Ant Africa Safaris

  • 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 boasts 12 distinct ecological zones, from grassy plans to thick bushveld, and supports over 40 species of game, including giraffe, white rhino, and the rare sable and roan antelope. With its welcoming 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

  • Perfect for families
  • Malaria Free
  • Big 5-free reserve
  • Horseback safaris
  • Not just for riders!!

Family-run safari lodges

  • 6 suites at Ant’s Nest
  • 5 suites at Ant’s Hill
  • 5 Cottages at Bushwillow

Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, Limpopo, South Africa

3.5hrs 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 brought up in the Waterberg as a descendant of the earliest pioneers in the Limpopo region. Of Irish and English extract, his family were part of the 1820 Settlers who came looking for a new life in this spectacular landscape. Son of a well-respected cattle rancher, Ant’s dream from the age of 12 was to take the wild hills that make up the reserve back to how they were when his family first arrived here, teeming with a wide variety of game.

 

After more than 20 years following his ambition, herds of buffalo and giraffe, rhino and leopard, and rare indigenous antelope species such as roan and sable, now roam and thrive in the reserve. Having grown up on the back of a horse, it was natural for him to want to share the experience of seeing Africa over the ears of a horse, immersed seemingly as part of the bush and its wildlife, and not just as an observer. In the mid 1990s, Ant’s Nest was created from the renovation of the old pioneer ranch house on the reserve.

Explore & Experience

At Ant Africa Safaris, every stay is tailored to help guests make the most of their time in the Waterberg. With a wide range of activities, it is ideal 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 — including the chance to walk with white rhino. From mountain biking and wine tasting to poolside relaxation, the experience is as varied as it is personal. 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.

Accommodation

The accommodation at Ant Africa Safaris includes three lodges, Ant’s Nest, Ant’s Hill, and Bushwillow Camp, all offering a slightly different experience but uniting in ensuring a luxurious and comfortable stay, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Each lodge features beautifully decorated rooms and suites, blending traditional African design with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious verandas, private pools, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

 

Ant’s Nest, the original homestead, is warm, relaxed, and ideal for families and groups. It offers open plan living with views over a watering hole and beautiful gardens.

 

Ant’s Hill, set high on a ridge, is more dramatic in setting, with jaw-dropping views and beautifully designed thatched cottages. Some rooms come with plunge pools and fireplaces, perfect for year-round stays.

 

Bushwillow Camp is a relaxed, private option set on 1,100 hectares of open plains. With colourful touches and handcrafted furniture, it offers a homely and down-to-earth feel. The lodge includes private cottages with decks, a pool, lounge, and communal dining, making it ideal for families, couples, or exclusive use groups.

What Makes It Special

We love working with 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 home: for family, guests, and wildlife alike. His dedication has turned this private reserve into a sanctuary, especially for white rhino, who now thrive here under his protection. There’s a rare sense of belonging at Ant’s. Many of the team have been there since the beginning, and the atmosphere is warm, light-hearted, and deeply personal. Every day is flexible and joyful — and if you meet Ant, you’ll understand why his bear hugs are legendary.

Your Stay makes a Difference

The objective of Ant Africa Safaris is to create sustainable tourism by means of conserving the environment around them, enriching the lives of their guests and staff alike as well as uplifting the community and providing as many skills and development locally as possible. It is for this reason that we are so passionate about working with Ant and promoting and supporting all that they do in the Waterberg. Have a read below to see the fantastic work that is achieved by Ant Africa Safaris…

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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.