tuli Horse safari - Botswana

Epic Mobile Horse Safari

This horseback safari, on Mashatu Game Reserve, is a seven night horseback adventure that covers a distance of over 120 miles. Traversing the Mopane savannah and stunning river valleys, with accommodation in three unique and beautiful camps, each with distinct design and character. This horseback journey embraces the true definition of a riding safari in Africa: an expedition on horseback to observe animals in their natural habitat. From the back of a horse, the beauty of the African topography, fauna and flora will unfurl, and be complimented by a touch of classic safari luxury: hot showers, mouth-watering food, and memorable camps. As the wildlife in this area is not seasonal, wonderful game viewing experiences are possible throughout the year. We have two specific itineraries, which differ in the number of nights spent at each of our three camps and arrival day:

1. TULI ITINERARY 1 Arrive day is a Saturday.

2. TULI ITINERARY 2 – Arrive day is a Monday

This horse riding safari holiday covers approximately 120 miles over the course of the week. During rides, enjoy exploring the differing topography of the area: open bush, wooded riverine areas, wetlands, and strange rock formations home to large baobabs. Game is plentiful, so there is always something exciting to look at. Mashatu Game Reserve is home to a plethora of wildlife species that you might encounter on horseback: Elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffe, zebra, eland, impala, kudu, waterbuck, warthogs crocodile, bate red foxes, jackals and so much more. Rides are hosted by our qualified professional lead guides and their back up guides. Long extended, controlled canters are a feature of the safari. End each day at one of the beautiful welcoming camps.

Riding Level: Advanced intermediate to experienced. Must be able to independently control a horse at all paces. Jumping – ability to jump natural obstacle, a benefit, but not essential as can be ridden around. Must be able to take a light seat at canter. We do recommend that all riders are ‘riding fit’ for this safari. There a re a number of riders that can be over 5 hours long. Length of ride can be affected by what wildlife you encounter along your route.

Riding Test: Before each safari, every rider will take a short riding test to ensure they are competent enough for the safari. Riders must be competent at all gaits and be able to take a light seat in canter. The test is designed with the safety of all riders of the group in mind, and the decision of the manager conducting the test will be final. If you are unsure as to whether you re the right level, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or email us to discuss.

On safari you stay at three unique camps : Two Mashatus Camp, Tree Camp & Kgotla Camp.

Two Mashatus Camp – Nestled in the shade of two large Mashatu trees, the heart of the camp has two traditionally built Lala Palm rondavels for dining and lounge areas. Guest accommodation is in large A-frame walk-in tents set on teak platforms each with en-suite bathrooms. Each tent is private and positioned in the shade of a tree in the bush, not far from the main area. Each tent has a small deck area in front where guests can relax privately during the afternoons. Two Mashatu also has a small swimming pool under a Mashatu tree for guests to enjoy.

Tree Camp This is a very unique camp; any childhood dream of sleeping up in the arms of a tree, will be completely fulfilled here. Nestled in the bough of a giant Mashatu tree and two ancient Leadwood trees, this Seligna deck, 4 metres off the ground, will be your retreat for the night. Two guests each share an airy and cool sleeping pod. Along a short walkway, shared showers and toilets are under the Leadwood trees. The spacious dining and lounge area flow from the sleeping pods and overlook the Majale River. This truly extraordinary camp is one that will be remembered and spoken about for years to come.

Kgotla Camp – The “Kgotla” is an old traditional court enclosure from a nearby community, which was relocated to the banks of the Motloutse River on the western periphery of Mashatu. This open-air enclosure, made of Leadwood logs, provides a secure location for a camp. The camp has hot running water, beautiful open air showers and flushing toilets: the perfect combination for comfort and an authentic bush experience. Guests sleep on single beds around a large log fire in the centre of the enclosure. The highlight of this camp to guests is sleeping in the open under the stars and listening to the resonance from an Africa evening.