The Songimvelo Game Reserve is the only place left on Earth where the Wolly Cycad plant grows. You will also encounter 3.5 billion year-old rock formations as you ride across the lands where 1 million year-old Stone Age human remains were discovered, where 1,400 species of plants including 14 threatened species thrive, and where 20 herbivorous animal species and one carnivorous species (the Leopard) have been reintroduced after years of severe poaching.

THE SAFARI

The Songimvelo Wilderness Safari averages 4-6 hours of riding per day, with flexibility depending on the group's riding level. On safari, guests should feel confident in the saddle as the riding is challenging and technical. It entails wilderness riding with steep climbs and descents, river crossings and tricky rocky terrain to cross. Mid-week, the safari group rides into the mountains with pack horses and all the equipment needed to spend the night under the stars.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided in the mess tent at the Wind Hoek Base Camp. Accommodations include a dome tent with a mattress, sheets and duvet, a bucket shower and long drop toilet. On the last day of the safari, guests stay at Ebutsini Village, a traditional Swazi village that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitor.

DAWSON'S LODGE

For a less rugged horseback experience and riders of all abilities, this lodge comes complete with a dining room, pool, and 8 en suite rooms with a veranda. Since dangerous game are closed out of the private reserve, guests can safely ride across the grounds or explore the adjoining game farm which raises Nguni cattle. An adjoining homestead cottage, which can be rented out by private parties, provides 6 en suite rooms with a private dining area and pool. Daily rides from the lodge or homestead average between 4-5 hours per day, with a morning ride and a shorter afternoon ride.

SAFARI DATES 2008

• April 27-May 4
• May 11 - 18
• May 18-25
• May 25-June 1 GBP 200 off!!
• June 8-15 GBP 200 off!!
• June 22-29 GBP 200 off!!
• July 6-13
• July 20-27
• August 3-10 (Family Safari)
• August 17-24
• August 31-September 7
• September 14-21
• September 21-28
• October 5-12
• October 12-19
• October 19-26
• December 28-Jan 3 (New Year's Eve Safari)