Guests who wish to join our seven night Okavango Delta Ride must be of an intermediate-to-experienced level of riding. There will be long days in the saddle (4-7 hours daily) and you will need to feel confident about keeping up with the group, capable of riding at all paces, rising to the trot, and controlling your horse at the canter.
Riders need to be over 12 years old and riding fit. There is a weight limit of 95 kgs (in full riding gear) for each rider; heavier experienced riders over this limit may be accepted (at the discretion of the company) and may be required to pay for a second horse on which to alternate for the duration of the safari.
Each safari comprises a maximum of eight guests to ensure that the best possible standards of safety and enjoyment are upheld. South African trail saddles are used; these have been shown to be more comfortable over long distances, and are also kinder on our horses’ backs. Water bottles are carried with each saddle. Guests are welcome to bring their own seat savers; most brands fit these saddles.
Categorisation is as follows:
It is strongly recommended that you spend some hours in the saddle prior to joining us on either of these safaris if you are not riding regularly. The company will use its discretion as to whether less experienced riders will be permitted to ride, and this will be determined by the pace of the rest of the group. We reserve the right to dismount any guest should we feel they do not fulfil levels as detailed above.
Most insurance companies will only cover you when wearing a hard hat or safety helmet whilst in the saddle. We do not supply hard hats and it is therefore your responsibility to provide your own properly fitted hard hat or safety helmet. We cannot accept any liability whatsoever for injuries sustained due to failure to wear a hard hat. You must be insured to ride with us: please ensure your policy covers you for horse riding and includes medical evacuation cover.
You must be fully aware and understand that there are risks involved around horses, in riding, and in visiting remote wilderness areas in Africa. For these reasons you will be required to sign an indemnity form before commencing the safari.
Our Thamalakane River Rides, 3 night Kalahari Ride and hourly rides from Royal Tree Lodge and Camp Kalahari are on offer for inexperienced riders. A selection of hard hats is available, and you will be required to wear one.
We require all our guests to fill out our Rider Questionnaire. This helps us to properly pair appropriate horse to rider depending on your riding ability.
For your own enjoyment during your safari with us we ask that you fill this form out honestly and with as much detail as possible.