The Addo Elephant National Park offers a range of rides for inexperienced and experienced riders. Some of the rides go through the Nyathi section of the park: here you may encounter big game (although not lions or hyenas, which spook horses), as well as plains game. So your ride will focus on the game, getting close to impressive herds of antelope, and maybe even spotting elephant or rhino from horseback. The the Zuurberg Mountain section of the park, there is no large game, just wonderful plains game, and miles and miles of the most amazing mountain views to enjoy. The rides are all organized by the South African National Parks board and riding hats are available. Booking in advance is essential. If you’re staying at somewhere like Elephant House, where safari activities are not included in the price, they will happily book the excursion for you and, if you wish, transfer you to and from the Addo. If you are staying on a private game reserve, they are normally prepared to transfer you to and from the Addo, although this varies from lodge to lodge: please check with us. Game viewing on horse back is a specially experience: because the animals do not perceive horses as a threat, you can get much closer to the game than you can on foot, and you can do it without the sound of a game drive vehicle. It makes it a much more intimate game viewing experience, and one you should definitely consider.
