There are horseback safaris throughout Africa. Botswana has the unique Okavango Delta as well as the Kalahari Desert and vast Tuli Reserve. Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania are famous for their herds of zebra and wildebeest. Visit South Africa and eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) or journey through the Namibian desert.
There is nothing as magical as being in the African bush; the excitement of hearing the night time chorus through the canvas, and by day the adventure of encountering wildlife from horseback. Many of the mobile safaris only operate in the drier months when the support crew are able to move camp. But a “green season” safari also has much to offer – the new bush is beautiful and many animals have young at foot.
If you are riding in an area where you might encounter elephant or lion you need to be an experienced rider confident in walk, trot and canter in the open. There are also safaris in South Africa, Namibia and eSwatini where you do not ride with any dangerous animals. On some safaris it is possible for non-riders to join you and enjoy game viewing by vehicle or on foot.
The beauty of a lodge based riding safari is having the ability to combine game viewing from horseback with the opportunity to relax and pamper yourself. Good horses; exciting riding; wildlife viewing; luxury accommodation with a comfortable bed and hot showers; along with elegant meals and dreamy sundowners. Lodge safaris are an excellent choice for families and groups of friends where some might be keener on the idea of riding than others.
Most lodges accept all levels of riders from novice and nervous right through to experienced and confident. Some also offer non-riding activities so if you don’t fancy riding every day, or are travelling with a non-rider, there are plenty of other things to do. If the lodge is in an area where you might meet elephant and lion then you need to be a capable rider, confident in all paces, out in the open.
Useful Tip: Combine your safari with a digital detox and become one with nature.
