of elephants ripping leaves out of the trees and folding them into their mouths can be surprisingly loud. Their huffs and munching are privileged noises that most travelers never hear. On the horizon, hundreds of Zebra’s race over the hillside in the evening sunset, running from their predator the Lion. This is the African safari experience, greatly enhanced by riding as
A
people on horseback seem to be better accepted by the wildlife. Animals are less skittish, which makes for some very intimate experiences. Riding in Africa may not the first destination that comes to
mind when planning a vacation around horses. But many different experiences are to be had on this very large and diverse continent: desert riding in Namibia, with endless canyon views and awe-inspiring expanses that stretch the meaning of the word vast; wildlife day-rides through the game-rich Okavango Delta in Botswana; multi-day mobile safari rides through Kenya, and mixed riding/vehicle safaris in Mashatu Private Game Reserve in Botswana, among others. The typical horse safari day on multi-day safaris consists of about four
to seven hours in the saddle, covering a distance between 15 – 30 miles depending on terrain and sightings. Daily schedules are customized so guests can choose to take a morning or afternoon game drive or walking safari, while others saddle up for their riding adventure. Then meet back at camp for lunch and a siesta, or for “sundowner” cocktails in the bush, followed by dinner at camp and a comfortable bed. While there is an Africa riding experience for every level of rider, there are many trips are reserved for experienced riders only. These trips
are very safe, but to maintain that level of safety the guides need to have confidence that riders can handle their mounts in a wide variety of situations. When not on horseback, travelers will be pampered in luxurious accommodations. Even when out on a multi-day safari, adventurers can relax in mobile safari tents that surpass the standards of many luxury hotel rooms. Meals out in the bush are treasured dining experiences, sacrificing
nothing in gastronomy while gaining everything from ambiance. Returning to a lodge after a long day ride, riders can expect extremely robust service, truly luxurious accommodations and a convivial atmosphere where the day’s excitement can be shared. Bushtracks Expeditions, a California-based tour operator, develops
custom riding safaris as well as a variety of other African travel experiences. More information can be found at
www.Bushtracks.com or by calling 1-800-995-8689.◊
t 100 feet away from riders on horseback, the sound
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