best horseback safaris in botswana

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A horseback safari in Botswana is considered by many to be the ultimate riding safari holiday, offering abundant and varied game, extremely experienced and knowledgeable guides and well-schooled, responsive horses; all in an exceptional setting.

Historically the Okavango Delta has been the main area for horseback safaris in Botswana. There is a choice of two luxury tented camps both offering superb quality horses, guiding and game viewing, plus a unique mobile tented camp that takes you on a journey through the Delta. The wildlife viewing, weather and riding differ hugely depending on the time of year and it can be difficult to decide between the options, so please call or email us. Our specialists have visited and ridden extensively in the Delta and they will be pleased to give you their expert impartial advice.

As well as the Okavango Delta there are riding safaris based in the Makgadikgadi pans and in the south east of the country on the Mashatu Reserve in the Tuli Block. The landscape and wildlife of the Makgadikgadi is unique and makes a fascinating experience on it's own or it can be combined with one of the horseback safaris in the Delta. The Tuli Block safaris equal those in the Okavango Delta in terms of wildlife, guiding and quality of horses, but the terrain is quite different and the camps are not as luxurious so they are ideal if budget is a significant factor.

Botswana - Macatoo

Seated high above the long grass and reeds of the Okavango Delta riders see giraffe, elephant, buffalo, many species of antelope, and even lion. Combine this with luxury bush camps and you have the riding experience of a lifetime.

• Open All Year
• Flexible arrivals
• Minimum 3 nights | 4 to 6 hours riding per day | Nearest airport:Maun
• Weight limit: 14st 13lbs (95 kg) (209 pounds)
• Usual maximum: 8

Botswana - Kujwana

This trip has everything you could want from a horseback safari; abundant and varied game, extremely experienced guides and well-schooled horses; all in the unique setting of the Okavango Delta.

• Weight limit: 14st 1lbs (90 kg) (197 pounds)

Botswana and South Africa - African Explorer

A fabulous holiday combining super riding in two countries over eight days (seven nights). The first four nights are spent in South Africa at Camp Davidson and Bellevue Plains, at Horizon . On the fifth day you transfer by road to Botswana to explore the Tuli Block for three nights.

• Set arrivals
• 7 nights / 6 days of riding | 4 to 7 hours riding per day | Nearest airport:Johannesburg
• Weight limit: 13st 5lbs (85 kg) (187 pounds)

Botswana - Tuli Safari

Ride from camp to camp in the Limpopo area of Botswana which is renowned for its elephants and large cats on some wonderful horses. You can expect great game viewing in a truly remote wilderness setting, a real African adventure and experience you will never forget.

• 7 nights / 6 days of riding | 4 to 8 hours riding per day | Nearest airport:Johannesburg

Privacy Overview

The Best Horseback Riding Safaris In Botswana

Courtesy of ridebotswana.com

We know Botswana to be paradise on Earth when it comes to viewing wildlife. Home to big game animals like lions, zebras, elephants, rhinos and countless more, it’s no wonder why people flock to the country from around the world to see them. But did you know going on a safari doesn’t necessarily mean hopping in a jeep? In fact, you can get up close and personal on your tour on horseback. Keep in mind, these tours are for seasoned and experienced riders because of the challenging terrain, and riders will have to endure days worth of riding. So giddy up and get ready to make your friends back at home jealous, here are the best horseback riding safaris in Botswana.

Ride Botswana

See the Okavango Delta and the world-famous salt pans of Makgadikgadi on horseback through Ride Botswana . The safari touring company is family owned with decades worth of horseback riding touring experience. With a skilled and prepared guide, riders will be led through a scenic route and known hot spots to see wildlife. In some tours (depending on the guests), the guide will lead guests through the water and end the tour with a fabulous bush dinner cooked over an open fire. It’s advised that experience riders sign up for the 7-night long safari tour. In addition to Okavango Delta, Ride Botswana also offers tours in Kalahari and Thamalakane.

Courtesy of limpopohorsesafaris.com

Limpopo Horse Safaris

Get an authentic bush experience through Limpopo Horse Safaris , where there are several packages to choose from. The most popular package is the Tuli Safari where for seven nights, guests will explore the Mashutu Game Reserve, a privately owned 75,000 acre land full of big game animals. By reserving your spot at the safari, you’ll be given access to the closed off game reserve that not many people get to explore. Each day consists of riding through various scenic routes before retiring to satellite campsites with comfortable beds and hot meals cooked over fire. But for those who cannot commit to a week-long ride, consider the African Explorer Safari for four nights instead.

Courtesy of okavangohorse.com

Okavango Horse Safaris

Since 1986, Okavango Horse Safaris has been creating unforgettable memories for tourists. What stands out about this particular safari tour is that the company specializes in more intimate and personal tours (with no more than 8 riders at a time). That way, the guide will take personal requests and answer questions from riders about the surrounding flora and fauna. There are 60 docile and tamed horses on the stable, meaning you’ll be matched with the perfect horse to suit your needs. However, if you wish to enjoy the area without having to get on a horse, the company offers alternative boat and jeep tours.

Courtesy of africanhorseback.com

African Horseback

Another fantastic way to explore the Okavango Delta is through African Horseback that has been entertaining guests for two decades. It’s expected for riders to be in tip-top shape and seasoned in horseback riding, since many parts of the tour will include galloping. This means you’ll feel like John Wayne visiting Africa. Guests especially love the high-speed adrenaline rush of galloping alongside giraffes, zebras and buffaloes during this tour. The day will end with guests retreating to their cozy bush camps in Macatoo where hot-cooked meals await them.

Courtesy of rawbotswana.com

Ride and Walk Botswana

Located in the northern section of Botswana, this prestigious tented luxury camp is an oasis for tourists to dabble in many outdoorsy activities, including horseback riding safaris (with no more than 6 riders permitted each tour). This camp is ideal for traveling groups or families who have multiple interests since the destination offers hiking, boating, canoeing, fishing, game drives, and more. The camp is situated on the banks of Selinda Spillway on 120,000 acres of land. So give yourself a much-needed pampering in this high-end campsite and of course, take full advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime horseback riding safari tour to see the gorgeous wilderness of Botswana.

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Horse Safaris

Explore botswana on horseback.

Share our passion for wildlife, pristine wilderness and ancient people and join us on horseback, exploring the remote areas of Botswana.

We are the only company in Botswana that offer horse riding experiences in different areas of the country - the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert and along the Thamalakane River. Combining these areas creates the ultimate horse safari - Desert & Delta on horseback.

We would love everyone to have the chance to experience Africa from horseback and so have designed a range of horse safaris to suit everyone -  from experienced riders to complete beginners.

A range of horse riding safaris for all skill levels

“Riding and viewing the wildlife in this beautiful environment is just incredible, and the night sleeping out on the pans absolutely unforgettable.”

African Horseback Adventures

Our journey through Africa over the last 45 years has led us to Botswana, a vast country of endless wilderness and some of the highest concentrations of wildlife to be found anywhere on the continent.

There is so much to explore and many adventures ahead. We are enthralled to be able to call the Thamalakane River our home, to be riding through the huge pans that dominate the centre of Botswana and to regularly venture into the Okavango and other wildlife rich areas.

Thamalakane River Ride

Enjoy superb riding on a 3 night horse safari along Botswana’s Thamalakane River.

Enjoy superb riding on a 5 night horse safari along Botswana’s Thamalakane River.

Okavango Delta Ride

Superb riverine riding on a 7 night horse safari in the Okavango Delta, a rider's Eden.

Kalahari Ride

3 Nights - Dry Season

3 nights riding in the dry season in the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Kalahari Desert.

5 Nights - Dry Season

5 nights riding in the dry season in the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Kalahari Desert.

3 Nights - Green Season

3 nights riding in the green season in the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Kalahari Desert.

Jack's Camp Horse Safari

3 night horse riding safari at Jack’s Camp in the dry season in the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Kalahari Desert.

3 Nights - Green Season

3 night horse riding safari at Jack’s Camp in the green season in the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Kalahari Desert.

5 Nights - Green Season

5 nights horse riding in the green season in the Makgadikgadi Pans and the Kalahari Desert.

Ready to Go On a Safari Adventure?

Talk to us today and start planning your private African safari.

Thanks for your enquiry. We’ll be in touch soon.

• +44 (0) 1905 388977
• Private space
• EUR  €
• USD  $

Best of Botswana

Day 1 1 : HOME - JOHANNESBURG

Day 2 2 : johannesburg - two mashatu camp - 2 hours riding, day 3 3 : tree camp - 6-7 hours riding, day 4 4 : kgotla - 6 hours riding, day 5 5 : kgotla - 5 hours riding, day 6 6 : tree camp - 6-7 hours riding, day 7 7: mashatu - 6 hours riding, day 8 8 : mashatu - 6 hours riding, day 9 9 : mashatu - johannesburg - 2-4 hours riding, day 10 10: johannesburg - okavango delta, day 11 11 : okavango delta - 6 hours riding, day 12 12 : okavango delta - 6 hours riding, day 13 13: okavango delta, day 14 14 : camp - maun - johannesburg - 2 hours riding, day 15 15: johannesburg - home, dates & prices, price details, price includes, support team, inland transport, accommodation, additional equipment, price doesn't include, equestrian info, guide & local team, minimum riding ability, tacking ability and participation, trip conditions and requested experience, equestrian equipment, travel info, packing list, sustainable tourism.

• Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
• Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
• Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
• Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
• Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
• Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.

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Horseback Riding in Botswana

Tuli safari.

Photo Journey:

This is a classic point-to-point horse safari in Botswana covering approximately 120 miles in the vast Mashatu Game Reserve in the Tuli Block. Mashatu is a privately owned wildlife sanctuary of 75,000 acres, situated at the confluence of the Shashe and Limpopo Rivers.

This is an area of great bio-diversity, magnificent vistas, ancient civilizations and dramatic rock formations bordered by the great Limpopo River in the south. Aptly named the “Land of the Giants” for its baobab studded plains and large herds of elephant, the land remains largely untouched by man and is home to a wide variety of wildlife species including lion, cheetah, leopard, African wild dog, a multitude of plains game like zebra, wildebeest and giraffe, as well as over 350 species of birds.

To make the most of the prime game viewing hours, the day begins just before dawn with a quick breakfast before tacking up and heading toward the next camp as the sun is breaking over the horizon. Gallop along the river courses where huge Mashatu trees provide shade for eland, impala, wildebeest, giraffe and zebra. Five or six hours in the saddle has you arriving at the next camp in the early afternoon with time to relax before an evening walking safari to witness the smaller creatures and plants missed on horseback.

The guide, who is highly qualified and experienced, will point out some of the 350 bird species, and is often able to find elusive nocturnal species like bat-eared fox, African wildcat and the magnificent leopard. There are significant archaeological and historical sites en route, from subtle sign of the ancient indigenous people to relics from the Boer War. The small group size, the fit, energetic horses and the light mobile camp allow this safari to cover a lot of interesting territory in this seldom visited corner of Africa.

Accommodations

Spend the three nights at the permanent tented camp, Two Mashatus, two nights at the permanent Tree Camp, and two nights at the permanent open air camp, Kglotla.

Meals & Drink

Meals are prepared over an open fire and therefore consist mostly of good, wholesome ‘bush stews’, with local side dishes such as ‘sadza’ (maize meal) and ‘pot bread’. Vegetarian menus and special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice. All water in the camps is filtered to the highest standards and is guaranteed perfectly safe for drinking. Bottled water is available to purchase.

Ride & Horse Details

Equipment required:, horse breeds:, weight limit:, activities for non - riders.

Non-rider options are not offered.

Meeting Point

Johannesburg.

Tour Itinerary

Please note that on "Tuli 2" safaris running Monday to Monday, Night 6 is spent at Tree Camp, rather than Two Mashatus.

Arrival: Stable to Two Mashatus

Following a flight from OR Tambo Airport in South Africa to Limpopo Valley Airfield in the Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana, guests are received at the stables where they will enjoy a light lunch on the banks of the Limpopo River, receive a safety briefing and meet their horses.

The hosts takes great care to match horse to rider based on a guest’s riding experience and professed ability. However, before embarking on the safari, each guest will be given a simple riding test in order to ensure that they are suitably balanced in the saddle and are able to direct their horse in an independent manner. It is crucially important for the safety and enjoyment of the whole group that riders are at least intermediate riders. While the journey is not an endurance test, it does involve long hours in the saddle and, with the possibility of close encounters with elephant and the big cats, riders need to be able to gently and confidently control their mounts.

If at this point a rider is unsure of the suitability of their selected horse, a horse swap is possible. The herd is quite uniform, consisting of well schooled, forward going but calm horses. They are mostly boerperd, a South African breed particularly suited to this type of work.

The route on this afternoon is from the Stables to Two Mashatus, a distance of 11km. It follows the Limpopo River floodplains, with good opportunities for those first exciting encounters with elephant, giraffe, zebra, ostrich and wilderbeest. The route crosses close to a large wetland area which acts as a magnet for game and there is even a chance to come across bat eared fox, black backed jackal and spotted hyena. It then crosses the Majali River close to its confluence with the Limpopo, a favourite haunt of leopards and a resident pride of lion. Across an open plain the famous Two Mashatus Camp awaits.

Central Reserve: Two Mashatu to Tree Camp

The first full day of riding crosses the game rich areas of the central reserve. Following breakfast at dawn, riders set off first along the Majali and then the Mataboli rivers in a north western arc towards the beautifully appointed Tree Camp. The route typically yields rich encounters with elephant, waterbuck, giraffe, impala, wildebeest and zebra. Signs of the many predators that make these rich riverine environments their home are bountiful, and chance encounters possible. The ride typically takes between four and five hours, and riders start to form a true bond with their individual mounts. The trappings of modern living begin to fall away as the sense of adventure and journey deepens.

Tree Camp will be reached in time for a refreshing shower and lunch. After a welcome rest in the comfort of the camp, nestled in the cooling shade of the majestic Mashatu Tree, a hearty tea will be served. This is followed by a guided bush walk up the Majali River in search of crocodile and other game. Kudu, warthog, klipspringer and eland are all present in the area around the camp, as are elephant, lion and hyena. Waterfowl fly low past the camp and birdsong abounds. This is a truly beautiful place and it is impossible not to immerse oneself in nature and experience the exceptional qualities of Africa’s wilderness areas.

Valley of Elephants: Tree Camp to Kgotla

Waking in Tree Camp is a magical experience. One feels fully immersed in nature, surrounded by birdsong, and alive to the new day as the early morning light filters through the majestic tree’s leaves. After a quick breakfast, riders set off on the journey’s first long ride – up onto the edge of the mini escarpment and then down, through the Valley of the Elephants and on towards the distant sandstone citadels guarding the Limpopo and Motloutse Rivers.

The first part of the journey is not to be hurried, as the horses wind along well worn elephant paths, past giant baobabs and the occasional shallow watering pan. Soon, however, the country opens up and the horses can start to stretch their legs along soft ground leading to the headwaters of a stream flowing off the ridge and down towards the Limpopo. This is prime elephant country and the guides are always on the lookout, using all their sharpened senses. Once the path leaves the river, the terrain is once again more open and the pace faster. A second river is then joined, which leads directly down to the veterinary control gate on the main road through Mashatu Game Reserve. The route then follows the road for a short while before heading across flat country towards the intriguing Sacred Rock massif. Here the mopane vegetation is short and it is safe to ride quite fast across the plain. Large herds of zebra, wildebeest and impala habit this area. The guides plot their route using individual mashatu, leadwood and apple-leaf trees as their markers.

Soon riders reach the old leadwood enclosure (used in the past as a traditional law court of a Botswana village) known as ‘The Kgotla’. This open-air enclosure forms the perfect, secure camp for the night. The camp is not far from the banks of the Motloutse River and, with high concentrations of game living along the river’s fertile floodplain, the area is home to large prides of lion and clans of hyena. The sounds of these predators at night provide enduring memories! In the afternoon, search for the area’s resident lion on a game drive and draw the day’s adventures to a close with sundowners at the ancient “Amphitheatre” rocks. Whilst big cat sightings from horseback occasionally happen, the outfitter follows a ride away policy. The best opportunities to approach lion, cheetah, leopard and spotted hyena occur whilst on game drives where the vehicle acts as a natural hide and is largely ignored by the predators.

Back at the Kgotla, dinner is enjoyed around a large log fire. The night is spent with a ceiling of stars and Africa’s night-time melody to sing you to sleep; a veraciously rare experience which is just about as far away from city life and the modern world as anyone can imagine.

Sandstone Cathedrals: Exploring the Motloutse

The riding this day is more relaxed and tailored to the group, since a different camp does not need to be reached by nightfall. A particularly interesting route to follow is first along the Motloutse River, stopping at well known elephant drinking holes to watch the herds come and go before winding down towards the impressive Solomon’s Wall, a tall dolomite dyke which was breached by the river in ancient times. This is the favorite haunt of troops of baboon, which are always fascinating to watch. The trail then follows the banks of the river, flanked by giant mashatu and leadwood trees, towards the mighty Limpopo. This area is renowned for its dramatic sandstone rock formations, steeped in color and home to eland, klipspringer and kudu.

Some of the oldest civilizations in southern Africa settled in this valley. Archaeological evidence in the area includes middle and late stone age tools, rock art and the legendary Mapungubwe Dynasty. Mapungubwe means “Place of the Jackal” in the Venda language and this dynasty existed around 1220 AD. The Mapungubwe topography itself is ancient and timeless and, combined with marvelous wildlife sightings, makes for an incredible riding experience.

The game drive in the afternoon takes guests to the foot of the impressive Mamagwa massif, a free standing formation which was used by British troops as a defensive position against incursions from the Transvaal Boers at the end of the 19th century. Sundowners are traditionally taken at the far western edge of the massif, with endless views over the wilderness landscape whilst watching the sun slowly slip over the horizon. The drive back to Kgotla in the dark provides more excellent opportunities to spot lion, leopard and hyena.

River Trails: Kgotla to Tree Camp

On this day the journey turns northeast and follows a series of river trails on the way back to the center of the reserve. Life in this arid environment is always concentrated near water, and the ride promises sightings of elephant, zebra, giraffe and wildebeest. The route crosses the watershed and then winds along ancient paths adjacent to a stream flowing north towards the Majali River. At these elevated heights, the sweeping views to the north reveal the true wilderness character of Mashatu Game Reserve. Baobab trees scatter the landscape as they have for centuries, and remarkably two of these giants are found growing directly in the stream itself. This provides an excellent spot for both horses and riders to stop for a rest and a drink.

The remainder of the day’s riding is a mixture of elephant trail trekking and canters across relatively open mopane veld. The final stretch is along the Majali River itself, past rocky pools, cliff faces and ribbons of green grass. Encounters with baboon, kudu, klipspringers and crocodile are likely. Tree Camp is finally reached after 4-5 hours of riding. That afternoon guests leave their horses to a well earned rest and will go either on a guided bush walk or, subject to availability, a game drive with Mashatu Main Camp guides. This opportunity, while provided at an extra cost, should not be missed as the near guaranteed sightings of lion and leopard, and sometimes of cheetah, are legendary. The guides are very knowledgeable about the structure and whereabouts of the various prides and individuals, and failure to find them is very rare indeed.

Deep into the Wilderness: to Two Mashatus

With an early departure from Tree Camp, this ride offers sweeping views to the east and south, bathed in early morning light, as it traverses along the edge of a ridge near the centre of the reserve. The path then descends to a game rich area along the Majali River. The deep river pools are the favorite haunt of baboon and impala. Sooner or later the great herds of elephant come past for their daily drink, to play in the water and enjoy a dust bath. The final part of the ride is first across open plains with some fast canters, and then through cool riverine vegetation along the approaches to Two Mashatus Camp.

This is the original Tuli Trail camp and is beautifully situated nestled amongst giant mashatu and apple leaf trees close to the banks of the Limpopo River.  This area typically boasts the highest density of elephants in the reserve, who sometimes roam through the camp in a gentle yet determined way.  It is also excellent for lion and leopard as well as baboon, bushbuck and waterbuck. Guests sleep in standard safari tents with en suite facilities.  After four to five hours in the saddle, this is the perfect place to relax.  On hot days the swimming pool at Two Mashatus is particularly welcoming.

World’s View

The day’s riding explores an area of the Northern Tuli which is hardly visited by humans. The route at first follows a stream to its source before arcing to the west on high ground and then descending to the upper reaches of the Majali River. It then follows the river all the way back to Two Mashatus. This is a relaxed ride during which guests become immersed in the wilderness. There are good opportunities to see elephant, giraffe, zebra, eland and kudu, but it is the sense of being completely away from manmade features that is so compelling on this ride. Spend your final night enjoying Two Mashatus camp.

Farewell: Two Mashatus to stables

The final ride is back to the Stables, following the Limpopo River upstream. The route passes game rich habitat, including a hyena den and a large wetland which can be home to large flocks of waterfowl. Other notable sightings include Kori Bustard, the largest flying birds in Africa, bat eared foxes and ostrich. Once at the Stables it time for a shower and meal on the banks of the great river, and then a short journey to the Limpopo Valley Airfield for the flight to Johannesburg in South Africa.

Itinerary Addendum

This itinerary is flexible. Changes may occur at the guide's discretion due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Tour Dates & Pricing

2024 departures & options, pricing & options.

• $4,790 High Season: April through November

Pricing Variation

• $4,040 Medium Season: February and March
• $3,415 Low Season: January and December

Transportation

• $1,050 Round trip charter flights (must arrive at OR Tambo by 9:30am on Day 1)

Wildlife Management Fees

• $140 Conservation levy of $70 is due on site in Botswana.

Additional Pricing Information:

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Do you have questions about this tour itinerary? Do you want to make sure that this it is the right tour for you? Or are you ready to book? Please call or email our experienced and friendly ride consultants for more detailed information. With first-hand knowledge of the exciting tours we offer, the tour consultants at Equitours look forward to answering any questions you might have

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Contact Megan Barrett

The Tuli Safari is an incredible adventure enabling equestrian enthusiasts to thoroughly appreciate spectacular landscape and a profusion of wildlife that is unique to the Tuli District of Botswana. Experiencing this majesty in a small group aboard willing horses under the guidance of personable and knowledgeable guides is unrivaled. The magic continues after dismount with evening game drives, spectacular sunsets savored from high vantage points, animated conversation over excellently prepared meals beside the fire, and culminating with the awe of gazing upon the majesty of the Southern Constellation before drifting off to sleep. This is a lifetime experience not to be missed.

Robert Savarese, 2013

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Horseback Safaris in BOTSWANA

Botswana is a land of vast wilderness and untamed beauty, and one of the top 2 destinations worldwide for a horse riding safari. Due to the abundance of big game the country caters mostly for experienced riders with a few options for more novice riders. Experienced riders seeking an exhilarating adventure will be thrilled with the fast-paced riding on offer. The terrain is vast and the number of tourists is deliberately kept low, meaning you are unlikely to encounter other visitors, with vast open spaces allowing endless opportunity for exploration and discovery.

For non-riders, there almost always options to enjoy overlapping itineraries utilizing jeeps, mokoros, or walking and meeting riders en-route. Botswana is undoubtedly big game country, so be prepared for close encounters with some of the most majestic animals on the planet including the Big 5 – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. A horse-riding safari in Botswana promises to be an unforgettable, lifetime experience that will be cherished for years to come. Regions of Botswana for horse riding safaris At Unicorn Trails, we take pride in our unique horse riding safaris across all three different regions of Botswana where there is good riding. These rides present some of the best game viewing that Africa has to offer and horseback safaris in Botswana will deliver the horse-riding holiday of a lifetime.

The best known and most famous is the world-famous Okavango Delta in the north, with its glittering waterways and teeming wildlife. We have a page devoted to riding in this unique environment, see Horse Riding Safaris in the Okavango Delta. This is one of the most exclusive places on earth for a horseback safari, one enjoyed by royalty from all over the world. There are several options for horseback safaris in the Okavango Delta. Horseback Safaris in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

When looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, a horseback safari in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans may just be what you're looking for.

The salt pans are different to the Okavango Delta, the most visited location in Botswana. For those with the time and money, this is an unmissable addition to the standard Okavango safari, and a unique safari destination in its own right. To ride on horseback through this vast landscape gives an appreciation not found on other safaris. Sit up high and surrounded by vast salt pans or ephemeral lakes depending on the season, interspersed with islands of bush teaming with game and bird life. Imagine hearing nothing but the sound of your horse's hooves and the occasional call of wildlife as you ride through this vast landscape.

Experience the huge zebra migration and close-up game viewing opportunities on our Kalahari Zebra Migration ride, which can also be combined easily with the Okavango Delta packages

The Most Underrated Riding Safari Destination - The Tuli Block

Nestled away in Botswana is an untouched oasis waiting to be discovered. This underrated safari destination is a paradise for adventurous riders who want to immerse themselves in the wilderness and get an up-close encounter with nature. It is the perfect escape from the noisy crowds of popular tourist spots and offers a more authentic experience.  The Tui Block Riiding Safari gives riders endless opportunities to explore the stunning Limpopo River, witness mighty elephants up close, and sleep under the starry African sky, it's easy to understand why the Tuli Block is being labelled an "untapped paradise".

Whichever part of Botswana you choose, with Unicorn Trails, you can experience the very best of Botswana's natural wonders in fully immersive horseback fashion. And most horseback safaris are easily combined with a visit to the Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe/Zambia border or Chobe Game Reserve.

With our expert guidance, independent advice, and extensive knowledge of the area, you can trust us to tailor the perfect excursion to suit your every need. So why wait? Call us today, and let the adventure begin! African Horseback Safaris in Botswana

Discovering the wild beauty of Botswana from horseback is an experience like no other. As your trusty steed carries you through the different landscapes, you'll feel a deep sense of connection with nature that's almost impossible to replicate. And there's no doubt that horses are the perfect companion for such an adventure; these magnificent creatures are tuned in with nature in a way that we can only dream of. Alongside expert tour guides who will help you navigate off the beaten track, you'll have the chance to see some of the most grand and awe-inspiring animals in the world - from towering elephants to majestic lions. An African horseback safari in Botswana is truly the perfect way to explore this stunning country, and the memories you'll make along the way will stay with you long after you've returned home. Discover Botswana on Horseback on a Horse Riding Holiday from Unicorn Trails

Embark on a horse riding holiday like no other with Unicorn Trails and discover the breathtaking beauty of Botswana on horseback.  Botswana has is no shortage of natural wonders to explore, from the enchanting floods of the Okavango Delta to the vast Makgadikgadi Pans and the wild Tuli Block. Imagine galloping alongside zebras and giraffes, or quietly observing elephants and lions in their natural habitat. This is not your average vacation - it's a true adventure, albeit a very luxurious one. A horseback riding safari in Botswana is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the environment and truly connect with nature. Relax in fully serviced luxurious campsites, while taking in the natural beauty that Botswana has to offer. So, why wait? Book your horseback safari vacation in Botswana with Unicorn Trails today!

• Horse Riding Holidays

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Intermediate

You're a secure rider on a well-schooled horse at all paces including cantering in open country. You're happy to ride for several hours and may have some jumping experience.

You're an experienced rider, confident and relaxed on horseback. You ride regularly, have an independent seat and soft hands. You're capable of handling a spirited horse in open country and are happy to jump. You have experience of riding a variety of horses.

Does not wish to ride.

Challenging

Different accommodations, attitudes or methods of riding are used to normal riding at home, may have challenging terrain, long days or itinerary changes, may involve camping or not so comfortable accommodation. An appetite for exploration and new experiences required.

Experience a huge zebra migration and flamingo flocks during November to March in Africa's largest ephemeral wetland, or from May to September/October in a blindingly white desert, with game easily located on grass islands with permanent waterholes. Interact with a habituated meercat colony and track with the San among baobab trees. This is an extraordinary riding adventure, ideal to combine with the Okavango Delta for the ultimate safari .

Arguably the best horseback safari  in the world for good riders. Frequent big game sightings, fantastic riding on an unbeatable team of horses. Luxury accommodation.

This is a 'bucket list' horse riding safari featuring luxury accommodation in the heart of the Okavango delta with fantastic game viewing and superb horses. Perfect for Intermediate and advanced riding skills, and  non-riders joining a group

A mobile camp adventure in the Okavango Delta. An ideal ride for intermediate and experienced riders.

A new luxury tented camp close to the Santantadibe River with all-year-round water in the game-rich Okavango Delta, with great riding for riders and safari activities for non-riders . Easily accessible from Maun, and excellent value.

The Tuli Block is home to a great diversity of wildlife species including large herds of elephant. Fast & exciting riding safari for confident intermediate riders with comfortable accommodation in a variety of semi-permanent camps around the Mashatu Reserve. A parallel mountain bike itinerary is available on request for non riding guests who are enthusiastic cyclists accompanying riding guests.

Combine 4 nights under canvas in the South African bushveld with 3 nights in the Tuli block, Botswana. This is a great combination, 2 countries in one ride with a huge diversity of wildlife and landscapes, our top recommendation and the best value safari available today! A new option with 3 nights in South Africa and 4 nights in Botswana is available from June 2024

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Van.k Horseback Safaris & Camps

Welcome to Van.K Horseback Safaris & Camps

Unleash your, inner adventurer.

where wildlife encounters and adventure unite amidst the untouched wilderness, where every moment is a chance to connect with the wild and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Welcome to Van.k Horseback Safaris & Camps

 A newly opened safari camp nestled in the heart of the Tuli Block, Botswana’s hidden gem. Our camp features four luxurious rooms, offering an exclusive and intimate experience for our guests.

At Van K, we specialize in horseback safaris, allowing our guests to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the Tuli Block in a unique and unforgettable way. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, our experienced guides will ensure that you have a safe and memorable adventure.

Join us at Van K Horseback Safaris and Camps for an unparalleled safari experience in the Tuli Block.

Embrace Your

The Tuli reaches from the southeast corner of Botswana where the Shashe and the Limpopo Rivers meet, down to the Notwane River north of Olifants drift in the South West. The entire conservancy area, including the adjustment safari is bordering the Tuli Circle. Comprises about 800 000 hectares. The Tuli Block is quite different from anywhere else in Botswana. It is referred to as the Hardveld because of the rocky out outcrops and the abundance of stones and pebbles of all shapes sizes. The red sand of the Tuli area is unforgettable trait, as well as the massive trees that occur along the banks of the Limpopo.

Full Guided Experince

Let the rhythm of hoofbeats lead you through the untamed wilderness, where every trail reveals a new story of nature’s beauty and majesty.

Get In Touch

Van.k Horseback Safaris & Camps welcomes you to experience the wild beauty of Botswana. Connect with us today to craft a bespoke safari, blending thrilling horseback explorations, cultural encounters, and the untouched marvels of Africa

Botswana Horseback Safaris

Multiple Ecosystems: Okavongo Delta, Kalahari Desert and much more

About Botswana Horseback Safaris

Botswana has a landscape defined by the Kalahari Desert and the Okavango Delta, which becomes a lush animal habitat during the seasonal floods. The massive Central Kalahari Game Reserve, with its fossilized river valleys and undulating grasslands, is home to numerous animals including giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs.

7 Tours in Botswana Horseback Safaris

Botswana Desert

riding-of-the-month

Meadows and dunes, an ideal land to speed up on horses.

Okavango Delta

hipopotamus

A good rider knows how to sort out the vicissitudes of floods.

Full Experience Okavango & Kalahari

Desert, delta & savannah.

Cavalcade in the delta, meadow and dunes, an unbeatable combination.

African Explorer

Matlapeng reserve + tuli reserve, south africa.

Five good reasons for riding our horses out of the established path.

Okavango and Kalahari

Okavango delta + kalahari desert.

The Delta has its own life, an area as fickle as a Greek God.

Kalahari and Okavango

Kalahari desert & okavango delta.

The floods of the Delta and the Kalahari meadows. Search for wildlife, no limits.

Mashatu Reserve

The greatest exponent of wild reserves in Africa.

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5 of the Best Riding Holidays in Botswana

African Horseback Safaris

With over 40 horses to choose from, there’s a mount to suit most riders at African Horseback Safaris .  You’ll need to be fit enough to ride for up to six hours at a time, and experienced enough to stay on at all paces.  Fulfil these criteria and you’ll enjoy a varied riding holiday in the Okavango Delta, sometimes quietly walking, stalking big game and admiring bird life, sometimes cantering through the water meadows alongside galloping giraffe and lechwe. With wildlife drives, boating, bush walks and fishing on offer, non-riding partners will enjoy the safari experience too.

Riding Safari with African Horseback Safaris

Okavango Horse Safaris

The original Botswana horse safari, Okavango Horse Safaris is owned and run by PJ and Barney Bestelink. Riding safaris here are built around five, seven or ten nights and allow experienced riders a glimpse of the Okavango Delta’s many diverse habitats. Safari wildlife is plentiful in this watery paradise and among the species you can expect to see are elephant, buffalo, giraffe and zebra, along with the likes of wild dog, warthog and ostrich.  You’ll spend around four to six hours in the saddle with the chance to game drive, bush walk or get onto the water in a mokoro most days.  Non-riders are welcome, but need to be booked in advance to ensure a holiday programme is designed for them. Owner Barney Bestelink says what makes us different is, ‘our 35 years’ experience in the Okavango Delta – we ran the very first horse riding safari in southern Africa and are pioneers in this field.  We have also been breeding our own safari horses for over 20 years, using our knowledge to produce horses to give our guests the very best experience.’

Champagne after a day in the saddle with Okavango Horse Safaris

Ride Botswana

Ride through the Makgadikgadi Pans with Ride Botswana and you’ll experience a wild, unspoilt area unlike any other in Africa.  The truly exceptional landscape of vast pans, sprawling open woodlands and good ground lends itself to an unforgettable riding safari holiday.  At the height of the migration season (which runs from November to April) the grasslands are awash with zebra, wildebeest, hartebeest and ostrich – and the attendant predators.   Spend an afternoon on foot and you can visit the meerkat families that live here – some are quite habituated to humans and may even use you as a look out post as they survey the African desert for danger.

Ride across the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana

What’s next?

These are just some of the riding holidays in Botswana available. We would love to hear from you, no matter how early in the planning process you might be for planning a riding safari in Africa. We’re passionate about Africa and would be happy to chat about creating your tailor made safari. Please get in touch with me.

2 responses to “5 of the Best Riding Holidays in Botswana”

Dear Cor and Louise, I am looking into a riding trip in Botswana and wanted to ask you if you have your iwn website? I seem to have reached you through a portal…?? I an wanting to ride for about 7 nights and your ride in ‘the land if the giants’ sounds good. Can you tell me more anout it pleade? I.e. where we sleep? Is it tents on the move ir do we return each day to the same camp? Also, pricing please? I am an experienced rider having ridden and competed all my life and hunted in the youth too. Hope I hear back from you, best, Sara

Dear Sara, Your enquiry has been passed on to the sales team who will be in touch. Best regards Renate

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• African  Horseback  Safaris - OKAVANGO DELTA -

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Led by talented guides, our guests have 450,000 acres of pristine wilderness of the Okavango Delta to explore on calm, experienced horses, offering exhilarating rides alongside big game, such as giraffe, zebra and elephant.

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Botswana is considered by many as equestrian heaven. Areas such as the Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, the Kalahari Desert or the Mashatu Game Reserve offer an exceptional setting for horseback riding. Add the abundance of wildlife and you have Africa in all its purity!

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Get best of two worlds in this ultimate Botswana horse safari, combining the Okavango Delta with the Kalahari Desert.

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The Top 25 Best Safari Lodges and Camps in Botswana

Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Matthys van Aswegen - 16 February 2023

Last Update: 10 May 2024

Botswana is consistently rated as one of the best places in Africa to go on a safari. It’s home to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park , as well as the hidden gems of the Kalahari and Linyanti. You’ll find ample opportunities to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) as well as a wide assortment of other exciting wildlife. 

Planning to go on a safari in Botswana? Get inspired with this round-up of the top 25 best safari lodges and camps in Botswana.

Mombo camp delivers authentic tented safari camping at its most luxurious in the world-renowned Okavango Delta floodplains. The camp puts a strong focus on customer experience and your every need is anticipated. Friendly and experienced guides make every game drive a trip worth remembering. 

Devotion to your satisfaction is a part of every experience at Mombo, and the deeply personalized service will leave you feeling pampered and cared for from every angle.

Highlights include:

• A photography hide
• Reliable Big Five sightings
• Scenic helicopter flights

Ideal for: Photographic safaris

Savute Safari Lodge

Nestled within Chobe National Park, Savute Safari Lodge is celebrated for its elegant accommodation and exceptional viewing of Africa’s largest elephant herds. The lodge’s strategic location offers a luxurious gateway to the wild, providing a serene backdrop for an unforgettable safari experience.

• A well-stocked library with views of watering holes
• Elevated decks for uninterrupted game viewing
• A refreshing swimming pool overlooking the Savute Channel
• Evening bonfires in a traditional boma setting

Ideal for: Birding safaris

Delightfully isolated San Camp is a must-go for anyone wanting to escape to the middle of nowhere and be immersed in the miracles of the African bush. Ensconced in the rolling golden grasslands and salt pans of the Kalahari desert, billowing white tents shaded by palm trees deliver a sense of the romantic.

This seasonal camp (November to March) is dedicated to making the most of the dry season in Makgadikgadi Pans and places a strong focus on the striking views of the salt pans and a game-loaded savannah, all of which can be scouted by horseback and quad bike (ATV).

• Delicious and innovative cuisine
• Meerkat interactions
• Bushman walks
• Tented yoga and meditation deck

Ideal for: Honeymoon safari

Tuludi Camp

Tucked away in the famous Khwai Private Concession and constructed in partnership with the local community, Tuludi camp is the ideal base if you’re looking to explore the fascinating Okavango Delta. When you’re done spotting elephants, hippos, lions, and leopards, settle into the stylish and polished camp to admire the breathtaking views of the spectacular wilderness in the shade of acacia trees.

• Private vehicle and guide with the family suite
• Mokoro safaris
• Night drives
• Excellent big game viewing

Ideal for: Family safaris

Jack’s Camp

Jack’s Camp is an iconic destination, offering a glimpse into an ancient landscape untouched by time. Set against the vastness of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, this camp is a sanctuary for those looking to step off the beaten path and into a world of exploration and wonder.

• Opulent safari tents with indoor and outdoor showers
• A plush, Persian rug-adorned mess tent for communal dining
• A refreshing pool pavilion for relaxation in the desert heat
• Private, guided walks to ancient baobab groves
• A specialist spa tent offering traditional treatments

Ideal for: Luxury safaris

Chobe Chilwero

Overlooking the sparkling Chobe river and limitless bushveld, Chobe Chilwero is a dreamy riverside retreat on the edge of the Chobe National Park. Whether you choose to explore the plains on a game drive or make your way along the waters in a boat, you can look forward to incredible wildlife encounters with lions, leopards, hippos, wild dogs, and buffalo.

Of course, no trip is complete without spotting the majestic elephants the area is famous for. A stay at Chobe Chilwero is everything you could hope for from a Botswana safari.

• Spa treatments in a treetop room
• A kids’ safari program
• Reliable elephant sightings
• Boat cruises on the Chobe river
• A tour of Victoria Falls in neighboring Zimbabwe

Ideal for: Family safari

Xugana Island Lodge

Xugana Island Lodge is a jewel within the Okavango Delta, offering an intimate setting for those wishing to connect with nature. Surrounded by water, this lodge is a haven for bird enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility in a lush, aquatic environment.

• Overwater chalets with panoramic delta views
• An elegant dining area set on a wooden deck above the water
• Sundowner cruises on the Xugana Lagoon
• A private bird hide for ornithology enthusiasts
• An open-air boma for atmospheric dining under the stars

Ideal for: Water-based safari

Situated in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, Okuti camp’s one-of-a-kind domed suites are built using wood, reeds, and canvas. Beneath the exterior of these masasas (houses of reeds) lies a lush interior with comfy furnishings. Each suite is raised on a wooden deck with rooms overlooking the tranquil Maunachira channel and Moremi’s flourishing wetlands. Expect views guaranteed to instill a sense of wonder and inner peace.

• Exploring the Delta by motorboat
• Custom safari vehicles for unparalleled game viewing
• Abundant birdlife

Ideal for: Birding safari

Sanctuary Baines’ Camp

The elegant and stylish Baines’ Camp delivers the classical safari experience with a twist of romance. Perfectly suited to couples, the camp offers a range of intimate activities from candle-lit dinners under the Milky Way to languid sunset mokoro rides on the Delta, dips in the star bath, and peaceful nights in a star bed where you can drift off counting shooting stars.

• Eco-friendly camp
• Boat cruises

Ideal for: Romantic safari

Leroo La Tau

Perched above the western bank of the Boteti River, Leroo La Tau offers a panoramic vista of the Makgadikgadi Pans. This lodge is a sanctuary during the dry season, as herds of zebra and wildebeest congregate at the river, offering an unparalleled wildlife spectacle.

• Cliff-edge chalets offering expansive views of the Boteti River
• A floodlit waterhole attracting nocturnal wildlife
• A serene infinity pool with panoramic wilderness views
• Themed cultural evenings with traditional music and dance
• An observatory deck for stargazing sessions

Ideal for: Zebra migration safari

Vumbura Plains

Somewhere between a beach house and a log cabin, each Vumbura Plains suite tucked away in the African wilderness delivers a light and airy escape from it all. The camp exudes a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere with an elevated deck that lets you take in the awe-inspiring views of the Delta’s floodplain. Guaranteed to have you soaking up the magic of the African bush with every breath.

• Walks safaris
• Hot-air balloon rides (April to September)

Ideal for: Mokoro safari

Moremi Crossing

Moremi Crossing, a pioneer in eco-friendly camping, stands on a palm island, offering a sustainable way to experience the heart of the Okavango Delta. Emphasizing conservation and community involvement, this camp invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the delta.

• A lounge and dining area built around ancient trees
• Spectacular sunset views from the elevated deck
• A variety of dining settings, including private bush dinners
• Nature walks led by experienced guides focusing on conservation

Ideal for: Affordable Okavango Delta safari

Xigera Safari Lodge

Be pampered at Xigera safari lodge, where comfort and style are the name of the game. Enveloped in the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta and its riverine forests, this 5-star destination will have you relaxing in the lap of luxury. From gourmet dining to top-class spa treatments, every aspect of your stay is designed to maximize well-being and deliver an unforgettable safari experience.

• Wellness center
• Fine dining
• Photographic safaris

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Rustic meets elegant at this spellbinding destination, where you have uninterrupted views of lush mopane woodlands and flooded grasslands. Nxabega is everything you’d expect from a 5-star hotel, from its opulent comfort to personalized service. Enjoy gourmet dishes or grab a coffee from the in-house barista before you retreat to your hanging daybed to soak up the wonders of the bush.

• Catch-and-release fishing trips
• WILDchild activities for kids

Ideal for: Kid friendly safari

Nestled on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Jao Camp oozes opulence and is only accessible by air. Built on a couple of levels rising into the tree canopy, this awe-inspiring safari destination incorporates natural materials and unique construction to deliver an out-of-this-world setting.

With floor-to-ceiling glass panels, you’re guaranteed awe-inspiring views of the verdant bush, while contemporary furnishings blend with local art and carvings for a sophisticated feel.

• Seasonal star-beds for nights under the Milky Way
• A one-of-a-kind spa
• Exclusivity in a private concession

Ideal for: Luxury Okavango Delta safari

Eagle Island Lodge

Positioned in the Delta’s stunning Xaxaba Island, Eagle Island lodge delivers a safari experience quite unlike any other. Here, timeless luxury meets Africa’s unique water-based experiences, skipping the rumbling 4×4 vehicles in favor of mokoro rides and barge cruises. Expect up-close sightings of wildlife like hippos, elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and all the big cats at this one-of-a-kind destination.

• Horseback riding
• Fish Eagle Bar on the water

Ideal for: Horseback safari

Selinda Camp

Located on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, Selinda Camp incorporates traditional African materials of wood, thatch, and canvas to blend in with its pristine surroundings. Unique and contemporary design meets the highest levels of luxury, with jaw-dropping views of the Selinda Reserve’s endless wilderness.

Keen photographers will be blown away by the resident hide’s spectacular views of wildlife and the custom-built safari vehicles that make sure you can capture those amazing shots.

• Reliable sightings of African wild dogs and lions
• One-of-a-kind architecture
• Walking safaris
• Boat cruise

Ideal for: Walking safaris

• Chobe Game Lodge

Moorish architecture and mind blowing decor make a stay at Chobe Game Lodge an unforgettable experience. As one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, this remarkable feat of design delivers the ultimate in luxury stays. Outstanding views of the wildlife-packed Chobe River are coupled with excellent levels of service, fine dining, and opulent accommodations. With such an upscale experience, you’ll be forgiven for forgetting you’re in the middle of the wilderness!

• Eco-friendly electric safari boats

Ideal for: Chobe river safari

Camp Moremi

Go off-grid without leaving behind the creature comforts of the modern world. Camp Moremi delivers the classic safari experience with classy thatch and canvas safari tents, guaranteed seclusion, and opulent levels of service. Moremi Game Reserve plays host to daily game drives, sunset cruises on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, and leopard-spotting excursions.

• Privacy and hyper exclusivity
• Boating safaris
• Incredible views of the Xakanaxa Lagoon

Ideal for: Xakanaxa safari

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Tucked away in the depths of the Okavango Delta, Sandibe is ensconced in the forest canopy and tranquil waterways. The ultra-luxurious setting, unmatched levels of service, and awe-inspiring views combine to deliver a safari experience you’ll remember forever. Cool off in the plunge pool between game drives spotting wildlife like elephants and lions while the friendly staff anticipates your every need.

• Distinctive architecture
• WILDchild kids’ program
• An interactive kitchen

Ideal for: Luxury safari

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp

Taking its inspiration from the plentiful water lilies of the Delta, Xaranna’s blend of chic yellows, lily pinks, and olive greens creates a calming atmosphere that will have you feeling at one with nature in no time. Unwind in comfort and soak up your time away from society while the staff takes care of your every need. Xaranna is the perfect place for couples and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the miracles of the wilderness.

• Kids’ activities

Ideal for: Family safari in the Okavango Delta

Tucked away in a verdant riverine forest surrounded on all sides by open floodplains, Abu camp focuses on heart-stopping encounters with its resident population of African elephants. This ultra-luxury camp gets its name from a local bull elephant and the camp’s light grey color palette goes even further to entrench the aesthetic. If you’re looking for a completely unique getaway, Abu Camp won’t disappoint.

• Star-bed sleepouts under the African sky
• Water-based safaris
• Elephant experiences

Tubu Tree Camp, situated on the remote Hunda Island in the Okavango Delta, offers guests a unique blend of water and land-based safari experiences. With its diverse habitats, the camp is renowned for its leopard sightings and varied wildlife. Each of the eight luxurious tents provide stunning views of the floodplains. 

• Wildlife viewing hide

Ideal for: Photographic safari

King’s Pool Camp

With breathtaking views of the King’s Pool Lagoon and the wildlife-packed Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, you’ll feel like royalty at this idyllic destination. 5-star accommodations and service meet the quintessential safari experience, and spacious, elegantly decorated suites will have you unwinding in no time. Extensive use of thatch and wood blend in seamlessly with the wonders of the bush, creating an atmosphere of sublime relaxation.

• Reliable predator sightings
• Opulent suites

Chief’s Camp

Safari chic meets tranquil luxury at Chief’s Camp. Situated in the heart of the Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve, here you’ll experience the very finest of what Botswana has to offer. Enjoy incredible views of the Piajio floodplain and all the creature comforts you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Reliable predator sightings and Big Five game viewing combine to deliver a safari experience you’ll remember forever while unmatched levels of service anticipate your every need.

• A children’s play area
• Reliable rhino sightings

Ideal for: Big cat safari

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POPULAR DESTINATIONS

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• Luxury Explorers Safari in Botswana
• Romantic Cape Town & Luxury Safari
• Masai Mara and Serengeti Combo
• Wildlife and Gorillas of Rwanda
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WILD INSIDE HORSE SAFARIS

BOTSWANA SAFARI

Set in the Tuli area of Botswana, in the expansive Mashatu game reserve, this is an amazing 'mobile' riding safari for those who are wild at heart. With 29,000 hectares to ride through, you simply cannot run out of new places to explore! The safari includes riding between three different stunning and unique camps over a seven day period.

This part of Botswana has a very wild feel about it, allowing you to relax and submerse yourself in to nature and your horse.

With around 700 elephants in the Mashatu reserve, this safari offers intense wildlife viewing, with other species including zebra, giraffe, kudu, eland, blesbok, wildebeest, impala and the occasional pride of lions or shy leopard.

Explore bushy scrub-land, rest under the magical Mashatu trees, and ride alongside rivers, including the stunning Limpopo River, home to hippo and crocodiles. Canter freely through the reserve and end each day resting and dining at camp.

Location : Northern Tuli Block, Botswana.

Nights : Seven.

Rider Limitations : For experienced riders only.

Season : January - December (all year).

Dates : Set dates throughout the year.

Riding : 3-5 hours per day. 

Included : All-inclusive of all riding, food and drinks, accommodation, and airport transfers.

Not Included : Flights, insurance.

Extra Costs : Tips for staff. Recommendation is around £15/$18 per day.

There will also be a conservation levy on arrival to Mashatu wildlife reserve in Botswana of £8.15/$10 per night.

(£57/$70 for seven nights).

Luggage : Rider's luggage will be moved by vehicle between camps. Due to the small aircraft from Johannesburg Airport to Botswana there is a strict luggage limit of 18kg. Luggage must also be in a soft case. No hard cases as these cannot go in the cargo hold. 

Flights : Flights must be booked to arrive and depart from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Riders will then take a charter flight to Botswana, which is booked for you and included in the cost.

Flights on arrival day must land at OR Tambo International Airport before 9.30am.

Flights on departure day must be no earlier than 8pm to arrive at Johannesburg airport in time from Botswana. 

Internet: This is a truly wild safari, and wi-fi will only be available at the stables as you arrive and leave.

The rest of the week you will have no access to internet! 

Discounts available for groups of eight.

ACCOMMOD ATION

This mobile safari includes three beautiful, unique camps:

CAMP TWO MASHATU

Named after the two giant Mashatu Trees that shelter it, t he trees give the camp a magical feel.

Riders sleep in walk-in A-frame tents with an en-suite bathroom.

Each tent is private and has it's own deck area for morning coffee. 

The sounds of Africa surround camp and guests can fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife.

This camp includes a rondavel lounge area and dining room. 

A camp built high in the arms of the Mashatu and Leadwood trees!

Guests share airy and cool sleeping pods, with a dining and lounge area overlooking the river.

Shared showers and toilets are also built up in the trees.

This camp is the ultimate 'tree house'!

KGOTLA CAMP

An open air camp where guests sleep on beds around a large fire and sleep under the amazing African night sky! ​

£3345

Single Supplement: £4001

(Feb, March)

£3828

Single Supplement: £4916

High Season

(April-Nov)

£4402

Single Supplement : £5691

Prices are per person sharing.

Single supplement is optional for solo travelers  who do not want to share a room. 

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Please note this is a sample only, individual experiences may vary slightly.

This itinerary acts as a guide to give you an overview of what your safari will be like.

DAY 1 : ARRIVAL DAY, STABLES TO CAMP TWO MASHATU

Riders will be greeted at the airport and transferred to reception at the stables. After an orientation and late lunch you will be introduced to your horse! Your horse will have been matched to you based on your experience, personality and any specific requirements you made before your trip.

You will then head out for a test ride, followed by an afternoon ride to camp Two Mashatu, giving you chance to get to know your horse and form a bond. As you set out on your first ride within the Mashatu Reserve you will already start to see some of the wildlife species!

Riders will head  back to camp at sunset for a delicious three course dinner. Sit around the fire after dinner and finally fall asleep in your tent, immersed in the African bush, and listen to the sounds of animals calling.

​ DAY 2: CAMP TWO MASHATU TO TREE CAMP

The day begins early as riders set out from Two Mashatu. Riders become at one with nature as they head out along the Limpopo river to the next camp.

Enjoy taking amazing pictures of the nature surrounding you, canter freely through the open bush, and learn about the flora and fauna from your guide.

You may bump into giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, impala, blesbok and kudu to name but a few!

Riders have the chance to relax and nap after lunch, before heading out again to explore. You are likely to see elephants and witness one of nature's giants from the back of a horse! Large herds of elephants pass by the group, stirring up the ground and taking everyone's breath away.

Dinner is served at Tree Camp, overlooking the Majale river. 

DAY 3 : TREE CAMP TO KGOTLA CAMP

After breakfast riders head out into the reserve again for further exploration and wildlife spotting. The group passes by rock formations, giant baobab trees and elephant trails, and riders have long canters through open scrub. Lots of wildlife can be seen along the way. The ride takes you along the Matlouse River and finishes up for lunch.

The group can choose between an afternoon walk or a ride to a rock formation known as 'The Ampitheatre'.

Dinner is served around the campfire at the Kgotla camp and riders sleep in the boma, with the stars and African night sky as their ceiling!

DAY 4 : KGOTLA CAMP

Day four includes a morning ride into the valley to view amazing sand formations. Combined with amazing wildlife sightings, the morning's ride will make sure rider's go home with their cameras  full!

After lunch, guests are taken on an excursion to the nearby Lentswe Le Moriti village to get a taste of local life, followed by a short and easy climb in the Mmamagwa Hills. As you enjoy sundowner drinks and snacks at the end of the climb you will be overlooking the Tuli area, with South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe spread out before you!

DAY 5: KGOTLA CAMP TO TREE CAMP

After breakfast the group saddles up for a long day of riding. By this point you will be well and truly bonded to your horse after so many beautiful experiences together.

The group travels through Elephant Valley, along ancient trails left behind by herds of elephants. You are likely to see plenty of wildlife along the way, including more elephant sightings.

Riders are often sore after this long, challenging ride so the afternoon is used for a game drive to allow aching muscles to relax!

Guides will try to track big cats to provide guests with great photo opportunities.

The night is spent back at Tree Camp.

DAY 6 : TREE CAMP TO CAMP TWO MASHATU

An early wake up with a hot drink brought to you in your tent. Riders head out for the morning on a long ride back to Two Mashatu camp, tracking animals with the experienced guide. The group rides along the beautiful Limpopo river and may spot hippo or crocodile!

Riders pass along empty river beds in search of tracks or spoors, and watch naughty baboons shrieking and playing in the trees.

On return to Two Mashatu Camp riders can relax around the pool before gearing up again for the afternoon ride and sundowners.

DAY 7: CAMP TWO MASHATU

A full morning ride in the reserve to explore the Pitsane River.

Great wildlife viewing is guaranteed as the group passes by regular watering holes which attract wildlife from all around. Riders take snack breaks under the  giant Mashatu trees between spotting wildlife.

After lunch riders can choose another afternoon ride or a bush walk for their sundowners. The group eats their last dinner together before retiring for the night.

DAY 8 : DEPARTURE DAY

One last morning ride in the reserve, before saying goodbye and  heading back to Johannesburg airport.

Africa will have well and truly captured your heart, and you will already be planning your next trip back!

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Horse Back Safari

Horseback riding in Botswana allows you to experience all that this magnificent land has to offer. Botswana is the immortal heart of the splendidly desolate and roadless Kalahari Desert. This wild land consists of endless savannahs, dunes, ephemeral lakes and salt pans, making the horseback experience a unique experience of a lifetime. This activity can be experienced in different parts of Botswana, such as the Tuli, Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi, Kgalagadi, and outside Gaborone. There are incredibly experienced and knowledgeable guides and well-schooled, responsive horses, all in an exceptional setting.

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Horse safaris in africa

Epic african horse safaris.

Discover Africa on horseback and have a wonderful horse safari riding holiday in Africa with Horizon Horseback . We have been running horseback safaris in Africa since 1993. With four african horse safaris ( Signature Safari, African Explorer, Family safari and the Tuli Safari)  to choose from in South Africa and Botswana, there is something for everyone.  Experience beautiful horses, incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and warm hospitality at our award winning and renowned horse riding operation.

We are dedicated to making sure that you and your family and friends have the most awesome horseback safari vacation possible, in the most outstanding wildlife destinations in Southern Africa.

Epic African horse safaris

Discover Africa on horseback and have a wonderful horse riding holiday with Horizon Horseback . We have been running horse safaris in Africa since 1993. With four african horse safaris ( Signature Safari, African Explorer, family safari and the Tuli Safari)  to choose from in South Africa and Botswana, there is something for everyone.  Experience incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and warm hospitality at our two internationally renowned riding operations.

We are dedicated to making sure that you and your family and friends have the most awesome horseback riding holiday possible, in the most outstanding wildlife destinations in Southern Africa.

epic african Horse safaris

Discover Africa on horseback and have a wonderful horse safari holiday with Horizon Horseback . We have been running horse safaris in Africa since 1993. With four horseback safaris ( Signature Safari, African Explorer, Tuli Safari and the Family Safari) to choose from in South Africa and Botswana – there is something for everyone. Experience incredible wildlife sightings, stunning scenery and warm hospitality at our award winning and renowned riding operation.

We are dedicated to making sure that you and your family and friends have the most awesome horse safari in Africa possible, in the most outstanding wildlife destinations in Southern Africa.

01. SIgnature safari

A Signature Safari horse riding holiday in South Africa, caters for all level of rider from experienced to complete beginner.

This horse riding safari offers an incredibly varied horseback riding experience for all levels of riders of all ages. The focus at Horizon Horseback is the horses and quality of riding. Rides are tailor made to suit our guests and we try to be as flexible as possible.

02. Tuli Safari

For the ultimate wildlife mobile african horse safari; seven nights in the Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana. Experienced riders only.

This journey embraces the true definition of a horseback riding safari: an expedition to observe animals in their natural habitat. From horseback, the beauty of the African topography, fauna and flora will unfurl.

03. African Explorer

A horseback safari combining four nights in South Africa with three nights in Botswana. For experienced  riders only.

The African Explorer is one of the most varied african horse safaris, in one trip it covers a lot of different topography and terrain, combined with excellent and wide ranging game viewing.

SIGNATURE SAFARI

From £1,736

FAMILY SAFARI

TULI SAFARI

From £2,625

AFRICAN EXPLORER

From £2,117

Horizon Horseback was voted the Best Horse Riding Safari in Africa in 2016, 2018, and 2019. The key ingredient of any horse riding safari is the quality of the horses. Our safari horses have been hand selected for their endurance, courage and responsiveness. Our horses are at ease with each other and within their environment, which generates calm and contented natures. As a result, we can offer our guests responsive, subtle and honest rides.horse 

• Beautiful Horses
• Professional guides
• Unique camps & lodges
• Prolific wildlife
• Affordable rates
• All levels of rider
• Families welcome
• Cross country jumping
• Polocrosse, swimming
• Multiple awards

Each day brought forth new and wondrous sightings and discoveries. We tracked elephant , lion and leopard and enjoyed close encounters with hyena, jackals and an abundance of wart hogs, to name but a few! An absolutely mesmerising experience.

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Wild Coast Beach Trail

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• DATES & RATES
• ACCOMMODATION
• DESTINATION

RELATED SAFARIS

An exciting beach horse riding adventure on the edge of africa.

Leave your watch behind and set off on a horseback adventure, complete with river crossings, phenomenal scenery and galloping down endless empty beaches.

Experience the freedom of coastal riding and fulfill every horse rider’s dream; cantering down vast empty beaches, with the sun on your face and the sea breeze in your hair. Explore the rugged, un-spoilt natural beauty of the Wild Coast. Rolling hills, deep gorges, and cliff tops that plunge into the ocean ensure that this is not just a beach ride; it is an adventure on the edge of Africa! An area easily accessible and malaria-free, the Wild Coast offers some truly ‘wild’ riding experiences. All rides are led by experienced guides who follow the tides for exciting but safe riding, including exhilarating canters and river crossings.

Taking you over rocky headlands, through rolling hills of the former homeland of the Transkei, and along vast tracts of empty golden beaches – it is the ultimate horse riding holiday. As you meander through sleepy tribal villages, the greetings from the local Xhosa people are warm and friendly. Their villages seem all but forgotten in this rural African wilderness and you feel like you are transported back in time.

CURRENCY CONVERTER

At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly

DATES AND RATES

7 night trails are usually scheduled for once a month. These trails are scheduled throughout the year to coincide with the new or full moon, ensuring that we get maximum low tides on the beaches and safe river crossings. Please enquire for exact dates.

Mini-beach trails are available most weeks and are great when you’re short on time, or if you’re looking to combine it with a safari. Note: this ride can take intermediate riders

7 NIGHT WILD COAST TRAIL

20 - 27 July 2024

17 - 24 August 2024

14 - 21 September 2024

12 - 19 October 2024

09 - 16 November 2024

30 November - 07 December 2024

USD $ GBP £ EUR € ZAR R52500 AUD $ per person sharing

7-NIGHT QOLORA TRAIL

02 - 09 August 2024

30 August - 06 September 2024

27 September - 04 October 2024

25 October - 01 November 2024

Other dates on request

USD $ GBP £ EUR € ZAR R44750 AUD $ per person sharing

4 NIGHT MINI TRAIL

05 - 19 August 2024

02 - 06 September 2024

30 September - 04 October 2024

28 October - 01 November 2024

USD $ GBP £ EUR € ZAR R21000 AUD $ per person sharing

Other dates on request for 4 or more riders

25 January - 01 February 2025

08 February - 15 February 2025 

09 - 16 March 2025

10 - 17 May 2025

07 - 14 June 2025

05 - 12 July 2025

02 - 09 August 2025

06 - 13 September 2025

04 - 11 October 2025

01 - 08 November 2025

29 November - 06 December 2025

USD $ GBP £ EUR € ZAR R57750 AUD $ per person sharing

15 - 22 January 2025

21 - 28 February 2025

28 March - 04 April 2025

25 April - 02 May 2025

23 - 30 May 2025

20 - 27 June 2025

18 - 25 July 2025

15 - 22 August 2025

19 - 26 September 2025

17 - 24 October 2025

14 - 21 November 2025

USD $ GBP £ EUR € ZAR R49950 AUD $ per person sharing

29 January - 04 February 2024

11 - 15 March 2024

18 - 22 March 2024

25 - 29 March 2024

22 - 26 April 2024

20 - 24 May 2024

08 - 12 July 2024

USD $ GBP £ EUR € ZAR R24500 AUD $ per person sharing

EXTRAS – SUBJECT TO CHANGE

TRANSFERS (Subject to change)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

There is no supplement for a single person if others are booked on the ride. Single rooms are subject to availability

SPECIAL OFFERS

GROUP DISCOUNTS Group of 5 or more: 1 rider gets a 25% discount Group of 8: 1 rider gets a free place

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

• All accommodation
• All meals at the hotels or local restaurants
• All riding activities on well trained and responsive horses
• Expert Guiding
• International flights to Johannesburg Airport
• Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
• Local flights to East London Airport
• Transfers to and from East London
• Refreshments bought at local restaurants & hotels
• Items of a personal nature
• Non-riding excursions and activities

QUICK FACTS

SUITABLE RIDING LEVELS

• Intermediate
• Intermediate Plus

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Thrilling and challenging riding along the rugged, remote and wild coastline of South Africa
• Get an insight into South Africa’s wilder and more remote side and explore its spectacular coastline
• For advanced riders, endurance fit horses make the pace fast and exciting
• Discover the beauty of rural South Africa and the friendly Xhosa People

TOUR REVIEWS

” African Horse Safaris helped me book my three week riding adventure on the wild coast, South Africa. Only knowing that I wanted to go riding somewhere in Africa, African Horse safaris helped me with coming up with several tempting riding holiday options that suited me and what I wanted to do on a holiday. I'm so happy with my decision to travel and I am so pleased with all help I got when booking. I got quick responses to all my millions of questions throughout the booking process and I ended up having a fantastic holiday. Would book any riding holiday with them again. Thanks so much for organising such wonderful trip and I have now memories to last a lifetime! Maria Nordvall Wild Coast, South Africa

SAMPLE ITINERARY

** Please note that this is a sample itinerary. All riding and itineraries are subject to change due to variations in local conditions, hotel accommodation availability, rider’s abilities, the weather & the influences of the sea tides and during the rainy season the conditions of the rivers tat the time of riding. Any chances to the itinerary will always be made with your best interests at heart.

7 night trails are scheduled throughout the year to coincide with the new or full moon, ensuring that we get maximum low tides on the beaches and safe river crossings.

WILD COAST TRAIL:  This adventure is for strong intermediate and advanced riders. Explore the rugged, unspoiled natural beauty of the Wild Coast of South Africa. Miles and miles of empty beaches, remote rural villages, spectacular countryside and fantastic riding! This is our most popular trail!

QOLORO TRIAL: An alternative itinerary for those who want a little more than a Mini Trail but not as much as our Wild Coast Horse Trail. With just enough adventure, this itinerary is ideal for all levels of riders. Custom dates created on request.

MINI BEACH TRAIL: A short and sweet riding holiday, riding through the inland trails and along the beaches. This itinerary is ideal for all levels of riders, but most suitable to intermediate and above.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL & BEACH RIDE

On arrival at East London Airport, you will be transferred to Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, the base of Wild Coast Horse Trails. A light lunch is served, and then you will change into your riding clothes and be taken to the beach paddock. The afternoon is a short introductory ride around the local area. It will allow you to blow away those travelling cobwebs and get to know your horse for the week. A relaxed, friendly evening meal and a good night’s sleep await you back at the guesthouse. Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge.

DAY 2:FULL DAY RIDE WITH WATERFALL PICNIC

Your horse riding adventure starts now! After a light breakfast, it’s back up to the paddocks. A short ride down to the Kei River and then a crossing by ferry to ride over rocky headlands and long stretches of beach. The guides will take you to hidden waterfalls for a picnic lunch and a swim if you choose! Then it’s to Seagulls Hotel and its friendly guest house beach vibe. Here, you can stretch your legs on the beach or unwind with a beer by the pool before enjoying a great dinner and time with your riding group. The unhurried itinerary will give you plenty of time to explore the hotel. Overnight at Seagulls Hotel

DAY 3: RIDE TO MAPEZZA BAY

You will awake to the sound of the sea and the solitude of being somewhere on the edge of Africa. Now it’s time to move on with a distance of 40km to be covered. Heading from the hotel, you will continue up the coast, traversing rolling hills and sandy beaches and passing through rural settlements. You cross several inland river drifts, and then the ride veers back to the sea for a breakfast or lunchtime picnic on the beach. Tides permitting, the rest of the day is a breath-taking ride on long, endless beaches, which means faster riding and the thrill of a good horse in a great location. Another traditional beach hotel, Mazeppa Bay, is your next stop. Exploring the secluded beach will lead you to a suspension bridge onto one of the only islands along the coast. A pleasant evening soaking up the relaxed atmosphere allows riders to unwind after a challenging day in the saddle. Overnight at Mazeppa Bay Hotel.

DAY 4: DOWN THE GORGE TO KOB INN

The next leg of your adventure is “The Gorge”. This route takes you through a beautiful river ravine and over some tricky terrain. Once through the rocky river bed, the ride heads back to the sea through valleys and along winding cattle tracks before reaching your next destination – Kob Inn. You arrive just in time for lunch. In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to relax and soak up the laid-back hospitality of another coastal treasure. With a pub on the rocks overlooking the wild seas and sheltered private beaches on either side, this is an exquisite location to kick back and truly embrace ‘Africa time’. Overnight at Kob Inn Hotel.

DAY 5: FULL DAY RIDE

You should be fresh and ready for a full day in the saddle today. The tides dictate the day’s schedule, taking you about 20 km up the coast along sheltered beaches into hidden coves and beautiful lagoons. Your guide will select a suitable spot for you to enjoy a picnic and a swim in a lagoon before returning to Kob Inn for an evening of delicious dining and maybe a few cocktails! Overnight at Kob Inn Hotel.

DAY 6: RIDE TO WAVECREST

It’s time to head back down the coast again. Once more, the timing of the day’s riding will depend on the tides as you cross rivers, climb hills and speed along beaches on your way to Wavecrest Hotel. After a good +/- 30km ride, in the afternoon, you can indulge in some pampering at the Wavecrest spa; maybe explore the rare mangrove forests by boat or canoe. More South African coastal hospitality awaits you as you relax and allow yourself to be spoilt by the Wavecrest team. Overnight at Wavecrest Hotel.

DAY 7: BACK TO KEI MOUTH

From Wavecrest, if the tide is right, the ride back to Kei Mouth will be fast-paced and along the beach. After dropping your horse off at the beach base for a well-earned rest, you will have a late lunch at the country club. Alternatively, after an inland start, we will stop for lunch en route and hit the beaches at low tide for some fast canters in the afternoon before arriving back in Kei Mouth. Your last night of trail is spent, once again, at the home and guest lodge of Julie-Anne & Clint, where they will treat you to a typical South African Braai, finishing off a week of unforgettable riding with the warm hospitality that the Wild Coast is known for. Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge.

DAY 8: DEPARTURE

Depending on your departure time, you could squeeze in one more ride before the shuttle picks you up to transfer you back to the airport.

7 NIGHT QOLORO TRAIL

Day 1: ARRIVAL

On arrival at East London Airport, you will be transferred to Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, the base of Wild Coast Horse Trails. A light lunch is served, then you will change into your riding clothes and be taken up to the stables. The afternoon is a short introductory ride down to the beach to get acquainted with our horse and the tack.  Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge

Day 2: MORGAN BAY CLIFF RIDE

After breakfast, head out to the neighbouring town of Morgan Bay. Here you’ll ride through the village and to the cliffs. These rolling green hills offer incredible views, and at certain times of the year, you’ll even be able to see dolphins and whales playing in the surf. Enjoy lunch at Yellowwoods and a relaxing afternoon. Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge

Day 3: WATERFALLS RIDE

You’ll ride along the beach this morning and then load the horses on the ferry to cross the Kei River. Ride inland, following the trails until you enter the forest clearing. Tie the horses to the trees to graze as you head to the little waterfall to enjoy a picnic lunch and a swim. Overnight at Seagulls Hotel

Day 4: QOLORA RIVER

You’ll have a day to explore the area, riding to The Gates, one of the famous landmarks in the area. Then, back down to the beaches around the Qolora River Mout. Overnight at Seagulls Hotel

Day 5: RIDE TO WAVECREST

This morning, ride to Wavecrest Hotel & Spa. The beach north of the hotel offers a long sandy track, perfect for an extended leisurely canter or faster gallop. In the afternoon, enjoy a river cruise, paddle, swim or treat yourself to a massage. Overnight Wavecrest Hotel

Day 6: MORNING RIDE & AFTERNOON AT LEISURE

Today is taken at a leisurely pace. Head out for a morning ride and spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoying the activities offered by the hotel. Overnight Wavecrest Hotel

Day 7: KEI MOUTH

Today, you head back to the starting point, either taking the inland or coastal route, depending on the tides. Enjoy a last braai with your hosts and an evening chatting about your adventures. Overnight Kei Mouth Guest Lodge

Day 8: DEPARTURE

Day 1: ARRIVAL & INTRODUCTORY RIDE On arrival at East London airport, you will be transferred to Kei Mouth and the beach base of Wild Coast Horse Trails and their equestrian colleagues. A light snack will be served at the Kei Mouth Guest House, and you will change into your riding clothes. Your horse riding adventure starts now! The afternoon ride is about an hour and is there to assess your riding and ensure you have been matched to the right horse. The trail takes you down to the river mouth and you’ll have the chance for a first canter along the beautiful beaches. Overnight and dinner at Kei Mouth Guest House

Day 2: RIDE TO WAVECREST Today, you’ll start your overnight beach adventure! It is a full day of riding along the coast and inland trails, and the scenery is simply stunning. There is a good chance of spotting dolphins racing us in the surf as we canter along the many beaches. Lunch is a picnic and a chance to soak up the sun and sea before heading to the hotel in the afternoon. Overnight and dinner at Wavecrest Hotel

Day 3: BEACH RIDE & AFTERNOON EXPLORING The departure time this morning is dictated by the tide. It is a fantastic 3-hour ride up the beach and back inland through rolling hills and traditional villages or the other way around, depending on the tides. Either way, you get to ride on the beach at low tide, and the gallops are exhilarating. You’ll generally be back at the hotel in time for lunch. Alternatively, you might pack a picnic lunch if the weather and tides are favourable. In the afternoon, there is a choice of activities. You can head up the river and explore the stunning mangrove estuary of the Nxaxo River by canoe or boat, hike or just relax in the Jacuzzi! Overnight and dinner at Wavecrest Hotel

Day 4: BACK TO KEI MOUTH Today, you’ll start the journey back to Kei Mouth. You’ll ride inland this morning, crossing the river high up and away from the tide’s influence. The cattle paths and roads offer great canters as you wind your way back to the beach. Then, head towards Kei Mouth and the pontoon crossing before dropping the horses off at the paddocks. Enjoy a late lunch before heading back to the guest house. Overnight and dinner at Kei Mouth Guest House

Day 5: DEPARTURE On your last morning, if time allows, you’ll explore the cliffs and village of Morgan Bay and have one last canter down the beach. You can shower and change before being transferred back to the airport.

FOOD & DRINKS

MEALS A continental type breakfast is served every morning and includes cereal, fruit, preserves, toast, tea/coffee. Depending on the hotel, you might get an additional cooked breakfast.  Lunch is a picnic lunch of sandwiches or wraps eaten out on the trail, or pub lunch with toasted sandwhiches, hamburgers or similar dishes. Dinner is a typically South African fare, including seafood, stews, pies, etc all served with seasonal vegetables and/or salad.

Coffee, Tea and Juice is served with breakfast and included. For picnic lunches, a juice will be packed in. Water is always available and your water bottles will be filled by the team. Dinks & refreshments bought at the local bars & restaurants are not included in any of the rates and you can pay this locally by credit card or cash.

THE ACCOMMODATION

The hotels are comfortable, old fashioned, family sea side resorts, that are made for sandy feet, sun kissed skin, wind blown hair and they welcome us horse riders with informal relaxed Wild Coast hospitality.

KEI MOUTH GUEST LODGE

Kei Mouth Guest Lodge is a comfortable accommodation in the heart of the sea side village of Kei Mouth. There are 3 rooms inside the main house, and a 2 bedroom apartment upstairs. There is a cozy lounge and dining area, and a large garden to relax in. You’ll spend your first and last nights here, ending with a traditional local braai or BBQ done by Julie-Ann’s husband.

SEAGULLS BEACH HOTEL

Leave the hustle and bustle behind as you enjoy this peaceful beach hotel. This is an old-style, rustic family hotel celebrating the old-world charm and ruggedness of the Wild Coast. The spacious grounds stretch across the sealine creating spaces for families to connect, couples to unwind and children to be children. Breakfast, lunch and dinner catered by expert local hands and sundowners on our deck overlooking the crashing waves lend themselves to a peaceful sleep in the clean and spacious rooms.

MAZEPPA BAY HOTEL

Mazeppa Bay Hotel is a thatched building, with palm fringed beaches, and a island make this a unique stop over. The hotel complex consists of double rooms, family rooms and thatched rondavels, each with its own en-suite bathroom, providing comfortable accommodation. A sparkling pool virtually on the beach will keep everyone cool on a hot day. Mazeppa is a paradise for those inclined looking for those secluded coves or beaches far from the maddening crowd.

Kob Inn is located on rocks at the edge of the sea! This is a lovely hotel where you spend 2 nights of your Wild Coast Adventure. It offers a perfect mixture of Wild Coast hospitality, adventure, relaxation and homely comfort. The hotel has a large grounds, a swimming pool and a bar overlooking the sea. Rooms are all en-suite and all have sea views.

WAVECREST HOTEL

Wavecrest Hotel is stunningly situated, the thatched rondavels make this a cosy retreat. At the Wavecrest Hotel and Spa, you can walk along kilometres of sparkling white beaches, go canoeing and boating on a pristine estuary, discover indigenous dune forests that ring with the sounds of birds, swim in a wild and warm ocean, and watch pods of playful dolphins and migrating whales moving by.

THE DESTINATION

The wild coast.

The Wild Coast is one of South Africa’s most remote stretches of shoreline. Stretching from East London in the Eastern Cape all the way north to Port Edward and the southern border of KwaZulu-Natal, the region boasts some of the most beautiful and dramatic coastal scenery in the world. It is a place of steep green hills, rugged rockfaces, plunging cliffs; a land of untouched pristine white-beaches, forests, untamable waves – and numerous shipwrecks.

TOUR GALLERY

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Incredible untouched wilderness

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Resting after an exhilarating gallop

Wild Coast FB 01

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Meeting the locals

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Deserted beaches equal epic gallops

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Some incredible views

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Breathtaking scenery

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River Crossings are a highlight!

Morgan Bay Photographer - March 2022 5

Wildcoastexpedition19.

Ride along the narrow cow paths

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Loading the barge to cross the river

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Riverside riding

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Unspoiled Beaches ready for long canters!

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Some inland areas have a sub-tropical feel

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Evening swims

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Exploring traditional villages

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Take in the serenity of these beautiful beaches

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An arial view of Morgan Bay

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Living the dream

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Views for days

Horse on Ferry (1)

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An arial view of riding along the beach

Morgan Bay Photographer - February 2022 1

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Every now and then you might find a road

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Rugged landscapes and endless views

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Evening swims and river crossings

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Horses on the Ferry

Gareth Yearsley May 2021 2

How we care for our horses.

Our horseback adventures are hand-picked for their quality and care of their horses. Here’s how the horses are kept in tip-top shape for your safaris. Our horses are on top of the hierarchy and receive very special care:

• All horses live out and are looked after in a holistic way
• The inter-connection between horses and people is an integral part of our beliefs and we live by this equine philosophy
• After a 7 night Wild Coast Horse Trail horses get a week to 10 days off
• The horses are rotated as needed depending on the fitness schedules, trails, and individual needs

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Everything you need to know about going on safari – including cost, where to go and what to wear

W hether on drives, on foot, on horseback or by boat, safaris definitely deserve a place on your bucket list, offering exquisite wildlife experiences in the natural world.

These are once-in a-lifetime trips that take you to the most beautiful places on the planet where you’ll see wildlife at its most incredible – whether that’s thousands of wildebeest thundering across the savannah , rare mountain gorillas frolicking in the rainforest, or big cats aplenty prowling for prey.

You’ll then relive these experiences around the campfire under a sky full of stars, or dream about them tucked up in tents against a soundtrack of laughing hyenas or lions roaring into the night.

But a safari is like no other holiday you’ll ever go on so they can take some planning. There are lodges to book, game drives (or walks) to organise, and a safari wardrobe to pack. To help you get started, below are answers to the key questions you’ll need to ask when planning your trip.

What are some of the best-known safaris?

Let’s be honest, safaris are complicated. Faced with a bewildering array of destinations, accommodation styles, seasons, and wildlife wonders, how do you choose the right one for you? Focus on three simple questions: what’s your budget, when can you travel and – crucially – if this was your only safari, what would you really want to see?

Botswana’s Okavango Delta is renowned for romantic, luxury camps and huge herds of elephants in its watery wilderness, while Tanzania ’s Serengeti and Kenya ’s Maasai Mara are famous for the annual migration of two million wildebeest and zebras, with predators in hot pursuit. Kruger in South Africa and Namibia’s Etosha offer great family options and easy self-driving. South Luangwa in Zambia has a tradition of walking safaris and Zimbabwe has inspiring conservation projects. Birders love Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, with over 600 species to spot, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the go-to for good-value gorilla tracking, with Rwanda ’s Volcanoes National Park the luxury alternative.

It’s worth using the expertise of specialist tour operators to advise on and arrange everything from the moment you land at the airport to your choice of lodges or camps and all the travel between them: they’ve already done the research. Check out Yellow Zebra , Expert Africa , Safari Consultants , and Far & Wild Travel . For safaris with children, try family specialists Coral Tree or Bushbaby .

Read more on Africa travel:

• Where to go on holiday in Morocco, from Marrakech to Fes
• How to experience Africa’s wildest coastline from the comfort of your balcony
• Does Ryanair’s deal with Morocco point the way to more open African skies?

How much does a safari cost?

Whether you splash out or remain within a relatively moderate budget depends on the country you go to, where you stay, and when and how you travel. Botswana , Tanzania and Kenya are generally the most expensive, with South Africa and Namibia the best value. You might want fly-in safaris or private transfers and game drives, or be happy on an overlander truck (for these, try Dragoman or Intrepid ). Accommodation ranges from chic eco-lodges with butlers, pools and fine dining, to simple camping in the bush. As a rough guideline, expect to pay from £4,000 a week per person for an all-inclusive relatively mid-range low season safari to a hefty £12,000 for an uber luxe lodge high season.

What time of year is best for African safaris?

For the best wildlife sightings, go in the dry season when animals converge at waterholes and rivers, and grasses are low. In East Africa, this is usually from June to October and December to March. In southern Africa, aim for June to October. As climate change impacts, however, seasons are becoming increasingly unpredictable.

What should you wear on safari?

Wear neutral clothing in khaki and beige to blend in with nature’s bush palette, avoiding brights and whites. Leave blues and blacks at home too: these attract the nasty nip of tsetse flies. Evenings require cool long sleeves and trousers to deter mosquitoes but take something warm too – early morning drives in open vehicles can be surprisingly chilly. On walking safaris, wear long trousers and walking boots or comfy, closed-toe shoes to traverse bush terrain moulded by wild animals, from well-trodden hippo trails to rutted, ankle-twisting mud trampled by elephants. For rainforest gorilla tracking, pack waterproofs and gardening gloves (to protect against nettles and thorns). Most camps and lodges offer laundry services, so pack lightly if your itinerary includes small bush planes.

How long does a safari take?

A number of very good safaris are just a few days (it’s even possible to do day trips in places like South Africa), but far better to take things slowly, staying longer in each location to relax, enjoy the camp and visit villages or projects nearby. If you fancy a ‘bush and beach’ combo or adding another country (Rwanda for gorilla tracking, maybe) then it’s certainly worth going for two weeks (or even three if you’re able).

What is a typical day on safari?

This will totally depend on the safari you take, but you’ll usually have two guided activities daily, including drives or walks in the early morning and late afternoon avoiding the hottest times when animals, particularly lions, are slumbering. Other activities might include horse riding, mountain biking, night drives, visiting villages or conservation projects. There’s plenty of afternoon downtime and some camps even offer spa treatments, a pool or a small gym. Food is plentiful and usually international standard. And the best part? Sundowner G&Ts at a beauty spot, perhaps by a waterhole with elephants…

Read more: The bustling African city four hours from London hoping to break records

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The best Africa cruises for 2025 and 2026

Nothing quite says "bucket list" like a cruise to Africa.

You get wildlife safaris, ancient wonders of the world and some of the most fascinating cultural epicenters on the globe all in one trip. Are you starting to understand why a cruise here is so unique?

Africa is a big continent, and you'll find almost as many ways to cruise as marvels to see. Whether you want to visit Africa's tropical Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean or prefer the dramatic red sands of Namibia on the Atlantic coast, you can do it on a cruise ship — even on the same itinerary.

And that's not all! You can book intimate river cruises on Botswana's Chobe River or Egypt's Nile River, a rite of passage for many a cruise fan. (We've highlighted Viking below for its vast number of sailings, but Lindblad/National Geographic, Uniworld and Avalon Waterways all offer Nile itineraries as well.)

Whether you're looking for an expedited South African highlights cruise or a multiweek African continent adventure, you can find a cruise itinerary to suit you. Here are our picks for the best Africa cruises in 2025 and 2026.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 11- to 13-night South Africa & Madagascar cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line has some of the most robust and varied Africa cruise options of all the big-ship lines, with 13 sailings ranging from 11 to 21 nights in 2025 alone.

Among the most popular offerings is the Cape Town to Mauritius (or reverse) route on Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Dawn. These 11- to 13-night cruises combine the highlights of Cape Town with the wildlife wonders of Madagascar. The latter is one of the most enthralling safari destinations in Africa; 90% of the plant and animal species on the island are endemic, including 103 varieties of lemurs. But Madagascar is also a destination that even hardcore safari enthusiasts often skip because flights and lodges are hard to book, making a cruise the perfect way to get there.

NCL's itineraries also visit Pointe de Galets, Reunion — a lush beach and rainforest area on the Indian Ocean. Norwegian Dawn's 12-night itinerary adds a stop in Maputo, Mozambique.

Who should go : The 1,944-passenger Norwegian Sky and 2,290-passenger Norwegian Dawn are some of the smallest and oldest ships in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet. They suit cruisers looking for a more intimate experience than what you'll find on bigger ships. Africa cruises tend to draw cruisers who care more about the destinations they visit than onboard attractions, but the ships will still entertain you with multiple eateries and bars and lounges, several pools and whirlpools, a casino and a theater with nightly shows.

Related: The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise ships, explained

Azamara: 18-night Western Africa Voyage

Azamara offers an 18-night Western Africa Voyage sailing between the Canary Islands and Cape Town. The 704-passenger Azamara Quest calls on the ports of Dakar, Senegal; Banjul, Gambia; and Luderitz and Walvis Bay, Namibia, along the African coast. The ship also stops at the British-controlled island of St. Helena.

Book excursions to seek out the elusive wild horses of Namibia, take a sightseeing flight over the massive shifting sand dunes of Sossusvlei, race through the desert in a four-wheel-drive vehicle and explore the waterways and villages of Gambia.

Azamara also partners with Micato Safaris for pre- and post-cruise Africa programs to see the "Big Five" (Cape buffaloes, lions, rhinoceroses, elephants and leopards). You can book safaris in Chobe National Park in Botswana or Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Who should go : ​​Azamara caters to affluent, well-traveled cruisers who enjoy smaller vessels, a country house ambience and itineraries that focus on destination immersion. (You won't find waterslides or roller coasters, and that's exactly how the line's fans like it.) Azamara creates an immersive African experience with its focus on longer stays in port; for example, the ship spends two full days in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Additionally, the line's complimentary AzAmazing Evenings program takes cruisers ashore to experience cultural performances in jaw-dropping locations, such as the "Desert Dinner & Fire spinners and Marimba Band" event in Namibia.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: 16-night Shores of Madagascar: Cape Town to Port Louis cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers a 16-night itinerary along the southern coast of South Africa and on to Mozambique and Madagascar, concluding in Port Louis, Mauritius. The 750-passenger Seven Seas Splendor departs Jan. 27, 2026, on this itinerary and then repeats the sailing in reverse, from Port Louis to Cape Town, on Feb. 12, 2026.

Along the way, Regent offers some unique shore excursions that set it apart from other lines. Highlights include safari game drives in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, from Richards Bay; cultural explorations of Durban, South Africa, with visits to Zulu villages in the Valley of a Thousand Hills; and birding in the remote Mayotte, French Comoros.

Who should go : Regent's all-inclusive luxury cruises — which include airfare, transfers, onboard beverages and dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi and unlimited shore excursions — have correspondingly luxurious prices. Passengers are mostly affluent professionals and retirees who enjoy the seamless ease of an all-inclusive sailing offering high-end service.

Fine dining fans will appreciate the multiple onboard dining options, including Chartreuse for fine French cuisine and Prime 7 with steakhouse menus. Other diversions on board include the sybaritic Serene Spa and a pool deck, plus boccie, a putting green and golf nets for sea day enrichment.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Oceania Cruises: 14-night Cape Town to Cape Town cruise

If you'd prefer a deeper exploration of southern Africa, Oceania Cruises' Cape Town to Cape Town cruise Jan. 19. to Feb. 2, 2026, explores South Africa's coast in an unusual up-and-back itinerary, first exploring the east coast up to Richards Bay, then heading to the island of Madagascar, then looping back to the mainland and stopping in Maputo, Mozambique, before returning back to Cape Town.

Highlights include Durban, with its golden beaches and enchanting Indian Market, and Port Elizabeth on the southern coast of South Africa, an area nicknamed the "Garden Route" for its verdant foliage. Port Elizabeth is also a popular migratory path for southern right whales that you might spot, along with schools of dolphins, as you sail.

Oceania offers longer Cape Town to Lisbon, Portugal, and Cape Town to Barcelona itineraries (as well as Lisbon and Barcelona to Cape Town sailings) of 25 and 26 nights, too. Ports include the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, the Ivory Coast and Ghana. Along the way, you'll stop at Walvis Bay on the western coast of Namibia, with its iconic red sand dunes; here, you'll have a chance to see flamingos, pelicans and thousands of other migratory birds.

Who should go : Oceania Cruises offers a high-end cruising experience with a residential feel similar to staying in an elegant estate. The intimate 670-passenger Nautica features a relatively uncrowded setting, with a higher crew-to-passenger ratio than you'll find on mass-market vessels. On board, guests delight in several high-end restaurants offering gourmet cuisine and elegant accommodations.

Viking: 11-night Pharaohs and Pyramids cruise

Not all Africa cruises are on the ocean. A trip down the Nile River is a tick on many a traveler's wish list, and Viking offers one of the easiest-to-book options with seven ships sailing its Pharaohs & Pyramids cruises . In 2025 and 2026, sailings depart nearly every day in the October to March high season, though no sailings are scheduled for the second half of June through the end of July.

The round-trip Cairo sailings feel incredibly exclusive, with ships carrying just 82 passengers on board. The itinerary begins with several days in Cairo, where guests can visit the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, museums and souks before sailing down the Nile. Your ship will linger multiple days in Luxor, Egypt, home of the Valley of the Kings; spend a day in Qena, Egypt, to see the Dendera Temple complex; and stop in the ports of Esna, Aswan, Kom Ombo and Edfu, Egypt.

Who should go : Adults-only cruise line Viking appeals to travelers who appreciate a relaxed onboard experience centered around learning about a destination via guest lectures — in this case, Egyptologists — and shore excursions. The cruise line's passengers tend to be retirement age or older.

Viking's fans love the ships' uncluttered Scandinavian-inspired decor and pricing that includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner, gratuities and one free shore excursion per port. The ships do not have an onboard casino or entertainment spaces beyond the main lounge area, but a shaded pool and sundeck offer a relaxing outdoor venue to watch the river scenery.

Related: 10 hot river cruises to book this year

AmaWaterways: 9-night Discover Africa cruisetour

If you're someone who loves the equivalent of a travel buffet and appreciates having a little bit of every experience on your plate, then AmaWaterways ' incredibly unique Discover Africa cruisetour itinerary is for you. (AmaWaterways also offers Nile cruises.) For this journey, guests start with two full days of guided tours and three nights in a luxury hotel in Cape Town before flying to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and transferring to the Chobe River where you embark on the 28-passenger Zambezi Queen for a four-night cruise traversing the wildlife areas of Botswana, including safari drives into the savannah.

Then, it's back to Victoria Falls to see the thundering waterfall and explore the area by both steam train and smaller sailing vessel during your two-night stay. The adventure ends with a flight to Johannesburg, where you can continue your adventure independently or with a post-cruise extension or fly home.

Who should go : AmaWaterways attracts active guests who appreciate the multiple included excursion options at every port and the line's attention to both wellness and exceptional culinary offerings. The river cruise line's Africa sailings use a chartered ship, so you won't find its signature Wellness Host leading fitness classes or cuisine vetted by the prestigious culinary organization La Chaine des Rotisseurs. However, Zambezi Queen offers unique activities like fishing and bird-watching, as well as dining that AmaWaterways calls "five-star home-cooked cuisine." A local mother and son duo from a nearby village prepare all the meals for an authentic taste of the region.

Zambezi Queen also has a plunge pool on the sundeck, so you can soak up the African views while you take a dip. All rooms have balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, so you're never far from a safari view.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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What it's like to go on a bushwalk in the Kalahari desert

A bushwalk with Ju/’Hoansi-San guides adds a fascinating dimension to a safari in Namibia’s northern wilderness.

On an African safari, it’s good to adjust your viewpoint from time to time. As your impressions shift, the experience deepens. Wildlife-watching from the deck of a lodge or the back of a safari vehicle can be exciting and inspiring, but that’s nothing compared to the thrill of taking the front seat or, even better, exploring a nature reserve on foot. At ground level, sounds and smells seem amplified: the crunch of sand or twigs underfoot, the tang of hot dust, the sweet whiff of wild herbs in the air.

Ready to summon a rush of raw emotions? Try doing what I’m doing: hunkering down in the tawny grass for a lion’s-eye view of things. It’s highly unlikely that we’ll be surprised by a big cat here in northeast Namibia’s Nyae Nyae Conservancy — counting both guides and guests, there are well over a dozen people on my morning bushwalk, and there’s safety in numbers. But there are definitely predators in this stretch of the Kalahari Desert, somewhere, and there’s every chance that we’ll spot their tracks.

We’ve sunk down on our haunches for an impromptu lesson in fire-starting. Our guides are a party of Ju/’Hoansi-San (the /’ denotes one of the 48 different click sounds in their dialect). Dressed for the occasion in traditional antelope skins and beads, they’re showing me some of the old ways.

Prompted by a dignified elder, /Kaece, and his wife, //‡Oro, the lesson unfolds. It starts, swiftly and simply, with friction. “Speed and steadiness is important, and strong hands,” says /Kaece via Tsamkgao !I/ae, my Ju/’Hoan interpreter.

Using rapid palm movements to rotate a vertical stick in a notch in a second stick that’s laid horizontally, /Kaece generates enough heat to create curls of smoke in a bird’s nest-like bundle of dry grass beneath. Cupping the grass, he blows softly, jerking his head away with a grin when the first flames leap out. “If you think that looks easy, give it a try,” says Tsamkgao. I quickly discover it’s not easy at all.

With hands smarting from the effort, I rise to my feet, feeling slightly giddy. A shimmer of heat haze blurs the horizon. We press on, /Kaece and his extended family leading me along sandy paths trodden by many generations of antelopes. Pausing every so often at a low tree or shrub, they show me which leaves can be chewed or crushed and used as a stomach medicine, antiseptic or stimulant. Next, they demonstrate which tubers, when hacked open, deliver precious drops of water — a crucial resource in this endless-seeming swathe of arid scrubland, devoid of rivers or waterholes. In the Ju/’Hoansi’s gentle company, this sun-baked landscape seems bountiful and positively hospitable, but I’m fully aware that if they left me here alone, I wouldn’t stand a chance.

Southern Africa’s San, who sometimes call themselves Bushmen, have always considered themselves the oldest people on Earth. Genetic research suggests that for most of the past 150,000 years, they were the world’s largest ethnic group. In recent centuries, however, they have dwindled to around a hundred thousand, with the Ju/’Hoansi a minority within this population: it’s thought that just a few thousand Ju/’Hoan speakers remain.

In the early 20th century, the Ju/’Hoansi were still living a nomadic life, hunting and gathering in the wildlife-rich region that later became Etosha National Park. Etosha was recognised as an official reserve in 1907, and within 50 years, the pre-independence apartheid government had driven the nomads out of their traditional hunting grounds or n!ore, the Ju/’hoansi word for ‘the place to which you belong’. Banned from Etosha, they were pushed east into an isolated, arid and hostile block of the Kalahari that the government called Bushmanland, adjoining the border with Botswana. Most settled in or around the ragged village of Tjum!kui (or Tsumkwe), around 300 miles from Etosha. Forced to abandon their hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the Ju/’Hoansi struggled to adjust. Their culture of equality and tolerance was not suited to a system in which the best way to get their voices heard was to appoint leaders and committees, and they have been marginalised ever since.

Ecotourism projects like my bushwalk offer glimmers of hope, however. Run by the Ju/’Hoansi on their own terms, they generate funds for the communities, while protecting nature and keeping ancestral skills alive. The Ju/’Hoansi’s understanding of native botany has created other opportunities, too: a root called devil’s claw, for example, is in international demand as an anti-inflammatory treatment for rheumatism and arthritis.

“Whether it’s for tourists or for medicine, it’s our knowledge of plants in the bush that pays for modern essentials like transport and schooling,” says Tsamkgao. “If things were different and we didn’t need money, we could survive by foraging and hunting for just a couple of hours a day, leaving more time for socialising or making art. It’s hard to imagine a healthier lifestyle.”

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• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION

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