Possibly one of the most spectacular deserts on the planet, the Namib blends iconic ochre dunes with vast grassy plains that is home to a surprisingly varied wildlife for a seemingly inhospitable ‘wasteland’, and is full of wonderful surprises. On our riding safaris you will cross inaccessible and extremely rugged terrain – it is a true wilderness of hauntingly beautiful vistas and stunning ancient land shapes.
The ‘classic’ ride is the most challenging of our rides… riding into the isolated hills, crossing canyons with steep descents that require some walking/scrambling and fast paced riding through the arid plains: an exhilarating ride of a lifetime.
The ‘Fish River Canyon’ is the largest natural gorge in Africa and a most impressive geological feature displaying the Earth’s history laid out like the pages of a book. Despite its seeming aridity, this is one of the most diverse biomes on earth – a delight for nature lovers. Expansive plains invite endless canters in a landscape characterised by meandering gorges and dramatically eroded escarpments.
Namibia is a dry country and the prevalence of game is dependent on rains. Free-ranging desert adapted game occur on all rides and encounters with Elephants, Rhino, Giraffe and other large game can occur, particularly on the ‘Damara Elephant ride’
Where most of the riding safaris in Namibia are for the intermediate to advanced rider, and can be quite challenging, the ‘Wolwedans luxury ride’, is more sedate, with less time in the saddle each day, so that the less confident riders can still appreciate and experience camping and exploring the dramatic vistas of the Namib.
Wild and Exotic Namib Desert classic ride
Possibly one of the most spectacular deserts on the planet, the Namib blends iconic ochre dunes with vast grassy plains that is home to a surprisingly varied wildlife for a seemingly inhospitable ‘wasteland’, and is full of wonderful surprises. This ride, which begins near Sossusvlei (soss’us-flay’) and finishes at Swakopmund (swah’kop-moond’) on the Atlantic Coast is the most challenging of our Namibian rides and is not for the unfit or faint-hearted – but it is also undeniably the ride of a lifetime.
Day 1 – 4 Windhoek to the Namib: You will be met at Windhoek’s International airport and transferred to your overnight accommodation where you will meet fellow riders and guide for dinner and a briefing. After an early breakfast next day we journey to the Namib (about a 5-hour transfer) through some spectacular Namibian landscapes including a dramatic drop off the escarpment with an arresting view of the desert below. After lunch we depart for a visit to the dunes at Sossusvlei, returning to camp by sunset. Our first ride begins amid the encircling Naukluft (now’k-looft, German for ‘narrow gorge’) – a short ride before lunch allows you to get more acquainted with your horse before we ride into the undulations and isolated hills which are a feature of this area.
Day 5 and 6 The Canyons: While Namibia’s westward-flowing rivers rarely flow, they all run through deep valleys etched at a time when Namibia was wetter and sea levels were lower. We cross two river canyons on our way to the Namib plains; the Gaub (Gow’ab) and the much larger Kuiseb (kwee’seb) which forms a dramatic end to the 400 km long Namib Sand Sea. Following the tracks of Mountain Zebra which crisscross the steep sides of the canyon, a technical descent requires some walking/scrambling into and out of the Canyon. The high, narrow walls of the canyon preserve an almost year-round supply of precious water for the game in this area.
Day 7 – 10 Namib Plains to the Swakop River: Good going affords some fast-paced riding on the wide grassy plains on the Namib. Dry watercourses, distinguishable by the long lines of acacia trees marking their courses, are much favored resting place of Giraffe, Springbok and Oryx. As the plains become more arid strange shapes form and disappear in mirages and dinosaur-like of plants, the gnarled Welwitschia Mirabilis tell of a land of great antiquity and also of tremendous solitude. The Swakop river basin has eroded a truly ancient geology (600 million years old) exposing a bizarre moon landscape-like geology. Curious black ridges of dolerite intrusions form whale-backs on the hills surrounding the river basin. And finally to the sea with the last canter along the soft white beach sand of Swakopmund – the end of a truly epic adventure.
Day 11: Early breakfast and transfer to Windhoek (4 hour commute) arriving in time for departure flights from Windhoek International Airport after 15:00
Notes: From Windhoek back to Windhoek: 11 days, 10 nights, 8 riding days; 2 lodge-based nights (first and last nights), 8 nights camping. Arrive in Windhoek on first day of the riding safari in time for pre-dinner group meeting and arrive back at Windhoek International Airport on last day of the trail in time for flights leaving after 15.00hrs (NB: Namibia has a minus 1 hour daylight time saving from April to September) so departure flight times must be local ones.
Days begin at sunrise; departure is generally by 8am with 4 – 5 hours riding before lunch. Lunch breaks vary from an hour to 2 ½ hours followed by another 2 – 3 hours riding in the afternoon. We average anything from 20 – 50 km riding per day, all paces, sometimes over rough terrain. Please note that this is a true desert so routes can change due to unpredictable weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
Please use only soft luggage of no more than 20 kg if possible, otherwise split your luggage between two soft bags
The price is inclusive of all riding, accommodation and meals and all drinks on the ride – except in lodges, restaurants, and petrol stations en-route. Ground transfers from Windhoek International Airport to starting point of ride and return transfer to central Windhoek or Windhoek International airport on day of departure.
The price does not include items of a personal nature, gratuities, and visa fees.
A single supplement is charged if you require separate accommodation.
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is available on the General Info tab.
Wild and Exotic Wolwedans Wild Horses ride
Pioneering new trails where none existed before, this is real adventure! From the great dune sea of the central Namib to the very edge of the Sperrgebiet (German for restricted area) National Park this ride covers some extraordinarily diverse desert terrain: immense grassy plains, signature inselbergs (Island Mountains) and the rugged Mountain Biosphere Reserve of Tiras. Ending at Klein Aus Vista near the home of the Wild Horses of the Namib. This adventurous ride includes some of the most breath-taking desert landscapes in the world. Unique attractions include the iconic red dunes of the Namib, Kolmanskop, the old diamond “Ghost Town” near Luderitz and the wild horses of the southern Namib
Day 1: You will be met at the Windhoek International Airport and transferred to your overnight accommodation. Meet the rest of your riding group for dinner where a Namibia Horse Safari Company representative will brief you about what to expect on your adventure.
Day 2: After breakfast a 4-hour commute to our lunch spot in the quaint town of Maltahoe, then a decent down the Zaris Pass to the Wolwedans Private Reserve – approximately 2.5 hours. Settle in and explore your surroundings, meeting your crew and horses before enjoying sundowners in the soft fading evening light with the spectacular Milky Way arching overhead.
Day 3: Today we set off into the wide expanse of one of the largest Nature Reserves in Southern Africa. Riding across vast plains of truly unspoiled countryside with exceptional panoramic views where sentinel inselbergs (Island Mountains) dot the desert. Herds of Oryx, Springbok and Zebra are a common sight. Tonight we overnight at Boulders Camp nestled amongst huge granite boulders adding to the spectacular landscape stretching as far as the eye can see.
Day 4 – 9: Setting off across open country where good going allows some fast-paced riding. Lunch is enjoyed under a convenient tree or interesting spot with a good view. We reach our overnight camps in time to enjoy sundowners in the pastel light the Namib is known for, sleeping under the magnificent starry sky. Few places on earth afford so little light pollution and an incomparable view of the southern constellation. Our route may vary depending on weather conditions or other circumstances but be assured, every day will be memorable
Day 10: Today we set off for our excursions to the Wild Horses of the Namib and Kolmanskop, the old German diamond mining town and explore the coastal town of Luderitz. We end with our last memorable dinner together around the camp-fire.
Day 11: After breakfast and fond farewells the (about 7 hour) transfer to Windhoek departs arriving in the late afternoon (approximately 17:00). It is also possible to fly out from Luderitz (1 hour transfer) at an additional cost.
Notes: 20 – 60 km riding per day at all paces over uneven terrain. Not suitable for unfit or inexperienced riders. Windhoek to Windhoek: 11 days, 10 nights, 7 days riding. Excursion to Kolmanskop and the wild horses at Garub.
The price includes all riding, accommodation and meals, all Drinks while camping and at Wolwedans (except in lodges, restaurants, petrol stations en route.). Ground transfers from Windhoek International Airport to starting point of ride and return transfer to central Windhoek and Windhoek International airport on day of departure.
Please use only soft luggage of no more than 20 kg if possible, otherwise split your luggage between two soft bags.
The price is inclusive of all riding, accommodation and meals and all drinks on the ride – except in lodges, restaurants, and petrol stations en-route. Ground transfers from Windhoek International Airport to starting point of ride and return transfer to central Windhoek or Windhoek International airport on day of departure.
The price does not include items of a personal nature, gratuities, and visa fees.
A single supplement is charged if you require separate accommodation.
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is available on the General Info tab.
Wild and Exotic Wolwedans luxury ride
Based on the private reserve of Wolwedans, this ride offers an experience of the finest the Namib Desert has to offer – dunes, huge landscapes, sentinel inselbergs (Island Mountains) and a large variety of desert adapted game animals – from the base of luxury lodges. Encircled by distant purple-hued mountains, the unimpeded vistas quite take your breath away – and then at night, the splendid Milky Way arching overhead in a sky unpolluted by light. This area is one of the largest continuous Nature Reserves in Southern Africa with surprisingly rich biodiversity and includes some of the most scenic desert landscapes in the world.
The package is 6 nights’ luxury lodge accommodation and 5 days riding. Depending on availability, two nights in succession are spent in each lodge. There is an option for fly-in and Sossusvlei extension night available on request. Extra night in Windhoek may be required if not flying into Wolwedans on first day of your riding safari. Hot-air Ballooning and scenic flight options are available on request.
Days 1 and 2 Windhoek to Wolwedans: The trip to Wolwedans – approximately 6 ½ hours by road, 1 hour 45 minutes by air – traverses the highlands before dramatically dropping off the plateau – offering an arresting view of the Namib below. After settling in and a late lunch, you meet your guide and horses and set out for your first ride in the natural splendor of this pristine wonderland. Two overnights are spent at the first lodge before riding to the south of the reserve.
Days 3, 4 and 5 the Great Plains: Relaxed full days of riding to and in the south of the reserve -crossing timeless landscapes of golden savannah dotted with enchanting fairy circles and iconic inselbergs (island mountains), and always the distant Naukluft mountains as a dramatic backdrop. This extraordinarily rich living tapestry of colour and form, the almost audible hush of the desert, and the magnificent starry night skies quite delights the senses.
Day 6 back at base camp: On the last full day on Wolwedans, you have the option of a morning ride, a scenic drive or a morning at leisure. As an optional extra cost hot-air ballooning or scenic flight over the dunes, Sossusvlei and/or the Diamond Coast are possible. This afternoon we end the day with our last ride out in the pastel-hued sunset of this idyllic setting.
Day 6 departure day: After a relaxing breakfast transfer to Windhoek International Airport arriving approximately 15:00, or transfer to Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and beyond.
Notes: Riding between 10 and 30 km per day at all paces and sometimes over rough terrain. This ride is suitable for intermediate riders able to spend several hours in the saddle. Although this is a relaxed ride please note that desert terrain demands a certain degree of riding fitness. Please note that itineraries may change due to availability at lodges, unpredictable weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
If not flying directly to Wolwedans, additional night in Windhoek may be required. Please use only soft luggage of no more than 20 kg if possible, otherwise split your luggage between two soft bags.
A single supplement is charged if you require separate accommodation.
The price includes all riding, accommodation, meals and drinks on Wolwedans and option of scenic drive on last morning at Wolwedans. Ground transfers from Windhoek International Airport to starting point of ride and return transfer to central Windhoek or Windhoek International airport on day of departure.
The price does not include items of a personal nature, gratuities, and visa fees.
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is available on the general info tab.
Wild and Exotic Damara Elephant ride
Damaraland with its tortured volcanic history, free-ranging game, and huge ephemeral river systems is a good example of the adage that real voyages of discovery consist not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes. Inaccessible and extremely rugged and yet etched with poignantly delicate colours, this is a true wilderness of hauntingly beautiful vistas and ancient land shapes. From Twyfelfontein (tway’full-fon’tayn) to Cape Cross on the Skeleton Coast, the sheer remoteness of this challenging riding safari makes it unsuitable for inexperienced riders since encounters with elephant, rhino and even lion are possible.
Days 1 – 3 Windhoek to Twyfelfontein: You will be met at Windhoek’s International airport and transferred to your overnight accommodation where you will meet fellow riders and guide for dinner and a briefing. After an early breakfast next day we journey north (about a 7-hour transfer including a lunch stop en route) through some spectacular Namibian landscapes to our camp at Twyfelfontein (Doubtful spring) where you will meet the horses and crew. Your first ride is in the Aba Huab watershed, where good going invites a few brisk canters, allows you to get more acquainted with your horse. We return to camp for lunch after which we visit the San Rock Engravings ending with a sundowner with a panoramic view of this wild magnificence.
Days 4 – 7 Huab (hoo’ub) and Ugab (oo’ghub) Rivers: With the rising sun at our backs, we begin our westward journey to the distant Atlantic. In these ephemeral river systems the cycles of rainfall dictate the seasonal movement of game which is not concentrated, but we can encounter Elephants, Rhino, Oryx, Springbok, and other desert-adapted game. Here huge glacial valleys, impressive Tableland mountains exhumed by erosion, folds and fractures resulting from cataclysmic eruptions present a well preserved snapshots of a land of great antiquity.
Day 8 – 10 The Great Plains: Leaving the river valleys we now cross the vastness of open plains with the striking massive of the Brandberg (brunt’berg meaning ‘burning mountain’) forming a dramatic backdrop. Here endless plains allow for some fast-paced riding as we approach the dramatic Messum Caldera, the eroded remains of a massive collapsed volcano. Our last ride takes us to the ocean at last – the spectacularly formidable Skeleton Coast, apparently so called for the wrecked hulks of stranded ships which dot this coastline. The cold, upwelling Benquela Current results in some diverse weather conditions from hot desert easterlies to cold south Atlantic westerly’s – a place of extremes! An excursion to the Cape Fur Seal colony at Cape Cross and overnight at the very comfortable Cape Cross Lodge conclude this memorable adventure.
Day 11: After breakfast the transfer leaves early for Windhoek (a 5-6 hour commute) arriving at Windhoek International Airport in time for flights leaving after 15:00
Notes: From Windhoek back to Windhoek: 11 days, 10 nights, 8 riding days; 2 lodge-based nights (first and last nights), 8 nights camping. Arrive in Windhoek on first day of your horse riding safari in time for pre-dinner group meeting and arrive back at Windhoek International Airport on last day of the trail in time for flights leaving after 15:00. NB Namibia has a minus 1-hour daylight time saving from April to September so departure flight times must be local ones.
Days begin at sunrise; departure is generally by 8am with 4 – 5 hours riding before lunch. Lunch breaks are an hour to 2 ½ hours followed by another 2 – 3 hours riding in the afternoon. We can average anything from 20 – 50 km riding per day, all paces, sometimes over rough terrain. Please note that this is a desert so routes can change due to unpredictable weather and other unforeseen circumstances. The truck does not accompany the backup for days 4 – 6 so packing two smaller bags instead of one large one is advantageous. Please use only soft luggage of no more than 20 kg per person. Please contact us for the option to fly-in to the start of the ride at Twyfelfontein and at the end of the ride from Cape Cross or Walvis Bay.
The price includes all riding, accommodation and meals and drinks while on the ride, but not drinks at lodges, restaurants, and petrol stations en route. Ground transfers from Windhoek International Airport to starting point of ride and return transfer to central Windhoek or Windhoek International airport on day of departure. 2 sightseeing trips; one to the Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings, and the other the Fur Seal colony at Cape Cross.
The price does not include items of a personal nature, gratuities, and visa fees.
A single supplement is charged if you require separate accommodation.
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is available in the General Info tab.
Wild and Exotic Fish River Canyon ride
The Fish River Canyon is the largest natural gorge in Africa and a most impressive geological feature displaying the Earth’s history laid out like the pages of a book. Despite its seeming aridity, this is one of the most diverse biomes on earth – a delight for nature lovers. Expansive plains invite endless canters in a landscape characterised by meandering gorges and dramatically eroded escarpments. The terrain dictates a slower start to this riding safari than our others, so this ride is suitable for intermediate and advanced riders. From the northern reaches of the Fish River Canyon to the Orange River, this is a spectacularly diverse wonderland
Day 1 and 2 Cape Town to Holoog: You will be met at Cape Town International Airport for your transfer north, overnighting at Springbok on the edge of the Richterveld Transfrontier Park. Next day, after the border crossing we reach Holoog Ranger Station in time for lunch with the crew. We meet the horses and saddle up in the afternoon and ride in and around the Gaap River with is fascinating rock formations and rich plant diversity. Overnight at Holoog (means ‘hollow eye”).
Day 3 – 5 The Canyons: Following the Gaap River and crossing several small canyons which crisscross this very plant-diverse area which is also home to a number of game species including giraffe. We have some wide plains too so the pace quickens with some lovely long canters. We camp at Canõn Roadhouse, with its curious ‘living museum’ of old cars and movie memorabilia, and overnight at the intimate Mountain Camp lodge with its spectacular view.
Day 6 – 10 The Plains to the Orange: Starting with a transfer to view the main viewpoint of the Canyon, we continue riding after lunch. Being both a winter and summer rainfall biome, this area is known for its rich diversity and large herds of seasonal plains game species can be seen. We ride to our overnight at the hot-springs at Ai Ais where the deliciously warm water of the spring can be enjoyed in the afternoon – bring your swimming trunks! Finally dropping down into the valley of the Orange River we enjoy the last overnight on the banks of the river amongst the vines of one of the largest table-grape vineyards in the world – a curious sight in an otherwise arid landscape.
Day 11: After an early breakfast we depart on a 9 ½ hour drive back to Cape Town International Airport arriving between 17:00 and 18:00.
Notes: From Cape Town back to Cape Town: 11 days, 10 nights, 7½ riding days; 3 lodge-based nights, 7 nights camping. Leave from Cape Town International Airport on first day of riding safari at 09:30, returning to Cape Town International Airport between 17:00 and 18:00 on the last day.
Days begin at sunrise; departure is generally by 8am with 4 – 5 hours riding before lunch. Lunch breaks vary from an hour to 2 ½ hours followed by another 2 – 3 hours riding in the afternoon. We average anything from 20 – 50 km riding per day, all paces, and sometimes over rough terrain. Please note that this is a true desert so routes can change due to unpredictable weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
Please use only soft luggage of no more than 20 kg, ideally split your luggage between two soft bags.
Neither Wild and Exotic nor the operators or suppliers can accept any responsibility for changes to itineraries or dates that may arise due to weather or unforeseen circumstances such as changes, disruptions or delays to airline flights for whatever reason. This holiday is subject to Wild and Exotic’s terms and conditions, a copy of which is available in the General Info tab.
Wild and Exotic fact sheet for Namibia Horse Safaris
Accommodation: First and last nights are in lodges or guesthouses but the real appeal of these mobile safaris are camping under the magnificent Milky Way. Dome tents are provided if required as well as stretchers and comfortable bedrolls consisting of a waterproof bag, insulating mattress, down duvet and pillow. Extra blankets are available if required.
Activities: On some rides we visit places of interest – World Heritage sites such as Twyfelfontein Rock Engravings, the iconic Sossusvlei dunes and the magnificent Fish River Canyon. Guests can add-on trips to Etosha and other private reserves for unparalleled game viewing. Namibia has many places of interest to visit and we are happy to help guests plan their add-on activities.
Children: Experienced children, accompanied by their parents are welcome but please remember that these rides can be quite strenuous and parents must use good judgment as to whether their children are capable. Anyone unable to keep up with the group may have to travel in the support vehicle at times. Non-riding companions are also welcome to join the trip, travelling along with the supply vehicles.
Clothing List: A recommended packing list is sent to all guests. Guests bring their own riding hats – while we recommend hard hats, we do not insist – however riders should ensure they comply with the terms and conditions of their insurance regarding equipment.
Distance and times: Length of road transfers varies between trails. Namibia is a large country and getting to the remote locations we ride in sometimes takes a few hours travel. However the Namibian countryside is very interesting and with frequent stops along the way, the transfer becomes part of the experience.
Drinks: All drinks are included while camping, guests are responsible for own drinks at lodges and guesthouses.
Game: Namibia is a dry country and the prevalence of game is dependent on rains. Free-ranging desert adapted game occur on all rides and encounters with Elephants, Rhino, Giraffe and other large game can occur – our guides are knowledgeable and conversant with the habits and likely reactions of game in any situation. Guests are requested to obey their guides’ instructions for their own safety.
How to Get There: The nearest Airport for all flights is Windhoek International – with daily flights from UK via Johannesburg connecting to Windhoek, or direct flights from Frankfurt. There are also direct flights to Windhoek from Cape Town, Victoria Falls and Maun (Okavango Delta in Botswana). For rides other than Greater Fish River Canyon you will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to River Crossing Lodge where you will meet the rest of the group and a company representative at dinner. This Lodge accommodation, dinner (excluding drinks) and breakfast are included in the package. The road transfer will leave early the next morning to the starting point of the ride. For the Fish River Canyon ride transfers are from and to Cape Town International Airport although, for those arriving earlier or leaving later, special arrangements can be made for pick-up elsewhere in the city at a surcharge. For other rides (not mentioned above) see detailed itineraries.
Insurance: Adequate travel insurance providing cover for, but not limited to, personal injury, curtailment or cancellation of your holiday, is compulsory for all Wild and Exotic itineraries. The details of our recommended insurers are listed on all booking forms. Offbeat Safaris and Namibia Horse Safari Company both carry public liability insurance and take all possible care, however we ride in very remote areas so emergency evacuation cover is essential. Ensure you are conversant with the conditions of your insurance regarding the wearing of riding hats.
Length of Rides: Most safaris are 10-nights, 8 of which are camping (lodge-based rides are 6-night or can be tailor-made). We cover 20 – 50 km a day and can spend up to 6 hours in the saddle a day. Some scrambling might be required over particularly difficult terrain.
Luggage: Your luggage is transported on the supply vehicles which meet up with us at most evening campsites. Bags should be soft canvas or leather, preferably with lots of pockets for easy organizing. If over 15 kgs, split luggage into two bags for easier lifting onto vehicles. Luggage you don’t need on the ride can be left (at your own risk) at the lodge in Windhoek to be collected at the end of the ride. Ideally have one large bag and one smaller daypack sized bag for your overnight requirements on the few evenings when the supply truck is not able to meet up with us.
Meals/Camp routine: Days begin at sunrise with breakfast – typically porridge or cereal, coffee or tea and a hot dish. We generally set off by 08:00 with 4 – 5 hours riding before lunch. On days we are able to meet up with the supply trucks a light lunch is served, where this is not possible, sandwiches are enjoyed under a shady tree. Lunch is between an hour or 2 ½ hours, followed by another 2 – 3 hours riding before reaching camp. Time is allowed for a hot shower before dinner – a delight of typically Namibian fare; Wild Game, free-range Beef or Karoo Mutton served as braai (grilled over an open fire) or potties (pot casserole) with vegetables and a surprise dessert also made on the open fire. The menu is suitable for vegetarians but it is important to inform us of dietary requirements when booking – we will endeavor to accommodate your needs. Tea, coffee and juice are always available in camp with chilled drinks, beer, wine etc available in the evenings. All drinks are included in the cost whilst on the ride – please let us know your drink preferences by completing the questionnaire form when booking. Only drinks at the first and last night lodges, guest farms and restaurants, petrol stations while en-route are not included in the package rate.
Medical and safety: A medical kit is on hand in camp and in the saddle. We carry a satellite phone for emergencies. En inexpensive emergency evacuation and initial hospitalization cover is available in Namibia bypassing lengthy co-ordination between insurance companies and call centers.
Money: Namibian Dollars are equivalent to South African Rand which can be used all over Namibia. Credit card can also be used in most places. However there is little opportunity to change money once you leave Windhoek Airport.
Non-Riders: Are welcome to travel with back-up vehicles or hire own vehicles/driver-guide to do side excursion between overnight camps.
Power supplies: There is access to power on first and last night of trail but access to power supply on safari is limited to cigarette usb chargers on backup vehicles. Guests can bring usb connection to charge cameras.
Riding Ability: Riders should be fit enough to sustain an independent seat and keep off the horses back. Able to cover rough terrain at all paces and confident enough to ride out of trouble as encounters with big game is possible.
Single Supplement: Is only charged for those who are not prepared to share.
Size of the Rides: Depending on rides, maximum 14 riders on Namib Desert Safaris, 8 on lodge-based rides. Most rides are 10 or 11 riders.
Tack: We use skirted Endurance saddles which are best suited to our horses, the terrain and the comfort of the riders.
Terrain: We travel through beautiful scenery of rocky hills, sandy riverbeds, wide-open gravel plains and undulating sand dunes. Sometimes the going can be quite challenging. Occasionally you may be required to dismount and walk your horse over rocky sections. However wide-open spaces suitable for lovely long canters abound. Some rides are challenging requiring a good sense of humor to see you through the tough moments! Pace depends on the terrain, the temperatures and the fitness and weight of riders.
Tipping: This is a present from the heart and guests should only tip if they are happy with the service provided. There are no hard and fast rules, but £10 per day is a rough guide. Tips are collected by the guide in any denomination you wish and distributed evenly amongst the staff.
Type of Horses: Our horses are from both local and distant origins; mostly crossbreeds from a variety of stock that found their way into the Namibian equine mix during the last century. These include Trahkener, Hanovarian, Shagya Arabs, Boerperde and more recently, Arabians and Quarter Horse crosses and even the odd Haflinger. We have also lately included some purebred Nooitgedacht horses because of their hardiness yet very gentle temperaments. Our horses are generally small in body size to survive the dry and mountainous environments where they are bred and raised.
Due to the tough nature of our rides, our best trail horses are those with strong personalities who often are quite opinionated. You will find you riding experience more pleasurable if you allow your mount’s more experienced judgment of the terrain to take the upper hand. With this in mind we believe that each rider will find their adventure enriching and go home with fond memories of a most remarkable experience.
Types of Safari: Safaris are 10-nights, 11 days generally with first and last nights in lodges, 8-nights camping. Lodge-based riders vary from 6-nights to tailor-made safaris.
Visas: Visas are stamped into your passport upon entry into the country at no charge.
Climate: During the months that we operate (April – October) the days are mostly warm to hot, while the nights in winter (June, July, and August) can be cold. Rainfall during this period is unlikely. For those sensitive to heat it would be sensible to avoid the early and later rides and choose the ones in the middle of the year.
Weight Limit: There is a weight limit of 85 kg per horse; a surcharge is applicable for extra horse/s. Maximum weight for riders is 95kg.
Namibia general information and map
Capital: Windhoek
Getting there: Major airlines flying to Namibia usually fly via Johannesburg. Flying time to Johannesburg with British Airways is approximately 11 hours and then a further 2 hours on to Windhoek with South African Airways.
Time: GMT plus one hour
Try not to miss: Sossuviel, the Skeleton Coast and Etosha. The sand dunes of Sossusvlei are often called the highest in the world. Various arguments are laid out to support this claim, but all miss the point, which is that Sossusvlei is surely one of the most spectacular sights in Africa. Located in the Namib Naukluft Park, the largest conservation area in Africa, and fourth largest in the world – Sossusvlei is an excellent reason to visit Namibia. The Skeleton Coast National Park is one of our planet’s most inhospitable but hauntingly beautiful places; it is wild, desolate and uninhabited. Travellers have long mystified the Skeleton Coast with its intriguing stories of shipwrecks, desolate dunes and beach roaming carnivores. But due to its harsh environment and long history under varying control and protection, few people have had the opportunity to experience this fascinating corner of the world. The Etosha National Park is 22 270 km² of saline desert, savannah and woodlands. A total of 114 mammals are represented in the park, including several rare and endangered species such as black rhino and black-faced impala.
Visas: UK passport holders do not currently require a visa for stays of less than 90 days.
When to go: Depends where you go. Best time to visit Windhoek is between May and September when it is cool and dry. November to March is hot with heavy rains. The Namib coast is best visited between October and March.
Why Namibia: Vast and remote wilderness areas. The chance to spot endangered wildlife in the fascinating national parks.
Wild and Exotic would be delighted to compose a bespoke itinerary for your trip to Namibia. Please contact info@wildandexotic.co.uk or 01439748401 to discuss your requirements.
