Ride your horse on the endless white-sand beaches of Mozambique with an exceptional horse riding holiday from Unicorn Trails! Mozambique is the latest 'must see' destination in Africa, offering a combination of African culture and untouched natural beauty. With its warm and dry climate, crystal clear waters, pristine white sand beaches, snorkelling, coral reef diving, deep sea fishing, and many more water-based activities, Mozambique is a dream come true for any beach lover. Having emerged from a long civil war, just 30 years ago, the country is now bursting with potential and developing its tourism infrastructure rapidly. Yet, it still remains unspoilt with beautiful natural wonders. So, whether you're a family, a couple, or a solo traveller, Mozambique is the perfect destination for those seeking a harmonious balance between riding and relaxing. Even the children will love it!
It is important to note that horse riding holidays in Mozambique are not really safaris as most of the game has still come back after the war. However, the beach riding is superb and the lodges on the Bazaruto archipelago such as Benguerra lodge, are amongst the best in the world. All levels of riding are catered for, from beginners who are just starting out to experienced riders who are looking for a new beach adventure. It is possible to ride on the coast and on the islands. The horses are well-trained, responsive, and accustomed to the terrain, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all. You can even swim with your horse in the ocean. The best time to visit any country is before tourists 'discover' it, and that's why now is the perfect time to plan your trip to Mozambique with the help our expert advisors.
A Little Bit About Mozambique
Mozambique has a very troubled history. It is a former Portuguese colony and there is still a significant Portuguese influence present. The famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco de Gama, landed here in 1498 and by 1505 it was colonised, and Portuguese culture started to replace that of the Arab and Indian traders who had earlier influenced Mozambique. The slave trade later took hold and was only abolished in the country in 1842. In the 1950s and 60s large numbers of Portuguese settlers were attracted to this beautiful area of Africa and this led to a hostile guerrilla war. However, this finally ended in 1974 and Mozambique gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
Then just 2 years after independence a violent civil war broke out. Fighting ended in 1992 and the country's first multi-party elections were held in 1994. Finally, this beautiful country is now at peace and is rebuilding itself.
Portuguese is still the official language of Mozambique, but you will also hear many local African languages spoken. With the Europeans came Christianity but there are also many Muslims and some Hindus.
Horse Riding Trails along the Beaches of Mozambique
Mozambique is located in southeast Africa. Despite being surrounded by 6 neighboring African countries - Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and South Africa - Mozambique still manages to have approximately 2,500 kilometers gorgeous coast on the warm Indian Ocean, with crystal-clear ocean waters that are perfect for snorkelling. The country's capital, Maputo, is located in the south of the country, and there are also three impressive national parks that are home to a diverse array of wildlife. However, it is the sandy shores and palm trees that truly steal the show, with the beaches near Beira being truly beautiful. Horse riding trails along the beaches of Mozambique offer riders the unique opportunity to explore this African beach paradise from the back of a horse.
Unicorn Trails is delighted to offer the following horse riding holidays in Mozambique:
Mozambique - Paradise Beach Week
The 7-night itinerary is designed to make the most of the time available, offering a horseback vacation that takes you to breathtaking white sandy beaches of the coast on fit, well-loved horses as well as an island visit. Swim with your horse in the deep azure-blue tropical ocean. Explore the coastline on horseback - sunset rides are incredible! Sail in a dhow across the shimmering seas to the national park that is Benguerra Island and meet new horses.
This horseback riding holiday is suitable for everyone, from age 6 upwards and complete beginners through to advanced level riders. It is also perfect for non-riding companions, offering opportunities to explore local markets and join their horse-loving family and friends for a traditional lunch. Additionally, you might enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving among stunning coral reefs, ocean fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun on that beautiful beach. As the name says, this is paradise. You will not want this horseback holiday in Mozambique to ever end!
Mozambique - Paradise Beach Short Break
This shorter 4-night itinerary has been designed as an extension to any African holiday, such as a riding safari, but is also a perfect riding holiday in its own right for those with less free time to travel. Being easy to access from Johannesburg in South Africa or from the Kruger Park area via regular direct flights, the holiday can be tailored to your exact requirements.
The palm-fringed white sands, pristine coral beaches, and deep-sea angling are an irresistible lure for anyone passionate about the coast.
Accommodation
Accommodation is set within luxurious beachfront lodges that boast a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable lounge, an al fresco dining area with a fire pit and even a swimming pool. The lodges are tastefully decorated in the local style and the cuisine is second to none, catering for all tastes and dietary preferences.
Other Activities on Offer in Mozambique
Horseback riding vacations in Mozambique allow the whole family to participate in all activities, including hiking, snorkelling, canoeing, sailing and fishing, making it a perfect destination for horse lovers who also want to experience the culture and hobbies of a foreign nation.
Here’s a taster of wants on offer in Mozambique:
The waters- The warm tropical waters of the region are host to an incredible variety of fish, corals, marine mammals and plants. The water temperature can vary between 28 degrees Celsius (summer) to a still very comfortable 22 degrees Celsius (winter).
Diving- There are extensive reefs found 2 miles, 5 miles and 7 miles from shore. These are suitable for novice to advanced divers and many lodges have dedicated dive centres. Dive courses leading to PADI certificates can be undertaken on site. The area boasts an abundance of hard and soft corals. As a result an immense variety of reef fish, whale sharks and manta rays, schools of pelagic kingfish and barracuda may be seen as well as stingray, shark, potato bass, moray eel and turtles.
Game Fishing- Renown since the 1960's as one of the world's premier game fishing destinations, Vilankulos and the Bazaruto Archipelago continue to attract serious fishermen and women from around the world. Giant black marlin can be found in the region from October to March with a great variety of other offshore species including sailfish, wahoo, dorado, king mackerel and tuna. All fishing is on a catch and release basis.
Wildlife Viewing - While land based mammals are scarce in this dry area, the number of species living in the warm tropical waters is extensive. Whales, dolphins, sharks and dugongs are all prevalent at various times of year. Humpback whales are commonly encountered in the winter months (June to early November) and hard to miss on a visit of 3 days or more. From October onwards one can often see the whales with very young calves before they head south to colder waters. Sightings of the whale sharks are common from April to July. Dolphins are commonly encountered all year round and there are four different species which frequent these waters. The seas surrounding Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelago are home to one of the largest populations of the endangered dugong. Although now almost extinct it is believed the dugong was responsible for starting the myth of the mermaids. Although rare to see, these waters will probably give you one of the best chances in the world to do so.
The Climate in Mozambique
Mozambique has a subtropical climate with two seasons. The dry season lasts from April until December, during which time temperatures tend to be reasonably stable at between 25°C and 32°C. The rainy season runs from January to March, with peak temperatures occurring in February and the rainfall more predominant in coastal areas.
Getting to Mozambique
The majority of flights to Vilanculos VNX Airport in Mozambique will require a stopover or transfer at Johannesburg Airport in South Africa. The transfer is included from the meeting point and will take approximately 15 minutes. No matter where you are, we can assist in planning your travel arrangements and finding the best options tailored to you.
Explore Mozambique on Horseback on an Equestrian Vacation from Unicorn Trails
So, if you want to explore this beautiful African paradise on horseback, then please do not hesitate to contact a friendly member of our team. Whether you're looking for a luxury vacation or an extension to riding safari, we will help make your dream equestrian vacation in Mozambique a reality. With independent advice, decades of experience, and a passion for adventure, Unicorn Trails is the perfect partner for your next equestrian getaway.
So don't delay – Mozambique is waiting for you
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