Our 'Big 5' Safari at Ant's River Lodge in the Kaingo private game reserve just under 4 hours drive from Johannasberg.
Run by the professional team that own the luxury Ants Reserve within an hours drive - you can expect the same high quality of hospitality, passion for conservation and exciting riding.
The big advantage of the Kaingo Reserve is that it is private and visitors numbers are tightly controlled, so you can explore on horseback in peaceful surroundings. All tourism revenue directly supports ethical conservation initiatives.
There are more than 50 mammal species, like buffalo, giraffe, hippo, wildebeast, impala, elephant, rhino, lion and leopard. As well as over 250 species of birds - including rare sightings.
Not only can you ride out on the reserve but there are game drives, walking tours and a solar powered barge for river trips. Each day is flexible - taking into account the weeks group of riders (usual number of guests riding is 6), the weather and anything else that may be going on on the reserve.
A typical day will start with a hearty breakfast before riding commences. The exact route will vary dependant on game movement, there are water courses to explore, as well as plains and bush. There is not just the wildlife Kaingo has a huge variety of archaelogical sites dating back to stone age times with rock art and other pieces.
Lunch is served at the Lodge followed by a chance to relax before an afternoon ride.
Some trips may be by vehicle to allow you to get close up to lion, or even the river cruise to see the wildlife from a completely different perspective.
Every day is finished off with sundowner drinks to make the most of the setting sun and dramatic skies.
Each evening a deliciuos dinner is served, either in candelight under the stars or in the airy dining room.
The Lodge has a swimming pool, plenty of comfortable seating areas, as well as dining room, bar and riverside viewing deck.There are ten spacious bedrooms each ensuite with private river view verandas. Rooms have mini bars, tea and coffee and air con.
Prices and Dates
2026
7 nights full board and riding £4270
no single supplements
Non rider price £3710
01 - 08 Aug
05 - 12 Sept
03 - 10 Oct
14 - 21 Nov full
12 - 19 Dec
2027
7 nights full board and riding £4795
no single supplements
Non rider price £3475
09 -16 Jan
13 - 20 Feb
20 -27 March
17 - 24 April full
15 - 22 May
19 -26 Jun
10 - 17 July
15 - 22 Aug
11 - 18 Sept
09 - 16 Oct
13 - 20 Nov
12 - 19 Dec
Horses
There is a choice of well trained horses from Arabs to Boerperd crosses and thoroughbreds. It is recommended that you are a fit rider, comfortable at all paces. You are riding in challenging terrain and dangerous game and it is important that you are balanced and secure on your horse. You will be in the saddle for up to 5 hours on some days.
Horses are ridden in trail saddles and snaffle bridles. Hats are mandatory.
Riders must be over 16 years
Weight Limit of 90Kg
Transfers
The nearest airport is Johannesberg which is a 3.5 - 4 hour drive.
A shared transfer is offered. on arrival day your flight should arrive into Jo'berg by 09.30 for transfer departure at 10.30.
On departure day the transfer leaves at 13.00 and so your flight should be after 19.30. A shared transfer is currently £65 each way.
Private transfers are available at extra cost and start at about £350 each way.