a thoughtful touch for convenience.
Light Lunch and Refreshments
After the ride, guests are treated to lunch and coffee or tea—an unexpected but welcome inclusion. It’s a chance to relax, share stories from the ride, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Beverages are available for purchase, so if you’re thirsty after your adventure, you can top up.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Duration and Timing
The tour lasts about 4 hours total, including safety briefing, riding, and refreshments. The morning ride begins at 08:30 am, which is perfect if you want to beat the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures. There is also an option for an afternoon session, giving flexibility for your itinerary.
Group Size and Experience Level
Limited to 10 riders, the small group setting means personalized attention from guides. The tour is designed to accommodate all levels—no experience? No problem. Reviewers like Bankole_U, who was riding for the first time, found the staff “incredibly friendly” and the experience “absolutely loved.” The guides are skilled at providing demonstrations and adjusting to your comfort level.
Cost and Value
At $65 per person, this experience offers a good value considering the length of the ride, the wildlife encounters, and the inclusion of safety gear and lunch. The small group size and personalized approach enhance the value, making it more than just a typical short ride.
Accessibility and Restrictions
The minimum age is 12 unless younger children are receiving formal riding lessons, making it suitable for teenagers and above. Service animals are allowed, catering to travelers with special needs.
Authentic Encounters and the Guide’s Role
What truly elevates this safari is the guides’ expertise. They are praised for their friendliness, safety awareness, and ability to share interesting insights about the animals. Their attentiveness ensures even nervous first-time riders feel secure, which makes all the difference when trying something new.
The reviews reveal another interesting angle: guests appreciated the opportunity to get close to wildlife in a non-intrusive way. As one reviewer said, “a great view and interaction with wildlife” — it’s the kind of experience that lingers long after the ride ends, sparking curiosity and appreciation for Africa’s creatures.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This horseback safari is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are open to trying horseback riding, regardless of experience. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful, up-close wildlife encounter without the rush of a vehicle game drive. Families with teenagers, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a unique adventure will find value here.
While not suitable for those over 210 pounds or with mobility issues, the experience’s inclusive nature and focus on safety make it accessible to many. It’s also a great way to add a touch of adventure to a South African itinerary, especially if you want to see wildlife from a different perspective.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For $65, you’re paying for roughly two hours of close-up wildlife viewing on horseback, guided by knowledgeable staff, with the added bonus of light refreshments and safety gear. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more personalized and relaxed. If you’re looking for an authentic, less conventional safari experience that combines adventure with a touch of tranquility, this tour hits the mark.
It’s especially perfect if you enjoy animals, nature, and trying new activities without the fuss of large crowds or high prices. The reviews reinforce that the guides genuinely care about safety and making sure everyone has a good time—an important factor for a first-time rider or someone wanting a relaxed, memorable outing.
FAQ
Is prior horseback riding experience required?
No, the experience is suitable for beginners, and no prior riding skills are necessary. The guides assess your ability and match you with a suitable horse.
What animals can I expect to see?
You may see zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, kudu, and other wildlife native to the private game park.
How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 4 hours, including safety briefing, riding, and refreshments.
What safety equipment is provided?
Lightweight helmets and leather chaps are supplied to ensure comfort and safety during the ride.
Can children participate?
Children aged 12 and above can join, provided they are receiving formal riding lessons if under 16.
How many people are in each group?
Small groups of up to 10 riders ensure personalized attention from guides.
Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch and coffee or tea after the ride.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Horseback Africa at Pinto’s Lodge, Cullinan.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is accessible and near public transportation.
To sum it up, the Horseback Safari Tour provides an engaging and authentic wildlife experience that combines gentle riding with wildlife observation. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a memorable, intimate encounter with nature that’s suitable for beginners and seasoned riders alike. With safety, small groups, and knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour offers genuine value for those wanting to see Africa’s animals from an entirely new angle.