“The thrill of being one with nature never fades! On horseback, you blend seamlessly into the animal kingdom, moving through a herd of zebras or spotting a solitary Topi on a termite mound. You feel the warm breeze on your skin, watch the grass sway beneath you, and hear the harmonious bird songs from the trees. Each day brings a new adventure. A flock of sunbirds might dart through the air, or a colorful turaco might zoom by, leaving a streak of brilliance behind. An elephant lets out a gentle rumble, while hidden in the grass, a lion lifts its watchful eyes. Riding through this landscape, you become both a spectator and a participant, completely absorbed in the immersive wildlife experience.

Packing for a horseback riding safari requires a unique blend of practicality and preparedness due to the distinct demands of the activity and the environment. Unlike traditional safaris, where you might be in a vehicle for most of the day, horseback riding safaris involve extended periods in the saddle, necessitating specialized gear like hard hats, half chaps, and comfortable riding boots that are also suitable for walking. Clothing needs to be versatile, providing sun protection with long sleeves while being lightweight and breathable for comfort. Additionally, compact and easily accessible items such as a small camera, sunscreen, and binoculars are essential to fully enjoy and capture the experience. The goal is to ensure safety, comfort, and readiness for close encounters with wildlife, all while being adaptable to the unpredictable conditions of the African wilderness. ”

Riding Packing List

Clothing

Hard hats: Compulsory for riding. If unable to bring your own, inform Epic Road of your approximate helmet size in advance so a helmet can be provided. Bringing your own helmet is recommended for guaranteed fit.
Half chaps: Recommended for long hours and fast riding to avoid discomfort.
Breeches or jeans: Suitable for riding.
Riding boots: Should be good for riding and comfortable enough for walking up to 10-15 minutes at a time if leading horses.
Walking shoes: Lightweight walking shoes/trainers with good grip. Can be the same as riding boots if comfortable for both activities.
Long sleeve cotton shirts or t-shirts: Preferably in khaki, green, brown, beige, navy, or grey. Avoid white. Long sleeves are better for sun protection and can be rolled up or down as needed.
Lightweight waterproof jacket: Especially important if traveling near April/May/November, which is the rainy season.
Warm fleece or sweater: For the evenings and early mornings.
Informal and comfortable clothes: For the evenings around the campfire.
Casual wear: A pair of shorts, a few t-shirts, and flip flops for relaxing in camp between rides.

Note: Laundry can be done on any non-moving day on safari.

Other Items

Sunscreen: Factor 20+ with plenty of supply. A good sunblock for lips is also recommended.
Sunglasses: Wrap-around sunglasses are ideal for dusty riding conditions. A string to hang them around your neck is useful.
Compact camera: Small enough to fit into a saddle bag and easy to use while riding. A soft case on your belt is recommended for easy access.
SLR camera: For wildlife photography during game drives included in horse safaris.
Chargers: For camera batteries/phone/video camera with a UK plug or a travel adapter for other plug types.
Binoculars: Essential for safaris, recommended for use from a vehicle rather than horseback.
Head-lamp: Recommended for hands-free use, though wind-up torches are provided in guests' tents.
Swimming costume: Needed if staying at lodge before or after your horse safari.
Book: A good book for leisure, though you may not have much time to read!