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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Zimbabwe
Intro to Zimbabwe
![]() Hwange![]() Mana Pools![]() Victoria Falls
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![]() Mozambique![]() Namibia
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Zambezi National Park & Victoria Falls Safari Ride
Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe
The Zambezi: one of the legendary rivers of Africa, much written about, explored, and challenged, yet in the end still wild and unconquered - the heart of Africa's mystery and magic! Imagine riding your horse along the banks of this river, just above the magnificent Victoria Falls, with the rising spray from the Falls in the backdrop. Here you can and canter through open bush veld, explore hidden game paths, ride on to secret islands and then follow the natural pathways to the wilderness areas beyond. Our itineraries are loosely formed so we can cater best to your requests and track game based on movement. The first and last day will include the Zambezi River area. These are your main game viewing days. Further away the rides are more about scenery and distances, however there is a chance of seeing additional species such as giraffe, lion, zebra, rhino, elephant, eland, and sable, as well as bat-eared fox. Nocturnal species such as genet, spotted hyena, leopard, porcupine and aardvark may be seen on night-time game drives operated from our overnight lodge. Canters and gallops through long stretches of teak forest and will take us to the furthest reaches of the estate as we look for and track the rare and endangered Black Rhino. Finding these after following tracks and territorial markings through wild country is truly an experience to remember.
Explore the Zambezi National Park and reaches of the Zambezi River which so entranced David Livingstone when he first travelled downstream to the Falls, staying in beautiful accommodations along the way. With so much to discover, you'll be in for a trip of a lifetime!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
Family Vacation
Trip with multi activities
Safari Ride
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Meeting:
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Victoria Falls
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Airport:
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Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA)
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Transfer:
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Victoria Falls
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
Max
6 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
Video
Travel Stories
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Rates include*:
Limited range of half chaps, jodhpurs trousers and shirts available for loan
| A | 2023 | 7 day trip (High) | 7d / 6n | $5125 |
| Single supplement | $360 |
| Conservation & Park Fees, pp (mandatory - subject to change without notice) | $220 |
| B | 2023 | 7 day trip (Low) | 7d / 6n | $4430 |
| Single supplement | $50 |
| Conservation & Park Fees, pp (mandatory - subject to change without notice) | $220 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
Discounted rates applicable for 4 consecutive days at Ursula and early bookings!
Transfer and Other Charges:
|
2023
|
Transfer from/to Victoria Falls on first & last day is included
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$0
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|
2023
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Extra nights - please inquire
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$0
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2023
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Zambezi River Usage, pp (rate subject to change)
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$10
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2023
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Victoria falls Park Fees, pp
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$3
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Pick-up/ drop-off from Victoria Falls International airport (VFA). Please book flights arriving before 1:00pm. Drop off at airport around 10-11 am on last day of trip.
Rates do not include:
Conservation fee (mandatory), Entry Visa (please bring cash for this), Park fees where applicable (cash payment is usually best), Gratuities, Medical and travel insurance (mandatory) & Optional Extras
Sample Itinerary: 7-day Program - subject to changes
Note: weather and game movement patterns may cause itinerary changes. This will always be in the guests best interests.
Day 1: Arrival
You are transferred from the airport to Elephant camp. Your guide will meet you there with your horse for a trip briefing and an introductory ride ending at sunset.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Elephant camp
Day 2: Morning & Sunset Rides
Early morning ride with picnic breakfast carried with us.
Rest of the day: Helicopter flight
We go on an early morning ride and enjoy a picnic breakfast along the way.
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a short (about 12 minutes) helicopter flight before visiting the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.
In late afternoon, you go for another ride ending at sunset.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight at Elephant camp
Day 3: Riding & Victoria Falls
This morning, we enjoy another beautiful ride in the reserve. After our ride, you go to Victoria Falls.
You end the day with another fabulous ride ending with cocktails and canapes on the edge of the Gorge.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight at Elephant camp
Day 4: Ride to Old Drift & Game Drive
Early morning ride to Old Drift, where you will spend the following nights.
In the afternoon, you will go on a river safari, followed by an evening game drive.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight at Old Drift
Day 5: Zambezi
Appreciate the fabulous location and explore the National Park and the Zambezi, either on foot, on a game drive or a river safari.
During the heat of the day, your lodge with its own plunge pool and private river frontage is a perfect place to relax watching the legendary Zambezi river.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight at Old Drift
Day 6: Last Ride
Meet the horses for a last ride – where we go and what we do will entirely depend on what we have seen before, game movement patterns and our own inclination.
The afternoon may be spent enjoying any of the optional activities on offer, or just relaxing.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight at Old Drift
Day 7: Departure
Depending on outgoing flight arrangements this might be a last drive on the way to the airport, or game drive before returning to the lodge for airport transfer, before you say goodbye to us and your fabulous adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
Note: We may choose to vary the order and type of camps used, most especially to take advantage of game movement. Please note that any variation in route or camps will be only to increase the value and quality of the safari and always in the client’s best interest. Cost and content of the safari will remain the same.
On any day and at any camp there are plenty of opportunities for game viewing, and each day’s riding includes a wide variety of magnificent scenery.
Optional Activities
- Rafting High or Low Water (morning only) - 120 USD pp + 10 USD conservation fee pp
- Rafting & Riverboard Combo (morning only) - 190 USD pp + 10 USD conservation fee pp
- Flying Fox (morning or afternoon) - 50 USD pp + 3 USD conservation fee pp
- Zipline (morning or afternoon) - from 80 USD pp + 3 USD conservation fee pp
- Gorge Swing (morning or afternoon) - from 100 USD pp + 3 USD conservation fee pp
- Canopy Tour (morning or afternoon) - 60 USD pp + 3 USD conservation fee pp
- Bicycle Tour (morning or afternoon) - 45 USD pp
- Helicopter Flight (morning or afternoon) - from 150 USD pp for 12-13 minutes
- Wild Horizons Elephant Encounter (morning or afternoon) - 120 USD pp + 10 USD conservation fee pp
- Devils Pools Excursion (breakfast, lunch or high tea) - from 110 USD pp + 10 USD conservation fee pp - usually this is NOT available from February to June due to high water
- Chobe Day Trip (morning only) - 165 USD pp + 25 USD conservation fee pp
- Fishing (morning only) - 187 USD pp + 15 USD conservation fee pp
- Canoeing (morning only) - 180 USD pp + 10 USD conservation fee pp
- Walking Safari (morning or afternoon) - 95 USD pp + 15 USD conservation fee pp
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Riders
Talk to us about a custom itinerary for you while your partner is out on horseback. Activities could include a walking safari, canopy tour, village tour, etc.
Meeting:
Victoria Falls
Airport:
Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA)
Train station:
--
Transfer:
Victoria Falls
Distance:
22km
Pick-up/ drop-off from Victoria Falls International airport (VFA). Please book flights arriving before 1:00pm. Drop off at airport around 10-11 am on last day of trip.
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Tack:
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Australian Stock saddles. English on request. All horses go in snaffle bridles.
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Horses:
|
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Anglo Arab, Thoroughbred, Cleveland Bay , Thoroughbred cross and Warm bloods
Between 14-16.2hh.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with trots, canters and some gallops, 4-6 hours daily. Riders do need to have a firm seat and in control at all paces. You should be able to post to the trot and gallop if necessary.
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate +
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
12
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
1 riders
|
Max
6 riders
|
|
Riding Experience
This trip is suitable for strong intermediate riders. Keep in mind we ride through highly dense game areas. Clients must be fit and confident at all paces, including rising trot, and capable of trotting at a rising trot for a minimum of 15 minutes at a stretch. The more proficient and fitter you are the more you will enjoy your trip.
Riding
We spend between 4-6 hours in the saddle per day. This includes refreshment breaks and a short 10-minute walk for every 2 hours spent in the saddle (for the horses back, and your own muscles). The times given for rides are an estimate – we do not clock watch and may decide to alter and adapt the route.
Within reason, we like to tailor our trips to suit you. If you do not like what is happening let us know.
At the end of each riding day, we meet to discuss with you and amongst ourselves what we have seen, and plan our next day accordingly. We get continuous updates on game movement patterns throughout the area to ensure the best experience, so we may change a route – but only for your benefit.
Terrain
Magnificent and varied terrain, from the shady banks of the Zambezi, to rugged mopane woodland and wide ranging Kalahari sand dunes and teak forests. Riding on the banks of the Zambezi at any water level is an experience itself. All rides start here, moving away after the first morning through other varied terrain. Kalahari sand fire breaks are the best places to gallop.
The rural areas up to Gorges offer the most dramatic and beautiful scenery – rugged and starkly beautiful in the dry season, the experience of seeing black eagles soaring in the gorge below you is unforgettable.
Horses
The owner personally chooses and schools the horses herself, before they are used on safaris. She is assisted by a dedicated team of staff, who also ensures that the horses are happy and healthy.
The horses are mostly thoroughbred, some mixed, some Anglo Arabs. Between 14 – 16.2hh. They vary from gentle hacks to top polocrosse ponies.
As the stables are in a world heritage site and surrounded by National Park, everything the horses eat is brought in, ensuring that each horse has an excellent and closely monitored diet.
Guiding
Qualified, licensed guides lead all rides, and are accompanied by a back up rider. Both are dedicated, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A keen interest is taken in the environment as well as the flora and fauna of the area. You will also learn many of the traditional uses of plants and trees, basic principles of tracking, and aspects of traditional village life.
All guides and back up riders are trained in first aid procedures and emergency situations. Each ride starts with a safety talk, and you will be reminded of details should circumstances require.
Weight Limit
We have a weight limit of 85 kg. This is your weight in your riding clothes and should include anything else you wish to carry. Our guides will carry your water for you. To avoid embarrassment be warned that you may be required to step on the scales!
An extra charge of 50% is required for riders above our weight limit if allowed to ride. Please note this is at the discretion of the company and subject to individual experience and circumstances. Allowances may be made only for very experienced riders, or for those who are tall and fit.
Non-Riders
We can accommodate non-riders. Non-riding activities include Rhino search, Evening/ game drives at Imbabala (for 8-day itinerary) & Canoeing. For an added fee, you can also take a walking safari with Charles Brightman, do an Elephant Encounter or go on a Helicopter flight.
Children
We do accept children but they must be strong competent riders. Please inquire. There is no adjustment in price for children.
Insurance
You will need to be covered by your own full Medical/Travel Insurance, of which we ask you provide us with details prior to the start of your ride. Please check whether your insurance covers you for riding without a helmet, should you wish to do so.
Wildlife
Birds and other wildlife abound, of all colours, shapes and sizes. Lilac-breasted rollers, white-fronted bee-eaters and trumpeter hornbills are common, and if you are lucky you may glimpse the brilliant green and bright scarlet colours of the elusive Schalow's Turaco, which is found along the riverine forest.
Depending on the season you may see elephant, buffalo, kudu, impala, bushbuck, waterbuck, banded mongoose and warthog. Along the river can be found hippo and crocodile, and occasionally cape clawless otters may also be spotted. There are several resident leopard and hyena are also present in the area, but rarely spotted, and even wild dog are sometimes seen during the rains. But remember, no game is guaranteed!
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least six months beyond date of departure required by all nationals referred to in the chart above. Three blank pages are needed.Passport NoteAll visitors to Zimbabwe must be in . more
Victoria Falls area
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Month
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Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
86
|
86
|
86
|
85
|
82
|
78
|
77
|
83
|
90
|
93
|
91
|
87
|
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
66
|
66
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64
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58
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51
|
45
|
44
|
50
|
58
|
65
|
66
|
66
|
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
28
|
25
|
25
|
28
|
32
|
34
|
33
|
31
|
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
19
|
19
|
18
|
15
|
10
|
7
|
7
|
10
|
14
|
18
|
19
|
19
|
|
Average Precipitation (days of rain)
|
11
|
10
|
6
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
3
|
7
|
11
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
Basically Zimbabwe has a hot dry season, a hot wet season and winter.
Rainy season (November to March)
During the rains, it can still be very hot, with clear skies as well. When it does rain, even when the rain is torrential, it is never cold, and often is hot and dry shortly after, so your rain wear must be good, but lightweight and easy to carry. Bring a fleece for the evenings and early mornings in case it’s cool.
Winter (April to August)
By April it may be cooling off slightly in the evenings, but still hot during the day. May’s much the same, but can be cooler. June-July are usually the coldest months. It can get very cold at night and in the early mornings, on vlei areas there may even be frost in July, but going up to about 26 degrees Celsius (78 Fahrenheit) in the day. August gets a bit warmer, but still cool at night.
So layers you can remove are best.
Dry season (September to November)
These are the hot dry months that we have before the rains start. You might need a fleece so bring one, but mostly dress for hot weather, and strong sun. Mostly people tend to underestimate how hot their clothes might be. But to give you an idea, your guide rides in sandals, jeans or light weight cotton trousers and t-shirt in summer, much the same and short boots in winter.
All Camps and Lodges are fully equipped with beds bedding towels and so forth.
All have bathroom or shower en suite . Electricity outlets are the same as in the UK ... so you may need an adapter for the Type G (a British three-pin rectangular blade)
Clothing: Please wear safari (dull) colors: no white or bright colors. Cotton is preferable.
- Jeans /trousers – whatever you’re comfortable riding in
- Jeans /trousers for evenings - 1 pair.
- Short sleeved cotton shirt or t shirt x 2.
- Long sleeved cotton shirt x 2: light weight for sun protection.
- 1 warm jerseys/ fleece- more in winter: June – July can be very cold at night and in the early morning
- Money belt to carry cash, small camera & sun block when riding.
- Sunglasses.
- Sun hat
- Camera – one that incorporates a zoom like a Panasonic Lumix DMC H17, a Nikon PS100, Canon S5 IS those small Sony’s or whatever you prefer.
- Trainers / short boots (long boots are too hot)
- Trainers / sandals for in camp.
- Swimming costume – all camps have a swimming pool
- Chaps or half chaps - optional.
- Riding gloves - optional.
- Plenty of Sun block - the stronger the better.
- Insect repellent.
- Malaria pills - this is a malaria area. Note: be wary of taking larium – at this altitude it has bad side effects on almost everybody and can ruin your holiday.
- Any personal medication. If you suffer from allergies please bring necessary medication and, in the case of food allergies, an epipen with you.Victoria Falls and surrounding areas have remained free of the health problems that have affected some parts of Zimbabwe. A big community effort has ensured that our water supplies are pure, our hospitals and clinics are well supplied with medication and equipment. Please bring any personal medication with you.
- Remember the pollen count is high - so if you are prone to allergies or hay fever and have a preferred treatment that does not make you sleepy you may want to bring that as well. We do carry some and you can buy medicines of course - but if you have to buy anything here it will of course cost more than you'd pay at home.
- All camps are fully equipped with sheets, towels, blankets, en suite bathrooms - and real beds
- Finance: bring cash – US$ in small denominations if possible, as well as travelers cheques. Park fees are payable in cash only. Entry fee to the Falls is additional, and will cost US$20pp. Whilst extra activities must be paid for in foreign currency, you may use local currency for meals, drinks and shopping. But you may not exchange traveler’s cheques for local or foreign cash, nor can you use your credit card to buy foreign cash. Do not count on crossing into Zambia to draw cash with your credit card – the visa fees are now much higher than those for Zimbabwe -US$125 for a US citizen, 75 pounds or US$140 for British passport holders.
- Credit cards are not accepted in Zimbabwe, but you can use them elsewhere. Do not change money on the streets or at the airport.
Other stuff:
A broad-brimmed hat in canvas or light felt is essential, ventilated if possible. Plain leather or heavy felt is too hot, straw is too fragile. Peaked caps do not shade your head properly, but are useful as an extra.
We strongly recommend wearing a helmet, and it’s always better to bring your own- for a helmet to be truly safe it must fit. If you are buying specially a ventilated one is a good idea. The sort of lightweight ventilated helmet used for endurance or western riding is ideal, and it must have a peak Dark color helmets will be hot, but if they have ventilation holes they should be fine. You could of course make a light tan cotton cover for the helmet and even dampen this to cool it if it gets hot. An alternative is to buy a ventilated trail helmet such as troxel: http://www.doversaddlery.com/troxel-dakota-duratec-riding-hemlet-in-trail-dust/p/X1-36131/.
However do bring shady hat as well. Please note that all children under 16 MUST wear a helmet. We do have a limited selection available, but your own is always best. Again – no black, no white, and no bright colors.
Avoid tight clothing and shoes – go one size up if anything.
Avoid synthetic boots or shoes, always leather or canvas – actually long boots in any form should be avoided, and if you like to wear something on your lower leg go for half- chaps, in canvas for this climate.
If you usually ride in gloves, bring them, they do not take up much space.
Chose your jodhpurs, jeans or riding trousers carefully –not all cuts of jeans are suitable for riding – and you will be in the saddle for long stretches of time. Avoid anything with lumpy seams.
Pay special attention to the knees – knee seams and even knee pads can be agony after a while.
It is important to remember that even in midwinter it can be very hot in the middle of the day, so coolness is on paramount importance, and layers of clothing are best.
Always wear cotton, or cotton mix. There s nothing cooler. And please no white or bright colors go for fawns, tans, khakis and greens. Very dark colors, black and navy blue are very hot and very uncomfortable to wear for any stretch of time.
Wear a loose fitting cotton shirt with short sleeves and a collar – this will protect your neck and shoulders from sunburn. You are also protected from thorns. Bring a long sleeved one if you are sensitive to sun
Some clients bring a lightweight fleece seat saver, to put on their saddle, which can make all the difference!
For the Canoe overnight trip:
We suggest to bring shorts, river shoes, sun block, mosquito repellent, torch, hats, sunglasses, towels, cameras (spare film/SD cards/disks!), binoculars and warm clothing in winter.
Finally no-one wants to loose their luggage, but it happens very often on international flights the world over so try and carry your most vital things and at least one change of clothing with you. Check the maximum baggage size and weight you can take on board the aircraft, and pack all you can in there!
Enjoy your Safari!
| This list is only a guideline for you |
|
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| **Important: Visa (check with your consulate for entry requirements, you may need to obtain your Visa prior to arrival**) |
|
|
| RIDING GEAR |
| Long trousers/jeans/jodphurs. |
| Takkies/trainers or riding boots – hiking boots will be too hot + Minichaps |
| Riding helmet (best to bring your own) |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
| |
|
|
| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
| Dull-coloured clothing; no white or bright colours |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Sleepwear |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
| Swimsuit |
| |
| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Small automatic cameras only (extra batteries/film) |
| Address book and pen (for postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations.
Description
You'll be staying in lodges personally selected to complement your riding safari vacation.
7-day trip Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1 - 3: Elephant Camp
Nights 4 - 6: Old Drift
The Elephant Camp has been rated one of the best luxury lodges in Zimbabwe, and is within close proximity to the Victoria Falls and the bustling tourist town. Set within the Victoria Falls National Park, The Elephant Camp overlooks the Zambezi Gorges with a magnificent view of the Victoria Falls spray in the distance. The Elephant Camp is more than a destination- it is an experience, an encounter and a cultural connection. Witness the magnificent power of the Victoria Falls, immerse yourself in the heritage and lifestyle of a local community on the Village Tour and translate knowledge to change at the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.
The Elephant Camp offers guests an empowering tapestry of experiences that come together to inform the heart, educate the mind and reconnect guests with the natural rhythm of nature. https://www.theelephantcamp.com/
The Elephant Camp has been rated one of the best luxury lodges in Zimbabwe, and is within close proximity to the Victoria Falls and the bustling tourist town. Set within the Victoria Falls National Park, The Elephant Camp overlooks the Zambezi Gorges with a magnificent view of the Victoria Falls spray in the distance. The Elephant Camp is more than a destination- it is an experience, an encounter and a cultural connection. Witness the magnificent power of the Victoria Falls, immerse yourself in the heritage and lifestyle of a local community on the Village Tour and translate knowledge to change at the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.
The Elephant Camp offers guests an empowering tapestry of experiences that come together to inform the heart, educate the mind and reconnect guests with the natural rhythm of nature. https://www.theelephantcamp.com/
Elephant Camp
This Camp has been rated one of the best luxury lodges in Zimbabwe. Set within the Victoria Falls National Park, The Elephant Camp overlooks the Zambezi Gorges with a magnificent view of the Victoria Falls spray in the distance.
The Elephant Camp has been rated one of the best luxury lodges in Zimbabwe, and is within close proximity to the Victoria Falls and the bustling tourist town. Set within the Victoria Falls National Park, The Elephant Camp overlooks the Zambezi Gorges with a magnificent view of the Victoria Falls spray in the distance. The Elephant Camp is more than a destination- it is an experience, an encounter and a cultural connection. Witness the magnificent power of the Victoria Falls, immerse yourself in the heritage and lifestyle of a local community on the Village Tour and translate knowledge to change at the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.
The Elephant Camp offers guests an empowering tapestry of experiences that come together to inform the heart, educate the mind and reconnect guests with the natural rhythm of nature. https://www.theelephantcamp.com/
Old Drift
The lodge lies a few kilometers upstream of the Victoria Falls, on the banks of the Zambezi River. It boasts luxury accommodation with elegant and spacious canvas en-suite rooms that blend in seamlessly with the natural environment. The suites are resplendent and stylish with an indoor and outdoor shower, private plunge pool and bath with a view.
The main lodge area has 360 degree views, North facing onto the Zambezi & South facing onto a water hole.
Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.
Meals
All meals are included in your program from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on the last day.
Meals are simple, but tasty, with plenty of fruits, fresh vegetables, and salads.
Tap water in town is perfectly drinkable, and of course the water in camps is pumped from their own wells. However bottled water is widely available too.
Wine/ beer is available for purchase at Old Drift.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.
This trip
can accommodate special dietary requests.
|
Tack:
|
|
Australian Stock saddles. English on request. All horses go in snaffle bridles.
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Anglo Arab, Thoroughbred, Cleveland Bay , Thoroughbred cross and Warm bloods
Between 14-16.2hh.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with trots, canters and some gallops, 4-6 hours daily. Riders do need to have a firm seat and in control at all paces. You should be able to post to the trot and gallop if necessary.
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate +
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
12
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
1 riders
|
Max
6 riders
|
|
Riding Experience
This trip is suitable for strong intermediate riders. Keep in mind we ride through highly dense game areas. Clients must be fit and confident at all paces, including rising trot, and capable of trotting at a rising trot for a minimum of 15 minutes at a stretch. The more proficient and fitter you are the more you will enjoy your trip.
Riding
We spend between 4-6 hours in the saddle per day. This includes refreshment breaks and a short 10-minute walk for every 2 hours spent in the saddle (for the horses back, and your own muscles). The times given for rides are an estimate – we do not clock watch and may decide to alter and adapt the route.
Within reason, we like to tailor our trips to suit you. If you do not like what is happening let us know.
At the end of each riding day, we meet to discuss with you and amongst ourselves what we have seen, and plan our next day accordingly. We get continuous updates on game movement patterns throughout the area to ensure the best experience, so we may change a route – but only for your benefit.
Terrain
Magnificent and varied terrain, from the shady banks of the Zambezi, to rugged mopane woodland and wide ranging Kalahari sand dunes and teak forests. Riding on the banks of the Zambezi at any water level is an experience itself. All rides start here, moving away after the first morning through other varied terrain. Kalahari sand fire breaks are the best places to gallop.
The rural areas up to Gorges offer the most dramatic and beautiful scenery – rugged and starkly beautiful in the dry season, the experience of seeing black eagles soaring in the gorge below you is unforgettable.
Horses
The owner personally chooses and schools the horses herself, before they are used on safaris. She is assisted by a dedicated team of staff, who also ensures that the horses are happy and healthy.
The horses are mostly thoroughbred, some mixed, some Anglo Arabs. Between 14 – 16.2hh. They vary from gentle hacks to top polocrosse ponies.
As the stables are in a world heritage site and surrounded by National Park, everything the horses eat is brought in, ensuring that each horse has an excellent and closely monitored diet.
Guiding
Qualified, licensed guides lead all rides, and are accompanied by a back up rider. Both are dedicated, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A keen interest is taken in the environment as well as the flora and fauna of the area. You will also learn many of the traditional uses of plants and trees, basic principles of tracking, and aspects of traditional village life.
All guides and back up riders are trained in first aid procedures and emergency situations. Each ride starts with a safety talk, and you will be reminded of details should circumstances require.
Weight Limit
We have a weight limit of 85 kg. This is your weight in your riding clothes and should include anything else you wish to carry. Our guides will carry your water for you. To avoid embarrassment be warned that you may be required to step on the scales!
An extra charge of 50% is required for riders above our weight limit if allowed to ride. Please note this is at the discretion of the company and subject to individual experience and circumstances. Allowances may be made only for very experienced riders, or for those who are tall and fit.
Non-Riders
We can accommodate non-riders. Non-riding activities include Rhino search, Evening/ game drives at Imbabala (for 8-day itinerary) & Canoeing. For an added fee, you can also take a walking safari with Charles Brightman, do an Elephant Encounter or go on a Helicopter flight.
Children
We do accept children but they must be strong competent riders. Please inquire. There is no adjustment in price for children.
Insurance
You will need to be covered by your own full Medical/Travel Insurance, of which we ask you provide us with details prior to the start of your ride. Please check whether your insurance covers you for riding without a helmet, should you wish to do so.
Wildlife
Birds and other wildlife abound, of all colours, shapes and sizes. Lilac-breasted rollers, white-fronted bee-eaters and trumpeter hornbills are common, and if you are lucky you may glimpse the brilliant green and bright scarlet colours of the elusive Schalow's Turaco, which is found along the riverine forest.
Depending on the season you may see elephant, buffalo, kudu, impala, bushbuck, waterbuck, banded mongoose and warthog. Along the river can be found hippo and crocodile, and occasionally cape clawless otters may also be spotted. There are several resident leopard and hyena are also present in the area, but rarely spotted, and even wild dog are sometimes seen during the rains. But remember, no game is guaranteed!
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months beyond date of departure required by all nationals referred to in the chart above. Three blank pages are needed.
Passport Note
All visitors to Zimbabwe must be in possession of return tickets (or funds in lieu) and sufficient funds to support themselves. The granting of a visa is not a guarantee of entry.
Visas
Required by all nationals referred to in the chart except the following:
(a) 1. nationals of Cyprus, Ireland and Malta;
(b) passengers continuing their journey to a third country within 6 hours by the same or connecting flight, provided holding tickets with reserved seats and documents for onward travel and not leaving the transit area.
2. Nationals of the following countries may obtain visas valid for up to 90 days on arrival in Zimbabwe, provided holding tickets and documents for return or onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA.
Note: Due to the current political situation and ever changing regulations - we do recommend to aquire a visa in advance - it will save you time at the entry.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Types of Visa and Cost
Visa at port of entry: cost dependent on nationality, British nationals £36 or US$55 single-entry, US$70 double-entry; contact consular section at embassy for further details.
Validity
Six months from date of issue.
Applications to:
Embassy; see Contact Addresses. For multiple-entry visas, travellers must apply direct to the Chief Immigration Officer in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Working Days Required
Seven.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
2 |
| Australian |
2 |
| Canadian |
2 |
| USA |
2 |
| Other EU |
1/2 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Zambezi National Park & Victoria Falls Safari Ride
Tour Code:
IT-ZMRT07
7 days /
6 nights
~$5,125.00
Dates :
Available all Year
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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