From Johannesburg: Horse-Riding Safari and Cable Car Tour

Exploring South Africa doesn’t have to mean sticking to the usual game drives. This horse-riding safari combined with a cable car adventure offers a refreshing way to connect with nature in Gauteng, just a short drive from Johannesburg. While the tour is ideal for animal lovers and adventure seekers, it also provides stunning panoramic views and peaceful atmospheres that even the most seasoned travelers will appreciate.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to sight native antelope and giraffe from horseback, an engaging alternative to traditional vehicle safaris. The cable car ride to the top of the Magaliesberg mountains grants breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. Plus, the seamless logistics—hotel pickup, guided transportation, and all tickets included—mean you get a hassle-free day of exploration. However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for young children under 7 or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

For those wanting a taste of authentic South African wildlife and scenic mountain scenery in a single day, this tour ticks many boxes. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, it offers a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, making it a great value at $225 per person.

Key Points

• Unique horseback safari allows close animal encounters in a natural setting.
• Stunning views from the Magaliesberg cable car are a highlight.
• All-inclusive price covers transportation, entry fees, and tickets.
• Guided experience enhances understanding of the reserve’s flora and fauna.
• Suitable for active adults; not ideal for children under 7 or pregnant women.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Way to Experience South African Nature

This tour offers a wonderful way to experience South Africa’s wildlife in a setting that feels intimate and personal. Instead of the usual safari jeeps, you’ll be riding a well-behaved horse through the reserve, giving you a different perspective and a more tactile connection to the environment. As Bernadette shares, “The 2 h horse riding is an amazing experience connecting with nature,” highlighting how this activity makes visitors feel closer to the landscape and its animals.

The horse safari lasts around two hours, enough time to spot native antelope and perhaps even giraffes, as noted by Falack, who mentions that “the guide gives us great photos” and the experience was “pleasant and calm.” The Guides, such as the knowledgeable and friendly staff, often help with photos, ensuring visitors leave with memories and social media-worthy shots. This aspect has been appreciated by travelers who enjoy capturing their wildlife encounters.

The Scenic Cable Car Ride

After the safari, the tour continues with a cable car ride to the top of the Magaliesberg mountains. From above, you’ll get sweeping views that stretch across the rugged landscape—ideal for photography and soaking in nature’s beauty. Reviewers like Falack praise the cable car, calling it “worth the detour,” especially for the landscape views.

At the mountain top, you’re typically given some time for a relaxed lunch, making this part of the tour a perfect chance to unwind and take in the scenery at your own pace. Whether it’s a picnic or a café visit, the high vantage point offers a memorable break with plenty of photo opportunities.

Logistics and Practical Details

Once you book, your day is designed for convenience. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads. The transportation, guided by friendly drivers and guides, makes the experience smooth from start to finish—especially helpful for those unfamiliar with the area.

The cost of $225 per person covers everything: entry fees, horse riding tickets, and cable car tickets. This straightforward pricing means no hidden costs, making it easier to plan your day. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase lunch at the mountain top.

The tour is suitable for most active adults, though children under 7 and pregnant women are not advised to participate. Participants should bring comfortable clothes, long pants, and closed-toe shoes, essential for horseback riding safety and comfort. And, since you’ll be steering your own horse, some level of physical coordination is necessary.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

Reviews echo the positive sentiments about this experience. Bernadette calls the horse riding “an amazing experience connecting with nature,” and emphasizes she’d return on her next visit. Emmaculate simply states, “I enjoyed my activity,” reflecting how straightforward yet satisfying the experience can be.

Falack’s review encapsulates the overall vibe: “The guide gives us great photos. The 2-hour horseback ride is pleasant. The calm atmosphere and spectacular views from the cable car make it worth the trip.” These comments underline the tour’s strength—combining wildlife, scenic vistas, and a relaxed, guided experience.

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Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts looking for a more personal and interactive way to see South Africa’s wildlife. It’s perfect if you want a combination of wildlife viewing, scenic mountain vistas, and active outdoor fun in a single day.

It’s also an excellent choice if you prefer guided, all-inclusive tours that handle logistics and transportation, removing much of the stress of planning. However, if you’re traveling with young children or pregnant, it’s worth considering alternative activities, since this tour isn’t suitable for them.

The value for money is competitive, especially considering the inclusions and the quality of the experience. It’s a day that balances physical activity, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters, making it a well-rounded outing for curious travelers.

Final Thoughts

This horse-riding safari and cable car tour offers a distinctive way to experience South Africa’s outdoor beauty. You’ll love the chance to get close to native animals from horseback, enjoying the peaceful, natural surroundings. The panoramic views from the Magaliesberg cable car add a spectacular touch to the day, making the journey visually rewarding.

The tour’s well-organized logistics and inclusive pricing make it a practical option for travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure. Enthusiasts who enjoy active, scenic experiences will find this particularly engaging, especially given the positive reviews about the guides and the calm atmosphere.

While it might not suit very young children or pregnant women, most active adults will appreciate the blend of wildlife, mountain scenery, and personal connection with nature. It’s a memorable, value-packed experience that offers an authentic taste of South Africa outside the typical safari vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the horse safari last?
The horse safari is approximately two hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the ride and see various animals in their habitat without feeling rushed.

Are all tickets and transportation included?
Yes, the tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entry fees, horse riding tickets, and cable car tickets.

What should I bring for the experience?
Comfortable clothes, long pants, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Since you’ll be steering your horse, some physical coordination is helpful.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 7 years old. The activity requires participants to be able to steer their own horse, so it’s best suited for active adults or older children.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is there any food provided during the tour?
Food and drinks are not included. You can bring snacks or purchase lunch at the mountain top after the cable car ride.

To sum it up, this horse-riding safari combined with a cable car adventure is a fantastic way to experience South Africa’s wildlife and scenic mountains in a single day. It offers a unique, authentic connection with nature, guided by knowledgeable staff, and comes at a price that reflects its quality and inclusiveness. Perfect for active travelers eager to enjoy a memorable outdoor outing away from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: