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Shiwa Ngandu Deluxe Horse Safari
Zambia
Zambia
A new fast paced riding safari in the northern part of Zambia. The country is situated at the Northern tip of what is known as Southern Africa and is a landlocked state home to the legendary Victoria Falls at Livingstone. The country proudly holds the title of “The Real Africa’ as it still has vast tracts of pristine wilderness which lend themselves beautifully for those true game enthusiasts. The terrain is diverse with open plains and beautiful sandy soil to magnificent forestry areas cloaked with a canopy of leaves to allow for exploration on the hottest of summer days. The combination of history, large herds of game, diversity of antelope species and other wildlife make this estate and horse riding a truly amazing experience.
The base for this riding safari is Shiwa House. Shiwa House is located in the heart of Northern Zambia, to the North of the Luangwa National Park and overlooks Shiwa Ngandu, the “Lake of the Royal Crocodiles”. The house was originally designed and built by Sir Stewart Gore-Browne in the 1920’s, but fell in to disrepair and had been all but abandoned. In November 1999, Charles Harvey, the eldest grandson of Gore-Browne and his wife Jo and children Tom and Emma, bought the house and estate from other family members. They then lovingly took on the restoration project for the house and whole estate, including local hospitals and schools and the house now retains its former glory.
The Harveys welcome guests as part of their own family in four double rooms with ensuite facilities. All rooms are with original hardwood furnishings and paintings very much in keeping with the dream and design of Gore-Browne nearly 100 years ago. Within the building is housed the very comprehensive library and extensive archive base of documents and photographs which were built up by Gore-Browne during his time at Shiwa.
The Shiwa Estate includes a 25,000 acres game reserve with 22 mammal species, of which the there are large herds of Zebra, Blue Wildebeest and numerous herds of antelope. Leopard, Caracal, and Serval Cats are amongst the predators and on occasion a pack of Wild Dog come through from the neighboring reserves providing exciting game viewing as they hunt their way through to their next destination.
The fishing is excellent, and there are 450 different species of birds on and around the lakes, historic walks around the estate, river walks and day trips to Kapishya Hot Springs. In addition there is the David Livingstone Memorial on the estate as this area is where he lost his medicine and completed his last writings shortly before his death investigating the source of the Nile.
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Camping Ride with vehicle support
Safari Ride
Center-based ride
Ride with Western Tack
Meeting:
Shiwa
Airport:
Mfuwe via Lusaka, Ndola via Johannesburg
Transfer:
Mfuwe or Lusaka by charter airplane
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
all meals, accommodation, park fees, community levy, professional guide, horse riding, guided walks (where detailed in itinerary), all beverages (note - alcohol may be local brands only), car transfer from Ngoma Airstrip to Lodge, laundry service
| A | 2013 | 8 day Safari, AP | 8d / 7n | $4200 |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer from Ngoma Airstrip to lodge included
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| A |
2013
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02/01
- 11/30
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8d / 7n
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8 day Safari, AP
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2
/8
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Reserve
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Weekly departures in Season - flexible dates with minimum of 2 riders
Rates do not include:
Flights, car transfers, gratuities, souvenirs, trips to Kapisha Hot Springs
All weekly itineraries begin on a Saturday and end on a Sunday each week and are available from March through to early November. Shorter stays at either Impandala House or Shiwa Main House are available and they are open all year round, here the itineraries can be tailor made to suit clients and riding ability. There is a suggested minimum four night stay where possible to ensure you really get the best from the Estate and surrounds.
Weekly itinerary from June to October -- Sa to Su
Saturday – Day One – arrive at Shiwa Estate for lunch at 13.00 and then settle in to accommodation before an introductory ride along the lake side and through the beautiful forests for approx two hours.
Sunday – Day Two – Riding split to early morning and later afternoon rides through the reserve of approx 3 hours each. Today will also cover the History of Shiwa and will include a guided tour of the Main House and surrounding farm, antique farm equipment and original kilns, plus opportunity to ride to the graves and learn more about the special family that established Shiwa Ngandu.
Monday – Day Three – Early start for approx 5 -6 hours riding, up in to the hills overlooking Shiwa and wending way through forests. Fast riding along sandy tracks and open plains by lake make this a wonderfully scenic and exciting day. Lunch will be a picnic at the Boathouse overlooking the famous Lake Shiwa with return to Impandala mid afternoon.
Tuesday – Day Four – Early departure for Big Five Camp for walking safaris. Journey takes approx 4 hours, with plenty of opportunity to game view along the way. Arrival at camp for lunch and then in afternoon walking with the Big Game! A fascinating and exciting adventure walking in the African Bush before retuning to camp for evening meal and overnight in rustic but wonderfully comfortable accommodation.
Wednesday – Day Five – Early morning and afternoon walk of approx 2/3 hours each with relaxation during the day at Bush Camp. Lots more adventures and opportunities to learn about the African Bush and its wildlife. Overnight at Bush Camp.
Thursday – Day Six – Depart early morning to return to Shiwa Ngandu Estate, again approx 4 hours with last opportunity to view the Big Game before arriving back at Impandala for lunch. Then afternoon ride to re acquaint you with your equine partners and enjoy some fast riding of approx 3 hours through the forest.
Friday – Day Seven – Morning of Arena Polo! Enormous fun to be had for everyone does not require any previous experience of polo, just a sense of adventure and good humour. Arrive back at Impandala for late lunch and afternoon at leisure. A trip to Hot Springs can be organized for people to soak away any muscle aches of the last two days riding, by floating in the natural springs with a Gin & Tonic!
Saturday – Day Eight – Early morning start for riding approx 4-5 hours searching for the elusive aquatic Sitatunga and other forest dwellers, wending through forests and opening up the horses for lovely long gallops. Afternoon at leisure, with sundowners at the Boathouse watching the sun set over the lake before returning to Impandala for evening meal.
Sunday – Day Nine – Where charters allow, a final morning ride for the last opportunity to say goodbye to equine friends then return to Impandala to prepare for onward journeys.
Weekly Itinerary for Shiwa Riding on Reserve – February to June
Day One – arrive at Shiwa Estate for lunch around midday and then settle in to accommodation before an introductory ride along the lake side and through the beautiful forests for approx two hours.
Day Two – Riding split to early morning and later afternoon rides through the reserve of approx 3 hours each. Today will also cover the History of Shiwa and will include a guided tour of the Main House and surrounding farm, antique farm equipment and original kilns, plus opportunity to ride to the graves and learn more about the special family that established Shiwa Ngandu.
Day Three – Early morning start for a beautiful and long ride approx 5 hours round the perimeter of lake and then in to hills to reach our special bush camp for lunch and overnight in tented camp. In the afternoon there is opportunity to ascend the mountains on foot to visit David Livingstone’s Memorial and amazing views over Shiwa and surrounding countryside. Hot bucket showers, comfortable tents and – weather permitting – evening meals under the stars make this a magical experience.
Day Four – Another early start, riding for approx 5 hours wending way back through the hills and forests of Shiwa game viewing and taking opportunity for fast riding on the lovely sandy tracks. Arrive back at Impandala for late lunch and afternoon at leisure. A trip to Hot Springs can be organized for people to soak away any muscle aches of the last two days riding, by floating in the natural springs with a Gin & Tonic!
Day Five – Early morning start for riding approx 3 hours searching for the elusive aquatic Sitatunga and other forest dwellers, wending through forests and opening up the horses for lovely long gallops. Lunch at Impandala followed by an afternoon of lessons with Arena Polo in preparation for full match next day.
Day Six –. Morning of Arena Polo! Enormous fun to be had for everyone does not require any previous experience of polo, just a sense of adventure and good humour. Using the pitch by the lake, followed by a picnic lunch at the lovely boathouse overlooking the famous Lake Shiwa, and return to Impandala for late afternoon.
Day Seven – Where charters allow, a final morning ride for the last opportunity to say goodbye to equine friends then return to Impandala to prepare for onward journeys.
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The actual daily itineraries will be determined with the clients with the best interests of the group and horses in mind and taking into consideration terrain and weather conditions.
There are lots of opportunities for lovely canters through forest areas and for the more adventurous long gallops along sandy tracks on the open plains. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone busy at Shiwa House and non riders are very welcome. In addition to game walks, and game drives there is opportunity learn more about the extensive history of the area and have a guided tour around the main house itself.
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Meeting:
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Shiwa
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Airport:
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Mfuwe via Lusaka, Ndola via Johannesburg
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Transfer:
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Mfuwe or Lusaka by charter airplane
You can fly via Lusaka to Mfuwe or from Johannesburg to Ndola -- from there we will charter an aircraft for your group to fly to the lodge.
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Level:
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 Low Demanding
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All paces. We ride in Elephant, Lion and Buffalo country - only for riders that ride regularly and are confident at all paces.
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Participants:
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Min
2
participants
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Max
8
participants
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Horses: You will ride some of the best horses in the safari business and we have received many accolades on their quality and schooling. All the horses are personally selected by Steven Rufus and are chosen with the same criteria as selecting an event horse i.e. pace, confirmation, ride ability and temperament.
The various breeds include South African Boerperd, SA Warmblood, Quarter Horse cross and THB crosses. In particular we look for responsive horses that like to work, as well as be able to cope with the harshness of the African bush. They are all fit, in excellent condition and range in height from 14hh to 17.3.
The South African Boerperd (literal translation farm horse) is a wonderful breed, renowned for its hardiness, intelligence and paces. These horses have evolved to cope with extreme temperatures and terrain of Africa and you will be amazed at their sure footedness and bravery as they guide you safety through the bush. All horses are schooled in basic dressage movements - when not on safari - in classical English style to produce a soft and responsive mount for clients on safari.
Tack: The tack is South African stock saddles designed for comfort and long hours in the saddle. Pelham bridles are used for control, although you will normally ride on a loose rein
There is a weight limit of 16 stone / 100 kg / 220 lb
Guides
Steven Rufus who is an experienced horseman and was an advanced open eventer in RSA . He has lectured in equine studies, and is a registered farrier. Having grown up with horses in Matopos National Park in Zimbabwe he has a wealth of experience with Big Game and is considered to be one of the foremost horse guides in the industry today. Fourteen years ago he established Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris in Botswana. Prior to this, with his wife Lucy they established and ran South Africa Horseback Safaris in Songimvelo Game Reserve RSA which quickly became a top International destination.
Gerry van der Westhuizen is our other guide who has an impressive resume in terms of horse safari guiding in Africa. Having previously worked in Botswana and RSA and conducted walking safaris in Zambia he comes with an obvious passion for horses and the bush which is enthusiastically transmitted to all guests.
Riding level: For this safri you should be competent at walk, trot, canter and gallop. This ride is for strong intermediate and advanced riders only. As we are riding in areas of dangerous game all riders should have an independent seat and be secure in the saddle should they need to react quickly if a situation arises. The riding is challenging and fast with long canters and gallops where terrain allows, some steep climbs and descents, river crossings and diverse terrain to cross. You may have to jump fallen logs through the bush. It is not suitable for nervous riders.
All riders will have to pass an assessment before taking part in a safari. Please note that the safari leader has the right to dismount clients at any time should the booking information prove to be inaccurate or the client is causing a danger either to the group, horses or themselves. You are not entitled to any refund should this situation occur.
Clients over 60 years should have written confirmation from their doctor that they are fit for the ride and that there are no medical conditions of which the guide should be aware. Competent teenagers aged 12 years and over are accepted on the safaris.
All children under the age of 18 years must wear a hard hat when riding.
We recommend the usage of a hard hat. 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 can not accept any liability whatsoever for injuries sustained as a result of ignoring this advice.
The lodge can take a maximum of 12 guests at any one time but there is a maximum of 8 guests per riding group. Two groups will be lead should the numbers be more than 8 at any one time.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for six months from the visa's date of expiry required by all nationals referred to in the chart.Required by nationals referred to in the chart above except the following for stays of u. more
Shiwa House is open all year round for riding although weekly itineraries only operate from March to November. Weather is typical of Southern Africa with summer months (Nov – Feb) providing warmer weather and cooler, drier temperatures in Winter (June – August).
All the rooms at Shiwa Main House have wonderful fire places and are cool in the summer months so provide a respite from all conditions should the weather prove inclement. At Impandala there are fireplaces in bedrooms or charcoal heaters and in the dining room and lounge. The “all round” veranda provides a wonderful shaded place to watch game and view the lake.
As riding can be tailored to suit the needs of our visitors and we are accessible all year round we can really take advantage of all seasons to show Shiwa Estate in its full glory.
If you are flying in light aircraft the weight of your bag is severely restricted and so you will be limited to one medium sized soft sided bag weighing no more than 12kg – you will be weighed on arrival! The flight company have secure lockers at their base in Lusaka for those who have onward journeys and require more luggage. You are provided with saddle bags and water bottles for riding.
Soft sided smaller bags are still required for those arriving by car as they will need to be transported to the fly camp for the night out and larger bags can not be accommodated.
A laundry service is available at the lodge, although not at fly camps
Comfortable riding trousers/jodhpurs
Half chaps or full chaps
Riding boots with rubber sole, also suitable for walking. Full length riding boots will not be either practical or comfortable. The best would be Jodhpur boots (with rubber sole) or a pair of dual purpose riding/leisure boots.
T-shirts / Long sleeved cotton shirts / Safari Shirts– please note that all clothing must be in a neutral, Khaki or bottle green colour. Please refrain from bringing all other colours.
Hat: We recommend a hard hat. 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 can not accept any liability whatsoever for injuries sustained as a result of ignoring this advice.
At all times a hat is advisable as protection against the sun. Your hat should be secure on your head!
Riding Gloves: Your hands will be particularly exposed to the elements for long periods
Sunglasses: We recommend a lace/cord attached to your sunglasses so that they do not fly off.
Jumper or Fleece: recommended for the evenings / early mornings especially in winter months
Light Waterproof jacket : recommended especially for the summer months December to April – although it has to be noted that rain is localised mainly to afternoon and disappears as quickly as it arrives!
Casual clothes for when not riding, house shoes.
Swimsuit, shorts, sandals, etc.
Sunscreen, lip salve and moisturiser.
Insect repellent – preferably one that contains DEET
Camera and film – twice what you think you will use! Spare batteries.
Torch and spare batteries.
Binoculars – if you are particularly keen on game viewing or birding
Wash bag - A nail brush will be particularly useful after a day in the saddle.
Fanny Pack or Waist Bag You may find that a small waist bag is useful for keeping a camera or sun-screen readily to hand (saddle bags will be provided for carrying water etc).
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Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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Impandala is a beautiful farm style house with a dramatic view over the lake. It consists of four spacious and light bedrooms – two ensuite – a warm hospitable lounge and dining room with veranda that overlooks the surrounding estate. It is within walking distance of the horse facilities so perfect for the weekly itineraries for horse riders.
Big Five Bush Camp – Mukungele – this is a beautifully situated grass and thatch camp overlooking a waterfall. There is a comfortable dining and relaxation area with all rooms having ensuite showers and toilets.
A laundry service is available at the houses at no extra cost but not whilst at the Bush Camp.
The main Shiwa House is a stunning colonial building retaining all of its original charm, situated in beautifully maintained gardens and can sleep 8 guests in 4 en suite rooms. All bedrooms have their own fireplaces for the cooler months and have original hardwood furnishings and paintings. Having been lovingly restored by Jo & Charlie Harvey it presents a warm and welcoming vision to all visitors who are normally treated as part of their extended family.
All visitors are welcome to roam the house and visit the extensive library to learn more about the amazing history of the house and its founder Stuart Gore-Brown.
All the rooms in the main house
have wonderful fire places and are cool in the summer months so
provides a respite from all conditions should the weather prove
inclement.
A laundry service is available at the lodge at no extra cost.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner.
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Tack:
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South African stock saddles, Pelham bridles
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Horses:
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Boerperd, Basuto pony, SA Warmblood and crosses
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Pace:
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All paces. We ride in Elephant, Lion and Buffalo country - only for riders that ride regularly and are confident at all paces.
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
10
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Weight:
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Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2
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Max
8
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Horses: You will ride some of the best horses in the safari business and we have received many accolades on their quality and schooling. All the horses are personally selected by Steven Rufus and are chosen with the same criteria as selecting an event horse i.e. pace, confirmation, ride ability and temperament.
The various breeds include South African Boerperd, SA Warmblood, Quarter Horse cross and THB crosses. In particular we look for responsive horses that like to work, as well as be able to cope with the harshness of the African bush. They are all fit, in excellent condition and range in height from 14hh to 17.3.
The South African Boerperd (literal translation farm horse) is a wonderful breed, renowned for its hardiness, intelligence and paces. These horses have evolved to cope with extreme temperatures and terrain of Africa and you will be amazed at their sure footedness and bravery as they guide you safety through the bush. All horses are schooled in basic dressage movements - when not on safari - in classical English style to produce a soft and responsive mount for clients on safari.
Tack: The tack is South African stock saddles designed for comfort and long hours in the saddle. Pelham bridles are used for control, although you will normally ride on a loose rein
There is a weight limit of 16 stone / 100 kg / 220 lb
Guides
Steven Rufus who is an experienced horseman and was an advanced open eventer in RSA . He has lectured in equine studies, and is a registered farrier. Having grown up with horses in Matopos National Park in Zimbabwe he has a wealth of experience with Big Game and is considered to be one of the foremost horse guides in the industry today. Fourteen years ago he established Limpopo Valley Horse Safaris in Botswana. Prior to this, with his wife Lucy they established and ran South Africa Horseback Safaris in Songimvelo Game Reserve RSA which quickly became a top International destination.
Gerry van der Westhuizen is our other guide who has an impressive resume in terms of horse safari guiding in Africa. Having previously worked in Botswana and RSA and conducted walking safaris in Zambia he comes with an obvious passion for horses and the bush which is enthusiastically transmitted to all guests.
Riding level: For this safri you should be competent at walk, trot, canter and gallop. This ride is for strong intermediate and advanced riders only. As we are riding in areas of dangerous game all riders should have an independent seat and be secure in the saddle should they need to react quickly if a situation arises. The riding is challenging and fast with long canters and gallops where terrain allows, some steep climbs and descents, river crossings and diverse terrain to cross. You may have to jump fallen logs through the bush. It is not suitable for nervous riders.
All riders will have to pass an assessment before taking part in a safari. Please note that the safari leader has the right to dismount clients at any time should the booking information prove to be inaccurate or the client is causing a danger either to the group, horses or themselves. You are not entitled to any refund should this situation occur.
Clients over 60 years should have written confirmation from their doctor that they are fit for the ride and that there are no medical conditions of which the guide should be aware. Competent teenagers aged 12 years and over are accepted on the safaris.
All children under the age of 18 years must wear a hard hat when riding.
We recommend the usage of a hard hat. 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 can not accept any liability whatsoever for injuries sustained as a result of ignoring this advice.
The lodge can take a maximum of 12 guests at any one time but there is a maximum of 8 guests per riding group. Two groups will be lead should the numbers be more than 8 at any one time.
Passports
Passport valid for six months from the visa's date of expiry required by all nationals referred to in the chart.
Visas
Required by nationals referred to in the chart above except the following for stays of up to 30 days:
(a) 1. nationals of Ireland (all other EU nationals do require a visa);
(b) transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft within 24 hours provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport.
Types of Visa and Cost
Tourist, Business, Private and Transit. The cost depends on nationality. For UK citizens: £75 (single-entry); £240 (double- and multiple-entry). For US citizens: US$135.
Validity
Six months from date of issue for a stay of maximum 30 days; transit visa valid for seven days. Daytripper visas are valid for tourists entering Zambia for no more than 24 hours.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at high commission or embassy); see Contact Addresses.
Working Days Required
Three, if submitted in person. Allow five for postal applications.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes/1 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
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Shiwa Ngandu Deluxe Horse Safari
Tour Code:
IT-ZART01
8 days /
7 nights
~$4,200.00
Dates: Feb - Nov
Level :
Difficulty Levels Explained
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1. |
Easy
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Easy pace and an average-to-sedentary level of fitness. You should be in good health and fit enough for full day of normal sightseeing and walking.
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2. |
Easy to Moderate
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An average level of fitness or some experience with the featured
activity is recommended.
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3. |
Moderate
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Requires you to have performed the featured activity regularly, with
some periods on challenging terrain. Activities are mandatory and
you may be traveling at high elevations. You need to be in good health and physical condition to enjoy these trips, with adequate muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance.
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4. |
Demanding
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You must be extremely physically fit and are expected to hike or
ride four to six hours over steep or more rugged terrain. |
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5. |
Strenuous
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Prolonged hiking/biking on moderate to difficult terrain (five to nine hours a day).
May include high altitude, rugged terrain etc.. |
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Airport:
Mfuwe via Lusaka, Ndola via Johannesburg
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF 
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