Launching for the 2026 season, Ant’s River Lodge Big 5 Horse Safari marks a thrilling new chapter for Ants  — the same team, horses, guides, and hospitality you know and love, now on an exceptional new reserve. This is Big 5 safari riding elevated – authentic African wilderness, malaria-free bushveld, and incredible wildlife encounters from the back of a well-trained safari horse.

Ants have been creating unforgettable riding experiences in South Africa’s Waterberg for decades, where guests can feel part of the rhythm of the bush, ride freely amongst game and return each evening to warm hospitality and refined comfort. The River Lodge brings all of this to a strikingly diverse new setting in the Kaingo Private Game Reserve, expanding the Ants Africa story into even bolder wildlife territory.

Set within 16,400 hectares of bushveld savannah, river valleys and dramatic mountain views, Kaingo Private Game Reserve is an ecological gem traversed by the Mokolo River. It supports over 50 mammal species and more than 250 bird species, making it perfect for wildlife viewing from your horse.

Your riding days on the Big 5 safari are led by expert Ants Africa guides who know these horses, landscapes and wildlife intimately. Expect close encounters with buffalo, giraffe, zebra, sable and — with careful timing and expert routing – the legendary Big 5 themselves. Ride over varied terrain, dramatic open plains for canters, shaded river routes and classic sundowner spots deep in the reserve.

This is true safari riding: no fixed schedule, lots of flexibility, and the possibility of pairing your ride with game drives, bush walks, birding, or even conservation-focused activities. You’ll feel both immersed in wildlife and thoroughly cared for by the friendly Ans Africa team.

Beyond the Riding

There is plenty to enjoy at Ant’s River Lodge when you’re not in the saddle, and the activities are a brilliant way to experience a different side of Kaingo and its wildlife.

Big 5 Game Drives

Head out in an open 4×4 with an experienced guide, covering more of the reserve and seeking out elephant, big cats and other wildlife. Kaingo is home to over 50 mammal species and more than 250 species of resident and migratory birds, with game drives offering some fantastic photography opportunities.

Guided Nature Walks

Explore the bush on foot with a highly trained field guide, discovering the smaller details that are easily missed from horseback or a vehicle. Learn about native plants, insects, animal tracks and behaviour while experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of the African bush at ground level.

Prehistoric Rock Art

Kaingo has an extraordinary archaeological history, with hundreds of rock art images across 15 sites and finds dating back to the Stone Age. Guided visits offer a fascinating glimpse into the people who lived in the Waterberg thousands of years ago.

Birding

With more than 250 recorded species, there is plenty to keep bird lovers busy. Look out for some of the Waterberg’s more special residents, including the African finfoot and colourful Narina trogon.

The Mokolo River

Around 13 kilometres of the Mokolo River runs through the reserve, opening up another side to your safari. Spend time fishing, take your camera down to the riverbank, or enjoy a peaceful cruise aboard Kaingo’s solar-powered barge.