Destinations
General information
Pre-safari preparation
Based at Macatoo Camp African Horseback Safaris is situated on the western side of the Okavango Delta.
Trapped in the parched sands of the Kalahari desert, the Delta is a magnet for the wildlife who depend on its life giving waters. More than 400 species of resident and migrant birds, lions, elephant, hyenas, wild dog, buffalo, hippo and crocodiles congregate with a variety of antelope and smaller animals - warthog, mongoose, genets, monkeys and bushbabies to name a few.
The main attraction of an African Horseback safaris is the joy of riding good horses over superb country, with just about every landscape dotted with game.
The riding is varied, sometimes quietly walking, stalking big game and admiring the bird life, sometimes cantering through the water-meadows alongside galloping giraffe and lechwe.
There are over 40 horses at the camp with 8 recent arrivals from Namibia including a spirited Palomino and a statuesque Friesian Cross.
Whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or as part of a larger group, your time spent around the camp fire, drinking sun downers on the deck, or dining al fresco will mean you are sure to acquire new friends during your stay at Macatoo.
Prior to your early morning ride you will be woken just before dawn by a tent lady bearing gifts of tea or coffee, and there will be time for a slice of home made toast or a bowl of fruit before you set off. On your return, late in the morning, you may wish to have a quick shower before indulging in Lydia's mouth-watering array of lunchtime fare.
A siesta now beckons, whilst the sun is at its strongest, but sunbathing by the plunge pool, a good book, sorting through your photos or watching the wildlife on the plains in front of the camp are popular alternatives.
Tea is served prior to your evening ride or drive, and on your return there is time for a sun downer and shower before dinner is announced. The menu is varied and excellent, accompanied by attentive staff and a good selection of South African wines. Much time is spent re-living the events of the day, with the occasional myth creeping in too!
You will spend 4 to 6-hours a day in the saddle with groups of no more than 7 guests and you will need to feel confident about keeping up with the group, capable of riding at all paces; rising to the trot and controlling your horse at the canter.
You may be required to gallop out of trouble, so we can not take beginners. Riders should be aged 12 years and over and anyone over 60 needs to be riding fit and strong. There is a maximum weight limit of 15 stone, 210lbs or 95kgs. Over this, you will need to enquire, but only if you are an advanced rider. It will be at the discretion of the company whether novice riders will be permitted to ride, taking into consideration their safety and enjoyment and that of the group as a whole.
Horses include a variety of Thoroughbreds, Namibian Hanovarians, Arabs and Kalahari-Arabs crosses, ranging from 14 - 16.2 hands (140-165cm). There is a choice of English and Western style trail saddles, each with their own water bottle.
Many insurance companies will not insure your holiday unless you are wearing a hard hat or safety helmet whilst in the saddle. It is your responsibility to provide your own properly fitted hard hat or safety helmet. We cannot accept any liability whatsoever for head injuries sustained as a result of ignoring this advice.
