Rates Note:

Transfer and Other Options:

2013 Itinerary

Day 1: Guests will be met at Johannesburg International Airport and transferred to Camp Davidson in time for lunch and later that afternoon you will be introduced to your safari horse. We will ensure that you are matched with a horse to suit your ability, experience and preferences, before heading off on the first ride. On route through the Matlapeng reserve, the ride will take a "sundowner" break at the Red Lake, where you are likely to encounter our pod of resident hippo, before climbing the ridge back to Camp Davidson.

Day 2: A day of exploration in the reserve, tracking herds of giraffe, zebra, eland, wildebeest, kudu and impala. The terrain lends itself to straying off the trails as your horse leads you along game trails and narrow kloofs. A saddlebag lunch is served at the riverside along a long abandoned wagon route used by the pioneers to congregate for church each Sunday. Riders can rest in the shade of the riverine forest during the heat of the day or take a dip in the clear flowing streams whilst the horses graze, before gradually meandering back through the plains in the fading afternoon light.

Day 3: A full days ride west of camp takes you around Bellevue on the southern end of the property and on to the historic Baber homestead for lunch by the poolside. That afternoon riders visit the local Sotho village and have a tour of some of the traditional houses with the local characters Martha Mosima, and the group of village lady elders for afternoon tea accompanied by traditional singing and dancing.  After a day of long riding, culture and history you will return to the tranquility of the Camp Davidson where dinner is served under the stars.

Day 4: Any early departure from camp for a game drive at a nearby Big Five game reserve, with a chance to see the famous Big Five: the rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo and leopard. On the way back we will visit Beadle, a craft workshop on Triple B Ranch which has been a community project since 1998. The crafters specialize in beautiful handmade bead work and leather products including riding chaps and bridle brow bands. Lunch will be served by the pool back at the lodge at Triple B Ranch, before heading back to the camp for another "sundowner" ride in the game reserve.

Day 5: We break camp very early today, and riders mount for a last ride through the reserve, soaking up the early morning sights and sounds of the African bush as we go back to the ranch. Guests will depart from the lodge at 7.30am and are transferred to Botswana, crossing the Limpopo river and into the Tuli block, before arriving at the Limpopo stables. An introductory afternoon ride (and quick skill test) will help familiarize riders with their horses for this leg of their safari, arriving to the comforts of the Two Mashatu camp in time to freshen up before supper. You are in "Lion Country" now, folks!

Day 6: Today is another early start (the hotter it is, the earlier!) and a good breakfast will fortify you for thE day! You ride down from the Zeederberg Hills and on to the open Pitsani Plains with the possibility of some fast canters, on the best days you will be joined by runing zebra, wildebeest or giraffe! This ride may bring the opportunity of jumping some of the fallen trees, pushed over by elephants if you are game! Lunch awaits you at Liana Camp under a splendid Mashatu tree and then, after a lunchtime siesta, you head out on a bush walk to examine the things you miss from jeep or horseback or a jeep game drive in search of those big cats!

Day 7: Ride out following the movements of wildlife in the area and observing and interpreting the world around us. The tempo of the rides is always varied and depending on the terrain, there are opportunities to enjoy the spirit and fitness of the horses at a  faster pace. The terrain here often allows you to canter a few horses abreast! Very exhilarating!

Day 8: After a last morning ride, we head back to the stables and there is time for a quick shower and brunch at the reception area before heading back to Johannesburg International via Pontdrift border post.Please be aware that due to changes in weather and other unforeseen events the itinerary may be changed at the last minute. We will endeavor to keep everyone informed of any changes and the reason for them.

NOTE: in February, March, October and November the Botswana section of the combo safari is stationary based at the beautiful Two Mashatu camp only, while other times of year you may move between a few mobile locations. The itinerary may change depending on the weather at the time and other local conditions.

The climate over most of Southern Africa is temperate. Hot, dry conditions are usually encountered in the Tuli region. Heavy summer thunderstorms of short duration in the late afternoon and evening may be experienced. Rainfall occurs mostly during the summer months (October - March).

FEBRUARY: This is one of the hottest months of the year, with temperatures soaring. The conditions are similar to those of January. Kudus continue to calve and there is a good chance of seeing late Impala lambs, tottering along on spindly, wobbling legs behind their mothers. Due to the excessive heat, the animals wisely begin to seek shade before 8 o’clock in the morning, only becoming active again in the late afternoon, just prior to sunset. Tropical thunderstorms are still a regular afternoon feature and there is still a high probability of flooded rivers to add some excitement to game drives.

MARCH: Finally the harsh, searing heat of summer begins to abate and there is less likelihood of rain. A few late Kudu calves may make a bemused appearance in the beginning of the month. Large nursery herds of gawky Impala young are found, kept under some control by the watchful eyes of their mothers. The bush is still dense, but the bright shades of green are starting to become duller as the year progresses. Due to the decrease in rainfall, the characteristic carpets of yellow flowers, so prevalent in the early summer months, begin to disappear.

APRIL: This is a truly splendid time of the year. It is now autumn and the daily temperatures are most pleasant with balmy days and nights. The trees are still green and the bush is thick. Groundcovers growing away from the larger watercourses are starting to change colour to the browner shades of winter, as water becomes scarcer. A hush begins to fall over the bush, as the myriad of insects, frogs and reptiles quieten down in preparation for winter. Flocks of migratory birds also begin to congregate in the treetops, gathering themselves together for the long flight northwards to sunnier climes and greener pastures. The rains have abated, although late unseasonable showers may occur, but this the exception rather than the rule.

MAY: The transition from summer to winter occurs rapidly in the Limpopo Valley. Temperatures begin to drop rapidly after sunset and both evening and morning game drives require warmer clothing. Although chilly in the morning, the days are clear and pleasant with crisp blue skies. Now that the rains are over, the veldt begins to dry out and game begins to congregate around the major watercourses, such as the Limpopo and associated wetlands, as well as the artificial waterholes scattered throughout the reserve. Deciduous trees begin to loose their leaves, with crisp, crackling drifts of golden brown leaves forming on the ground and tree bases. The grasses, forbs and herbs gradually begin to fade away. As the vegetation begins to thin, the elusive leopard is more frequently seen. Lions, which dispersed with the game during the wet season, now begin to concentrate their activities in the central area of Mashatu.

JUNE: Winter is now upon us and has spread its chilly grip on Mashatu. Most of the natural pans and pools have now completely dried up. Elephant and a host of other species begin to frequent the artificial waterholes at both Main and Tent Camps, which makes for exciting mealtime viewing. Predator sightings are good at this time of the year, due to the thinned out vegetation and concentrations of game, cheetah however are scarce. In general the game is more active later into the day.

JULY: The conditions are much like those in June. The days are still good, with crisp mornings. The nights can be very cold. Elephant may begin to dig for water in the sandy riverbeds, providing water not only for themselves, but a variety of other animals. This is also a favorable time to visit the archaeological site at the Motloutse River. The summer vegetation has disappeared and a host of interesting features are now visible.

AUGUST: Conditions are extremely dry now. The floodplains and grasslands adjacent to the Limpopo are very dry and barren. The bush has become harsh and almost inhospitable, with absolutely no groundcover, only dust and rocks visible for kilometers. The veldt has all the typical winter hues of brown and red, as the Mopane leaves start turning. The weather is fine with temperatures increasing slightly. The early mornings and evenings being not as cold as in June or July. August is a showy month, with respect to sunsets. Due to the very dry conditions, large quantities of dust is taken up into the air, giving rise to spectacular pyrotechnic displays as the sun sinks below the horizon.

SEPTEMBER: This is a month of great contrast. The bush is still very dry, a condition exacerbated by winds, which blow from August through to October. However, many trees begin to blossom, in anticipation of the rapidly approaching summer. The vibrant hues of the blossoms enliven the bush, providing a bountiful treat for baboons and other hungry inhabitants of the bush, all of whom have struggled through the lean winter months. Temperatures begin to creep upwards and game drives are once again early morning and late afternoon affairs, as a wise means of avoiding the debilitating midday heat.

OCTOBER: Temperatures begin to steadily increase and conditions are becoming desperate for many of the herbivores. This is due to sub region frontal systems touching on the Limpopo Valley, bringing superheated air into the region. There may be an occasional tropical thunderstorm, but this early rain is sucked up like a sponge by the barren earth. This welcome water is however not enough, and seldom results in a notable floral display. Predators have a field day, as many of the game are weak and tend to restrict their activities to the area close to the waterholes. The lack of dense vegetation and the dry powdery soil make tracking lion and leopard an easier task and often result in exceptional sightings. Elephant listlessly wait out the dry season, moving from waterhole to waterhole, where they take full advantage, wallowing and drinking for hours. They will feed on the surrounding vegetation, moving into the bush on feeding forays when temperatures have dropped sufficiently for them to forage out of the protective shade. It is also at this time that eland begin to calve.

NOVEMBER: Summer is now in full swing at Mashatu. The temperatures are high and there is a lot of humidity in the air. The chances of convectional thunderstorms are great, although the real rains are still at least a month away. Some of the summer migrant birds begin to arrive. The characteristic call of the Red-chested Cuckoo rings out clearly, heralding the approach of better times for all. Once good rains have fallen, the small, drab, but extremely vocal Monotonous Lark keeps the bush awake day and night with its irritating call, as they perch on every treetop.

• Travel documents and Voucher
• Flight tickets
• Passport
• Visa (check with your consulate)
• Proof of insurance coverage (needs to be sent in in advance)

• Suitable riding gear. - Jodhpurs or long trousers
• Half chaps recommended.
• Riding hats are compulsory. Some helmets can be provided (no guarantee that they will fit) - it is better to bring your own.
• Full-length boots - Jodhpur boots and cowboy boots are not recommended.
• Riding gloves
• Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection
• Waterproof raincoat (for Summer, from November to March).

• We recommend the use of neutral-colored clothing (khaki, brown, beige and green) that blends in with the bush (no brightly colored, or white clothing
• Warm clothing (for winter, May to August).
• Long sleeved shirts or T-shirts
• Jeans
• Shorts
• Long socks
• Pajama
• Bag for dirty clothes
• Walking shoes, hiking boots or ride/run boots
• Swimsuit and towel

• Personal Toiletries
• Mosquito repellent
• Personal medications
• Sore cream (for an emergency)
• Sewing kit
• Handkerchiefs
• Head lamp
• Camera, extra batteries, binoculars
• Belt pack
• Address book and pen (for postcards!)
• Sun glasses with strap
• Sun block
• Reading material.
• Lip balm

Depending on the season, the Botswana part of the safari can now be done either as a mobile camping safari using several wilderness camps over the 3 nights OR be stationed at the very comfortable "home base" camp called Two Mashatu. Nestled in the shade of a centurion Mashatu tree, two traditionally built Lala Palm rondavels serve as your dining area and lounge. Accommodation is in big A-frame walk-in tents pitched upon teak platforms, with en-suite. Each tent is private and positioned in the shade of a tree with a small deck area on which to relax during the afternoons. The wilderness / satellite camp sites are set up in specific locations throughout the Mashatu Reserve, you will also be accommodated in A-frame tents on comfortable beds with sheets and duvets, but you will not have private en-suite bathrooms at these sites; bathroom facilities include a enclosed "bucket "shower and "bush-WC." All meals are cooked over a camp fire! The Botswana operation is professionally managed and guided by British/South African owners Cor and Louise Carelsen (or their top native Botswanan guides, West and Mpo) who share a wealth of specialist knowledge of the African bush, horses and classical horsemanship!

Note: You will be based at Two Mashatus Camp in February, March and November safaris and mobile camps are between April and mid-October.

Two highly trained experienced bush chefs will look after your every need. Breakfast is buffet of freshly baked muffins, cereals, toast, porridge. Lunch is a buffet usually quiches, salads, and fruit for dessert. Dinner is a 3 course meal served to you at the table, often under the canopy of stars! Vegetarians and other special diets are catered for; please inform us of any special dietary requirements. Please also advise us if any guests will be celebrating a birthday or special occasion, that you may want us to be aware of to help plan something special! All water in the camp is filtered to the highest standards and is guaranteed perfectly safe for drinking. All drinks are included with your tour.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		Classic English style ,Australian stock saddles and South African Mcllelans
Horses:		Boerperd,Warmblood thoroughbred, Appaloosas and Shire Cross
Pace:		A fast challenging ride with gallops, jumping trees. In Botswana, you are riding in areas of dangerous game. This ride is therefore only suitable for experienced riders with a spirit of adventure. 4-7 hrs a day | Walk | Trot | Canter | Gallop | Jumps |
Level:		(3.5 to 5 out of 5)    Strong Intermediate
Age:		Min 16
Weight:		Max 220 lbs
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 8 riders

The African Explorer Safari is of amazing value: riding in two countries over 8 days, seeing plains game species on horseback, and elephant and lion. This safari is for those who want a wonderful horseback game viewing experience, combined with an element of cultural history and friendly faces. The safari combines four nights at Camp Davidson with three nights in Botswana’s Tuli Block. This provides an exceptionally rich and rewarding African experience in a short period of time. The topography at each destination is contrasting and distinct, giving you an authentic representation of Southern Africa's varied landscapes; each area has its own unique and fascinating niche species, resulting in a broad diversity of animals to be seen. This safari is only for experienced riders please!

Their schooling generally concentrates on English style, although the horses neck rein when in the bush. They respond easily and lightly to the aids. We use Australian stock saddles, South African McClellans and a selection of English saddles.

• Participants must be EXPERIENCED RIDERS, this means they must ride regularly and be comfortable at the faster gaits, canter and galloping as well as able to do small jumps.
• Children under 16 years are not permitted.

Passports
Passport valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure required by all nationals referred to in the chart.
Passport Note
Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry stamp. This cannot include the 'endorsement' page at the back. Passengers who also require a visa must have a passport with two blank facing pages, one for the visa and one for their entry stamp. Anyone attempting to enter South Africa without the required pages will be returned to their country of origin.

Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days for business and tourist purposes, except:
1. nationals of Cyprus, Hungary, Poland and Slovak Republic who may stay for up to 30 days, and nationals of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania and Slovenia who do require a visa, unless transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft provided holding onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport (advance notice of overnight stay is required).
Visa Note
(a) Proof of financial means may be required. (b) Unaccompanied children under the age of 18 years must hold written consent from their parents when travelling alone. (c) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses). (d) After entry, extensions of stay may be sought from the Department of Home Affairs.
Types of Visa and Cost
Visa fee: £35. UK nationals are exempt from visa fees.
Validity
Dependent on length of stay requested. Permits may be extended if done so 30 days prior to expiry of original permit.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy or high commission); see Contact Addresses. Applicants in countries where South Africa is not represented may send their applications to the embassy in the nearest country.
Working Days Required
Five to 10 days.