HORSES : OUR TRUE LOVE
Horses are the very heart of our business. For 32 years, our philosophy in South Africa has entailed managing our horses as a free roaming herd within large tracts of natural pasture, rather than in stables or paddocks. lodge garden). In Botswana, our herd lives in protected paddocks at the yard, due to the elephants and predators on the reserve.
Our horses are at ease with each other and within their environment, which generates calm and contented natures. As a result, we can offer our guests responsive, subtle and honest rides.
Collectively we have over 180 horses : 110 in South Africa and 70 in Botswana. A high proportion of our herd are Boerperd horses, a hardy South African breed which is perfect for the rigours of safari life.
The Herd coming in at dawn
The sound of thundering hooves, a pall of dust and the splash of water as the herd gallops into the yards. There are some things that bring a smile to your face, no matter how many times you see it.
Shane Dowinton
The safari horses
Our safari horses have been hand selected for their endurance, courage and responsiveness. It takes a particular temperament and nature to live comfortably on safari. Settled on the high line at night, eating up the miles by day and all the while remaining alert and ready in Africa’s big game country.
There is a common respect for the challenge of the journey; of intertwined stories, mingled sweat and dust. Standing down an elephant, hearing both of your hearts beating. We are proud of our safari herd. There’s a common thread of hardiness, intelligence and a workmanlike strength to them that tells you they will do the job for you.
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