An African horse safari combines game viewing on horseback in the African bush with magnificent wildlife and learning about the rich history of the area. They take you to another world, offering a tranquil yet exciting experience you will cherish for a lifetime.
A perfect horse safari doesn’t just give you an escape from the sounds of the vehicles, but also a more intimate connection with the wildlife and vegetation while getting a workout. Importantly you don’t have to be an expert rider to partake in this experience. There are plenty of options that will suit your level of expertise. These are a few of them.
1. Horseriding in the Okavango Delta in Botswana
Imagine being on horseback while the giraffes and wildebeests run across the widespread Botswanan floodplain, riding to the tune of a lion’s roar and hyena’s grunt. Okavango Horseback Safaris offers just this. You can also combine your delta safari with the Makgadikgadi and Tuli Block safaris for more diversity. Founded in the 80s by PJ & Barney Bestelink, Okavango Horse Safaris gives you a memorable safari experience that you will never forget, riding on horseback in groups of 8 or fewer. The most intimate way to experience Okavango’s wildlife and beauty. Cantering alongside the elegant motion of a giraffe is an experience you will never forget, the wind sighs through the grass and palms, the fish eagle’s haunting cry, the splash of a disappearing crocodile and the faraway drumming of hooves. Safaris are 3-10 nights run all year and offer non-riding add-ons.
2. Explore the Victoria Falls region on a Zambian Horseback safari
Located in the Simalaha Wildlife Conservancy of Western Zambia, a stay at Zambian Horseback Safaris allows riders the opportunity to experience a timeless place on horseback; to explore ancient lands, trees, the Zambezi River and enjoy a privileged encounter with the Lozi people of the Himalaya. Zambia is the perfect spot for a family holiday and exploring on horseback brings it so much closer. The resident guides offer insights into their Zambian traditions in the most realistic way possible. A Zambian ride is never complete without a visit to Victoria Falls, a spectacle that you must watch in person. While in the area consider going water rafting and or for a long dip in Devil’s Pool.
3. An immersive experience in the shadows of Tanzania’s Mt Kilimanjaro
African Horse Safaris traverse some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes to the backdrop of Mt Meru and the magnificent Mt Kilimanjaro. Horse riding in Tanzania promises an unforgettable experience. As you return to a ‘safari of old’ and follow in the footsteps of the majestic African elephants, you will be astounded by the beauty of the African bush. Explore some of the last true wildernesses on earth, as you become part of a herd of cantering zebra, creep up on a munching elephant or gaze up in wonder at a tall giraffe. The best time for horse safaris is June and October when you can watch thousands of migrant flamingos near the lower grounds of Mt Kilimanjaro. Experienced Riders with a 7-night safari most popular.
4. Witness the vast diversity of wildlife in the Namib Desert
A horse ride in Namibia is an African adventure to remember. Namibia with its stark and striking landscapes will take your breath away. Out there, in the middle of nowhere, you will find a form of peace and tranquillity so rarely found these days. Immerse yourself in Namibia’s hauntingly beautiful scenery, while learning about the unique flora and fauna which inhabits the landscapes. Traverse these sparse, wide and varying terrains and embrace your sense of adventure. You can expect thrilling and challenging horse riding with an expert guide. Your horseback safari to this striking region will be a memorable one. The Namib Desert holds numerous wildlife, wide plains and extraordinary attractions. You can visit Sossusvlei and two significant canyons, Kuiseb and Guab on your way to the mysterious Deadvlei. This is also the perfect spot to find some black and white Rhinos. Namibia Horse Safari Company itineraries go over 10 days and offer non-riding add-ons.
5. Take to Horseback Experience in the Karoo, South Africa
Karoo Ranching is a family-run business that operates from several working cattle and horse ranches in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Currently headed up by sixth-generation rancher, Julie Hobson on her main Karoo Ranching property Elandskloof near Graaff-Reinet – an authentic working cattle farm. Offering a deeply embedded relationship with the land and an inner yearning to follow her heart and do right by herself – and her farming ancestry, all whilst looking remarkably stylish riding out on her beloved steed. Owned by the family since 1898, the experience offers a strong educational component over 3 nights, and 4 days, providing a better understanding of farming, the love farmers have for their animals and the care they take over them.
For assistance with planning your Southern and East Africa safari, please reach out to me on dawn@theincidentaltourist.com and I will happily assist, putting my two decades of working in the industry towards ensuring your African travel expectations are met.
