Horse Riding in Tanzania

Overview

Explore the thrill of horse riding in Tanzania and Zanzibar, where scenic trails wind through diverse landscapes from Arusha National Park to pristine beaches. Moreover, the Serengeti’s vast plains offer extraordinary opportunities for horseback adventures. Additionally, riders can experience breathtaking journeys around Lake Natron, while Mount Kilimanjaro provides a majestic backdrop. Furthermore, Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches create perfect settings for coastal equestrian experiences.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, guided horseback safaris offer unique ways to explore wildlife, landscapes, and culture. Consequently, these adventures provide intimate encounters with Africa’s magnificent animals. Additionally, horse riding safaris in Tanzania allows visitors to access remote areas that traditional vehicles cannot reach. Meanwhile, the gentle pace of horseback travel creates opportunities for detailed wildlife observation and photography.

Professional guides lead riders through coffee farms, where aromatic beans grow on mountain slopes. Subsequently, journeys continue through open savannahs teeming with zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. In contrast, coastal experiences along turquoise coastlines offer completely different but equally captivating adventures. Furthermore, reputable providers such as WeGuide Africa Safari ensure safe, personalized experiences with well-trained horses and expert guides.

Safety remains paramount in horse riding in Tanzania adventures. Therefore, all horses undergo regular health checks and proper training. Additionally, guides provide comprehensive safety briefings before each excursion. Moreover, protective equipment is always available for riders of all experience levels.

Cultural immersion enhances these equestrian experiences significantly. During rides, visitors encounter local communities and learn about traditional ways of life. Furthermore, many horse riding in Tanzania tours include visits to Maasai villages and authentic cultural exchanges. Subsequently, these interactions create deeper connections between travelers and local communities.

Finally, horseback riding in Tanzania transcends typical tourist activities. Instead, it becomes a soul-stirring journey into the heart of Africa. Moreover, the rhythmic connection between horse and rider creates meditative experiences. Ultimately, these adventures leave lasting impressions that inspire return visits to explore more of Tanzania’s equestrian offerings.

Highlights

Ronell Joubert

Reservations Specialist

Why Travel with Us?

Where to go in Tanzania on your Horse Riding in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park – Tanzania’s Wildlife Paradise The Serengeti National Park stands as one of Africa most iconic wildlife destinations. Furthermore, this remarkable park offers visitors an unforgettable safari experience…

Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, is a tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania, famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Swahili culture. This Indian Ocean gem…

Lake Ndutu, located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stands as a pivotal destination in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Indeed, this shallow, alkaline lake and its surrounding plains become the epicenter…

Arusha National Park, located in northeastern Tanzania near Arusha city, presents a compact yet incredibly diverse safari destination. This remarkable park showcases a rich tapestry of landscapes. Indeed, visitors encounter…

Lake Natron, located in northern Tanzania Arusha Region, stands as one of Africa most unique and visually striking natural wonders. This highly alkaline soda lake, fed by mineral-rich hot springs…

Popular Safari and Tours

13-days-tanzania-safari-and-zanzibar

13 Days

Arusha City, Arusha NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP, Zanzibar Island

From $3195

Per person per tour

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Touch of Wilderness" mid-range

4 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP

From $1310

Per person per tour

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Wildebeest Migration Calving Safari

5 Days

Arusha City, Lake Ndutu

From $1804

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Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Fly In Drive Out

9 Days

Arusha City, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

Per person per tour

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Great Wildebeest Mara River Crossing Serengeti Migration

10 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

Per person per tour

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7-day-western-corridor-wildebeest-migration-safari

7 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $2130

Per person per tour

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6-day-ndutu-calving-season-serengeti-migration

6 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Lake Ndutu, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire NP

From $2442

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Wildebeest Migration River Crossing

8 Days

Arusha City, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Tarangire NP

From $2760

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Where to Stay

Lake Duluti Lodge

Lake Duluti Lodge, nestled at the base of Mount Meru in Arusha, Tanzania, offers

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Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge

Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge, located on the verdant slopes of Mount Meru, is a

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Siringiti Villa

Siringit Villa offers an exceptional stay in Tanzania, blending luxury and comfort with authentic

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Kili Seasons Hotel

Located in the serene beauty of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, Kili Seasons Hotel provides

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Legendary Lodge

Legendary Lodge in Arusha, Tanzania offers a luxurious and serene retreat at the foothills

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Africa Safari South Serengeti

Africa Safari South Serengeti offers comfortable glamping in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, providing convenient

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Gnu Ndutu Camp​

From December to March, our stunning mobile migration camp relocates to Ndutu, situated in

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Namiri Plains

Namiri Plains camp is located within the Serengeti National Park and provides incredible views

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Other Optional Experience

Big Five Safari in Tanzania

A Big Five safari in Tanzania offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness Africa’s most

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Tanzania Beach Holiday

A Tanzania beach holiday offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and coastal charm.

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Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Tanzania offer a rare and unforgettable experience. These safaris take

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Tanzania Family Safaris

Tanzania family safaris are the perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and bonding time. Designed

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Tanzania Honeymoon Safaris

Tanzania honeymoon safaris offer a dreamlike mix of adventure, romance, and luxury. Whether you’re

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Tanzania Private Safaris

Tanzania private safaris offer a bespoke way to explore one of Africa’s most iconic

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Tanzania Safari and Beach

Experience unforgettable Tanzania safari and beach holidays that combine thrilling wildlife encounters with relaxing

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Frequently Asked Question About Horse Riding in Tanzania

Tanzania offers a diverse range of horse riding experiences, including:

  • Wildlife Safaris: In areas bordering national parks like the Serengeti, Arusha National Park, and around Kilimanjaro, allowing for quiet wildlife viewing.
  • Cultural Rides: Through local villages, coffee farms, and Maasai bomas, providing insight into local life.
  • Scenic Rides: Exploring varied landscapes like the soda plains around Lake Natron, lush forests, and open savannahs.
  • Beach Rides: Primarily in Zanzibar, offering exhilarating gallops along white sandy beaches and even swimming with horses.

Popular locations include:

  • Arusha National Park: Known for diverse scenery and a variety of plains game.
  • Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (concessions): For close-up wildlife encounters and following migration patterns.
  • Lake Natron: Offering unique, otherworldly landscapes and cultural interactions with Maasai.
  • Kilimanjaro Foothills (West Kilimanjaro): Riding through coffee farms, villages, and open plains with stunning views of Kilimanjaro.
  • Zanzibar: Famous for its pristine beaches and opportunities to swim with horses.

This depends on the tour operator and the specific safari:

  • Beginner-friendly rides: Many operators offer gentle hacks suitable for complete novices, focusing on safety and enjoyment. These are common for shorter rides, especially in Zanzibar.
  • Intermediate to Experienced: Longer, multi-day safaris, especially in areas with significant wildlife or varied terrain (like Serengeti concessions, Lake Natron, or Kilimanjaro foothills), often require riders to be comfortable at a trot and canter, and to have a stable seat. You’ll typically be in the saddle for 4-6 hours a day on these trips.
  • Honesty about your skill level is crucial for your safety and that of the group.

Reputable operators prioritize safety. Guides are highly experienced in reading animal behavior and are trained to lead rides safely in wildlife areas. Horses used for safaris are specifically trained to be calm and accustomed to wildlife. While close encounters are possible, direct confrontations with dangerous animals are carefully avoided. Riders are instructed on how to behave to ensure a safe distance is maintained.

Generally, the dry season (late June through October) is considered ideal for horse riding safaris on the mainland, as the weather is more predictable, trails are less muddy, and wildlife is often concentrated around water sources. For Zanzibar, horse riding is possible year-round due to the tropical climate, but the dry seasons (June to October and December to February) offer the most pleasant weather for beach rides.

Prices vary significantly based on:

  • Duration: Short rides (1-2 hours) can range from around $70-$150.
  • Location: Zanzibar beach rides might be more affordable for shorter durations, while mainland safari rides (e.g., Arusha National Park) might start around $120 for a 2-hour ride.
  • Safari Type: Multi-day mobile horse safaris (e.g., in Serengeti concessions or Lake Natron) are a significant investment, often costing several thousand dollars per person, as they include accommodation, meals, guides, and support staff.
  • Age: Minimum age requirements vary by operator, but typically children need to be a certain age (e.g., 8, 12, or 14 years old) and have sufficient riding experience for longer safaris. Shorter, calmer rides may accommodate younger children.
  • Weight: Most stables have a maximum weight limit for riders (e.g., 90 kg / 200 lbs) to ensure the well-being of the horses. It’s essential to check with your chosen operator.
  • Riding gear: Long pants (jodhpurs or comfortable trousers), closed-toe shoes or riding boots, and comfortable socks.
  • Protection: Helmets are usually provided and mandatory. Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential.
  • Clothing layers: Depending on the season and time of day, pack layers as temperatures can change. A light waterproof jacket is advisable for potential showers.
  • Other: Camera (with a strap!), insect repellent, and plenty of water.

Some multi-day horse safaris might accommodate non-riding partners who can enjoy game drives or other activities and meet up with the riders for meals and at camp. Check with specific operators for their policies.

Look for operators with:

  • Good reviews and recommendations: Especially regarding horse welfare and safety.
  • Experienced guides: Knowledgeable about both horses and the local environment/wildlife.
  • Well-trained and cared-for horses: This is paramount for a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Clear safety briefings and equipment: Helmets and appropriate tack should be provided and in good condition.
  • Proper permits and insurance: Especially for rides within national parks or wildlife areas.