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River Lodge Big 5

7 nights from €4830

Ant's popular horseback safaris now offer a Big 5 experience—naturally featuring the signature service and standards you’ve come to expect from Ant's. Let yourself be enchanted and discover the newest lodge in the Waterberg portfolio.

  • Lephalale, South Africa

  • Set arrivals

  • 7 nights

  • 4-6 hours of riding per day

  • Johannesburg Airport

  • Group size: 6 max

On scheduled dates, specially trained guides take you on an exciting journey to see South Africa’s fascinating wildlife.

In between, you can enjoy Jeep safaris or relax by the pool overlooking the river.
Staying at the lodge outside of the scheduled dates—or extending your stay—is certainly possible, though not on horseback.

Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary – subject to change at any time. 

As with all safari experiences at Ant’s, every day is tailored to the guests’ wishes; there is no such thing as a “typical” day of riding here! You can start your day at a leisurely pace—without the need for an early wake-up call—and choose from the available activities, ensuring plenty of flexibility and variety. Rides are limited to a maximum of six guests and are always accompanied by two guides. There are no fixed routes; the day’s destination is determined by natural conditions—such as river water levels and terrain—and, of course, wildlife movements. The guides do their utmost to ensure you experience the widest possible range of wildlife sightings during your stay!

For partners, friends, and family members who do not ride, the lodge offers a wide range of alternative safari activities. Even riding guests often appreciate a break from the saddle to relax by the pool, enjoy a massage, or explore the reserve in other ways—whether on foot, by mountain bike, or in a 4×4 vehicle.

What truly sets Ant’s apart is the feeling of being right at home. This is complemented by stylish, classic accommodation, meticulous attention to detail, and a team dedicated to making your stay unforgettable. To further enrich your African riding experience, each day concludes with sundowners at a scenic spot, and meals are served in various locations—ranging from bush lunches to dinners by the campfire.

Prepare to be surprised—and enchanted!

Getting here

Several airlines fly from Germany and Europe to Johannesburg, South Africa. A vehicle transfer can be booked from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport; the journey takes approximately three hours.

DATES

27/06 – 04/07/2026; 01 – 08/08/2026; 05 – 12/09/2026; 03 – 10/10/2026; 14 – 21/11/2026; 12 – 19/12/2026
09 – 16/01/2027; 13 – 20/02/2027; 20 – 27/03/2027;  17 – 24/04/2027;  15 – 22/05/2027;  19 – 26/06/2027;  10 – 17/07/2027;  15 – 22/08/2027;  11 – 18/09/2027;  09 – 16/10/2027;  13 – 20/11/2027;  12 – 19/12/2027

PRICES

INCLUDED

All overnight stays in double rooms, Full Board, Drinks, All rides with a guide and backup rider, Laundry, Conservation Fees

NOT INCLUDED

Arrival, Transfers, Drinks, Insurance, Tips and personal expenses, SPA treatments, Additional activities

Please note that any bank fees incurred for international transfers are not covered and should be borne by the participant.

NEAREST AIRPORT

Johannesburg

WEIGHT LIMIT

The weight limit for riders is 90kg.

The accommodation

Ants River Lodge is part of the private Kaingo Game Reserve and is located just an hour away from the other Ant Lodges.

The lodge features 10 separate double/twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the river. Each room is equipped with a minibar, tea and coffee-making facilities, and air conditioning.
Guests also have access to the lodge’s main area, which includes a swimming pool, a bar, a river-view deck, and comfortable lounge and dining areas.

Catering

The chef creates a compelling blend of regional and fine cuisine, using only the finest fresh ingredients. Morning wildlife viewing often concludes with a spectacular bush lunch; in the evening, you can sit around the campfire under the starry sky, enjoying good company and reflecting on the day’s adventures over a glass of wine.

Dietary requirements and allergies can be accommodated. A vegetarian menu is always available, and special meals for children can also be prepared upon request. Please let us know your preferences when booking.

Excellent drinking water is available from the tap; if you prefer bottled water, simply speak to the staff on-site.

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