Horseback Safari from Johannesburg

About Your Horseback Safari from Johannesburg

Explore Silkaatsnek Nature Reserve near Hartbeespoort on a two-hour guided horseback safari with return hotel transport from Johannesburg. This excursion with Deeprift Ventours takes approximately five to six hours overall, allowing time for travel, preparation and the ride.

After collection from your confirmed hotel, travel approximately 1½ hours to the reserve, depending on traffic. The riding team provides a helmet, explains the basics and briefs you before the trail begins. Beginners are welcome, subject to the venue’s rider requirements.

The safari follows a relaxed trail through the reserve, with opportunities to look for giraffes, zebras and antelope from horseback. Animal movements vary, so sightings and viewing distances cannot be guaranteed.

Your package includes the guided ride, helmet, reserve admission, return hotel transport and bottled water. Meals, snacks and additional drinks are excluded. Deeprift Ventours has operated since 2007, and our team can help you confirm collection arrangements and rider requirements before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the horseback safari take place?

The ride takes place at Harties Horse Trail Safaris in Silkaatsnek Nature Reserve near Hartbeespoort. Your package includes return hotel transport from Johannesburg.

How long is the ride, and how long is the complete tour?

The guided horseback safari lasts two hours. Allow approximately five to six hours for the complete excursion, including hotel transfers and preparation at the reserve. Travel from Johannesburg takes approximately 1½ hours each way, depending on traffic and your pickup address.

Do I need previous horse-riding experience?

No previous riding experience is required. Beginners receive basic instructions and a briefing before the trail. Tell us about your experience when booking so the riding team can assess your requirements.

Will we walk, trot or gallop?

This is a relaxed guided safari ride. The venue does not run the horses on these trails. Follow the riding guide’s instructions and remain with the group throughout the experience.

What animals might I see?

You may see giraffes, zebras and different antelope species along the trail. Wildlife moves around the reserve, so particular sightings, close encounters and photographs cannot be guaranteed.

Can children join the horseback safari?

The minimum riding age is six. Children must ride their own horse and be able to steer independently; they cannot share a saddle with an adult. Our booking categories are children aged 6–11 and adults aged 12–75.

Is there a maximum rider weight?

The riding venue publishes a maximum rider weight of 105 kg. Please provide each rider’s accurate weight when booking. Contact us before paying if you are close to or above the limit so we can check your suitability with the riding team.

Are riding helmets included?

Yes. A riding helmet and a pre-ride briefing are included. Follow the riding team’s equipment and trail instructions throughout the activity.

What should I wear?

Wear long trousers or riding leggings and comfortable closed-toe shoes. Avoid shorts, skirts, dresses and sandals. Bring sun protection and a jacket suitable for the weather.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Yes. Hotel collection and return drop-off in Johannesburg are included within the confirmed collection area. Provide your full hotel address when booking so we can confirm the arrangements.

What time does the tour leave Johannesburg?

The booking calendar offers 06:30 and 09:00 departure options. These relate to collection for your excursion, rather than the time you begin riding. Follow the exact pickup time confirmed for your accommodation.

Are food and drinks included?

Bottled water is included. Meals, snacks and other drinks are excluded. Plan accordingly if you are choosing the early departure.

How much does the horseback safari cost?

Select your travel date and number of participants in the calendar to see the price for your booking. The adult price per person can differ between a solo booking and a booking for two or more participants. Review the total before completing payment.

Is this tour suitable during pregnancy or for someone with back problems?

Pregnant guests are not permitted to ride under the venue’s rules. The tour is also listed as unsuitable for wheelchair access and not recommended for people with back problems. Contact us before booking if you have mobility or other suitability questions.

Can I cancel my booking?

The tour’s booking calendar currently shows a full refund for cancellation at least 24 hours before the booked start time. Later cancellations are non-refundable under the displayed policy. Check the terms shown for your selected booking before paying.