I was cantering through the dense bush atop of my horse Pafuri, a swift grey Arab

Our guide, Moses, led the way on his mare just ahead of me

When all of a sudden a giraffe emerged from the bush

Appearing right in front of us on our trail

Cantering together with us through the South African wilderness

Transforming the ride into the reverie of every equestrian’s dreams

Giving me a sense of boundless freedom

That is the Ants Reserve in the Waterberg, a place where equestrian safari adventures seamlessly intertwine with eco-consciousness, where exclusivity meets warmth, and where every moment is a testament to the wild beauty of South Africa. A place where you will have the most exclusive horse safari experience unlike any other.

Nestled in the captivating Waterberg area, a mere 3-hour drive north of Johannesburg, Ant’s Hill and the Ant’s Nest Lodge stands as a charming retreat specializing in horse safaris besides offering other bush activities.

BYOND TRAVELING rating – ★★★★★

For whom?
Ant’s Hill and Ant’s Nest cater to a diverse array of riders and non-riders, from solo adventurers to couples seeking a romantic retreat, and families yearning for an immersive safari experience. However, it undeniably shines as the ultimate destination for horse enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore the wilderness on horseback.

When to go?
All year round. The Waterberg is located 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 a scenic 3-hour drive north of Johannesburg, Ant’s Hill is easily accessible by self-drive, organized transport, or even a short plane ride. Its proximity to the Botswana border, a mere 2 hours away, adds an extra dimension of adventure to your journey. While the lodge’s location offers stunning views overlooking the Waterberg Reserve, the absence of cats on the reserve, while ensuring safety for novice riders, might dampen the thrill for those seeking big game sightings.

Amenities ★★★★★
Ant’s Hill has five distinct houses of varying sizes, accommodating up to 18 guests in total. Whether you prefer the intimacy of a honeymoon suite, the spaciousness of a family house, or the coziness of a smaller dwelling, the lodge has something to suit every preference. Perched atop a hill, each house offers breathtaking views of the surrounding reserve, providing a sense of serenity and seclusion. The outstanding service provided by Martha and the dedicated staff adds an extra layer of comfort and hospitality to your stay, ensuring that every need and desire is met with a smile. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly or suitable for larger groups or solo travelers who enjoy spending time with others, Ant’s Nest is the right lodge to opt for. It is also lovely, slightly smaller, however, less private, and exclusive than Ant’s Hill.

Kitchen ★★★★☆
The culinary delights at Ant’s Hill are nothing short of exceptional. From various breakfast options (continental and special breakfasts) to set lunches and delicious dinner menus, the chef’s diverse offerings cater to every palate and preference. Meals are thoughtfully curated, taking into account dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring a gastronomic experience that delights the senses with each bite.

Activities ★★★★★
At Ants Reserve, the adventure knows no bounds. While horseback safaris take center stage, with a staggering 50 horses available for exploration (at each lodge) each morning and afternoon, guests can also indulge in swimming with the horses, day and night game drives, bush walks, mountain biking, or early morning runs. For those yearning to encounter the Big Five, game drives in the neighboring reserve Welgevonden can be arranged at an additional cost, providing an exhilarating safari experience beyond compare. Every year in May, Ant’s Hill and Ant’s Nest organize a game sensus where riders are coming together to one week to capture animals that are sold to other properties. It stands as a highlight for any seasoned rider with a passion for the bush.

Sustainability ★★★★☆
Ant’s Hill takes pride in its commitment to sustainability, operating primarily on solar energy and minimizing its environmental footprint wherever possible. The lodge’s dedication to eco-conscious practices, including the use of reusable bottles and minimal plastic packaging, reflects a deep reverence for the African bush and its inhabitants. Ants further support the African Community Outreach supporting the local township as well as the Fold SA a program that provides refuge to children in need.

Value for money ★★★★★
While Ant’s Hill may not be situated in the renowned Kruger National Park, its allure lies in its exclusivity, luxury, and dedication to sustainability. With prices starting at a reasonable rate of 250€ at Ant’s Nest and 296€ at Ant’s Hill per person per night sharing excl. the conservancy fee of 90€ per person per night, guests are treated to a truly immersive safari experience that exceeds all expectations, making every penny worth the investment. The conservancy fee is used for the protection of the Waterberg’s rhinos. On average, South Africa still looses 4 rhinos per day due to pouching – a rate at which the Ants Reserve could find itself rhino-less within 72 hours without protection.

What I loved the most
Home away from home – Ant’s Hill captivates with its warmth, offering guests a sense of exclusivity and intimacy rarely found elsewhere. Martha, Moses, Fred, the staff and the volunteers are the friendliest people making you feel like at home from home.

One horse – You stick to one (or two) horses. The opportunity to explore the wilderness on horseback that is familiar to you and fits to your riding style and experience level allows you to have the most genuine connection and experience.

What I didn’t like so much
No big 5 – While the absence of cats on the reserve ensures safety for riders, it does detract slightly from the thrill of traditional big game sightings.