Nkomazi Private Game Reserve launches dazzling horseback safari experiences

Located on the banks of the Komati River in Mpumalanga, surrounded by towering mountains and impressive grasslands, lies the Nkomazi Private Game Reserve, managed by NEWMARK Hotels & Reserves.

This untouched tract of land, south-west of the Kruger National Park, stretches over 15 000 hectares and is home to a vastly diverse ecosystem, a plethora of animal species, and an abundance of birdlife.

Now, the introduction of horseback safari experiences at Nkomazi means that visitors to this luxe glamping lodge, which is known as the ultimate safari offering, can enjoy up close and personal 5-star game experiences – potentially spotting the Big 4 - lion, leopard, elephant and Cape buffalo, as well as the endangered cheetah, and a multitude of plain game. There are also over 300 bird species on the reserve.

The horseback safaris are operated by The Horse Safari Company who are based on the reserve. Owner and hands-on operating manager Tamlyn Whitebread explains that the safaris are best suited to experienced riders who can look forward to a bucket list experience.

“On a horseback safari, you go from being a spectator to an active part of the landscape and nature. Riders get off-the-beaten-track, following trails made by the herds into wilderness areas that visitors in vehicles cannot access – allowing for some exciting and intimate wildlife sightings.”

The horseback safaris operate throughout the year and groups of no more than six riders are treated to a two hour (average, depending on sightings) unforgettable horseback experience that meanders through Nkomazi’s continuous beauty of open plains, hills, rocky koppies, rivers and mountains.

Other offerings at Nkomazi include game drives, birding safaris, guided nature walks, catch-and-release fly fishing, visits to bushman paintings on site, and rejuvenating pamper sessions at The River Retreat spa. Keen stargazers can take a closer peek at the glittering galaxy through the high performance Celestron telescope. For those who can’t resist a bit of retail therapy, the small boutique in camp offers a selection of locally sourced crafts, body products and branded merchandise.

Accommodation at Nkomazi is presented as 14 luxury tents which are either river or bush facing, and all boast air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom, king or twin-size beds, an electronic safe and a writing desk. Outside, the deck with private splash pool, outdoor shower and standalone Victorian bath completes this deluxe African experience.

Driving from Johannesburg takes three-and-a-half hours, with a further twenty-five minutes to the lodge from the entrance gate. Those travelling by flight can take a one-hour flight to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport via Johannesburg or a two-hour flight from Cape Town, or they can fly in by helicopter. Guests in 4x4’s and SUV’S can drive directly down to the lodge while those in vehicles with lower clearance level are collected from the main gate.

“An untamed and unique African experience awaits at Nkomazi Private Game Reserve,” says Mike Vroom, Newmark Operations Director, Africa Division. “We are pleased to be able to partner with The Horse Safari Company to offer guests an unforgettable African safari at one of the premier reserves in South Africa.”