BIG FIVE CAMP SAFARI
This five night itinerary is a shortened version of the full week-long ride, where you just stay at Wait A Little.
This horse safari is 6 days, 5 nights. You spend four nights at Wait A Little main camp plus one night at the sleep-out camp - Beacon Rock.
The Big Five Camp Safari Itinerary
Wait A Little Horse Safaris is one of the few places in the world where you can see wildlife in its natural environment from the back of a horse! So please note, that this itinerary is an example and not a guarantee, wildlife determines our daily activities. Please help us to preserve nature by respecting our guidance throughout your trip. Good riding skills and fitness are essential.
Day 1 - Hoedspruit - Wait A Little camp
On arrival at Hoedspruit (or Phalabowra) airport, you will be met and transferred to Wait A Little in time for afternoon tea. You will be shown to your room and introduced to the team before a safety briefing and your first ride.
The orientation ride introduces you to the area around the camp and allows you the chance to relax and unwind after your long flight. You will become accustomed to the horses and riding style whilst perhaps spotting your first zebra or giraffe. Sundowners whilst watching the Drakensburg mountains over the river is followed by a three-course dinner.
Your first night in the African bush is probably the most exciting as the sounds of the bush echo around you.
Day 2 - Karongwe Private Game Reserve
You will be woken early with tea or coffee in your room. After a light breakfast, you set out on your first full morning ride. Whatever tracks your guide may find will determine the route you take. As the reserve has an abundance of game you will see lots of animals on your way and hopefully already encounter one of the Big Five.
Return to camp for lunch and a siesta through the heat of the day. After tea/coffee you set off on a shorter afternoon ride, ending at a sundowner spot where you can watch a colourful African sunset.
Day 3 - Karongwe Private Game Reserve
On this morning’s ride, you may be on a different horse, you will set off to explore more of this beautiful area. It can take you through dry riverbeds or flowing rivers, past rock formations, and over open areas, always with the view of the Drakensberg Mountains.
During your lunchtime siesta, you may wish to have a relaxing massage - this is available at extra cost.
In the afternoon we go for a game drive to give your body a rest from the long hours in the saddle. Driving along the Makuthswe river you will hopefully find buffalos, elephants, lions or other animals, followed by sundowners in a beautiful spot. We return to camp in the dark using the spotlight to seek out nocturnal species.
Day 4 - Wait A Little - Beacon Rock
Another fantastic morning of riding through the reserve, perhaps finding the elephant splashing through the river, or the lion relaxing on the sands.
After lunch you pack your bags to head off on a further adventure. The gently undulating roads lend themselves to long canters as you pass between the twin rock formations of Lion and Leopard Hill. At Beacon rock you can scramble to the summit for a view over the entire lowveld escarpment and the whole reserve, watching the sun set behind the Drakensberg escarpment. Spend the night around the campfire, surrounded by your horses, having enjoyed a traditional braai that is cooked over the fire before settling down to sleep under the stars.
Day 5 - Beacon Rock - Wait A Little
Wake to the rich colours of the sunrise and set off on a long ride into the South of the Reserve.
You'll be back at Wait A Little in time for lunch and another siesta. The afternoon ride and sundowner will be sad, but beautiful as you watch the African sun set for the final time. The farewell dinner is usually something special, such as kudu or eland fillets with a sherry sauce.
Day 6 - Wait A Little - Hoedspruit
An early wake-up call to ensure there is time for a quick and sporty final ride around the reserve. Brunch will be served on return to camp before being transferred to the airport.
What’s included?
5 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals and drinks, 4.5 days of riding and other safari activities as mentioned.
What’s not included?
Flights, transfers, travel insurance, tips & other personal expenses.