Horseback riding experiences

Being on horseback allows you to get close to animals like the endangered roan and sable antelope or the usually skittish Hartmann’s mountain zebra without disturbing them. Beginners and advanced riders alike can ride across the grassy plains and red dunes, drink in the beauty of the Kalahari landscape and enjoy its stillness.

Round these parts, horseriding is almost a given! The even savannah leads perfectly into the lush foothills of Mount Kenya, and there are plenty of lodges on pretty conservancies that offer guided rides to find the wildlife. If you can't imagine a better way to explore the plains of Kenya, we're happy to arrange a multi-day excursion. Enjoy a safari from the back of your wild guide, where you can spot protected wildlife like black rhino (Laikipia is home to around half of Kenya's population) and the rest of the Big Five, as well as gangly giraffe, herds of Grevy's zebra and buffalo, and if you're lucky, the beautiful African painted dog.

Feel like a cowboy from the region, horse riding a nature reserve near Hacienda Bambusa. There amidst beautiful landscapes, an experienced rider will guide you through a wide forest reforested with native tree species, a pineapple crop and some streams, along the way you will also find cattle and impressive buffaloes. This experience will ensure very funny moments during calm landscapes and narrow paths surrounded by lush trees. Al fresco rustic lunch at the end of the activity. Round trip transfer to Hacienda Bambusa included (around 25min each way)

Serengeti means 'endless plains' in Swahili and we can think of no better way to experience it in all its wild glory than with a safari on horseback. Cantering across the savannah, forget any mention of the 'beaten path' and camera-toting crowds. Keep your eyes wide open for migrating herds of zebra and wildebeest. With elephant, loping giraffe and swaggering big cats - if luck is on your side, a cheetah may speed into the scene. The riding pace is varied, often affected by the terrain and wildlife sightings, and you'll have a choice of thoroughbred or local breeds. Return to your lodge for the night or enjoy a multi-day ride, stopping to camp each night. Horse riding experience is a necessity so this is not really an activity for beginners.

Horseriding has deep roots in the island country of Mauritius and you'll have a chance to see its powdery-soft beaches and lush, forested interior from the saddle. In true island style, canter through the gently washing waves and sea breeze on horseback or head inland to ride up mountain trails, through dense rainforest and past the tranquil waterfalls. You could even ride right into the sea for a dip with your four-legged friend. Mauritius is lovely at any time of year (minus hurricane season) but its at its loveliest between May and October when the humidity is low, the temperatures are balmy and the sun is ever-present.

Starting from La Estela stable, the tour will take you towards the point of the Viedma lake and the beginning of La Leona river. After riding these shores, you will eventually arrive at the Guanaco river. During this journey you will ride with world famous views of this place, the Fitz Roy and Torre Peaks together. You will also learn a little about about the flora and fauna of this southern Patagonian region. Depending on the season, you may be able to sample wild calafate's berries. 7,30 hs. Pick-up at your hotel. Excursion/tour presentation. 8,30 hs. Stop at the second Argentine Lake lookout. Informative geological explanation of the area. 9,15 hs. Arrival at La Leona Roadhouse. Breakfast. Brief history and overview of La Leona with a chance to visit the small museum. Transfer to La Estela. 10,00 hs. Arrival at La Estela and a chance to visit the ranch. 10,30 hs. Start riding towards Viedma lake on horseback, riding towards Guanaco river. 13,15 hs. Lunch at the “Matera” on the ranch. 14,45 hs. Coffee/tea will be served at the saloon/recreation room 14,30 hs. Drop-Off at your Hotel.

In the morning, you’ll meet your four-legged companion and stride out on a guided ride around the vineyards and estates of the Franschhoek region. With the wind in your hair and the sweet smell of the flora in the air, there’s no better way to experience the beautiful countryside. You'll have a choice of horses and routes to suit your riding level, from fast-paced gallops along mountain passes to lingering walks through the orchards. You'll have worked up an appetite and after lunch in Franschhoek, you'll have the chance to sample the area's finest wines. Bottoms up! If you're visiting in the warmer months (October to March), book a sunset ride when the Winelands are bathed in gold.

Depending on your plans for the day, head out in the early morning or late afternoon to explore the dunes, island roads and beaches on horseback. In the category of unique activities, this ranks highly on our list. You'll get a feel for the natural rhythm of Bazaruto as you navigate overgrown paths abuzz with birdlife, and canter past glassy lakes and across powdery white sand beaches. You could even go swimming with your horse and it doesn't much more magical than that.

In the morning, you’ll meet your four-legged companion and stride out on a guided ride around the vineyards and estates of the Stellenbosh region. With the wind in your hair and the sweet smell of the flora in the air, there’s no better way to experience the beautiful countryside. You'll have a choice of horses and routes to suit your riding level, from fast-paced gallops along mountain passes to lingering walks through the orchards. You'll have worked up an appetite and after lunch in Stellenbosh, you'll have the chance to sample the area's finest wines. Bottoms up! If you're visiting in the warmer months (October to March), book a sunset ride when the Winelands are bathed in gold.