Africa is a continent of unparalleled beauty and diversity, home to some of the most iconic wildlife and landscapes in the world. And there's no better way to experience all that Africa has to offer than on a horseback safari.
Imagine riding through the African bush, surrounded by herds of wildebeest, zebra, and giraffe, and galloping alongside elephants, lions, and rhinos. All the while, take in the breathtaking scenery of the Cape Winelands, the Masai Mara, or the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Horseback safaris offer a number of unique advantages over traditional safaris. First, they allow you to get closer to the wildlife. When you are on a horse, you are at eye level with many of the animals, and you can experience their power and beauty up close. Second, you can also explore areas that are inaccessible to vehicles. And lastly, horseback safaris offer a more immersive experience. As you ride through the bush, you will feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. You will also be able to hear the sounds of the animals and smell the wildflowers.
Read a first-hand account of an African Safari on horseback here!
One thing to note is that horseback Safaris are definitely recommended for more advanced riders who feel comfortable cantering and leading the horse out of tricky situations at a moment's notice because of the wildlife. This adventure is definitely not for the faint-hearted!
If you're itching to spot the Big 5 and traverse the wild plains of Africa, read our selection of the best tours all over the African continent!
KENYA
Kenya is the birthplace of horseback safaris, offering some of Africa’s most outstanding riding. Home to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world, a horseback safari in Kenya is a great way to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and other animals in their natural habitat. Our hosts at both the Sosian and Borana Lodges and Conservancies, situated at the foothills of Mount Kenya, are no exceptions, as they offer tailor-made excursions against an expanse of tens of thousands of acres of pure wilderness.
They are also committed to preserving endangered species such as the black rhino. With stunning sceneries, plentiful wildlife, adventurous horse rides that are varied and often fast-paced, and beautiful lodges to come home to at the end of the day – this is the perfect place for your next adventure.
Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Bazaruto Archipelago, designated a protected area for the rare marine life found here, the beaches of Vilankulo are truly magical. Strips of white sand beaches are perfect for golden hour sunset rides across the turquoise Indian Ocean coastline, inland lakes, and red dunes.
The Mozambique Horse Safari group also organized a dhow trip to the famous Benguerra island as part of their tour. The company itself is run by Mandy Retzlaff, author of 104 Horses: A Memoir of Farm and Family, Africa and Exile, and her husband Pat, making for a very personalized and intimate experience with the hosts.
NAMIBIA
Namibia is home to the Namib Desert, one of the oldest and driest deserts in the world. A horseback safari with one of our hosts, such as Namibia Horse Safari Company or Ingeborg, and her team at Okapuka Horse Safaris in Namibia is a great way to experience the desert's unique landscape and wildlife. These rides are definitely endurance-based and for the serious and seriously fit rider.
However, Okapuka does allow families and non-riding partners to join the normal safari activities on the lodge. Namibia is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and kaleidoscopic colors. Still wonderfully wild and remote, it has few people, little development, and lots of space that makes it perfect for riding treks to scope out herds of giraffes, wildebeest, rhinos, or even cheetahs and hyenas.
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is home to a variety of different wildlife habitats, including the Kruger National Park, the Addo Elephant National Park, and the Cape Winelands. It also offers the most diverse range of safari horse rides, from endurance to luxury to a variety of landscapes, including beaches and winelWinelands trails, all of which you can check out here.
It’s also a famous producer of New World wines while being one of the oldest producers outside of Europe and home to the unique and controversial Cape Blend. It is also fast becoming popular as a hot new culinary capital of the world.
ZIMBABWE
Zimbabwe rightfully boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes and land features and is one of the best year-round destinations in Africa.
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The famous Victoria Falls and Zambezi River are great places for adventure sports, such as whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, and, of course, horseback riding. Our hosts offer a variety of activities, such as camping, volunteering com, community engagement, and a vast selection of trail rides!
ESWATINI
Eswatini is one of the only remaining absolute monarchies of Africa. Located in the south of the continent, the country is mainly known for its sugar exports and is home to lions, hippos, leopards, and elephants! You do not want to miss out on this amazing opportunity to see these beautiful creatures first-hand.
One of the most rewarding and special experiences is taking horseback safaris in one of Africa's most beautiful and culturally diverse countries and regions. The opportunity to be at eye level with the wildlife while experiencing close-ups of stunning and primal nature is definitely something worth experiencing at least once.
