Become part of the ecosystem rather than just an observer. Blend in with the zebras and antelope as you ride in step. Left with only the sounds of the natural world – animal calls, bird chirps, and the wind rustling nearby trees – a horseback safari is a unique and thrilling experience. 

Riding horseback through the wild means following the paths of animals rather than roads, trusting the instinct of your horse (which will sense a nearby animal long before you see it), and having closer contact with animals than you ever thought possible. Grazing animals view the horses as one of their own and may even run alongside a group of galloping steeds. Elephant, rhino, and buffalo hardly pay attention, allowing you to slowly approach these normally territorial and aggressive animals.

Horseback riding safaris are a great option for those who want a safari experience that allows you to be more integrated into your surroundings. Although some require the riders to be experienced, there are still options for the horse-riding novice as well. Some of the best locations for horseback safaris include Lewa Wildnerness in Kenya, Kruger National Park in South Africa, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, and Namibia’s Namib Desert.