SURF & TURF HORSE SAFARI IN MOZAMBIQUE

3 Nights: From USD $2395

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Experience thrilling beach canters, horse swims and exploring this wonderful country the way it should be done

A horse safari in Mozambique is an unparalleled experience for those who love all things exotic, and who are looking for that post-card perfect paradise.

Experience thrilling beach canters, horse swims and exploring this wonderful country the way it should be done – from the back of a horse. Perfectly intertwine a retreat into beach-holiday paradise with the adventure of an African horse safari. Stay in a beautiful coastal lodge, which boasts stunning views out across Bazaruto Archipelago bay, and indulge in the wonderful cuisine, restaurants – and of course those all-important cocktails – the area has to offer. You will have the exclusive and unique opportunity to ride on the enchanting Benguerra Island. This riding holiday promises an unforgettable experience; fantastic horses and riding, unique boat trips, spectacular coastlines, delicious meals, local culture and stunning sunsets. Immerse yourself in the wonderful lifestyle, culture and energy of Mozambique!

This is the ideal destination for families, honeymooners and couples. You can also easily combine it with a wildlife safari in South Africa as there are daily flights that connect the two destinations – Spoil yourself with a bush and beach escape!

QUICK FACTS
Vilankulo, Mozambique
Vilankulo Airport (Mozambique)
Open All Year
Up to 8 days, 7 nights
Group Size: Max. 8 
Minimum of 2 guests
Novice
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • The exclusive and unique opportunity of riding on the stunning Benguerra Island
  • The chance to tick cantering along a pristine white beach, beside a turquoise sea, off your bucket list
  • Wonderfully indulgent cuisine and accommodation – a beach paradise
  • Explore the local culture, nearby islands and crystal clear rivers inland
  • Taking your horses for refreshing dips in the sea and getting to swim alongside them
Location pin
THE DESTINATION

Vilankulo is a small town on the stunning coast of Mozambique, part of the Vilanculos District of Inhambane Province. The town acts as the gateway for visiting the nearby Bazaruto Archipelago, separated from the mainland by a narrow channel of turquoise sea. The area boasts spectacular beaches, crystal clear seas and excellent local cuisine, such as fresh seafood. Rich with traditional culture, staying in Vilankulo really allows you to immerse yourself in true Mozambique life.

DATES & RATES

Open all year round. Please enquire for exact dates and availability.

3 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $2395 PP SHARING 

4 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $2875 PP SHARING 

5 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $3355 PP SHARING 

6 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $3835 PP SHARING 

7 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $4310 PP SHARING 

Children under 15 sharing with 2 adults pay 60%

Includes

  • Horse riding
  • Expert guides
  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Motorized dhow trip (except coastal paradise ride)
  • Transfers
  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • National park fees and Mozambique Government VAT. (except coastal paradise ride)
  • In the lodge, you will be given a fruit bowl, a gift pack and the fridge will be stocked with water and cool drinks.

Excludes

  • Flights
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Alcoholic drinks or drinks bought at a restaurant or bar
  • Any personal spending money and any extra excursions or activities not included in the itinerary.
YOUR 8-DAY ITINERARY

** Please note that the itinerary is a rough guide and the daily schedule is determined by the guide with the best interests of the group and horses in mind. Weather conditions and especially the changing tides in Vilankulo control the timing of rides and in which order they are to be made during the week.

Day 1 - Introductory ride. 2 hours riding

After being met at Vilankulo Airport by either Pat or Mandy, your hosts for the week, you will be transferred to the lodge where you will have a chance to settle in. In the afternoon meet the horses and the staff at the stables. Head out for your first relaxing ride across those brilliant white sand beaches, to get to know your steed. The ride will take you through a variety of vibrant eco-systems; wide open beaches, incredible cliff top views, pristine dune bush and mangrove shoreline.

For your first evening in paradise, enjoy a fresh seafood dinner served under the stars and overlooking the sea.

Day 2 - The Great Lake Ride - 3 hours riding

After waking up to your first African morning and delicious breakfast, mount up and head inland – following natural trails past African villages and large natural fresh water lakes. The area boasts spectacular birdlife with a good chance of seeing eagles, herons, harriers, rollers, pelicans and kingfishers. As you ride through the bush, past African farmland and rural schools, the old farm roads invite some faster riding, calling out to be cantered along as you head for the Govuro River.

Upon the grassy banks of the river a delicious picnic lunch will have been laid out for both riders and horses, and you will be welcomed with an ice-cold beverage. After a leisurely lunch, the horses will be taken home, leaving you to enjoy a guided tour along the river. The stunning Govuro River provides an unforgettable backdrop for your canoe trip. Paddle past lush river vegetation, spying native fish in the clear water and listening to the sounds of the African wilderness.

As the sun sinks this evening, enjoy a relaxing sundowner sitting round the campfire and wait for the spectacular stars of the huge African sky to appear. For dinner, indulge with a sumptuous Mozambican BBQ.

Day 3 - Casa Rex Breakfast and Market Tour - 1.5 hours riding

Rising with the sun, ride out along the beach, heading north and passing through a small town to reach a wide open bay full of colourful dhows. A thrilling canter across the beach, passing local fishermen heading home, ends with a buffet breakfast at Casa Rex – Vilankulo’s most exclusive resort. Beautifully satisfied, you will be introduced to a local guide who will help you weave your way around the bustling and vibrant market and provide insight into the lives of the local people.

You will then make your way back to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon chill session by the pool. However, if you’re keen to keep active there is the option to enjoy a day of scuba diving, kite boarding or deep sea fishing at an additional cost.

Day 4 - Benguerra Island Ride - 3 hours

This morning an early start is imperative; you will be picked up from town by a dhow which will take you through the picturesque Bazaruto National Park to Benguerra Island. En route, as you spot for dolphins, turtles, rays and take in the stunning sea views, a packed breakfast will be served. Riding on the island is an extremely special and breathtaking experience; large sand dunes, freshwater lakes, endless white sandy beaches and excellent birdlife – often featuring large flocks of flamingos.

Once you dismount, a fresh seafood lunch is prepared by your captain on board, whilst you sit back, relax and island hop to Margaruque. After lunch, grab some snorkel equipment and experience some of the best snorkeling in the world along a vertical rock drop off. However, if snorkeling isn’t your thing then take some time to wonder along the beach or work on your tan. As the sun sinks lower over the ocean, you will return to Vilankulo and enjoy a sumptuous meal with breathtaking views – another night to remember.

Day 5 - Fishing Village Ride - 2 hours riding

Today’s riding will begin at 11.30am, giving you a chance to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and morning swim before mounting up and heading out. Riding through the beautiful coconut plantations, you will reach Enrique’s Fishing Village, where the local chief is waiting to welcome you. Take lunch in true Mozambican style; enjoying a refreshing coconut drink, fresh crab and tasting Matapa, a traditional Mozambique dish.

In the afternoon, mount up and continue through the village, heading for the ‘Fingerprint of God’ – a viewpoint with stunning vistas over the archipelago.

That evening, drive into town for dinner, picking from one of the many excellent restaurants the area has to offer.

Day 6 - Beach & Bush Ride - 3 hours riding

Day 6 promises a wonderful riding experience. Following the old coastal main road running parallel to the beach, you will cross a small river estuary and pass through some rural villages along the way. The terrain encourages long, uninterrupted canters through the coastal bush. After several hours in the saddle, reach a path leading down to the beach which offers stunning views across the bay. The pristine and empty beaches call out to be cantered across, and you can tick cantering on the beach in paradise off your bucket list.

Return to the lodge in time for sundowners and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants.

Day 7 - Red Dune Ride, North Beach- 3/4 hours riding

Following breakfast, drive to the stables and set off for a ride through the outskirts of town; before reaching the deserted sand beaches that lead to the Red Dunes on North Beach. This is an exhilarating ride with ample opportunities for canters on the wide open beaches. You will climb the red coastal dunes and experience panoramic views of the iconic white sandbars and bright turquoise seas. A splendid seafood bonanza is on offer at the lovely beachside restaurant where you will stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, stop at a local arts and crafts centre that supports the local community before heading back to relax by the pool or take a stroll along the beach. Spend your last night in a beautiful setting, reminiscing about what will have no doubt been an unforgettable week and enjoying a last delicious meal in paradise.

Day 8 - Farewell ride & Swim

After a relaxing breakfast, you will climb aboard for a last morning ride, bidding farewell to the spectacular coastline of unspoiled beaches and turquoise seas – an image that will stay with you forever. It would be rude to end your safari without giving your four-legged companion a refreshing dip in the ocean. End your trip by swimming with your horse, an unparalleled special experience and something you will, without doubt, both enjoy immensely! Once you’ve finished photographing and frolicking, there will be time for one more lunch before you bid a sad farewell to Vilankulo paradise and continue on your journey.

THE ACCOMMODATION

Your accommodation is Vila de Sonhos, an exclusive lodge made up of four luxury beachfront homes overlooking the turquoise sea of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Each villa has a set of impressive bedrooms uniquely designed with breath-taking views. The villas have fully equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge, garden with pool, and beach access.  If Vila De Sonhos is full we will look to accommodate our guest in similar private homes and resorts in the area.

QUICK FACTS
Vilankulo, Mozambique
Vilankulo Airport (Mozambique)
Open All Year
3 – 7 Nights
Group Size: Max. 8 
Minimum of 2 guests
Novice
View Gallery
3 Nights: From USD $2395 pp sharing

See Detailed Rates

SUITABLE RIDING LEVELS
Beginner
Novice
Intermediate
Intermediate Plus
Advanced
WHAT RIDING LEVEL AM I?
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • The exclusive and unique opportunity of riding on the stunning Benguerra Island
  • The chance to tick cantering along a pristine white beach, beside a turquoise sea, off your bucket list
  • Wonderfully indulgent cuisine and accommodation – a beach paradise
  • Explore the local culture, nearby islands and crystal clear rivers inland
  • Taking your horses for refreshing dips in the sea and getting to swim alongside them
DATES & RATES

Open all year round. Please enquire for exact dates and availability.

3 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $2395 PP SHARING 

4 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $2875 PP SHARING 

5 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $3355 PP SHARING 

6 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $3835 PP SHARING 

7 nights Surf and Turf Ride
USD $4310 PP SHARING 

Children under 15 sharing with 2 adults pay 60%

Includes

  • Horse riding
  • Expert guides
  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Motorized dhow trip (except coastal paradise ride)
  • Transfers
  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • National park fees and Mozambique Government VAT. (except coastal paradise ride)
  • In the lodge, you will be given a fruit bowl, a gift pack and the fridge will be stocked with water and cool drinks.

Excludes

  • Flights
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Alcoholic drinks or drinks bought at a restaurant or bar
  • Any personal spending money and any extra excursions or activities not included in the itinerary.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

It was a great, amazing, cool, top experience to ride the Tuliblock in Botswana. 8 day's on a back of a horse and view a lot of game. The guides and staff were great. So I will come back!

Nicole PlasTuli Safari, Botswana
READ MORE REVIEWS

How we care for our horses

Our horseback adventures are hand-picked for their quality and care of their horses. Here’s how the horses at Mozambique Horse Safaris are kept in tip-top shape for your safaris. Our horses are on top of the hierarchy and receive very special care:
  • The horses care and well-being take precedence ensuring that they are responsive, alert, tough and fit.
  • Our riding horses are schooled and looked after by Pat, they have lovely calm temperaments and react easily and lightly to the aids.
  • Horses have a varied routine, with schooling, beach rides and rest days in large paddocks.
  • Bridles are uncomplicated with single jointed & french link snaffle bits which are cleaned daily.

Please let us know if you have any more questions around this.

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