Ankole cattle are instantly recognizable by their massive, crescent-shaped horns, which can span up to 2.4 meters from tip to tip. A visit to White River offers a rare opportunity to see these majestic long horn creatures.
Coolmore Farm has a herd of Ankole cattle which can be seen from time to time. If staying at ilanda Guest House, a walk to the dam might yield a close encounter with the herd on the other side of the fence. Despite their imposing horns and stature, Ankole cattle are known for their calm and docile temperament.
Alternatively, you can also sight the herd from the road at Pine Lake Drive. Please note the herd is moved from pasture to pasture so seeing the Ankole herd can be hit-and-miss.
Only 800 head of cattle are in South Africa and their numbers internationally are in decline.
About Ankole cattle
Ankole cattle are a true multipurpose breed, producing both lean meat and milk efficiently, and being attractive from a tourism perspective.
The breed is also known for its resilience and adaptability. These horns serve a functional purpose as well, helping the cattle regulate their body temperature by dissipating heat. The horns allow them to break branches to reach inaccessible leaves during periods of drought.
Ankole are extremely resilient, living up to 30 years. Ankole cattle can even survive in bag 5 game reserves.
Ankole cattle are expensive, with cows averaging R470 000 each. President Ramaphosa recently sold an Ankole cow and heifer for 1.8 million rands at his Phala Phala farm. President Ramaphosa pioneered Ankole cattle in South Africa by importing embryos from Uganda, via Kenya, to be implanted into surrogate mothers in South Africa. This complex process is required to respect South Africa’s stringent laws preventing importation of zoonic diseases.
Staying at ilanda Guest House in White River
Stay at ilanda Guest House while visiting Mpumalanga. Our 4-bedroom apartment is popular with families and kids enjoy our 2 swimming pools and kids activities.
Call or WhatsApp on 082 560 50 73 for more information.