Would you believe me if I told you to have found a a sanctuary where the rhythmic hoofbeats intertwine with the breathtaking landscapes of the South African bush?

Horizon Horseback Safari offers this unforgettable blend of adventure, camaraderie, and communion with nature. With its diverse activities, vibrant horse-loving community, and excellent value for money, Horizon Horseback Lodge stands as an idyllic retreat for those seeking a harmonious connection between rider and horse amidst the untamed beauty of South Africa.

Nestled in the scenic Waterberg region, Laura founded Horseback Horizon in 1992 – a paradise for horse enthusiasts, offering a unique meeting point for riders of all levels.

Voted the ‘Best Horse Riding Safari’ in Africa 2016, 2018 and 2019.

BYOND TRAVELING rating – ★★★★☆

For whom?
Tailored specifically for those with a passion for horses, this lodge is an ideal retreat, welcoming everyone from novices to seasoned riders.

When to go?
All year round. The Waterberg is in a malaria free are which allows you to enjoy the beauty of the South African wilderness at any given time of the year.

Location ★★★★★
Situated in the picturesque Waterberg region, Horizon Horseback Lodge is a true haven for horse lovers. Easily accessible with a 3-hours’ drive from Johannesburg, it provides an immersive experience in the heart of nature, attracting riders seeking a connection with both horses and the wilderness.

Amenities ★★★★☆
Horizon Horseback Lodge accommodates up to 16 people in cozy, mainly double rooms while the family cottages can host up to 4 people. The rooms at Horizon Safari, although relatively simple, offer comfort and charm. The lodge is situated in front of a dreamy dam with wide open gras fields around and the stables tucked away right behind the main lodge. Given the shared love for horses, sharing rooms is a common practice among the guests. In addition, Horizon horseback has another 3 lodges close to the premise – Camp Davidson, Savannah and Saringa lodge. The stay at one of the lodges can be arranged upon arrival.

Kitchen ★★★☆☆
The lodge offers a delightful culinary experience with simple yet delicious meals. Breakfast and lunch, served buffet-style, take place in the lodge’s expansive garden overlooking the damp —a magnificent setting to start and indulge in the day. Dietary requests are taken into consideration and an afternoon tea is served every day before the afternoon outride.

Activities ★★★★★
The lodge is renowned for its horseback safaris, boasting an impressive herd of almost 100 horses. From horse riding and swimming with horses to bush jumping and polo cross, guests can immerse themselves in various equestrian activities. While the lodge doesn’t offer game drives, bush walks provide a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The area, though without the big 5, features diverse wildlife such as different antelope species, zebras, ostriches, giraffes, and hippos.

Safari itineraries ★★★★★
Horizon Horseback Lodge presents three additional and distinct safari itineraries besides their traditional Signature safari: Signature Set, African Explorer, and Tuli Safari. The Signature Set includes stays at Horizon Lodge and nearby camps like Camp Davidson and Saringa and Savannah Lodge. The African Explorer spans 4 nights in bespoke lodges and 3 nights in Botswana’s Mashatu section of the Tuli Reserve. The Tuli Safari offers a seven nights adventure in the Mashatu Game Reserve at three different lodges in Botswana. African Explorer and Tuli Safari are for experienced riders only.

Sustainability ★★★★☆
Horizon Horseback Lodge prioritizes sustainability, operating their lodges on solar energy, and minimizing plastic usage. The commitment to eco-conscious practices enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to connect with nature responsibly.

Value for money ★★★★☆
At Horizon Horseback Lodge, you pay little and get a lot in return. While it may not boast luxurious accommodations, it undeniably offers a unique experience, making it an excellent value for the cost-conscious traveler seeking an authentic equestrian adventure. The Signature Safari starts at 2.030€ for 7 nights in low seasons going up to 2.600€ per person in high season.

What I loved the most
It’s all about the horses – The vibrant community of horse enthusiasts creates a welcoming atmosphere, fostering easy connections among guests. This is also reflected in the high number of guests reoccurring to Horizon. During my stay I have met Mik and Sue: it was their 19th time at Horizon.

What I didn’t like so much
Not a signle horse – One aspect that posed a challenge was riding a different horse on each excursion, making it slightly harder for riders to develop a deep connection with a specific horse, especially for those with specific preferences. However, upon request you might be able to keep riding 2 to 3 specific horses during your stay.