HOTEL: Summerplace Game Reserve South African Safari (Biking & Hiking Adventure)
- Jody Holman
- Feb 21, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 13
Summary: Explore Summerplace Game Reserve in South Africa’s Waterberg region through Jody Holman's lens. This unique safari experience offers guests a predator-free terrain by mountain bike, horseback, or on foot.
Nestled in the heart of South Africa's scenic Waterberg, Summerplace is a haven for discerning adventurers and families looking for an exhilarating escape to the bush; here, the thrill of mountain biking meets the serentiy (and excitement) of nature.
What sets Summerplace apart is the lack of predators, allowing for leisurely rides and walks amongst the resident animals, zebras and kudu, impala….
There are over 60 kilometers of hand-crafted, meticulously designed single tracks for novice and expert alike, winding through the landscape, offering riders of all levels an oversupply of adrenalin, excitement, and breathtaking scenery. For those keen on experiencing it all, there's even the option to rent specialized mountain bikes or eBikes.
AFrican Safari
I was taken, as a complete rookie, on an hour’s ride by Josh, who was a patient and kind coach and guide. The trails meander through beautiful landscapes, and we stopped occasionally to admire one of the many creatures. (I will admit to being thankful for the ebike towards the end of the ride).
Summerplace isn't only about the thrill of the ride, however. Beyond the fun of mountain biking, Summerplace offers a range of outdoor activities, from trail-running and hiking to bush walks, tennis, beach volleyball, and, through their partners, horseback riding safaris, zip line areas, and big 5 game drives. Each morning, I took a walk through the open areas and mingled with zebra, kudu, antelope, birds I had never seen nor heard before, and some of the coolest bugs! We spent a morning on horseback, and was so thankful for it, as the wild animals are much less skittish and allow for some up close viewing; we were able to mingle with some ostrich and antelope.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, this game reserve offers wood-fire hot tubs scattered across the property and, after a dip in the pool, one might decide to enjoy a South African glass of Chenin Blanc, accompanied by the resident chef's culinary creations. Our meals included a gastronomic journey through the bushveld, including a chocolate buffalo poiko (stew), ostrich carpaccio, and one of the most exquisitely prepared Beef Wellingtons I have ever had.
Amidst the 12 unique accommodation options, ranging from cozy retreats for couples to spacious lodgings for families and groups, guests are treated to a touch of casual luxury here. The interior decorations reflect the timeless hospitality of the Baber family, who have lovingly stewarded this bushveld paradise for over six decades. David, Simone and their children, Ben, Josh, and Lilian, infuse the experience with vibrant energy and profound wisdom and passion, ensuring your experience is not just a vacation, but also an educational journey into the heart of the bushveld. The whole staff is a joy, eager to help and chock full of info about the area.
You will undoubtedly come home with a story!
What makes Summerplace Game Reserve special? It’s a predator-free reserve in the Waterberg, ideal for biking, hiking, and walking safaris among wildlife like zebra and kudu.
What activities are available at Summerplace? Guests can enjoy mountain biking, horseback safaris, trail-running, zip-lining, tennis, bush walks, and Big Five game drives.
Is Summerplace suitable for beginners? Yes. Trails are rated by difficulty, and guides like Josh offer patient coaching for novice riders.
What kind of wildlife can be seen? Guests encounter zebra, kudu, impala, ostrich, and antelope—often up close during walks or horseback rides.
What is the food experience like? Meals include South African specialties like chocolate buffalo poiko, ostrich carpaccio, and exquisite Beef Wellington, paired with local wines.
Viewfinder Travel company is a boutique travel agency that designs unique, life enhancing experiences, and provides exceptional service. Whether you are in search of cultural sustenance, a relaxing island unwind, a gourmet escape, a picturesque countryside or the invigoration of a city, Viewfinder Travel will find your recipe for travel magic. We are reliable, detail-oriented, and have a flare for finding the beautiful, off the beaten path, “boutique” experiences so you can put your efforts into finding the fun and not into the logistics.
Our trips are curated with love, as if they were our own. Let our experience inform your discovery!
About the Author Jody Holman is a boutique travel advisor, luxury travel writer, and photographer specializing in customized journeys through France, Hawai‘i, and Europe. She curates immersive group experiences, teaches wine classes, and shares sensory-rich stories through Viewfinder Travel. Her work blends editorial precision with a love of communal rituals, cultural depth, and off-the-path discovery.
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©2025 HolmanPhotography, LLC
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