LIVING WITH HORSES ON SAFARI – PRE-­DEPARTURE GUIDE The following information is provided to give volunteers an insight into our Living with Horses on Safari program. Please read this guide thoroughly and contact us if you have any unanswered questions, and we will gladly help you further. While you are with us you will learn all about working with horses as well as spending time in the bush acquiring the knowledge of South African wildlife. Depending on your riding ability you will go on horse trails in the bush and work the horses at the centre as well as be involved in conservation on a Big 5 reserve. Living with Horses on Safari is a totally unique project with opportunities and features that differ greatly from other horse safari volunteer work, experience projects and internship venues that you’ll find in South Africa. Volunteers will have an opportunity to learn the correct way to ride, handling of horses, general horse care, basic yard and equipment, safety, instruction, schooling, basic veterinary, riding skills both in the wild and in an arena, horse behavior, natural horsemanship and horse trails in combination with a unique nature experience. The program exposes one to all the aspects of managing an equestrian centre, however you will not be expected to maintain the centre, so if mucking out a stable is not your thing, don’t despair. Emphasis is placed on learning in a relaxed and fun filled environment, and is available to both experienced riders and novices alike. If you have never ridden a horse before but would like to learn, then Living with Horses on Safari is the place to learn. CONTENTS
1. SAFETY GUIDELINES
… page 3
2. PROJECTS
… page 4
3. SCHEDULE
… page 6
4. GENERAL INFORMATION
… page 6
5. WHAT TO BRING
… page 6
6. CANCELLATION
… page 7
7. INDEMNITY CLAUSE
… page 8
1. SAFETY GUIDELINES
Volunteer safety and wellbeing is of utmost importance to us and our staff, which is why we
ask volunteers to follow certain rules and regulations at all times.
By adhering to the below guidelines, you ensure both your safety, and the safety of other team
members and animals.
Camps and Land:
• The electric fence on all fences need to be checked daily to make sure that the current
is pulsating.
• Stay within the boundaries of the property. The land is filled with wild animals, so we
ask that you stay near the lodge and volunteer housing unless you are with a ranger.
Animals:
• Be aware that you are amongst wild animals. Do not approach any animals unless your
volunteer leader gives you approval.
• When on safari, do not leave the vehicle unless given permission by your ranger.
• Refrain from making loud, unwarranted noises, and sudden movements so as to not
disturb the animals.
• If you feel uncomfortable in any situation, please let your leader know immediately so
they can remove you from the situation.
• Please respect all animals, you are in their territory.
• Do not walk around the farm on your own, especially at night. We are home to hippos,
which are extremely dangerous animals that roam the premises at night.
• Should you encounter an animal, do not run. Call out for your ranger who will further
instruct you on how to safely remove yourself from any potentially dangerous situation.
Drugs, Smoking and Alcohol:
We have a zero tolerance policy for any and all drugs. If this rule is broken, you will be removed
from the program, as well as the property. There will be no refund for those who are asked to
leave due to ignoring or breaking this rule.
• Smoking is not permitted anywhere under a roof
• Smoking is only allowed in designated areas
o If/when you do smoke, please dispose of cigarette butts in garbage bins and do
not under any circumstances litter cigarette butts. Upkeep of our land is of great
importance to us and the animals.
• A responsible level of drinking during free time is allowed for volunteers over the age of
18 (in South Africa, the legal age for alcohol consumption is 18).
• If you have been drinking alcohol, even if you had only one drink, you will be prohibited
from going near any animals until the alcohol is fully out of your system. Please
remember that these are wild animals and you must be coherent at all times while
dealing with them.
• No abusing of alcohol will be allowed in volunteer quarters.
General Safety Tips:
• Volunteers are expected to conduct themselves in a safe and responsible manner at all
times.
• Hitch-hiking is not permitted at any time.
• Traveling alone in the dark is not recommended, even on the property.
• Always be aware of your surroundings, you are living amongst wild animals.
• Do not leave your belongings unattended.
• If leaving the game reserve, do not wear your camera around your neck. Keep money
and valuables in a safe, secure place.
o Do not carry a large amount of cash on you.
• Keep your volunteer housing locked at all times to ensure that your valuables, passport,
and money are safe at all times.
• We do not take responsibility for stolen or lost belongings.
• South Africa has a very high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. We do not recommend
promiscuity and suggest being careful when it comes to situations where exposure to
HIV/AIDS may occur.
Important South African Laws:
• The legal driving age in South Africa is 18 - you must have a valid driver’s license in
order to operate a vehicle while here.
• It is illegal to talk or text on your cell phone while driving any sort of vehicle.
• It is illegal to not wear seat belts - this concerns both the driver and all passengers.
• The legal age to purchase alcohol and cigarettes in South Africa is 18.
• It is illegal to drink alcohol in a public space.
• It is illegal to buy, sell, carry, or use drugs, including marijuana.
• The legal age of sexual consent is 18. Engaging in sexual activity with anyone younger
than 18 is a criminal offense.
2. PROJECTS The Living with Horses on Safari program is situated in the Lowveld of the Limpopo Province of South Africa on the outskirts of the tourist town, Hoedspruit. The center is situated on an estate that is home to Leopard, Hyena and most herbivores, carnivores, omnivores, reptiles, snakes, primates, smaller cats, eagles, vultures, birds, insects and their relatives that you find in the Savanna biome. During the walks, drives and outrides we offer, you’ll almost always see a variety of animals. We have traverse rights on adjacent nature reserves which hold the BIG 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo) and during the project volunteers will get to experience bush walks, game drives and night drives in the wild to expose them to as much wildlife as possible. You will be guided by an accomplished competitive rider and dedicated conservationist who is qualified in both FGASA Level 1 and Level 2. The project is divided into two different segments – Equestrian and Environmental Equestrian program: For those wishing to further their equestrian knowledge and riding skills relating to horse trails, show jumping/dressage and stable yard, while doing so within a wildlife environment, the following practical activities will be achieved: • Horsemanship (general care, lunging, riding) • Natural horsemanship • Stable management • Basic veterinary • Basic anatomy of a horse • Tack and care of tack • Teaching (beginner riders) • Organizing and competing in a horse show (three to four a year) • Basic First Aid • Trail riding in the wildlife Environmental Program: If walking along a well-­worn game path through the African bush, sitting around a campfire listening to the calls of the wild or sipping a well-­deserved drink, while watching the African sunset appeals to you will enjoy this part of the program. Each of the above options will either be dealt with in practice, theory or both. The main objective here is to create a love and an awareness of the environment, with conservation as the main drive. You will be subjected to walks, game drives and when possible techniques in maintenance, such as on roads, fences, erosion, brush-­clearing etc, as well as game capture, research and monitoring program. They will also get the opportunity to learn skills and will participate in the daily activities involved in managing a private nature reserve. Volunteer Work experience: You will find yourself taking the horses for a swim in the dam, galloping through the winding paths or taking a quiet stroll through the bush with impala and giraffe watching you pass by. You might be interested in learning to jump, play games or acquire the skills to work with horses in a comfortable and safe way. You will be able to enjoy a unique nature experience, with an emphasis on conservation, including nature guiding in the natural environment, basic knowledge of ecosystems, identification, tracks and signs, animal behavior and so much more. Imagine driving through the bush with elephant crossing the road in front of you, buffalo wallowing in the water pans and rhino having dust baths. Whether it is working in the bush on conservation projects or star gazing at night the emphasis is placed on gaining amazing experiences in a relaxed and fun filled environment! Horse Trail guide experience: The horse trail activities that we provide is practical training and teaches one various skill riding as well as gives you the experience of working with clients and horses, how to conduct horse trails in a safe and ethical manner, stable management and horse care. We do not offer a recognized FGASA or EQASA certificate as you would need to do your FGASA Level 1 theory as well as EQASA Module 1,2 3. 3. SCHEDULE Although completely flexible, the weekly schedule combines equestrian with conservation. The day starts early with self-­service breakfast at camp after which you are transported either to the equestrian centre or deeper into the nature reserve to begin a day of learning and hands-­on experience. Fully stocked kitchen ensures that energy levels are maintained. A fair amount of free time is also made available, where one can use either to catch up on their personal requirements such as emails etc, or simply to take in the beautiful sights and sounds of their surroundings. Weekend schedules are less rigid, giving one the opportunity to do some sightseeing, some shopping, to go on an excursion or simply to relax. 4. GENERAL INFORMATION Besides the day to day activities which make up the program, you will be given enough free time to explore the many beautiful spots in the area, including the Blyde River Canyon (the largest green canyon in the world), the Kruger National Park, God’s Window in Graskop and many more. Extra excursions include micro-­lighting or hot-­air ballooning over the surrounding nature reserves, hiking along courses of waterfalls or visiting cultural villages or one of the many animal rehabilitation centres in the area. We are also situated close enough to the town of Hoedspruit for those who like to get out and enjoy an evening at one of the local restaurants. Accommodation is provided in comfortable chalets on a neighbouring Big 5 reserve. Each room accommodates 3 -­ 5 students and each has its own bathroom en suite. A separate kitchen/boma/fireplace overlooks a waterhole in the bush, where one can enjoy a meal or simply spend your time relaxing with a book or sitting around a campfire, while a variety of game come down to drink. The kitchen is fully stocked for a self-­service breakfast and lunch and suppers are prepared for everyone in the evenings. There is also a swimming pool nearby, surrounded by wooden decking and overlooking the bush. So whether you are looking for an amazing way to spend your gap year, needing to complete an internship or simply wanting to improve your equestrian skills and to learn more about conservation and the natural environment, either as an experienced rider or as a novice, this program is for you! 5. WHAT TO BRING • Riding gear -­ riding pants, boots, chaps, riding helmets (we do have extra but most prefer their own) • Cap or Hat • Sunscreen • Notepads, pens, pencils (optional) • Swimming Towels • Personal toiletries • Casual clothes (summer clothes) • Warm clothing for night drives (even though we have hot days we can have the odd cool evening, which can get cold on night drives) • Binoculars, camera, torch or headlamp • Swim gear (in our summer the days can get really hot) • Social evening clothing (Hoedspruit is a small town so one does not need smart clothes but the students do enjoy going out on the weekends) • Laptop (there is internet available at the bushcamp) • International plug adaptor for South Africa plugs There are local shops where one can buy the necessary items as well. 6. CANCELLATION POLICY
When possible, the client will be moved to another suitable date.
Cancellations made 61 or more days prior to the start date of the booking will be subjected to
an administrative fee to cover the bank charges involved with refunding the client, as well as
program reservation.
Cancellations made 60 days or less prior to the start date of the booking will be subjected to a
50% fee of the total booking rate (the package rate). The remaining 50% of the booking rate,
with exception of an administrative fee, will be transferred back into the bank account it came
out of.
Cancellations made 30 days or less prior to the start date of the booking will be subjected to a
100% fee of the total booking rate (the package rate). In other words, you will not be refunded.
7. INDEMNITY
This is to acknowledge that I am well acquainted, fully aware of, and appreciate the real
dangers and risks that are associated with game reserves and/or game lodges arising from the
presence of wild and dangerous animals, reptiles, birds and insects and the real risk of
suffering bodily harm, injury, death and/or loss to property which may arise as a result of an
encounter with and/or the presence of wild animals, and/or reptiles and/or birds whilst on the
premises of the reserve/lodge.
I hereby waive all claims of whatsoever cause of nature howsoever arising against the owners
of the reserve/lodge, their associates, employees and/or any person connected whether
directly or indirectly with the running of the reserve / lodge and fellow guests/invitees which I
may have arising out of harm, injury, death or loss suffered whilst on the premises or property
of the reserve/lodge and whether arising from an act of commission or omission on the part of
those hereby indemnified or anyone of them.
I indemnify and hold harmless and free, the owners of the reserve/lodge, their associates or
employees and/or any person connected whether directly or indirectly with the running of the
reserve/lodge and fellow guests/invitees from any and all claims of whatsoever cause or nature
which may arise on behalf of my spouse and I, common law wife/husband, my children,
whether minor or adult or relative and/or persons accompanying me to the reserve/lodge
whether as my invitee otherwise or at all who suffer injury or loss whilst on the premises or
property of the reserve/lodge and whether arising from an act of commission or omission on
the part of those hereby indemnified or anyone of them.
In the event of injury, the reserve/lodge may, at its discretion and without prejudice and without
admission of liability, arrange and pay for emergency medical treatment for and behalf of any
guest.
SIGNAUTRE: ……………………………………………………………………………….
DATE: …………………………………………………………………..……………………