
BOTSWANA
WILDLIFE SAFARI
UPON REQUEST 2026
8 RIDING DAYS
190km
from 4500 EUR
HORSE RIDING WILDLIFE SAFARI
With year-round wildlife sightings, Mashatu epitomizes the untamed African wilderness - a canvas of vast openness, diverse wildlife, expansive skies, and serene moments filled with birdsong and natural symphony. Welcome to an unforgettable experience in the Land of Giants! Embark on an unforgettable journey across Mopane Savannahs and scenic river valleys covering over 190km.
This horseback safari offers a captivating journey into the heart of wildlife exploration. Revel in the allure of African landscapes teeming with giraffes, elephants, predators, and an array of creatures. Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of nature while relishing the comforts of a classic safari—invigorating showers, exquisite cuisine, and unforgettable campsites.
We offer multiple departure dates - send us a message with your preferred travel period and we’ll find the best option for you
During the ride, we will stay in three unique and beautiful camps, each with distinct design and character:
1. Two Mashatus Camp: Nestled under grand Mashatu trees, this camp features Lala Palm rondavels for dining and lounging. Spacious walk-in tents on teak platforms offer private stays with en-suite bathrooms. Each tent, shaded by trees, includes a private deck, and a small pool is available.
2. Tree Camp: Elevated on a Seligna deck among ancient trees, this unique camp fulfills dreams of sleeping among branches. Guests share cool sleeping pods and have access to shared facilities. The dining area overlooks the Majale River, creating an unforgettable experience.
3. Kgotla: An ancient Leadwood log enclosure beside the Motloutse River provides a secure camp with hot water, open-air showers, and flushing toilets. Guests sleep under the stars around a central fire, enjoying an authentic bush experience.
Day 1
Your adventure kicks off with a Meet & Greet at ORTambo Johannesburg International Airport, where you'll connect with your tour leader and fellow riders. Bushwings, our private charter flight partner, will await you at the scheduled morning time for a flight to Mashatu/Botswana, arranged by our team.
Upon arrival, meet your safari guide at the border for a swift transfer to the reception area, overseeing the Limpopo river, where a light lunch awaits. Following an introductory ride to ensure horse suitability, embark on your first journey towards Two Mashatus Camp, encountering the awe-inspiring Mashatu Game Reserve. The reserve houses Africa's largest free-roaming elephant herd, promising remarkable wildlife sightings. Conclude the day relaxing in the boutique lounge and enjoying a delightful three-course dinner while getting acquainted with fellow adventurers.
Day 2
Start your day with a sunrise awakening, accompanied by the morning chorus and a steaming cup of tea or coffee at your tent. After breakfast, set off from the lush woodland bordering the Limpopo River, navigating towards the rocky hills outlining the river valley. Traverse Mashatu's heartland, encountering abundant plains game, giraffes, and elephant herds. Reach Tree Camp for lunch, offering a vantage point to observe wildlife approaching the Majale River for a drink. In the afternoon, opt for a ride or a bush walk, exploring the western Matabole River area before enjoying sundowners back at Tree Camp.
Day 3
The expedition leads through Mashatu's core, encountering ancient rock formations and the famed Limpopo Valley's Baobab trees. Ride along the Motloutse River, discovering the historic Leadwood 'Kgotla,' serving as a secure campsite for the night. Afternoon game drives seek the resident lions, concluding with sundowners at the ancient "Amphitheatre" rocks. Enjoy dinner by the fire at Kgotla, embracing a night under the stars and Africa's captivating nighttime symphony, a unique experience far removed from urban life.
Day 4
Explore sandstone formations, including the renowned Solomon's Wall, on horseback. This valley once hosted ancient civilizations, evident through archaeological relics like stone-age tools and rock art, linked to the legendary Mapungubwe Dynasty. An afternoon drive leads to Mmamagwa Hills, offering a climb to the Mmamagwa Ruins, akin to the Mapungubwe era. Conclude with sundowners beneath a majestic baobab tree, marveling at the panoramic vista.
Day 5
Trace Elephant Valley's trails, adorned by centuries of migrating elephants, venturing north to the upper Majale River reaches. This remote region features colossal baobab trees, perfect for an exhilarating ride. Lunch at Tree Camp precedes an afternoon ride, bush walk, or game drive exploring the riverside.
Day 6
Ride through Pitsane River Valley, offering excellent game viewing. Stop at historical landmarks, including Bryce's Store from the Boer War era, once a British supply post. Return to Two Mashatu Camp for lunch and a refreshing swim. The afternoon includes a guided bush walk to nearby koppies for sundowners.
Day 7
Venture through the scenic plains between Majale and Pitsane rivers, witnessing abundant wildlife and stunning vistas of the Limpopo River Valley. Explore an old Boer War fort, followed by a ride into the wetland area, ideal for game spotting and summer-time river cantering. Relax in camp or join an afternoon ride or bush walk for an African sundowner.
Day 8
Conclude your journey with a final ride in Limpopo Valley, capturing elephant sightings and enjoying a leisurely canter through the Mustard bush. Return to the stables and reception for brunch, bidding farewell to newfound friends before a midday private charter flight back to Johannesburg.
Price - 4500 EUR
Single room supplement - upon request
Deposit: 2500 EUR
*Your passport expiry date should be no less than 6 months from the return date
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
Full board accommodation
All drinks (except Champagne)
Big Safari Horse Riding
Horses, Tack, and all Riding
Sundowners - Game drives
Walking tours
Laundry
Local airstrip transfers
Tour Leader & Local Crew
Full Safari-camp Team, Catering Staff & Grooms.
Backup Vehicles: Bring your personal luggage to the daily overnight place/camp.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
International Flights
Travel Insurance - obligatory
Private Charter Flight: Johannesburg – Tuli Airstrip/Botswana – Johannesburg - 915 EUR (arranged by us)
Conservation fee - 10 EUR per person per night.
Visa - if required
Personal expenses
Tips
*By being part of this safari, you contribute directly to the sustainable preservation and protection of Botswana's nature, wildlife, endangered species, landscape and culture, by way of conservation and camping fees and supporting our team of safari support staff. Our main goal is conservation and your safari supports the safeguarding of unique pieces of land, such as the Tuli ecosystem
Level: Advanced Intermediate to Experienced
The Rider
Proficiency in independently controlling a horse at various speeds is necessary. While having the ability to jump natural obstacles is advantageous, it's not mandatory as there are alternate routes available. Being capable of maintaining a light seat during the canter is essential.
Prior to each safari, riders will undergo a brief riding evaluation to ensure their competence aligns with the aforementioned criteria. The final decision rests with the evaluating manager. In this significant wildlife zone, it's crucial for us to ascertain your riding skills. Ensuring safety — yours, other participants', and the guides' — is our top priority.
Horses
In Botswana, we maintain a herd of 50 diverse horses, encompassing breeds like S.A. Boerperd, Thoroughbred, Warmblood, and Arab crosses. Our aim is to match each rider with a suitable horse from our herd. For our rides, we utilize McClellan trail rider saddles, specially crafted for extended hours in the saddle. These saddles prioritize comfort for both horse and rider during long-distance journeys.
Route:
Each day's ride covers a minimum of 20 to 30 kilometers. Our routes do not take a direct path from one camp to another. Riders spend a maximum of five and a half hours in the saddle per day.







