Horseback Safari in Kenya
Horseback riding safaris are a perfect safari experience in Kenya for visitors interested in an experience that brings them closer to the wilderness. On a horseback safari you get to explore the diverse landscapes and see incredible wildlife in an eco-conscious way – that is on the back of a horse.
Why Should You Go on a Horseback Safari in Kenya?
Closer Encounter with Wildlife
A horseback safari in Kenya is a non-intrusive way of seeing wildlife up close in the wilderness. Animals tend to be less disturbed by the presence of horses compared to safari vehicles or people on foot, enabling you to have more natural wildlife encounters.
A horseback safari in Kenya offers you the incredible experience of riding alongside zebras, giraffes, and antelopes among others in the stunning landscapes. This is a whole different safari experience compared to game drives, as you are able to get close to these incredible animals.
Explore Hard – to Reach Areas
While on the horse, you are able to get to areas that are otherwise off-limits or hard to reach during the game drive. Horse riding enhances your Kenya safari experience as you are able to see more environments and the animals that call them home.
Be Immersed in Nature
Traversing the plains of Kenya on horseback allows you to develop a more intimate connection with nature. As you move quietly across the land, you are able to notice more things and pick up the finer details.
Ideal for All Experience Levels
Horseback safari in Kenya is perfect for both experienced and beginner riders. Most safari operators cater to families with beginner rides as well as seasoned riders who are able to ride across the Masai Mara plains.
Perfect Addition to a Traditional Safari
Make the most of your Kenya Safari by combining a horseback tour with traditional game drives. This variety gives you the opportunity to see more wildlife.
For Adventure Seekers and Seasoned Safari Goers
A horseback safari in Kenya is an active experience that adventurous safari goers will fall in love with. If you are a seasoned safari goer looking for a way to take your next Kenya safari to another level, consider a horseback safari.
Best Destinations for horseback safaris in Kenya
Chyulu Hills National Park
Described by Hemingway as “the green hills of Africa”, Chyulu Hills National Park stretches across 150 kilometers and reaches a peak altitude of 2,188 meters. These epic hills are renowned for having the deepest lava tube caves in the world, which twist and turn beneath Chyulu Hills.
Chyulu Hills National Park comprises of rolling hills and dense forest combined with extinct volcanoes and sweeping views. Horseback safaris in Chyulu offers a more natural and discreet way of game viewing, allowing you to get close to nearby wildlife. Rides take place across beautiful and unspoilt scenery, ranging from forests and deep savannah plains to dense bush woodlands, and clear springs. Riders can expect to see elephants wading in the deep swamps of Amboseli and giraffes towering over edgy woodlands. Also, guests can spot other spectacular plains game within beautiful landscapes.
Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Olare Motorogi Conservancy is one of the oldest and most successful conservancies in Kenya, offering exceptional wildlife viewing. The conservancy is a sanctuary to large numbers of lions and elephants, it has one of the highest concentrations of animals and the lowest tourist destination within Masai Mara National Reserve – a popular Kenya Safari destination.
Olare Motorogi is situated to the northwest of Masai Mara National Reserve, known for having some of Kenya’s most spectacular scenery and remarkably high concentrations of wildlife. The conservancy’s landscape feature endless wavy grasslands and beautiful dome-toped hills giving way to the dramatic sheer rock walls of the distant Oloololo Escarpment.
The conservancy has two prides, 40 lions and some of the best lion- watching in the Mara Ecosystem.
At a size of 142-square kilometers, Olare Motorogi Conservancy has only five safari camps in the area and a maximum of 94 beds, this exclusive conservancy features only one safari vehicle per 8.5 square kilometers. Prior to 2006, the Olare Motorogi Conservancy consisted of two separate conservancies that is Motorogi and Olare Oork. The region was a picture – perfect combination of endless grasslands, riverine forests and acacia woodlands populated by the Masai homesteads. However, the large herds of sheep, goat and cattle overgrazed the land which led to an unsustainable situation for both the Maasai people and the wildlife living in the area.
5 Tips for a Horseback Safari in Kenya
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Communicate Your Skill Level
It is very crucial to be upfront and honest about your riding experience to ensure your safety and that of the group. Inform your travel consultant to help you choose an operator that caters to your riding skill level.
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Wear Proper Attire
For your horseback safari in Kenya, pack proper riding clothes to ensure your own safety and comfort. Also, always wear a helmet while riding.
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Listen to Your Guides
Horseback safaris in Kenya are led by experienced guides, so always listed to them and take their advice, especially when approaching wildlife.
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Stay Safe
Even though animals tend to be less disturbed by the presence of horses compared to safari vehicles and people on foot, it is wise to keep a safe distance from larger animals like elephants and buffalo. Your guides and rangers will let you know when you can get closer.
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Plan an Extended Stay
Make the most of your Kenya Safari by extending your safari stay so that you can combine a horseback safari with other activities like game drives, hot air balloon safari and walking safaris.
