• SOUTH AFRICA  |  Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, Limpopo Province

Ant Africa Safaris offers an extraordinary safari experience in South Africa’s malaria-free Waterberg Region. Spanning 12,500 acres, this private game reserve is home to 12 distinct ecological zones, from grassy plains to thick bushveld, and supports more than 40 species of game, including giraffe, white rhino, and the rare sable and roan antelope. With its warm atmosphere, deeply personal hosting, and wide range of activities, Ant Africa Safaris is a place where families, honeymooners, first-timers and seasoned safari-goers alike can slow down, connect with nature and experience the magic of the bush.

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Fast Facts

  • Owner run safari lodges with conservation-first focus.
  • A private, malaria-free wilderness to explore
  • Flexible, tailor-made experiences
  • Romantic, relaxed and family-friendly lodges
  • Incredible horseback safaris for all levels
  • A safari with heart perfectly suited to non-riders too
  • 6 suites at Ant’s Nest perfect also for exclusive use
  • 5 luxury cottages at Ant’s Hill including 2 family rooms
  • 5 Cottages at Bushwillow – ideal for experienced riders and singles
  • 10 standalone double / twin, en-suite rooms at Ant’s River Lodge
  • Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, Limpopo, South Africa
  • 3 hours by road from Johannesburg or private charter to the Waterberg
  • All ages welcome, ideal for families
  • All year round

Meet the Owners

Ant Baber was born and raised in the Waterberg, a descendant of the earliest pioneers in the Limpopo region. His family, of Irish and English origin, were part of the 1820 Settlers who sought a new life in this spectacular landscape. The son of a well-respected cattle rancher, Ant dreamed from the age of 12 of returning the wild hills of the reserve to their natural state, alive with wildlife.

 

After more than 20 years of conservation efforts, that dream is now a thriving reality. Herds of buffalo, giraffe, white rhino, and rare antelope species roam freely once more. Having grown up on horseback, Ant always dreamed of sharing the magic of seeing Africa from the saddle. In the mid-1990s, he transformed the old pioneer ranch house into what is now Ant’s Nest.

Ant Baber
1990s Ants Nest, Ants Hill 2003, Bushwillow 2024
 
“Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of restoring the wildlife of Ant’s Nest and sharing this wilderness on horseback. Caring for the land, the people, and the reserve is a true privilege, and I feel deeply blessed to do what I love each day under the African sun.”
“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy”

 

Ernest Hemingway
For Honour, she loves Ants because of the story and passionate people behind Ants which bring it to life.
 
Jo (F&P Travel) loves how it always becomes a real highlight of a trip, with guests welcomed into the family, exploring the private concession on horseback, bike or foot, with guides who tailor everything to any level.
Top 3 USPs:

 

• Meaningful, Homely and Joyful
 
• Romantic, relaxed, family-friendly lodges
 
• A safari with heart, perfectly suited to riders and non-riders alike

Explore & Experience

Every stay at Ant Africa Safaris is tailored to help guests make the most of their time in the Waterberg. With a wide range of activities, it’s perfect for couples, families, riders, non riders, and groups of friends. Explore on foot, by open 4×4, or from the saddle of one of their exceptional horses, as well as the opportunity to walk with white rhino. From mountain biking and wine tasting to poolside relaxation, the experience is as varied as it is personal.

 

Ant’s vision has always gone far beyond riding. His mission is to offer a sustainable safari that connects people to nature, supports local communities, and protects the land for future generations. Raised on horseback, Ant always dreamed of sharing the magic of Africa from the saddle, but his vision has always gone far beyond riding, to offer a sustainable safari that connects people to nature, supports local communities, and protects the land for the future.

Why we love it?

We love Ant Africa Safaris. At the heart of it all is Ant himself, a passionate conservationist whose life’s work has been to rewild the land, reintroduce endangered species, and create a sanctuary for family, guests, and wildlife alike. His dedication has transformed this private reserve into a haven for white rhino.

 

There is a rare sense of belonging at Ant’s. Many of the team have been part of the journey since the beginning, creating a warm, light-hearted, and deeply personal atmosphere. Every day is flexible and joyful, and if you meet Ant, you will understand why his bear hugs are legendary.

Accommodation

Ant Africa Safaris is home to four distinct lodges — Ant’s Nest, Ant’s Hill, Ant’s River Lodge and Bushwillow Camp — each with its own unique character but all sharing a commitment to comfort, stunning views, and heartfelt hospitality.

 

Ant’s Nest: The original homestead, perfect for families and groups. With open-plan living spaces, lush gardens, and a nearby watering hole, this is the heart of the reserve.

 

Ant’s Hill:Set high on a ridge with breathtaking views, this lodge offers beautifully designed thatched cottages, some with plunge pools and fireplaces — perfect for year-round stays.

 

Bushwillow Camp: A relaxed, private lodge set on 1,100 hectares of open plains. Ideal for experienced riding families, couples, or solo travellers. Includes private cottages, a pool, lounge, and communal dining.

 

Ant’s River Lodge: Ant’s River Lodge sits within the 16,400 hectare Kaingo Private Game Reserve, just one hour from Ant Africa Safaris. The reserve’s bushveld, valleys and mountains along the Mokolo River support more than 50 mammal species and over 250 bird species, including elephants and lions.

Stay with Purpose

Ant Africa Safaris is built on a long-standing commitment to conservation, sustainability, and community upliftment. From an early age, Ant dreamed of restoring the Waterberg to its wild roots. After decades of work, the land is once again alive with game: rhino, buffalo, giraffe, leopard, and rare antelope species.

 

The reserve is a stronghold for white rhino, thanks to Ant’s active role in regional conservation efforts. Ant Africa Safaris works closely with Waterberg Rhino UK and other partners to fund anti-poaching and wildlife protection initiatives. All three lodges are solar-powered and designed for water efficiency. The team is proudly local, with a strong focus on training, long-term employment, and supporting surrounding communities — ensuring every safari gives back.

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Step into life at Honour Way clients through the lens, from wild landscapes and welcoming spaces to the experiences and little details that make each stay unforgettable. Please download your images here or contact us for more.