A weekend at Ant's Lodges

Visiting our riding partners is indeed a wonderful part of my job, and Ant’s was definitely on my ever-growing list of exciting places to visit. Ant’s is a popular riding safari in South Africa: being a private reserve with no lions or elephants, it is ideal for groups of mixed abilities or people coming with non-riding partners. Sadly I could only manage a few days before having to go back to the reality of normal life, but managed to make the best of it!

Ant's Lodges are divided into two distinct parts. Ant’s Nest, the old colonial homestead in the valley, and Ant’s Hill, a newer bush home offering breath-taking views across the Waterberg. I arrived on a Friday evening at Ant’s Hill, just on time for one of those magical African sunsets that seem to paint the world a hundred variations of gold. Jess, one of the managers at the Hill, was waiting for me. She showed me around and we made a plan for the next few days so I could fit in as much as I could during my stay! Later before dinner, I met with the lovely ladies who were also staying at the Hill. Most of them had come as single riders: Ant’s is a great place to visit as a solo traveller, as there is a friendly atmosphere and everyone sits together for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you are a solo rider and would like some company, we will happily check for you which week is the best to meet other riders.

Riders are divided into groups of similar ability, but if you are travelling as a family or a group you are welcome to ride together. Everything is super flexible and you can do as much or as little riding as you like. I would also recommend you try some of the other activities included in your package: guided walks, jeep safaris, cycling trips, snake talks, bug walks for the kids, etc.

I had the chance to try the “rhino activity”. Ant, the owner, is well known for his amazing rhino conservation efforts. As you may know, African rhinos are under constant threat from poachers who hunt them down for their horns. A rhino without a horn is a tragedy, and Ant and his team are doing a marvellous job at protecting the species and making sure they have a safe environment to live and breed. In the evenings, they come down to the Nest where they get a little boost of food pellets. Guests can attend and watch the rhinos enjoying their snack, and I even had the chance to pet Max the rhino… Not something you get to do every day!

I rode three different horses during my stay. On my first ride, I rode Phinda, a thoroughbred-type horse, super responsive and easy to ride. This ride was quite fast with lots of fun canters – it had rained during the night and some of the wildlife remained hidden, but we saw buffalos (another Big Five ticked off the list!), giraffe, and antelopes. One afternoon I rode a lovely small Arab called Karoo, quick and nimble and possibly a little bit cheeky! We managed to see quite a few species, from wildebeest to warthog and mongoose. Chase, one of the managers at the Hill, led this ride and we had a really good time with long canters and beautiful views over the valley. 

On my last ride, I was given one of their Friesians, Zaire. Although he could be quite cold to the leg, he was very comfortable and had a lovely rocking canter. I found our guide that day to be very knowledgeable and I learnt loads about the local fauna and flora – almost felt like I could survive in the bush on my own after that (almost…). There is a horse for everyone at Ant's: complete novices and experienced riders alike will be sure to be matched with the right horse. The riding possibilities are endless, and whether you are looking for a fun, exciting ride or perhaps something more laid back with a focus on the wildlife, the staff will make it happen. Every night at dinnertime, a member of the team will ask you what you want to do on the morrow, which is a very nice touch. 

For more information, please visit our website: Ant's Lodges

You can also contact Iris directly at iris@equus-journeys.com or give us a call on +44 (0)1905 388 977