"There are some moments I shall always remember, like the time we cantered back to camp just after sunset, with the sky a riot of mauves and pinks. I looked up through the dust raised by the horses' hooves and saw the moon just starting to rise. I reined in to watch it - huge and yellow above the thorn trees. As the sound of the other riders receded, it was just me, my horse and the gathering African night, in a landscape that seemed as ancient as time itself. It was a perfect moment."

Riding in the African bush is an ever-changing and stimulating experience: from quiet walking through thick bush on the lookout for birds and game, to long trots and canters where the going is good. Nothing in the bush is predictable and the sense of anticipation of what you might see heightens all your senses.

The terrain underfoot dictates the pace taken. Short grasslands and sandy tracks are generally good for an extended pace (trot and canter), slowing to a walk over rocky areas, descending and ascending steep mountain escarpments and moving through long grass or wet areas. Riders will have to dismount and lead their horses over the most difficult parts and it is therefore advisable to wear comfortable walking/riding boots with rubber soles. We stop for a break every hour to rest the horse's backs and for a drink or snack. Water bottles and saddlebags are provided. We prepare picnics to carry in saddlebags on longer rides. Each day may be different, but we generally spend two to four hours in the saddle daily. On very hot days, we will ride early and late in the day to avoid the midday heat. For safety, we do not ride if there is lightning.

Experience has shown us that competent riders prefer riding in small groups (4-6 people) where they can enjoy an intimate and personal contact with their guide and the environment. Our guides, apart from being experienced horsemen and women, are also bush-wise and will readily share their considerable knowledge with you.

The care and well being of our horses takes top priority and they are responsive, alert and forward-going. They are our greatest and most beloved asset and we take extremely good care of them. Breeds include the South African Boerperd, Arabs, Friesians and Thoroughbreds of 14.3 to 16.2 hands. All are well-schooled in English style. The Boerperd is remarkably well-adapted to our conditions - versatile, lively, kind and sure-footed over difficult terrain.

We recommend our trail saddles with a deep seat for comfort, although some English saddles are available (no western saddles). The majority of the horses have snaffle mouths. All tack is kept in excellent condition.

See Sample Itinerary

Riding ability:

Equus caters for novice, intermediate and advanced riders. The minimum riding requirement is the ability to post to the trot for ten minutes at a time and canter confidently. Our weight limit is 95 kgs. (210 lbs.). Maximum of six riders on a ride with a lead guide. We regret that we cannot accept beginner riders, but non-riding guests, hikers and birders are welcome.

A Beginner rider has limited experience, is unable to post to the trot and does not canter.

A Novice rider is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting trots and short canters.

An Intermediate rider has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces (including posting trots, two-point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly.

A Strong Intermediate rider is all of the above and is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for long hours.

An Advanced rider is all of the above, plus has an independent seat, soft hands and is capable of handling a spirited horse in open country.

Equus Horse Safaris reserves the right to judge a rider's competence and ability. A rider, who in the sole opinion of the guide, is unable to control their horse or who poses a threat to themselves, their horse, or another rider in the group, will be dismounted. For your own safety, please be totally honest with us about your riding experience.