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If you’re looking for a unique Botswana safari experience that brings you closer to the wilderness, a horseback safari could be the ideal adventure for you! Explore diverse landscapes and see incredible wildlife in an eco-conscious way.
Why Should You Go on a Horseback Riding Safari in Botswana?
Diverse Landscapes
Botswana is made up of diverse terrains, from wetlands and savannahs to desert landscapes, all of which make for spectacular backdrops to a horseback riding safari. All of these ecosystems support an array of wildlife for you to spot.
Get Closer to Wildlife
A horseback safari is a non-intrusive way to see wildlife up close. Animals tend to be less disturbed by the presence of horses compared to vehicles or people on foot, enabling you to have more natural wildlife encounters.
Eco-Friendly Way to Explore
A horseback riding safari allows for a more intimate safari experience – one where you can be more immersed in nature. It’s also an eco-friendly way to experience the wilderness of Botswana.
Ride Alongside Wildlife
A horseback safari in Botswana gives you the incredible experience of riding alongside zebras, giraffes, and antelope in stunning landscapes. This is a whole other experience compared to game drives, as you’re able to get closer to these incredible animals.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
If you’re an adventure seeker or perhaps an avid safari goer looking to have a unique experience in the wild, a horseback riding safari could be ideal. This experience takes you way off the popular routes and gets you into areas rarely explored by safari vehicles.
Best Destinations for Horseback Riding Safaris in Botswana
Okavango Delta
The world’s largest inland delta, the Okavango Delta is famous for its scenic floodplains and abundant wildlife. It’s an excellent wildlife destination as it’s home to the Big Five (rhino sightings are rare, though) as well as hippos, zebras, and giraffes.
Makgadikgadi Pans
Riding across the expansive salt flats of Makgadikgadi Pans is a surreal experience! While the landscape is awe-inspiring, so is the wildlife. While on horseback, you can spot migrating herds of Burchell’s zebra and blue wildebeest, as well as giraffes, lions, and the occasional leopard.
Tuli Block
Famous for its rocky landscapes and ancient baobabs, Tuli Block supports large populations of elephants and is known for regular sightings of big cats. Also home to ancient historical sites, including San rock paintings that give insight into the land’s past.
Selinda Reserve
Selinda Reserve provides riders with access to both water and dryland trails. The wildlife population is thriving here due to the reserve being part of the Great Plains Project, which focuses on conservation tourism.
Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari Desert is unique for its desert-adapted species and open vistas. Galloping across the arid landscape will definitely be a highlight of a Botswana safari! Animals to spot here include wildebeest, oryx, and springbok, as well as the occasional lion and hyena.
5 Tips for a Horseback Riding Safari in Botswana
1. Know and Communicate Your Experience Level
It’s important to be upfront and honest about your riding experience to ensure your safety and that of the group. Ensure you inform us to help you choose an operator that caters to your riding skill level.
2. Pack Smart
Pack proper riding clothes for your horseback safari to ensure safety and comfort. Always wear a helmet while riding.
3. Visit During May to September
The dry season in Botswana is the best time for a horseback riding safari. Not only is there less rain, but the weather is cooler (around 25–28 degrees Celsius, or 77–82 degrees Fahrenheit), and the game viewing is excellent.
4. Be Prepared
Horseback riding safaris can be physically demanding, especially multi-day excursions. It’s important to maintain good physical condition so you can have the best experience possible.
5. Choose Experienced Guides
It’s important to select experienced guides who know the landscape. When you book with Discover Africa, we’ll ensure that your horseback riding safari is with professionals in the field.
