With an overwhelming number of options for horse riding in Southern Africa, it is easy to find yourself paralysed by the choice of which is best for you.

So instead, picture this: The sun casting its warming glow across open plains, the smell of wild grass in the warm air, the rhythm of hooves radiating a magical melody, a group of like-minded individuals, a beautiful horse beneath you, and a glass of homemade iced tea waiting upon your return to camp.

Zambian Horseback Safaris offer a perfect passage into the heart of Africa. Combining exhilarating rides with wildlife encounters, conservation and sustainability, and as the sole operator in 180,000km² of the untouched Simalaha Community Conservancy, there is no other experience quite like it.

But, if you need more convincing, here are the main reasons to add this to the top of your next riding adventure list:

1. The Simalaha scenery 

Untamed landscapes set the scene for the most vibrant flora (and fauna) in the region. Endless canters over sprawling stretches of open plains are combined with the opportunity to explore other habitats. Whether it be the forest areas housing the mighty baobab tree or the wetlands from the meandering Zambezi river, the forward and well trained horses enjoy showing you the mosaic of terrains on offer that aren’t always accessible with vehicles. 

Evenings in the dry season will see you riding into perfect sunsets, a collusion of oranges, reds and yellows, before riding home under the moonlight. Annual floods renew the grounds, so you can expect a different landscape each month of the year!

2. Wildlife encounters

Over a decade of rewilding efforts means the Conservancy is teeming with all manner of wildlife. With morning and evening rides and the highest quality guides, you’ll encounter everything from zebra to wildebeest, impala to sable, giraffe to a plethora of bird species. All graze in unity, inquisitive yet unphased by the horses riding past. 

With no large predators in the Conservancy, you can ride with pure freedom and safety, providing perhaps the most unique safari experience. It’s truly the most exhilarating feeling galloping side-by-side with zebra and wildebeest, stopping time as you become part of their herd.

3. Unparalleled horsemanship

The hosts of this safari are Doug and Gail, who have been sharing their love for horses, protecting and preserving the natural environment and supporting communities in Zambia for over 40 years. The horses are very much a part of the family and treated with quality care, evident in their spirited personalities and gentle natures. You can rest easy that the horses you will be riding are all forward going and full of fun, yet provide you with the assurance of security and safety. 

From Quarter horses to thoroughbred-crosses, Doug will meticulously match you to your horse for the safari, based on your ability, experience and personality. 

4. Sustainability and community

Simalaha means ‘come together’ - a fitting name, as this safari operates with a commitment to sustainable tourism, protecting cultural heritage, community-led initiatives and wildlife protection. 

As you settle into your first night around the table, Doug and Gail will regale you with the tales of the Conservancy, driven by the Sesheke and Sekhute chiefdoms. The authenticity and importance put on contributing to initiatives that empower and educate is inspiring. Joining hands with the local community and Peace Parks Foundation, this safari is unlike any other, opening up training and opportunities for jobs, income from nature-based economies, security and inclusion of locals in decision making, to make a truly lasting and sustainable difference to the Simalaha’s community and wildlife. 

The results are clearly showing - with improved and more equitable livelihoods whilst upholding efforts to conserve, rewild, reforest and educate about the methods to live in a sustainable way. Learning traditions, meeting community members and contributing directly to these initiatives during your time here puts this over and above any other riding safari. 

5. Bespoke accommodation

The Simalaha camp is an open yet intimate setting, accommodating up to 8 guests in 4 tents. Each tent is raised above the ground, with a deck to sit back and relax as you watch the horses dance in the moonlight. Managing the fine balance between rustic and bespoke luxury, the tents feature comfortable beds and beautiful open air bathrooms. With all electricity generated by solar power, sustainability has been carefully considered throughout the whole camp.

If this isn’t enough of an immersive experience for you, you can spend a night sleeping out in the open plains (weather permitting). It’s just you, your starbed (and mosquito net!), the horses and the boundless galaxy to fall asleep under. There’s nothing quite like the extraordinary silence of the Simalaha. 

Bonus number 6: Other activities at your fingertips

If seven hours a day in the saddle wasn’t enough to keep you entertained, there are a number of additional activities at your fingertips. Zambian Horseback Safaris' 7-night itinerary offers five days riding in the Simalaha, followed by two days at the main Chundukwa River Lodge in Livingstone. 

It is here that you can:

• Visit the mighty Victoria Falls, whether it be from the skies in a helicopter, peaking over the edge in Devil’s Pool, from below as you whitewater raft, or viewing directly from one of many viewpoints. 

• Spend more time in the saddle, enjoying different trails by horseback from the Lodge stables.

• Opt for more wildlife sightings: it doesn’t get much better than walking with Zambia’s white rhino. 

• Learn more about the local community initiatives by visiting a nearby village and school. 

• Sneak in some more sunsets on the daily river cruise direct from the Lodge, a picture perfect end to your day.

Zambian Horseback Safari promises an inescapable sense of freedom, where each fully inclusive experience is created completely around you. 

So, let us take the reins! All you need to do is get in touch