Botswana - Horse Riding Safari in the Kalahari

This is the first time Horseback Riding Safaris are offered in Botswana’s unique Kalahari and Makgadikgadi ecosystems. The project started in May 2011. These one-of-a-kind safaris will allow guests to spend their days journeying out into the Salt Pans and acacia woodlands on horseback.

Led by celebrated equestrian safari guide, David Foot, these expeditions will allow guests to experience some of Botswana’s most remarkable environments in a whole new way, and from an entirely different perspective than a game drive. David has unmatched experience in leading horseback safaris with nearly twenty years in the industry and extensive knowledge of the environment’s natural history, mammals, plants, and birds, not to mention a contagious energy and enthusiasm. Groups of up to eight are paired with outstandingly bred horses for the ride of a lifetime through the ‘land of a thousand islands,’ acacia woodlands, short grasslands, and finally out into the middle of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where all that can be seen for miles around is the curve of the earth.

Two five-night itineraries, one for the dry season and one for the wet are offered. Although vastly different, both incorporate three nights in the refreshingly simple yet cozy and traditional Camp Kalahari and two nights out in the bush fly camping. In the dry season, the ground is firm and ideal for fast riding, while the wet season softens the land and brings the grasses high creating a entirely different experience.

The Horseback Safaris will begin from Camp Kalahari, a fun and adventurous, yet comfortable and stylish oasis nestled amongst the acacias and palms on the edge of the ancient salt pans, before setting out on the fly camping expedition. Camp Kalahari is luxurious yet simple and unfettered with ten spacious meru tents. Each guest tent comes complete with en-suite outdoor bathrooms, incorporating flushing toilets and hot and cold running water. The traditionally built thatch roofed communal library, living and dining area provides the perfect place to relax after safari, while the inviting swimming pool is the ideal spot for an afternoon escape.

Riding experience:
Guests should have some riding experience and feel competent at ALL paces and con!dent of keeping up with the pace of the group. You will be required to be riding !t and in good health in order to enjoy the experience as long days (up to 7 hours) are spent in the saddle. A riding questionnaire will
be required to be completed at the time of the booking.

About your guide
David Foot was born in Malawi and educated in England. He trained in wildlife in Zimbabwe & Zambia and his knowledge of natural history, mammals, plants, and birds as well as his energy, and enthusiasm make him an exceptional Guide. He returned to his home country Malawi in 1989 and ran horse safaris on the Nyika Plateau for !fteen years. David and his wife Robyn now live in Botswana on the banks of the Thamalakane River on the outskirts of Maun. We are proud to be associated with such an experienced guide.

Atlas Reizen will be more than happy to include this unique 5-day Horseback Safari into your Botswana journey. Contact Bert Uyttenbroeck for a personal meeting at our office and your tailor made voyage.

Africa, Botswana, Kalahari, Safari, Horse Riding