Safaris on horseback are the ultimate in horse riding holidays. Not only do these experiences include all the adventure and luxury of a traditional safari holiday, but by being on horseback one truly becomes part of the environment. We believe that there is no greater way to experience the plains of Kenya, the flood waters of Botswana or the bushveld of South Africa than on the back of a horse. Indeed, our rides take place off the tourist track where you can really be submerged into the African way of life, sometimes not seeing anyone else apart from your small riding group.
The horse keeps its own senses tuned for wildlife, and by looking in the direction of its ears, many well camouflaged animals are revealed. Once comfortable, a horse will drop its head and graze, signalling all the other grazing animals in the area to relax too. In this fashion one can happily drift along with the animals observing them as they go about their normal daily routines. The safari guides on our rides are the best in the business, knowing by the impression of a paw print or a battered looking tree that there is game in the area. Rides also have a back-up guide and both will delight in teaching you about the area and the animals and vegetation that can be found there.
When riding in areas with big game such as lion, elephant, buffalo, black rhino and leopard one should be a confident rider with a secure seat however we have safaris for all levels from complete beginners and many are suitable for non-riders and families too. As well as first-class riding, some of our safaris offer guided walks, game drives or mokoro (canoe) rides. Many of them have swimming pools too which are perfect for a post-lunch rest whilst listening to monkeys squabbling in the trees above.
Accommodation ranges from luxury eco-lodges to 5* canvas tents - these tents have to be seen to be believed; they house proper beds with luxury cotton sheets, clothing storage, dressing tables and mirrors, en-suites with hot running water and showers and usually a glorious sun deck outside, complete with wooden furniture. Imagine being woken up with a hot cup of coffee and plate of biscuits delivered straight to your tent, what a perfect way to start the day! Even on 'fly-camps' - a remote 'basic' camp and a must-do on any horse riding safari - you'll be presented with camp beds, mosquito nets, private wash stands and bush toilets. The food on safari is equally delightful, usually 3 or 4 courses with wine to compliment. There may also be a few surpises thrown in here and there (think spectacular sundowners!) but we won't spoil that for you!
Just as with Northern Africa, flying to to Southern Africa from Europe has benefits too. Why not take an evening flight departure. You can dine, sleep overnight and then disembarque to eat breakfast in Africa the next day with no jet lag. Some of our safaris are really off the beaten track and extra light aircraft flights or drives are needed to reach camp. We can, however, confirm that these are experiences and mini-safaris in themselves with both pilots and drivers having fantastic knowledge and pointing out animals on the way.
Most of our safaris on horseback are, as you would expect, in Africa. However we also have a horseback safari in Brazil where the wildlife is completely different but no less extraordinary.
In 2017 and 2018 there is a 50% discount offered on return flights from Maun to Macatoo for any bookings of 7 nights or more, and FREE return flights from Maun to Macatoo on any bookings of 10 nights or more
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