Botswana’s Okavango Delta is truly one of the last great havens for Africa’s wildlife – and especially for the big animals. This is a land of elephants, buffalo and hippo, of lion prides and wild dog packs, crocodiles and hyenas.
So you’d be forgiven for initially thinking that it’d be a crazy idea to put yourself on top of a horse and immerse yourself in this world. But a guided horseback safari is the perfect way to become part of this world rather than stand out in it. And when you are part of the African wilderness then all sorts of things can happen.
Horseback safaris offer you the chance to ride alongside antelope, zebra and giraffe instead of disturbing them. It’s a great way to see birds and small animals going about their business as well as the African heavyweights – elephant, buffalo and rhino – in a natural, relaxed setting. The views from the seat of a saddle are superior to any 4X4 and your off-road capability is second to none: horses can access wetlands and trackless bush, making it easier to find wildlife compared to being in a vehicle or on foot.
This is an elemental safari experience: the thud of hooves on African soil, the smell of wild sage, a soaking cloak of Okavango water while galloping across sun-dazzled floodplains.
And in case you’re wondering about encountering lions while you are on horseback – well, if there’s anyone who wants to meet lions even less than you do, it’s your horse. In fact, given the keen senses of your horse – not to mention your accompanying armed guides – you have all the protection you need.
Can anyone do it? Alas, no: the Okavango Delta is not a place to learn how to ride. You have to be at an intermediate plus level or higher, as well as riding fit and comfortable with all paces – including galloping out of what could be trouble. Generally aimed at adults, horseback safaris can be enjoyed by older children (12+) who are strong and competent riders. You should also be ready for what could be a long day in the saddle though you can choose between Western and English styles.
Horseback safaris in the Okavango Delta are offered by a number of operators. Most have been riding and operating horseback safaris in Botswana for decades and the standard of guiding as well as the quality of horses and equipment is very high throughout. These operators use what are called ‘private concessions’ in the Okavango Delta, exclusive-use areas that ensure an unspoilt and private wildlife experience.
You’ll be based at a safari lodge for your stay and can choose different ways to enjoy your horseback safari. A whole day can be spent in the saddle, returning to camp at sunset, but you can also mix up your available safari activities. A day could begin with an early morning horse ride to be followed by an afternoon river cruise, canoe trip or 4X4 game drive. And since you’ll be in a private concession, your guides are allowed to conduct walking safaris and spot-lit night drives to add to your experience.
And then you can choose a sleep-out option and live like the adventurers of old: exploring on horseback during the day and fly-camping under the stars at night. You’ll sleep on a bed roll under a mosquito net with comfort supplied by hot water basins, a bucket shower and toilets; recommended for wildlife watchers – this type of camp takes you into the heart of the action.
Generally available throughout the year, Okavango Delta horseback safaris are usually a better experience during the May to October dry season. There is little chance of rain, the malaria-risk is at its lowest and the vegetation is lower and thinner, making wildlife easier to see. And during the driest and mildest months – May to August – you’ll have the Okavango Delta flooded to its highest level with concentrations of animals increasing as the dry season gets warmer in September and October.
Horseback safaris are ideal in combination with other destinations both local – Victoria Falls, the Chobe National Park – and further afield such as Cape Town or Namibia, and the lodges cater easily for non-riders with a variety of safari activities.
