You have to be an experienced and excellent rider as well as being able to help with the training of horses! Only English style or classical riders will be accepted. Our weight limit for students is 75kgs. You are expected to be generally fit, as well as riding fit, as days can be long. A minimum of 8 years continued riding is required and a minimum age of 21 years old. We expect you to be riding every day for six months prior to arrival in preparation for your stay with us; your riding ability is of the utmost importance and will be assessed before you are allowed to accompany any safari. We will prevent you from riding as back up if we do not feel that your abilities are sufficient, though obviously we are very reluctant to be in this position.

Our safari is multinational and the ability to speak other European languages is useful, though not required.

Our horse safaris cater for riders of all abilities from the complete beginner to the experienced rider. For our guests it is the holiday of a lifetime and we work very hard to ensure that it exceeds their wildest dreams. You will be dealing with clients daily so it is important to us that you are well spoken and presented. An open, friendly nature and a natural affinity for people will help to make your stay and theirs more memorable: we eat, sleep and play together here!

As a back up rider, you assist the lead guide in ensuring the safety of the group at all times. You need to be confident of your ability to control a horse under trying circumstances and help guests with their horses.

The well-being of our horses is therefore of greatest importance to us. Time not spent accompanying the ride is used to ensure they are maintained to the highest standards of veterinary care, grooming and stable duties. With over 90 horses of all ages, sizes and temperaments between the two lodges it is usually more than enough to keep us busy.

There are two positions available at any time, which are for 3 months. We do not take anyone for less than the 90 days as there is so much to learn.

Accommodation is in individual rooms with a communal bathroom. Meals are provided for you in the form of staff meals or hosting with guests.

In addition to the practical horse experience you will learn extensively about African ecology. The reserve is staffed by several qualified Field Guides: a wealth of books and other study material is freely available.

Ant’s is a privately owned reserve of approximately 5000ha in size in the heart of the Waterberg region. It’s a 3 hour drive north of Johannesburg and situated in a malaria free area. All major airlines fly to Johannesburg International airport.

Inclusive in the program is all riding, training, meals, accommodation, housekeeping, laundry and transfers from the local airports and selected excursions (usually those focusing on African wildlife). Excluded are adventure trips, flights, insurance, visas, telephone calls.

Weight limit for Volunteers is 75 kg.