RIDE WORLD WIDE

Transcription

RIDE WORLD WIDE

RIDE WORLD WIDE
South Africa 2016
Horizon Horseback Adventures
Information Sheet
Horizon Horseback Adventures is based on Triple B Ranch in the Waterberg in South Africa's northern Limpopo
province (formerly the Northern Transvaal). Triple B, which has long been one of South Africa's most successful
working cattle ranches, continues to operate as a cattle, game and arable farm but in addition to this, part of the
farm is now a centre for riding holidays. This Information Sheet covers holidays at the main Horizon base - for
details of Horizon’s two centre African Explorer Safaris please see our separate information sheet. Horizon is a
fantastic choice for riders looking for relaxation, variety and flexibility as well as a chance, as they say to ‘wallow
in horses’. All levels of rider, from novice to experienced, are welcome and individually catered for. The feeling is
always open and friendly, somewhere you can feel totally relaxed and at ease, but where generous service and
comfort are a matter of course. With a herd of over 85 horses on your doorstep, horses that live a natural, free
roaming life in acres of unrefined bush, and chances to ride out to enjoy the scenery (the Waterberg, which
neighbours the Drakensberg, is a UNESCO biosphere reserve), to view and track game, to play polocrosse, try
cattle work if you wish or perhaps a few cross-country jumps there is masses to keep any horse-lover happy.
Non-riders too can relax and enjoy welcome time-out from everyday life in this peaceful corner of South Africa.
There are lots of chances to walk, for visits to neighbouring game reserves, the local farm and village; there is a
good-sized swimming pool, a tennis court that guests can use a short drive away and plenty of opportunities to
learn about local life in South Africa. You can also spend a few nights at Horizon’s traditionally styled safari camp,
Camp Davidson, living under canvas and getting back to nature in a secluded spot with glorious views over the
hills. Laura and Shane Dowinton, who manage Horizon, and their staff are easy going and friendly, always doing
all they can to tailor each holiday to suit. For this along with "the sound of thundering hooves, a pall of dust and the
splash of water as horses gallop into the yard…things that bring a smile to your face no matter how many times
you see them." many guests return year after year. Horizon is an easy two and a half to three hour drive from
Johannesburg.
WWW.RIDEWORLDWIDE.COM
INFO@RIDEWORLDWIDE.COM; TEL +44 (0)1837 82544; FAX +44 (0)1837 82179
STADDON FARM, NORTH TAWTON, DEVON, EX20 2BX, UK
[2]
Dates You can stay at Horizon for any number of nights throughout the year, although we generally suggest 5 to 8
nights to make the most of the riding and activities on offer. Please contact us to check availability for the dates
you have in mind.
The Horses Ther e ar e ar ound 85 hor ses at the Hor izon base with an excellent selection to suit both
experienced and less experienced riders. The majority are between about 14.1hh and 16.3hh, with some smaller
ponies of around 12hh and above for children. Most have been bred locally or on the farm itself and they include
South African Boerperd crosses, part Thoroughbreds, Anglo Arabs, pure Boerperds, pure Thoroughbreds and some
Welsh pony crosses. They are all working 'bush horses', honest, good natured and sensible, but well-schooled, sure
footed, responsive and forward going to ride. Maclellan style saddles (which are similar to westerns) are used, with
some English or Australian stock saddles available for those who prefer. Shane Dowinton who is in overall charge
of the horses at Horizon is an expert horseman (in the 'horse whisperer' mould!) and has broken and schools many
of the horses himself. He has been using gentle training methods on young and problem horses for over 30 years
and his skill and technique when handling young horses is superb. His horses are calm and contented and he is real
pleasure and an inspiration to watch.
Riding Ther e is a choice of sever al differ ent r iding options at Hor izon, the emphasis being on tailor ing
itineraries to suit. Rides out each morning and afternoon and, weather allowing, often longer rides with a picnic or
BBQ lunch explore over 20,000 acres of undeveloped bush and often include game viewing - game is not the main
or only focus at Horizon but part of the farm is being preserved as a small private nature reserve and is home to
hippo, zebra, kudu, baboon, monkey and several species of smaller antelope including impala, steenbok and
duiker. For those who want to see more wildlife, game drives on the neighbouring Entebeni or Welvegonden
Reserves (both home to the 'Big 5') can be organised for an extra cost. Polocrosse (an amalgam of polo and
lacrosse!) is another very popular activity and there are always plenty of chances to try this exciting - and very
addictive - game. Those who have never played before will be given basic instruction and lots of encouragement
(one chukka is usually all it takes to become an addict) and friendly matches are often arranged. Riding lessons are
also available, you may have a chance to swim with your horse in one of the dams, there are special activities for
children such as camp-outs, orienteering, treasure hunts and mounted games, and experienced riders may also be
able to try a few cross country jumps. You may also be able to try working cattle - as part of a busy cattle ranch
with a herd of over 1200 stud Bonsmara cattle (an attractive and hardy African breed), there are always cattle
nearby to be moved, brought in for branding, weighing or to be checked for sickness - and Bonsmara cattle are
good-natured and ideal for mustering. You will be asked to wear a hard hat when you ride - there are some to
borrow but we recommend taking your own to ensure a good, secure fit.
Pace One of the main emphases at Horizon is flexibility and the pace at which you ride is tailored (as far as
possible) to suit. The going around the ranch itself is generally good, with many wide, soft and sandy tracks that
are perfect for canters but equally, with rides split according to ability and preferences, you can choose a gentle
pace if you prefer, enjoying the atmosphere, space and peace of the African bush.
[3]
Riding Experience To fully enjoy r iding at Horizon you should have some pr evious r iding exper ience but all
abilities are welcome and riding programmes are (as far as possible) tailored to suit. The variety of riding and
horses make Horizon an ideal choice for those who are reasonably experienced - but less experienced riders and
novices, are also very welcome. Programmes are flexible and great care is taken to ensure experienced, less
experienced and novice riders all have fulfilling and fun riding. There are plenty of staff and guides and if guests
are of different standards, groups are split according to ability. Generally rides are limited to 4 or 5 guests - or you
can ride alone with a guide if that suits best. The ranch is also a fabulous place for families. The minimum age to
ride is usually 8 years and children must have some riding experience, but younger or novice children can be taken
by prior arrangement, especially if the whole lodge is booked privately. During July and August there are often
special family weeks open to families with children of any age and ability - if you are planning a trip with children
please call us to discuss.
The Terrain One of the gr eat joys of r iding in this ar ea of South Afr ica is the var iety of ter r ain. Although
cultivated in parts and used for cattle and crops, much of the land around Horizon is undeveloped and even the
areas used for grazing are largely untouched bush and scrub, much as they would be in a natural state. In places,
the bush is dense and thick and the going underfoot stony and rough, but then it opens out and there are plenty of
wide sand tracks, open farmland and grassy plains that are perfect for energetic canters. Rocky outcrops provide
spectacular views of the surrounding country and the Melk River, which cuts through the land, empties into large
lakes or 'dams' where water is stored - and which provide wonderful opportunities to swim - with or without your
horse!
Accommodation Hor izon can sleep a maximum of 12 to 14 guests (occasionally mor e for families or if
booking as a private group) with accommodation in thatched cottages close to the main house, and two standard
rooms in the ranch house itself. With no TV or newspapers it is the perfect spot to get away. The cottages are set
slightly away from the main house and are comfortable and attractively furnished with double or twin beds and
en-suite bathrooms with bath / shower and loo. One cottage, used as the honeymoon suite, is set by itself
overlooking the dam (lake), there is another lakeside cottage, a further two garden cottages that share a small
covered veranda set up with sofa and chairs (these are ideal as family accommodation) and a newly built cottage
with a large downstairs and upstairs bedroom and wonderful views over the dam. The ranch house itself has a good
sized, comfortable sitting and dining room with open fireplace and a large covered veranda (‘stoop’) that is perfect
for meals on warm, balmy evenings. Lunch or barbecues are often served in a thatched 'boma' or under a shady
syringa tree close to the house, there is a swimming pool in the garden and the grounds stretch down to the shores
of the dam where resident wildlife comes to drink.
cont. over
[4]
Accommodation cont. As an alter native to accommodation at the main r anch, ther e is a small ‘East African’
style tented camp, Camp Davidson about 2 kilometres from the main base. In a lovely position with views over the
central highlands the camp has 4 spacious East African style walk-in safari tents set on teak decking each with
attached en-suite bathroom with flush loo and bucket and pulley shower (water heated whenever required). Tents
have proper beds made up with cotton sheets, pillows and duvets, there are canvas chairs on the decking verandas
and the camp has a large mess tent with sofa, chairs and dining table that is candlelit and beautifully dressed for
meals, which may also be eaten under the stars.
Meals You will be extr emely well fed at Hor izon with thr ee home cooked meals a day, all pr oduced fr om
fresh local ingredients as well as tea and snacks in between! Barbecues or "braiis" - a great South African tradition are a favourite and often feature the farm's superb beef. Drinks are included - you might start the evening with a
Pimms or Gin and Tonic, and good quality local wines are served with lunch and dinner. Vegetarians and particular
tastes can be well catered for but please let us know in advance of any special dietary requirements. When children
are staying dinner is often served in two sittings allowing them to eat earlier in the evening.
Weather This par t of South Afr ica is a good place to r ide year r ound. In summer , November to Febr uar y,
daytime temperatures can reach 35 degrees C or more, but you will normally ride early in the morning and late
afternoon when it is pleasant and cool, with the hottest part of the day to relax by the swimming pool. Summer is
the rainy season and thunderstorms or showers are possible between November and February, but rain is generally
in short sharp bursts, it is often hot in between and rarely interferes with riding programmes. Autumn is March and
April, when it is usually pleasantly warm (mid 20's C) and very pretty as leaves change colour. It begins to cool
down, particularly at night, in May. June to September is winter, the dry season, usually still warm (shirtsleeves
weather) during the day, but can get cold when the sun goes in, with temperatures sometimes dropping to just
above zero at night.
What to bring We will send you a list suggesting what to br ing when you make your booking.
[5]
Example Itinerary:
You are free to decide how to spend your days at Horizon and the staff will do all they can to ensure you have a
wonderful time. Please call us to chat about your riding experience and the riding you would like to do before you
go so we can help plan your stay. In addition to riding, guided walks, village visits, game drives, massages, cultural
tours and visits to neighbouring game reserves can all be arranged. If you wish to combine a stay at Horizon with
Camp Davidson or with another local lodge (eg Ant’s Nest or Ant's Hill which also offer riding - see our separate
information sheet) you will need to book these in advance. The following is an example of a typical 6 night
itinerary, with 4 nights at Horizon and 2 nights Camp Davidson:
Day 1 Met at J ohannesbur g Inter national air por t (set meeting is usually at about 10.30am) and tr ansfer to
Horizon (about a 2 ½ hour drive from Johannesburg). Lunch and time to relax before meeting the horses and a late
afternoon ride to get used to them and for a first view of the area, perhaps stopping for drinks at sunset at one of the
hippo dams. Return to the ranch house for drinks, dinner and the night. (D)
Day 2 Woken with tea and a light br eakfast befor e setting off on an ear ly mor ning r ide thr ough the far m to
try your horse at all paces. On the way back to Horizon you might stop at the dam for a swim with your horse, the
perfect way to build an appetite for lunch and a siesta. Time to relax by the pool or on your veranda, before tea and
then head off on an exhilarating ride along some of the sandy tracks that are ideal for long canters, stopping to
climb a rock kopje and watch the sun go down. Ride back to base for dinner and night. (B,L,D)
Day 3 Br eakfast and per haps an intr oduction to Polocr osse today - starting with the basics you will soon be
addicted to this invigorating sport. After lunch you might want to tag along on the weekly shopping trip to the local
town of Vaalwater, for some retail therapy bush style! Return to Horizon for tea, then a ride to a scenic look-out
point, stopping for a drink whilst the sun sets. Dinner and night Horizon. (B,L,D)
Day 4 An ear ly wake up for br eakfast and per haps a fast r ide to one of the fur thest points of the pr oper ty,
making use of the miles of clear sandy tracks. Return to base for a swim and leisurely lunchtime braii. In the
afternoon visit the community shop where locals make fantastic leatherwork including made- to-measure chaps and
beaded browbands or ride out again if you wish. Overnight Horizon (B,L,D)
Day 5 Today per haps a leisur ely wake up and a cooked br eakfast on the ver anda. Then mount up to r ide
into the game area, where you may be lucky and spot one of the resident giraffe, zebra, eland, wildebeest, kudu or
impala. Cutting through the thick bush, follow game trails and narrow paths before stopping for a picnic lunch and
rest in the shade whilst the horses graze. Then ride on to Camp Davidson where a cup of tea, dip in the plunge pool
and hot shower are a super welcome, before drinks on the deck. Dinner and night Camp Davidson. (B,L,D)
[6]
Day 6 Br eakfast in camp, then a day r ide heading west ar ound Bellevue on the souther n end of the pr oper ty
and to the historic Baber homestead for lunch by the pool. In the afternoon you may have a chance to visit the local
Sotho village, for a tour of some of the traditional houses and tea with the local characters Martha Mosima and a
group of village ladies, accompanied by traditional singing and dancing. After a day of long riding, culture and
history ride back to the peace of Camp Davidson for dinner under the stars. (B,L,D)
Day 7 Pack up and a shor t r ide back to Hor izon. Depending on flight times, ther e may be time to join other
riders on a mounted treasure trail - a great game with clues leading to various points on the farm, finishing with a
celebratory drink and farewell lunch. Alternatively those addicted can try another session of polocrosse. Depart in
the afternoon for Johannesburg in time to check in for your onward flight. (B,L)
NB Please note that nights at Camp Davidson in conjunction with Horizon must be at the beginning or the
end of the Horizon section. If you want to stay at Camp Davidson part way through your stay and then go back to
Horizon, you will be charged Horizon rates plus a supplement of £35 per person per night to keep your rooms at
Horizon available.
2016 RATES:At Horizon - r ates ar e seasonal and var y with r oom booked; ther e ar e also r educed r ates for childr en
Low Season - 11th January to 14th February, 1st May to 30th June & 10th November to 10th December
Adult in Lake Cottage (2 sharing) - £188 per night / single - £281 per night
Child (under 16) in Lake Cottage (2 sharing) - £188 per night
Adult in Garden Cottage (2 sharing) - £175 per night / single - £188 per night
Child (under 16) in Garden Cottage (2 sharing) - £138 per night
Adult in Standard Room (2 sharing) - £169 per night / single - £175 per night
Child (under 16) in standard room (single occupancy) - £138 per night
Third person in any room - Adult £146 per night; Child £129 per night
cont. over
[7]
2016 Rates at Horizon cont
High Season - 15th February to 30th April, 1st July to 9th November & 11th December to 10th January
2017
Adult in Lake Cottage (2 sharing) - £225 per night / single £338 per night
Child (under 16) in Lake Cottage (2 sharing) - £225 per night
Adult in Garden Cottage (2 sharing) - £210 per night / single £225 per night
Child (under 16) in Garden Cottage (2 sharing) - £165 per night
Adult in Standard Room (2 sharing) - £179 per night / single £210 per night
Child (under 16) in Standard Soom (single occupancy) - £175 per night
Third person in any room - Adult £175 per night; Child £155 per night
At Camp Davidson
Adult per night sharing - £170; single supplement £85
Child under 16 per night sharing - £140, single supplement £70
Child sharing tent with 2 adults - £95 per night
Supplement per night at Camp Davidson in the middle of a stay at Horizon - £35 per adult & £25 per child per
night plus nightly rate at Horizon.
(Single supplement is not compulsory for people booking alone at Camp Davidson - there is no extra charge if you
are willing to share with another guest of the same sex if necessary)
Rates INCLUDE all riding and other available activities, twin accommodation, meals and drinks.
They EXCLUDE International flights to Johannesburg and taxes, transfers between Johannesburg and Horizon,
personal medical / travel insurance (which you must have), supplements for single rooms (unless indicated
otherwise), extra activities (eg game drives on neighbouring properties), any visa fees and any tips you may wish to
leave staff.
[8]
Transfers - We can arrange car transfers from Johannesburg to Horizon on request. Regular transfers to Horizon
depart Johannesburg International airport at 10.30 (please note that your flight should land at least 1 hour before
this) and
regular return transfers depart Horizon at 14.00 (flights should not be booked to depart before 19.30). The seat rate
for these transfers is £85 per person each way (£170 pp return). Transfers can also be organised at other times - the
rate is usually £175 per car each way (£350 return) for 2 to 10 passengers. Please note that transfer rates are subject
to change and should be confirmed when you book.
Example costing
A 7 night stay at Horizon (sharing a lake cottage; or single in garden cottage) including return transfers at set times
from / to Johannesburg, is £1745 per adult (high season); £1486 per adult (low season)
Group / family bookings - We can usually offer special rates for groups or families booking the whole lodge
(minimum 8 people). Please enquire for details
TRAVEL / FLIGHT INFORMATION
The nearest international airport to Horizon is Johannesburg OR Tambo. British Airways, South African Airways
and Virgin all have one or two direct daily flights from London to Johannesburg, normally departing London in the
evening (around 20.00), arriving Johannesburg early the next morning (around 08.00).
You can also fly via Europe (eg with Air France, KLM, Al Italia) but we strongly recommend a direct flight to
minimize the risk of delays etc. Airfares vary depending on the airline you choose and season, but expect to pay
around £800 to £950 per person for a London / JNB economy return. We would be very happy to advise further on
and book flights for you. Please ask if you would like a flight inclusive quote for your holiday (our ATOL number
for flight bookings is 6213).
General visa and health information (NB this is a br ief outline - further information will be sent to you if you
make a confirmed booking)
Visas If you hold a full Br itish Passpor t and ar e visiting South Afr ica for a holiday only and staying less than
90 days you do not need to arrange a visa in advance. Please note that there are special requirements for those
travelling with children, requiring provision of birth certificates and other documents, which are strictly enforced,
particularly if only one parent is accompanying.
Health No inoculations ar e legally r equir ed for entr y to South Afr ica fr om Eur ope but inoculations against
Tetanus and Hepatitis A are recommended and also against Typhoid, Cholera and Yellow Fever in some
circumstances. The Waterberg is a Malaria free area but if you are planning to travel on in South Africa after /
before your visit you may be advised to take anti-Malaria tablets. You should always consult a health professional
for further and more
detailed advice.
(Draft 06/04/16)

RIDE WORLD WIDE

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