It’s also home to one of the most spectacular sights on the planet; the Victoria Falls. This is one of the largest waterfalls around the globe, surrounded by lush rainforests, hosting diverse wildlife. You can also visit Hwange National Park which offers unparalleled wildlife viewing where you may come across herds of elephants, buffalo and even rhino.
Visitors can enjoy tours, cruises, and adventurous activities like bungee jumping. It’s a captivating destination offering both natural beauty and cultural experiences Victoria Falls provides the perfect add-on to any horse riding safari in Africa. There is also the option to visit the exquisite Mana Pools. It’s renowned for abundant wildlife, unique walking safaris allowing close encounters, and canoeing opportunities.
Horse riding in Zimbabwe offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and captivating culture from a unique perspective. Expert guides lead the way, providing insights into the country’s natural wonders and taking riders on unforgettable journeys through wilderness areas teeming with iconic African wildlife. Beyond the thrill of the ride, horseback safaris in Zimbabwe offer a deep connection to the land and its people, making it a must-do activity for those seeking an immersive and authentic African experience.
For More Info About Horse Riding in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a land of pristine wilderness, fabulous game viewing and is home to one of the most spectacular sights on the planet; the Victoria Falls. Its generous people are known for their hospitality and are sure to make you feel welcome while you explore the unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to ride amidst the mist of Victoria Falls, tracing the gorge that divides Zambia and Zimbabwe through the Zambezi river. Horseback exploration during your safari offers an unparalleled perspective beyond the confines of a vehicle. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest, houses 107 mammal species, including the Big 5, and hosts 400 bird species. The mostly flat landscape with no mountains or kopjes ensures optimal riding conditions, granting unobstructed views of the abundant wildlife thriving in this region.
Embark on a horse-riding safari through Hwange National Park, a vast expanse equivalent in size to Belgium and recognised as one of the last havens for elephants with a population exceeding 40,000. Within this expansive realm, a remarkable array of wildlife thrives. Guided by expert Zimbabwean guides, ride atop superb safari horses and uncover the mysteries of the bush while immersing yourself in African life. Your Zimbabwe horse safari adapts to weather, wildlife movement, and group preferences. Revel in spirited gallops on reliable steeds, even clearing natural jumps set by resident elephants. Delight in serene walks towards waterholes, your heart quickening with anticipation. Catch glimpses of elephants frolicking by the water, buffalo grazing amidst tall grass, or rhinos enjoying muddy pools – a potential stroke of luck.
This is one of the most spectacular Natural Wonders of the World and can be a sensory overload: the incredible views, roaring water and mist come together in an unforgettable natural show-stopper. The Local people call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya”, the smoke that thunders and there is no better way to describe this 108-meter-high waterfall. You have the chance to follow in the footsteps of the great David Livingstone; riding through game-rich private game reserves, national parks, and along the banks of the iconic Zambezi River with the spray of the falls on the horizon. For those who are interested, you can join the anti-poaching unit out on patrol and get first-hand experience of what it takes to protect these wild places.
VICTORIA FALLS
Aside from the jaw-dropping Victoria Falls, the landscapes that you will encounter in Zimbabwe are equally evocative. Victoria Falls, a must-see wonder on your bucket list, offers thrilling activities such as zip lining, providing spectacular views of the landscape around you. For the adventurous, try white water rafting on the Zambezi River or opt for a scenic sunset cruise. Helicopter rides provide unparalleled views of this natural wonder and complement your African Horse Safari adventure perfectly.
RIDING WITH WILDLIFE
Some of the exciting wildlife that you may meet while on safari in Zimbabwe includes dazzles of zebra, journeys of curious giraffe and pods of lazy hippos. The horse riding near the Zambezi National Park is in big game territory so you may come across buffalo, elephant, and even leopard from the saddle. In Hwange, you may find yourself riding amongst huge herds of elephants and buffalos, an experience of a lifetime! But be assured that your guides and horses are well trained for these encounters and your safety will always be a top priority.
UNIQUE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
You will get the chance to experience some thrilling wildlife encounters during your safari. Imagine starting your day with a cup of coffee on the deck, whilst viewing elephants making their way to your swimming pool for a drink! There are also spectacular guided walks and game drives, where you will get the chance to learn more about the wildlife around you from an expert guide. And if you head out to Mana Pools, embark on a canoe safari to see wildlife from a completely different vantage point!
HANDS-ON CONSERVATION
In Victoria Falls, learn about conservation efforts from the mounted anti-poaching team and visit the wildlife trust to see rescued and rehabilitated animals. During your safari, you will get the chance to learn all about wildlife and the efforts taken to protect it. Your visit directly contributes to the conservation of these wild places and the animals that call them home.
VICTORIA FALLS ACTIVITIES
Whether you’re looking for the thrill of white water rafting on the Zambezi River, helicopter rides with spectacular views, zip lining through incredible landscapes, or a relaxed sunset cruise – there is something for everyone to enjoy.
GAME DRIVES IN HWANGE
Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe offers captivating game drives, showcasing abundant wildlife and incredible viewing experiences. You might get lucky enough to see herds of elephants drinking and playing in the water, buffalo grazing in the long grass, or rhino wallowing in the grey mud. The range of wildlife species is astounding!
WALKING SAFARIS
Walking safaris provide an immersive and thrilling wildlife experience. Instead of being in a vehicle, participants explore on foot, led by knowledgeable guides. This up-close encounter with nature allows for a deeper understanding of ecosystems and wildlife behaviors while appreciating the finer details of the environment.
VICTORIA FALLS WILDLIFE TRUST
Visiting the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust allows engagement in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation near Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls. The trust rescues and cares for injured animals, offering insights into conservation challenges and a chance to support wildlife protection.
CANOEING MANA POOLS
Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Zambezi River, offers walking safaris for up-close wildlife encounters and traditional game drives for insights into the diverse flora and fauna. The park’s main pools attract animals during the dry season, ensuring exceptional wildlife viewing. Unique in allowing on-foot exploration, Mana Pools promises an unforgettable safari experience.
There are a number of different accommodation options on our Zambezi Horse Safari depending on your budget and expectations. From classic ‘Old Africa’ style lodge, with the feeling of a beautifully finished luxury home. To a luxury tented camp set on a private concession with spectacular views of the mists rising over the majestic Victoria Falls. And for those wanting something unique, how about a luxury lodge sprawling on the banks of the Zambezi River? Depending on where you choose to stay, game drives and river cruises might be included in your stay and we’ll tailor-make your itinerary to make sure you can fit all of these activities in your horse riding holiday!
On our horse riding safari in the heart of Hwange, you’ll find 2 unique accommodation options. You can choose a permanent luxury tented lodge that offers a unique and immersive experience, combining the comforts of a luxurious hotel with the natural surroundings of a camping environment. There is a beautiful wooden deck overlooking the local watering hole for many different types of wildlife which is a spectacular sighting. You can also stay at a mobile tented camp that is set up in various locations, allowing guests to experience different environments and landscapes while still enjoying the comforts of a camping experience. Guests fall asleep to the sound of the night and their horses safely tucked away in their boma nearby.
Zimbabweans are a wonderfully charismatic nation – You will be kept smiling throughout your stay thanks to the generous, fun and thoughtful hospitality. Enjoy experiencing local cuisine such as ilambazi (maize porridge) which can be served as a breakfast with milk and sugar before your days exploring the wild on horseback, or as an accompaniment to your main meal with a flavourful spicy tomato relish. Snack on biltong (similar to jerky), and roasted and salted peanuts with your G&T after your afternoon’s riding in the African bush. Later, you will most likely experience a barbeque ‘braaied’ over the campfire, along with traditional stews and grilled vegetables.
Zimbabwe for many years has received a bad reputation in the western world, and granted at times it has earned it. However, travelling as a tourist in the country is safe. Any disturbances always happen in the inner city areas (7 hours drive away) where you would not be going. From the minute you land at the airport you have 24-hour support from local and knowledgeable staff. You will be staying out in the bush and wilderness where the crime rate is exceptionally low. Isabel lived there for 3 years and can chat to you firsthand about any concerns.
Zimbabwe is a brilliant destination throughout the year. The summer months of October to March can get very hot – Up to 35-40DC in Victoria Falls – So it is best to avoid these months if you are not a heat-lover. The coolest months are June to August – You will need lots of layers for the mornings and evenings of these months.
Yes! 75% of the guests that join our working-holidays are solo-travellers. This is a great option for anyone travelling alone as you will get to know an awesome group of fellow adventurers from all over the world!
Yes – The big 5 are present in Zimbabwe’s National Parks and you have a chance of seeing them on the Zambezi Riding Safari. The big 5 are not all present on the reserve which the volunteer programme is based at, but you have the opportunity to do excursions to go and find them!
For our volunteer programme you can fly into either Harare or Bulawayo Airport – Usually via South Africa. Pick-up and drop-off from both is included in the trip cost. For trips to the Zambezi, you will fly into Victoria Falls Airport.
Bram’s life-changing working holiday in Zimbabwe
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