Epic Expeditions

Our epic expedition rides are only for riders with intermediate plus or advanced riding levels. These horse safaris cover challenging terrains and demand a higher general fitness level. You’ll cover up to 60km a day and spend up to hours in the saddle.  Riders should be comfortable riding at a fast pace over varied terrain and confident in handling horses in challenging conditions. You might need to dismount and lead your horse over difficult paths and mount up from the ground or a handy rock. They might be our most challenging rides, but they are also the most addictive!

These expedition rides often navigate through rugged mountains, deep sand dunes, dense forests and rocky trails. Expect steep ascents and descents, river crossings, and diverse landscapes that demand good riding fitness, soft hands, exceptional balance and a sense of adventure.

Expedition rides can be physically demanding, requiring riders to have exceptional stamina and strength. Long hours in the saddle, challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions contribute to the physical demands but also make the rides more rewarding for the adventurous equestrian.

Safety is paramount, and operators of expedition rides will have thorough safety briefings, well-trained horses, and experienced guides. It is essential that all riders meet the riding requirements. Emergency protocols are in place, and the guides are all trained for human and equestrian first-aid. While serious accidents are rare, medical evacuation will be arranged if necessary, either by road or helicopter. 

Riders should have intermediate plus to advanced riding skills, including the ability to navigate challenging terrain, manage horses in unpredictable situations, and maintain control during various gaits. You will need to be able to post in the trot for up to 15 minutes and do a 2-point canter for up to 5 minutes at at time. Riding in a group and responding to the guidance of experienced guides are also essential. Western riders are required to do some English riding so they are able to adapt to the way the horses are trained and ridden. 

Spend as much time in the saddle as possible! We cannot stress the importance of coming riding fit for our longer, more demanding trails. Practice riding out in open countryside over uneven terrain and doing small obstacle courses help to give you good balance in the saddle. Doing other exercises like walking, hiking and yoga are also valuable for fitness, endurance and flexibility.

In most cases, the saddles are custom-made trail saddles that are well-fitted to the horses and designed with the comfort of the horses and riders in mind. In Kenya and Tanzania, the saddles are generally well-fitting English GP saddles, and they’ll come with a seat-saver to extra comfort. 

As with all our horse safaris, we’ll send you a detailed packing list. We recommend wearing riding gear that is comfortable so that you avoid chaffing. Packing layers that can be removed or added as the weather changes is important. Long-sleeved shirts protect you from the sun, and a buff or scarf helps with dust when out on the trail. Make sure your riding boots are comfortable, worn in and have good grip, both for riding and walking.