Macatoo - Botswana

Elva who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Macatoo - Seeing big game from horseback is a privilege beyond imagination | The riding was brilliant. I was a bit nervous going due to a recent accident, and the team were so good at matching me to a horse I was comfortable on. Allowing me to switch horses when I felt a bit unsure. They horses are well cared for and all seem happy doing their jobs. Its not easy keeping horses in good condition in that climate, and in big herd, but the team do an excellent job.

Only slight negative was that another guest arrived half way through the week who was a repeat guest and requested the one of the horses I had been assigned for the week. Which meant I was swapped onto another one for my last two days. I understand this put the team in a bit of a difficult situation, as the other guest kicked up a fuss about wanting that particular horse and was pretty demanding. I didn't want to be difficult in response, but I was a little upset about it (quietly). Mainly as this was the horse I had got on the best with and had made me feel very safe. I don't blame the team for this situation, it was definitely the other guest's fault (particularly as she was there for 10 days and could have had him once I left).

In terms of the Guides, we had Chief for the majority of the trip - my word he made us feel so safe. His understanding of the game and their behaviour was beautiful to watch. He managed to get us so close, so many times, but always in a slow calm way, that you never felt like we were interfering with the animals or disturbing them. While on previous trips I've had many charges/ chases, and being honest they are fun, it was pretty special they way he works, we never had any run ins at all. He was also great company, fun, easy going and incredibly knowledgeable. Roda our back up guide was also sensational. Sometimes unless you are riding close to the lead guide you can miss out on some information about the animals. But Roda was as qualified and knowledgeable and always telling us about what we were seeing. He has a lovely way with guests and the horses too. Excellent guy, I hope to see him as a lead guide soon.

[Abbie from ITS replies: Thank you for this wonderful feedback on your much-anticipated visit to Macatoo. We're absolutely thrilled that you got to experience this incredible riding safari with your best friend - albeit slightly later than planned!].

Do you have any comments about the accommodation and food?

Accommodation was excellent. Really comfortable and nice. We were able to have our own tents as the camp was quiet which was an extra bonus. Food was excellent, particularly lunch and dinner. One chicken pie we had at lunch one day will be the subject of my thoughts for months and months to come. Tasty, healthy food with lots of vegetables and tasty meat. I felt great after the week and usually my digestion is poor when travelling.

How could we improve the quality of pre-holiday information that we send?

I don't think I could think of any improvements from your side. I was a nightmare client given my trip in December when tits up and everything had to be rearranged. You made me feel really supported and properly taken care of. That really made the difference and why I will continue to come back to you guys for future trips. Abbie was so quick to respond, even when I asked awkward last minute question. Being able to e mail and whatsapp her made my life very easy and she was so fast to deal with any queries. Thank you Abbie. You are a star.

How could we improve the way we handled your booking and payment?

Nope all straightforward. You were helpfully flexible with me, knowing I was still waiting for my insurance to pay out from Decembers trip. I was grateful for that. I know I pushed the final payment beyond its date by a few days and you were good at not chasing too hard as you understood the tricky situation I was in.

Do you have any other feedback for us?

I had high expectations for this trip, given all of the emotion going into its original booking, and then having to rearrange after my accident - there was a lot riding on it. But my god did it deliver and exceed my already high expectations 10+ fold.

I am already planning how to safe up to go back when the delta was in flood. I loved seeing it in this season and now interested to see it in different conditions.