Riding safaris are a popular and exciting way of viewing Africa’s incredible scenery and wildlife. There really is nothing more thrilling than cantering alongside elegant giraffe or galloping amongst the great wildebeest migration.

Experienced riders can enjoy exhilarating safaris riding at speed alongside plains wildlife or quietly stalking elephant and buffalo. With the human form disguised by the shape and movement of a horse, you can get closer to the wildlife than by vehicle or on foot.

It’s also possible to cover significant distances over remote regions on horseback – some beyond the reach of even the strongest four-wheel drive vehicles. Serious equestrians can choose from specialist riding safaris lasting several days, fly-camping out under the stars and tacking up at dawn for up to six hours in the saddle.

For those less experienced, but who still would like some riding during their safari, there are plenty of options for shorter, gentler rides. You can experience life on a farm where horses are a part of the daily routine. Here you can ride if you want, or simply enjoy a very different way of living in rural Africa.

Watch this stunning video of a riding safari in the Tuli Block with Horizon Horseback Mashatu in Botswana.

Riding across Namibia is a rare treat, see more in this video from Namibia Horse Safari Company

Find out what it’s like to ride across the Masai Mara with Offbeat Safaris