Galloping Through the Wilderness: Horseback Safaris in Africa

Looking for a unique way to experience the untamed wilderness and abundant wildlife of Africa? Enjoy an unforgettable adventure on a horseback safari! 

Imagine riding alongside wildlife, traversing vast plains, deserts, and mountain ranges, and connecting to nature in a truly deep and meaningful way.

Here are a few of our favourite horseback safari destinations, each offering their own unique combination of luxury, adventure, and unforgettable wild encounters…

Nestled on the slopes of the Chyulu Hills in southern Kenya, ol Donyo Lodge offers riders a safari experience like no other. Situated within an exclusive wilderness hideaway between Kenya’s famous Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks, this lodge provides panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding savannah.

ol Donyo is renowned for its exceptional horseback safaris, designed for both novice and experienced riders. Here, you’ll ride through the diverse terrain of lava rock, acacia woodlands, and savannah grasslands, all while getting close to giraffes, zebras, elephants, and other iconic African wildlife. Each ride is tailored to suit the experience of the group, making it an inclusive adventure for all.

In addition to the wonderful wildlife encounters, ol Donyo boasts luxurious accommodations with private plunge pools, delicious cuisine, and the chance to sleep under the stars on your rooftop bed. Whether you’re on horseback or relaxing in camp, you’ll be immersed in the wild heart of Kenya!

In western Uganda, overlooking Lake Mburo National Park, Mihingo Lodge offers one of the most serene and intimate horseback safari experiences. The lodge is perched atop a rocky kopje, surrounded by bushlands and savannahs where you can witness diverse species like zebras, topis, and impalas.

What sets Mihingo apart is its emphasis on conservation and eco-friendly tourism. The lodge’s horseback safaris take you through unspoiled terrains that are less frequented by traditional safari vehicles, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive wildlife experience. Riders can enjoy the thrill of cantering alongside herds of game or trotting through the tranquil plains.

Perfect for riders of all levels, Mihingo offers both short morning and longer afternoon rides, ensuring everyone can experience the beauty of Uganda’s wilderness. After a day of adventure, guests can retreat to their luxurious tented rooms, enjoy a dip in the infinity pool, or indulge in the lodge’s spa services.

For a truly unique horseback safari, Namibia‘s Wolwedans in the NamibRand Nature Reserve is an experience like no other. Known for its vast desert landscapes, Wolwedans offers a surreal experience of riding through shifting sand dunes, dry riverbeds, and the wide-open plains of the Namib Desert.

Horseback safaris here are a sensory delight, as the desert’s stunning red and orange hues come alive at sunrise and sunset. The rides take you into the heart of the Namib Desert, where you can spot oryx, springboks, and other desert-adapted species in this ethereal landscape. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, Wolwedans caters to all, offering guided safaris that immerse you in one of the most extraordinary ecosystems on Earth.

The lodge itself is an eco-conscious haven, combining sustainability with luxury. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the desert from their tents or chalets, dine under the stars, and relax knowing they are contributing to conservation efforts in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.

In the heart of the Kalahari Desert, Tswalu Kalahari offers horseback safaris that are as vast and varied as the landscapes they explore. As South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu covers over 100,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, making it the perfect location for adventurous horseback safaris.

The horseback experience at Tswalu is both thrilling and intimate, allowing riders to explore the desert’s sweeping dunes and grassy plains. You’ll have the chance to ride alongside iconic African wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and even the rare black-maned Kalahari lion. For equestrian enthusiasts, Tswalu’s well-trained horses and expert guides ensure a safe and exhilarating adventure.

The luxury of Tswalu’s lodges, complete with private suites, world-class dining, and personalized service, complements the wild adventures. With a strong commitment to conservation, Tswalu ensures that guests experience not only the beauty of the Kalahari but also contribute to its preservation.

Ant’s Hill and Ant’s Nest, located in South Africa’s Waterberg region, are renowned for their family-friendly horseback safaris. With a strong focus on tailor-made experiences, they ensure that every rider, from beginners to advanced, can enjoy the thrill of exploring the African bush on horseback.

The Waterberg is a malaria-free region teeming with wildlife, and horseback safaris here allow guests to get up close to rhinos, buffalo, and various species of antelope. The flexibility of rides – whether short excursions or full-day adventures – make this the perfect destination for families, offering something for all ages and skill levels.

Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill pride themselves on creating a relaxed, homely atmosphere with luxurious accommodations. The combination of intimate safari rides, gourmet cuisine, and personalised service makes this a top destination for those looking to combine adventure with comfort.

Ready to ride off into the African sunset?

Contact us to arrange your luxury African horseback safari today!