African Sojourns - South Africa and Botswana - Big Game and Horse riding

Ant’s has got to be one of the most child-friendly safari lodges in Africa: we will give your children and family a life-changing experience,from grandparents right down to babies. Our unique policy allows children of all ages to join their parents on all game viewing activities, so you can witness their first encounters with wildlife. At Ant’s, family safaris really are our speciality; we have an abundance of exciting and thrilling safari activities to offer kids of all ages, allowing them to leave with an intimate knowledge of the bush.

What makes us different?
Both lodges are small and intimate, allowing you maximum flexibility, with no fixed times and your day tailored according to your needs. Children are welcome to join their parents for dinner; alternatively, special suppers or meal times can be arranged. As a family, you can also book private dinners. Although your children can join you on all activities, you can happily leave them at the lodge and enjoy a more challenging walk or ride, as we offer full child minding.

We have an exceptional variety of activities available on offer these include:

Game drive
Guided walks / walking safaris
Led pony rides for beginners or under 4
Bug and spoor walks / learn to become a ranger
Horse riding lessons
Fishing
Horse riding safaris / full day rides
Swimming with the horses
Mountain biking
Archery
Rhino tracking
Big 5 game drives
Night sky safaris
Visit to our local children’s home

We have a selection of wonderful ponies catering to both the novice and experienced child rider. Beginners will be led by a competent guide and riding lessons are also available. Children under four will be led on a pony in and around the lodge area as they are still too young to be taken out on long outrides.

Both lodges have various facilities ideal for kids, such as the swimming pool which is heated all year round, a trampoline, sand pits, a badminton and volleyball court, as well as a selection of toys and books. Due to our relaxed and informal atmosphere, Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill are ideal for families with kids of all ages.

Both Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill offer the opportunity for some of the greatest game viewing in the African bush – from horseback. You can canter along open sandy tracks or traverse high ridges with spectacular vistas. The pace can be as fast or relaxed as you desire. Often we get so close to the game that the experience will remain forever unmatched.
We have fit, reliable and responsive horses, providing a choice for both the professional rider and the absolute beginner. (You do not need to have ridden before). The herd of over 90 horses is made up of big thoroughbreds and Arab-Boerperd crosses and includes some fabulous children’s ponies. Each ride is led by two competent guides and the emphasis is on safety at all times. The enthusiastic rider may wish to ride twice daily and turn their stay into a luxury riding safari. Families or couples, where some ride and others don’t, can enjoy separate activities. As we always have two guides on each ride, novices can go out with their more competent partners without slowing the ride. Basic lessons for non-riders are available at both reserves; many guests learn to ride and gain confidence here.
What makes our riding safaris unique: our horses live out in the bush and graze in and amongst the game, thus giving guests possibly the closest wildlife encounter on horseback in Africa as the game see the horses as just another animal. Our flexibility, incredible personal service, huge variety of game, additional activities and the ability to take all levels of riders including children, sets us apart from other riding operations particularly those in lion and elephant country.

Tack & Equipment
We use comfortable McLellan saddles made locally for long hours in the saddle. These are based on the famous US cavalry saddle designed for the comfort of both horse and rider alike. We do also have a few English saddles available. No client will be allowed to ride with us unless they are wearing a riding hat so we do stock a selection of sizes. We do, however, recommend that you bring your own well-fitted helmet if you plan to spend many an hour in the saddle. Wide brimmed riding hat covers are advisable. In order to be covered by both your own and our insurers, the wearing of riding helmets is compulsory. Our weight limit is 120 kg (19 stone).

Our guides will be available to take you out in an open 4x4 Land Cruiser either for morning or afternoon game drives or using a spotlight at night to find elusive nocturnal animals, such as the rare brown hyena, aardvark, bushbaby and porcupine. The advantage of a game drive is that you are able to cover more ground across the reserve. Game drives and walks can often be combined to make game viewing and photography more exciting.

For those who prefer walking, our guides will lead you through the bushveld on foot. These walks are informative and interactive, enabling you to gain knowledge of African flora and fauna. One can often miss the smaller details of our beautiful environment when on a vehicle or horseback, so guided walks are highly recommended. These can be in the form of a gentle stroll to identify: insects and birds, track animals through the bush, and learn the medicinal properties of various trees and plants. Alternatively, the more energetic traveller can hike over the plains and up impressive gorges. Specialised bug hunts and learning to track game are available for children at both bush homes.

If you are an avid walker, you may also choose to do a full day walking safari, stopping in a scenic location to enjoy a bush lunch or even a dip in one of our many dams. We also offer an incredible river walk through mountains and gorges to view bushman paintings on another private reserve in a very different geographical area of the Waterberg

For those wanting a bit of exercise, try out our mountain bikes. The incredibly diverse terrain offers extreme technical cycling as well as gentle meanders. Enjoy cycling alongside herds of game in the more gentle plains and valleys; alternatively for our fitter guests there are more challenging terrains with routes varying from five to twenty kilometers

A local ‘Big Five’ game reserve, where it is possible to see lions and elephants.

On Sundays we go to a historic thatched church where you can meet local people and see the 1914 building designed by Sir Herbert Baker. Children can attend a colourful Sunday school where the Sotho children sing choruses in rousing harmony.

We are happy to take you into the local town where you will find a wide variety of African arts and crafts.

* Please check with the lodge on arrival as some of the above may not be available at the time.

Archery:
Test your aim with an archery activity based in the grounds of the lodge. This activity must be arranged with your hosts in advance, so the equipment can be organized and is subject to the availability of our trained instructors.

Snake Handling / Educational
Do not fear! This is great way to learn all about snakes with our guide Craig who is based at Ant’s Hill. Please let us know if you would be interested and we can either do it at Ant’s Hill or he can come over to Ant’s Nest. This is subject to Craig being on the property.

Discover the heart of Mashatu Game Reserve through exhilarating safari game drives. Traverse the 31,000-hectare wilderness, following the well-worn trails of over 1000 elephants that call this haven home. These paths, created by breeding herds and their playful calves, offer a unique vantage point for unforgettable encounters with Africa’s majestic wildlife. Guided by seasoned rangers, embark on open four-wheel drive vehicles and venture off-road to witness the raw beauty of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, alongside the diverse range of giraffes, zebras, and antelope that populate the reserve. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of nocturnal creatures during captivating night drives, guided by powerful spotlights. In the company of expert guides, get up close to over 366 bird species, marvel at the breathtaking scenery, and capture stunning photographic moments. Mashatu Lodge even offers exclusive private vehicle options upon request, allowing you to tailor your adventure. These Tswana guides, steeped in local knowledge, provide invaluable insights into the intricate web of nature, enriching your experience with depth and meaning. Your journey not only connects you with the wild but also supports responsible travel and conservation efforts. Join us in preserving this remarkable ecosystem and creating lasting memories in the heart of Africa.

WalkMashatu is an intimate look and exploration into the daily lives of Mashatu’s inhabitants and wilderness area. By interacting closely with some of our enigmatic, remarkable and powerful wildlife characters and following paths, WalkMashatu provides the opportunity to peek into the natural world and how the ecosystem of Mashatu thrives, from the smallest of insects to the largest of creatures. WalkMashatu allows you to immerse yourself in nature, become grounded and feel the rhythm and wonder of Africa’s wilderness. WalkMashatu is a life event. WalkMashatu is a not a race, survival or endurance test. Walks are to explore, experience and enjoy the ancient African landscapes. To contribute to your tailored experience, our walking guides are handpicked and have years of experience walking in wilderness areas. They are passionate about walking and exploring smaller and normally overlooked aspects of the African Bushveld, striving to make your experience interactive and informative.

Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris is honoured with the reputation of having the finest schooled horses on the African continent. Surrounded by a multitude of Africa's flora and fauna, come and explore this breath-taking terrain from horseback, in the company of experienced African equestrian hosts who have extensive knowledge and experience of the bush. There is nothing more exhilarating than galloping on horseback alongside herds of antelope, over the wild open plains of Mashatu, kicking dust into the sunset sky.

There are combinations of horse safaris from which the guest can choose including multi-day, camp wild experiences.

Please note that only competent and regular horse riders should consider this activity as the concessionaire will, in the interests of safety, test the skills and ability of the horse riders. The experienced staff will terminate the reservation if the guest is not skilled enough to ride through wild country where dangerous animals roam.

This concession on Mashatu comprises a resident wildlife photographer, based at Mashatu Lodge and photographic hides in two selected sites plus a mobile hide on the reserve. Guests at Mashatu can enlist the photographic expertise of the photographer or simply visit one of the hides during their stay which will be charged as an additional activity over and above the daily rates for accommodation.

The photographic hides are structures built to maximise the photographic potential of the animals that visit them. These hides can be used to view wildlife in the normal manner, but have been positioned with consideration of the angle of the sun, the background and the angle which the viewer occupies in relation to the animals and birds.

The most famous of these hides is the 'elephant hide', renowned for the photographic images taken of elephant and other animals drinking from the water's edge. Less well know amongst the hides is a mobile hide that is moved periodically to take advantage of sightings that change during the seasons such as nesting birds, drying pools in rivers and den sites. Any of these hides offer both the amateur or professional photographer the most unique and delightful opportunities to record a memorable safari at Mashatu.

Bring your mountain bike and ride amongst the wildlife of the vast Northern Tuli Game Reserve. You owe yourself the opportunity at least once in your life!

Cycle Mashatu operates the cycling concession on Mashatu Game Reserve. Cycling is offered to guests from both Main Camp and Tent Camp as an experience to be enjoyed during their stay on a more traditional vehicle safari. Guests can also book a 'camp wild' cycling experience comprising up to three days on a cycling safari. These safaris depart Fridays and Tuesdays in the winter months where Cycle Mashatu offers a 3 night guided mountain biking adventure, catering for up to 8 cyclists. Enjoy riding elephant manicured game paths, sleeping under the starlit skies and exploring the ancient Land of the Giants. Cycle Mashatu tailors the tours to suit the group's fitness and strength and provides vehicle support, meals, and camp amenities. Many would argue that you have not lived until you have cycled in the Land of Giants - a thrilling experience indeed.

The Discovery Room, situated at Mashatu Lodge, is a museum of all things Mashatu past and present, and is the perfect activity to keep the little ones engaged. The educational side of Mashatu, our Discovery Room presents a number of interesting displays of our Reserve and provides an opportunity to browse through during periods of relaxation between game drives. You can expect fish aquaria of the some of the local species, archaeological artefacts, collection of Boer War remains found on Mashatu, reconstructed skeletons, findings of the predator and elephant research that has been conducted on Mashatu.

Indulge in our lavish spa treatments from the tranquil ambiance of Mashatu Lodge. Serokolo, a bespoke spa with tranquil facilities at Mashatu Lodge, has skilled therapists ready to pamper you with rejuvenating therapies and quality products using local and natural ingredients that reflect our commitment to both luxury and well-being.

The perfect way to wind down, whether it be a sunrise or post private game drive spa session.

Night under the Stars offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with uniquely designed tents positioned in surprise locations, making you one with the surrounding wildlife of Mashatu. Enjoy fireside chats with fellow nature lovers, hear the laughs of hyena passing by, and gaze up at the twinkly night sky from the comfort of your tent. Romantic, intimate, and indescribable.

This is booked as an additional activity and is offered throughout the year. The rate is for max 6 pax. No children under 12 years permitted. Children aged 12 to 18 must be accompanied by a parent. Guests will depart the lodge they are booked at after dinner (approximately 9pm), with an overnight bag. They will be taken on a night drive to explore the nocturnal activities happening in the reserve (approximately 2hrs). The night drive will end at the WalkMashatu Fly Camp, where they may participate in night photography, a night walk and/or fireside stories with drinks and snacks, before sleeping under the stars. The next morning, guests will have a light early morning breakfast before departing on morning game drive at around 6am and then back to camp, or back to camp first and then game drive.