Africa is a dream destination for horse enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled combination of dramatic landscapes, thrilling wildlife encounters, and the timeless connection between horse and rider.
Among the continent’s most celebrated horseback safaris are the Beach + Safari Trail in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, the Namibia Horse Safari trails, and the Okavango Horse Safaris in Botswana. Each of these horseback adventures promises unforgettable experiences, but which one truly stands out? Let’s explore their offerings.
The Beach + Safari Horse Trail – Eastern Cape, South Africa
The Beach + Safari Trail in South Africa’s Eastern Cape is a spectacular fusion of adventure and relaxation. Riders traverse pristine, endless beaches, cantering alongside the waves and even swimming with their horses. Inland, the trail meanders through game reserves where encounters with giraffes, zebras, and antelopes provide thrilling wildlife moments.
Key highlights:
• Pristine, untouched beaches perfect for cantering.
• Wildlife encounters including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
• Unique combination of beach and bush landscapes.
• Well-trained horses matched to each rider’s ability.
• Exceptional guides and top-tier accommodations.
Riders rave about the connection they feel with the horses and the intimate wildlife encounters. With exceptional guides and top-tier amenities, the Beach + Safari Trail has garnered glowing reviews from seasoned riders who have explored trails across the globe.
Location: Eastern Cape, South Africa
Duration: 7 Days
Cost: €245 per person per day
Included: Airport transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks, expert guides, boat cruise, game drive.
Okavango Horse Safaris – Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta in Botswana offers a completely different experience, with its lush, water-filled landscapes teeming with wildlife. The Okavango Horse Trails are renowned for their immersive bush rides, where encounters with elephants, hippos, and predators like lions and leopards are common. Riding through the delta’s floodplains, riders often wade through water channels, adding an element of thrill and novelty.
Key highlights:
• Lush landscapes of the Okavango Delta.
• Frequent wildlife encounters, including elephants and lions.
• Thrilling rides through water channels.
• Luxurious lodges and gourmet cuisine.
Location: Okavango Delta, Botswana
Duration: 5, 7 & 10 Days
Cost: From £735 per person per night
Included: Luxury tented accommodation, meals, local drinks, game drives, bush walks, boat and mokoro (dug-out canoe) rides.
Namibia Horse Safaris – Country Wide, Namibia
Namibia’s horse safaris are famous for their rugged beauty and remote adventure. These trails take riders deep into the heart of the Namib Desert, where dramatic dunes, rocky outcrops, and vast, arid plains define the landscape. Wildlife sightings are less frequent but incredibly rewarding, with oryx, springbok, and desert-adapted elephants making occasional appearances.
Key highlights:
• Remote trails through the dramatic Namib Desert.
• Wildlife sightings including oryx and desert-adapted elephants.
• Challenging rides ideal for experienced riders.
• Nights spent under the stars in simple camps.
Location: Namibia
Duration: 10 & 11 Days
Cost: From £527 per person per night
Included: Riding, accommodation, meals, drinks while on rides, transfers to starting point, return transfer to airport, activities listed on itinerary.
The Verdict
Our 1st choice: The Beach + Safari Horse Trail is the Best Horseback Safari in Africa.
While all three safaris offer incredible experiences, the Beach + Safari Trail in the Eastern Cape delivers unmatched value and variety. Combining the exhilaration of galloping along untouched beaches with the thrill of close wildlife encounters in the bush, this trail offers the best of both worlds.
Key reasons why it stands out:
• Most affordable option compared to other trails. Exceptional value for money.
• Diverse landscapes, from beaches to bush reserves.
• The only safari and beach horse trail in the world!
• Stellar feedback from seasoned riders worldwide.
• A seamless blend of adventure and relaxation.
• Exceptional guides and a deep bond formed with the horses.
For equestrian enthusiasts seeking the best horseback safari in Africa, the Beach + Safari Horse Trail is the ultimate choice. It combines stunning landscapes, unforgettable riding, and remarkable value, making it an experience that leaves a lasting impression on every rider.
