An age old concept that offers new adventure

The concept of humans and elephants working together is an age old concept but with the times that we live in there is no need for the work force of elephants in our everyday lives as we have complex machinery to do the work for us. However there is a new way for humans to interact with elephants and this is done with safari elephant rides. These elephant rides are ideal for game viewing as you are regarded as one with the elephant, the other wildlife do not realize that you are in their habitat.

History of the elephant rides

The idea of the safari elephant rides is relatively new as this was established in 2002 however since the activities was started it has been nothing but a raging success. The elephants that are used for the elephant rides in the Pilanseberg area are the result of culling of elephants in Zimbabwe. The elephants were destined for lives in zoos and safari parks overseas until private farmers in Zimbabwe bought the elephants. Once the elephants were too big for the farmers land Wild horizons was approached to take care of the animals.

From the culls in Zimbabwe the idea of domesticated elephants was born, however the vision for these elephants was for them to still be able to pursue a lifestyle which is similar to wild elephants. In 2002 the five elephants that now make up the team of elephants for the Pilanseberg Elephant back Safaris were relocated with their handlers from Zimbabwe to South Africa. This was a traumatic time for the elephants but they have adapted well and elephant rides in the Pilanseberg area is a popular activity.

At the Pilanseberg Elephant Back Safaris there is a unique relationship between man and elephant which is based on the positive reinforcement training principles as well as founded on trust and mutual respect between the animal and man. The elephant rides are conducted early morning as well as late afternoon to give the elephants an opportunity to behave as wild elephants would and give the elephants the opportunity to partake in regular activities. From atop the of these gentle giants you will realize that there is so much that nature has to offer and you will learn about the importance of conservation.

The elephant rides are done by a team of elephants and their handlers these elephants are part of the Chikwenya Herd. The herd comprises of four males, Micheal, Sharu, Mana and Sapi and Chikwenya the female matriarch. Chikwenya and Sapi are the proud parents of the latest addition to the herd Lesego who was born in November 2006.

Organizing elephant rides

For the best experience regarding elephant rides there is no better option than Thaba Phuti safari lodge which is a five star luxury lodge. Thaba Phuti safari lodge are committed to giving you an all round African bushveld experience in a luxurious setting. Thaba Phuti will book your elephant rides for you to ensure that you have a memorable safari experience.

Thaba Phuti with the assistance of Pilanseberg Elephant Back Safaris can give you a true African safari and wildlife experience. The elephant rides that are available will be the an experience that will demonstrate the unique relationship between man and elephant.

For more information on the Thaba Phuti Safari Lodge and the facilities on offer please contact us @ Cel: 082 800 3292 OR E-mail Addresses: reception@thabaphuti.com OR info@thabaphuti.com