Horseback Safaris – Vilanculos

Horseback Safaris Options

The standard ride (US$60.00 p/p)

The standard ride is the most popular and convenient for holiday makers to Vilankulo. The one-and-a-half-hour ride caters for non-riders as well as experienced riders and incorporates all the wonderful eco-systems in the archipelago; wide open beaches, incredible cliff top views, pristine dune bush and mangrove shoreline.

The ride starts at the stables where you will meet the guides, grooms and volunteers. Once settled you will be asked to sign an indemnity form, and be kitted with a riding hat & chaps. Your horse will be chosen depending on your riding experience, ability and size.

Once saddled, you will head down to the beach at a gentle walk, the tide is out and you are mesmerised by the shimmering blues and whites leading out into the distant islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. The ancient baobab trees you pass along the shell cliff tops tell stories of bustling trade, hardship and slavery. You will learn about the history of Chibuene and how the beaches you ride once played an important part in African trade linking the outside world with the powerful and gold rich Monomotapa Empire.

When the beach opens up, experienced riders have the opportunity for magical canters on well trained horses. For beginners there is the chance to improve your riding with trots, or you can take it easy and just soak in the amazing scenery. Our destination is the “Fingerprint of God”, an incredible viewing spot from red cliffs that look out over the Bazaruto Archipelago. You will be captivated by colourful dhows gliding along the channels and fisherwoman hunting crab in the shallow sands.

The ride continues along a winding beach path through dune bush and back onto the beach towards home and the stables. A dreamlike experience not to be missed for experienced & intermediate riders as well as beginners & first timers.

Ocean Walk (US$60.00 p/p) (Tide Dependent)

The ride starts on the beach with a medium to full tide and is an absolute favourite. With our unique hands-on interaction, you will lead your horse into the shallow waters. Our horses love to splash and wallow, there is always a sense of excitement as they thrash the water, then lay down to roll.

There is time for pictures before mounting up on a second horse bareback, then wading chest deep into the blue turquoise seas on our Ocean Walk. You will meander along the coastline looking out at colourful dhows and sandy beaches.

Fishing Village Ride (US$80 p/p including lunch)

The fishing village ride covers a similar route to the Standard Ride. On nearing Mangalise Fishing Village you will hear the distinct chatter of laughing children and will be greeted by a horde of smiles. When you have dismounted, our hosts will take you to a simple thatch shelter in the village. Hands are washed and newly harvested coconuts are cracked open, the refreshing juice is rich reward after a long ride. Over time a traditional lunch is served, fresh crab from the beach, grilled fish from the mornings catch and Matapa; a Mozambican dish made from cassava leaves, nuts and coconut milk. After your meal the children come out to sing local songs and dance, their smiles and energy make the occasion feel very special.

After lunch, we continue our ride through the rural village and head onto the “Fingerprint of God”; a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the Bazaruto Archipelago. You will be captivated by colourful dhows gliding along the channels and fisherwoman hunting crab in the shallow sands.

The ride continues along a winding beach path through dune bush and back onto the beach towards home and the stables. A dreamlike experience not to be missed for experienced & intermediate riders as well as beginners & first timers.

Minimum Numbers: 2 Guests :  Maximum Numbers 6 Guests

Maximum Weight: 90 Kg – 210 lbs.

Dress Policy –  Casual, Advised to bring:

• Trousers or jodhpurs
• Long Sleeved T-Shirt
• Closed Shoes
• Sunscreen.