Location: Mauricedale Game Ranch, Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Accommodation: Boulders Lodge
Dates: Monday-Monday year-round
Riding Level: Intermediate+
Group Size: Up to 6 people
Accompanying non-riders welcome
Welcome to the Southern Kruger Region – this area is well known for is sub-tropical vibes and boasts the highest concentration of wildlife in the Kruger National park. Mauricedale Game Reserve is a mere 14km from Malelane Kruger Gate and is a 7000-ha game ranch that offers riders the chance to see general game such as Giraffe, Kudu, Impala, Zebra, Waterbuck, Duiker, Baboon and Vervet monkeys and some of the more perilous wildlife such as the Cape Buffalo, Hippo and Crocodile. Leopard and Aardvark do roam this reserve, one might get lucky with a sighting. Not to mention diverse and dramatic landscape. During the stay, guests will visit Kruger National Park, as well as Mjejane Private Game Reserve, which is open to Kruger (all by vehicle). During these excursions, one will have the chance to see, Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino, Elephant, African Wild dog, Cheetah and Hyena.
This area is also referred to as the Lowveld of South Africa, meaning it is low in altitude, it has the best winters in the country and it is characterized by savanna and mixed woodland biome. Come and learn why it is also known as the Slowveld… life has a different rhythm here. This safari combines horse safari riding on Mauricedale Game Reserve and exploring Kruger by means of vehicle for a complete experience. Accommodation and meals are elementary but the experience is extraordinary. Over 40 horses will allow you to find a steed that you enjoy. Passionate guides will share their deep knowledge of the bush with you, touching on information regarding flora and fauna, conservation, history and culture.
With a herd of over 40 horses, there is something for every rider, with a mix of breeds with the South African Boerperd dominating. Sizes between 15h to 17h. Having happy horses is paramount.
Intermediate to Advanced
These trips are for intermediate to advanced riders. Riders should be comfortable spending long hours in the saddle and at all paces. Riders should be able to rise in the trot and canter. Horses are schooled English-style, and are used to contact in the trot and canter.
Tack
Riders will be in English tack (general purpose saddles)
Terrain
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.
Weight Limit: 80kg / 175 lbs
Guests will stay at Boulders lodge as base, the lodge is simple, yet comfortable with a charming safari atmosphere. Each room has two twin or one double bed, en-suite bathroom, a veranda, and air conditioning.
After a long day in the saddle, you are sure to work up an appetite! You will not be disappointed by the delectable cuisine on offer in the lodge. Enjoy hearty meals, scrumptious snacks, and warm hospitality. Dietary restrictions may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Three meals will be taken at restaurants during your stay, and these are not included in the tour price.
Arrival
Fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International airport, arriving no later than 2pm on your arrival day.
Departure
Departing flights from Mpumalanga should be booked no earlier than 1pm.
Airport transfers are not included but can be booked as an add-on.
Single or shared room
From lunch on arrival day to breakfast on the last day, with the exception of 3 restaurant meals
Tea and coffee
Horses, tack and equipment, and qualified safari guides
Mjejane overnight stay and drives
Flights to/from South Africa and Mpumalanga
Road transfers to/from Mpumalanga
Beer and wines, champagne, spirits
Travel and medical insurance is compulsory for all riders
Suggested tip amount: $20 per rider per day