"What a magnificent patch of Earth - from the moment the sun burst through the storm clouds with that amazing golden glow and we saw the double rainbow, I was utterly and totally captivated! I learnt so much about African wildlife and found myself as fascinated by the small creatures as the large. As for the riding … well, it was just superb - wonderful, kind, happy horses."

Picture © Franco Barbagallo

Horseback riding in the African bush is an ever-changing and stimulating experience: from quiet walking through thick bush on the lookout for birds and game, to long trots and canters where the going is good.  Nothing in the bush is predictable and the sense of anticipation of what you might see heightens all your senses.

The terrain underfoot dictates the pace taken.  Short grasslands and sandy tracks are generally good for an extended pace (trot and canter), slowing to a walk over rocky areas, descending and ascending steep mountain escarpments and moving through long grass or wet areas.  Riders dismount and lead their horses over the most difficult parts and it is therefore advisable to wear comfortable walking/riding boots with rubber soles.  We often stop for a break to rest the horses' backs and for a drink or snack.  Water bottles and saddlebags are provided.  On very hot days, we will ride early and late in the day to avoid the midday heat.  For safety, we do not ride if there is lightning.

Experience has shown us that competent riders prefer riding in small groups (no more than four people) where they can enjoy an intimate and personal contact with their guide and the environment.  Wendy is not only an experienced horsewoman, but is also bush-wise and readily shares her considerable knowledge with you.

The care and well being of our horses takes top priority and they are responsive, alert and forward-going.  They are our greatest and most beloved asset and we take extremely good care of them.  Breeds include the South African Boerperd, Arabs, Friesians and Thoroughbreds of 14.3 to 16.2 hands.  All are well-schooled in English style.  The Boerperd is remarkably well-adapted to our conditions - versatile, lively, kind and sure-footed over difficult terrain.  Many of our horses are home-bred from our own mares.

We recommend our trail saddles with a deep seat for comfort, although some English saddles are available (no western saddles).  The majority of the horses have snaffle mouths.  All tack is kept in excellent condition.

Equus Horse Safaris, PO Box 975, Vaalwater 0530, South Africa
phone and fax +27 14 721-0063
e-mail equus@equus.co.za