We spend 4 to 6 hours a day in the saddle 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. You may be required to gallop out of trouble, so we can not take beginners. Riders should be aged 12 years and over and anyone over 60 needs to be riding fit and strong. There is a maximum weight limit of 15 stone, 210lbs or 95kgs. Over this, you will need to enquire, but only if you are an advanced rider. It will be at the discretion of the company whether novice riders will be permitted to ride, taking into consideration their safety and enjoyment and that of the group as a whole.

You must be able to ride to one of the following competence levels:

Experienced - Confident at all paces on almost any horse. Competes or hunts seriously.
Intermediate  - Ridden for a number of years. Able to control fit thoroughbreds at all paces.
Competent - Able to control a sensible/quiet horse at all paces and feel confident on such a horse. Balanced in the saddle and able to rise/post to the trot.

We reserve the right to prevent any client from riding if we feel they do not fulfil any of the competence levels detailed above. If you are not riding regularly we strongly recommend that you get in practice before joining us on safari.

Many insurance companies will not insure your holiday unless you are wearing a hard hat or safety helmet whilst in the saddle. It is your responsibility to provide your own properly fitted hard hat or safety helmet. We cannot accept any liability whatsoever for head injuries sustained as a result of ignoring this advice. You must be insured to ride with us – please ensure your policy covers you for horse riding and includes medical evacuation and medical aid.

You must be fully aware and understand that there are risks involved when around horses, in riding generally and in riding, visiting and staying in remote wilderness areas in Africa due to the presence of wild and potentially dangerous animals. For these reasons you will be required to sign an indemnity form before you ride on our safaris confirming that you do so entirely at your own risk.