If the thrill of discovery with the tranquility of horseback riding sounds like your kind of holiday, then keep going.
Horse safaris are unlike any other type of travel. They offer a deeper connection with nature, giving you the opportunity to explore remote areas that are inaccessible by vehicle. You can approach wildlife without the noise of an engine, allowing for closer and more authentic encounters. If you’re an adventurer, wildlife enthusiast, or equestrian looking for a special way to travel, a horse safari is perfect for you.
Whether you're riding through the African savannah or the rugged terrains of the North American West, a horse safari allows you to become one with nature as you explore remote areas that are often inaccessible by vehicle.
There are few things in life as thrilling as a fast canter with your horse’s hooves throwing up a salty spray around you on a beach-focused riding holiday. The blend of excitement and peace offered by a horse safari is unmatched. The rhythmic motion of horseback riding combined with the breathtaking landscapes creates a serene experience that is also filled with moments of exhilaration. Whether you're galloping along the coast or slowly making your way through dense forests, the dual sensations of adventure and tranquility make a horse safari a unique and unforgettable journey.
There are few things more adrenaline-inducing than cantering over the grass plains, only to be joined by a herd of zebra who have decided to take up the pace! For equestrians and adventurers alike, a horse safari offers the perfect combination of thrill and nature. The opportunity to ride alongside wildlife in their natural habitat is an experience that cannot be replicated. Whether you are an experienced rider or a thrill-seeker, the rush of excitement you feel as you navigate through diverse terrains and encounter wild animals up close is truly unparalleled.
Coastal riding holidays not only appeal to those seeking a romantic getaway but also to families looking for a quiet escape or intrepid travelers craving adventure. Riding vacations offer families an active, challenging adventure holiday. The versatility of a horse safari means that it can cater to various groups and preferences. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat with your amour, a family in search of a unique bonding experience, or an adventurer wanting to explore the unknown, a horse safari provides an unforgettable escape.
For the adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and equestrians... you already know that a horse safari would be perfect for you. But convincing your non-riding friends and family? Let us help.
We know not everyone is keen to leap onto the back of a giant stallion (or pony), and it's equally important for non-riders to have an incredible safari experience. SafariSmiths Travel can easily cater for families, couples, and groups of friends where some ride and others ride alongside in a safari vehicle, lending to a very cool expedition vibe. This is a great option for when the riders need a break from the saddle.
And the possibilities are endless: you can still spend an afternoon with a local tribe, or trek through misty mountains and greet the gorillas on the way. Whether it's boarding a traditional mokoro canoe in the Okavango Delta, diving in Mozambique, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, there are plenty of destinations and activities to ensure that everyone has a fantastic time.
Exploring on horseback means you can ride in areas where no vehicles can reach, and often where few people have seen. The sense of achievement at the end of the riding holiday is indescribable. The exclusivity of the paths you take and the intimate encounters with wildlife provide a deeper connection to the world around you. The ability to traverse unexplored territories and witness the beauty of untouched landscapes from the back of a horse makes a horse safari a truly unique and rewarding experience... It's an adventure that leaves a lasting impression and a sense of accomplishment that few other vacations can offer.
Whether you dream of riding alongside giraffes in Africa or trotting through the rugged terrain of the American West, planning the right adventure is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best destinations for horse safaris, from Africa’s savannas to North America’s deserts and mountains.
Kenya is renowned for its rich wildlife, particularly in the Masai Mara, where the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos—roam free. Horseback riding through this iconic landscape brings you closer to nature than you imagined possible. Popular safari locations include the Masai Mara and Laikipia Plateau, where you can ride alongside zebras and giraffes.
Besides the wildlife, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Kenya’s vibrant culture, meeting Masai tribespeople and learning about their way of life. From luxury safari camps to more rustic lodges, there’s an accommodation option for everyone. The best time to visit Kenya for a horse safari is between June and October, during the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains.
For those seeking pristine wilderness, Botswana is the ultimate destination. The Okavango Delta is a sprawling, water-filled landscape teeming with wildlife. Riding through its marshes and savannas is a dream for many adventurers. You’ll encounter elephants, hippos, and various bird species as you wade through the wetlands. The Makgadikgadi Pans, another prime location, offers vast open spaces and seasonal migration routes for zebras.
Botswana’s horse safaris often include exclusive, remote camps, ensuring privacy and a deep connection with the surrounding wilderness. The best time to visit is from May to October, during the dry season when wildlife congregates around the shrinking water sources, making game viewing optimal.
Zimbabwe is home to some of Africa’s most remote and unspoiled wilderness areas, offering less crowded safari experiences compared to its neighbors. Popular horse safari locations include Hwange National Park and the Zambezi River Basin, where you'll marvel at the roaring Victoria Falls (pictured).
Zimbabwe also offers a variety of cultural experiences, from visiting the historical ruins of Great Zimbabwe to interacting with local communities. For a more diverse experience, many safari operators combine horse safaris with other activities like canoeing along the Zambezi River or walking safaris. The best time to visit Zimbabwe is between April and October, during the dry season.
South Africa is a diverse destination that offers something for everyone, from family-friendly safaris to luxury getaways. Horse safari locations such as the Waterberg Biosphere, Kruger National Park, and the Eastern Cape offer riders the chance to encounter everything from rhinos to zebras. One of South Africa’s greatest strengths is its accessibility; you can easily tailor a horse safari to match your riding experience, whether you’re a beginner or an expert, and there are tons of activity options for the whole group.
In South Africa, you’ll find a range of accommodations, from rustic bush camps to luxurious lodges and even wine country estates. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when wildlife viewing is at its best.
Arizona’s stunning desert landscapes, iconic saguaro cacti, and rich Old West history make it an ideal destination for a horse safari. Popular riding areas include Saguaro National Park and the Sonoran Desert, where you can ride through wide-open spaces and deep canyons. Wildlife sightings may include coyotes, roadrunners, and javelinas.
In Arizona, you can also stay at working ranches, where the cowboy lifestyle is alive and well. These ranches offer authentic Western experiences, complete with campfire dinners and cattle drives. The best time to visit Arizona for a horse safari is between October and April, when the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for riding.
For those who dream of wide-open skies and rugged mountain terrain, Wyoming and Montana are the places to be. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are famous for their dramatic landscapes, wildlife diversity, and rich history. On a horse safari here, you’ll ride through meadows, along riverbanks, and into alpine forests, with the chance to see bison, elk, wolves, and even bears.
These states are also home to some of the most iconic ranches in the country, where you can experience cowboy culture firsthand. From herding cattle to learning the ropes of Western riding, the American West is a playground for horse enthusiasts. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is warmer and the parks are fully accessible, but there's certainly something to be said about a cold-weather trip to the West.
Utah’s red rock landscapes and unique geological formations make it one of the most stunning places to explore on horseback. Bryce Canyon (pictured above) and Zion National Parks (pictured below) are top locations for horse safaris, offering trails that wind through dramatic canyons, arches, and hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock).
You’ll experience breathtaking views and ride through some of the most unusual terrain in the U.S. Utah also offers a range of accommodation options, from Western ranches to high-end lodges. The best time to visit Utah is from March to October, when the weather is ideal for riding.
Leave no stone unturned when it comes to the expedition of a lifetime: SafariSmiths Travel partners with the most fabulous tour operators for every part of your adventure.
For more information about what your dream ride could look like and to start planning, give us a shout. We'll help take the reins, so all you need to do is find the perfect Stetson.