Jour 1: Victoria Falls
ITALY/VICTORIA FALLS/VICTORIA FALLS NATIONAL PARK (-/-/D)
If you have ever thought about going on a horseback safari in Zimbabwe, be aware that this extraordinary country offers one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world: the Victoria Falls, which you will have the opportunity to admire during the week. On horseback we will explore some areas of the Zambezi National Park, formerly united with Victoria Falls National Park. This natural reserve is located upstream of the Victoria Falls and extends for 40 km along the course of the Zambezi River, which forms its northern boundary; it is divided into two sections by the road leading to Kazungula.
We will explore the riverbanks mentioned by David Livingstone, the famous Scottish explorer, who was the first Westerner to visit the falls on November 17, 1855 and, exercising the ancient right of every explorer, named them after the then Queen of England, Queen Victoria. Locally, however, they were already known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “the smoke that thunders”. From this new perspective, we will be able to admire the landscape while observing numerous bird species, and it will also be possible to spot Nile crocodiles, hippos in the river, as well as elephants and some species of antelope along the banks. Finally, we will discover the Falls… hundreds of cubic meters of water plunging into a fissure in the Earth over one kilometer wide and 128 meters high, a geographical border between two countries, Zimbabwe and Zambia, allowing the Falls to be admired from the opposite bank.
We invite you to experience this wonderful country on horseback; the colors, scents and sensations that Zimbabwe has to offer will remain in your heart for a long time.
Pick-up at Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) and transfer to the lodge. Around mid-afternoon, together with your guide, you will spend three hours on horseback to begin discovering the territory along the banks of the Zambezi River and to get to know the horses, enjoying a first breathtaking sunset. Dinner and overnight at The Wallow Lodge.
Jour 2:
VICTORIA FALLS NATIONAL PARK (B/L/D)
Early wake-up for our first safari in the cool of the morning. Morning dedicated to tracking animals in the National Park. In the afternoon, visit to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, followed by another sunset horseback safari (optional activities at extra cost: helicopter tour). Dinner and overnight in a luxury tented camp.
Jour 3:
VICTORIA FALLS NATIONAL PARK / ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK (B/L/D)
Long morning ride – where we go and what we do will depend on our inclination and game movement patterns. We may head into Zambezi National Park with guides and our anti-poaching unit (a truly immersive and exciting experience). After your long ride, transfer to visit the magnificent Falls. After visiting the Falls, you may explore the town at leisure or spend the late afternoon on horseback. It is also possible to go on an optional game drive to a very special part of the National Park – a local residents’ secret where you could see hyenas amongst other things (extra charge applies – please inquire).
Jour 4:
ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK/VICTORIA FALLS/ITALY (B/-/-)
Final horseback safari, breakfast and transfer to the airport in time for your return flight to Italy or continuation of your journey (please ask us for a personalized quotation).
Note: The above itinerary is indicative and may be subject to changes due to circumstances beyond our control.
(B/L/D): B = breakfast; L = lunch; D = dinner
Difficulty level: from ° to °°°°°
DURATION: 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS
DIFFICULTY: °°°° (ADVANCED)
ACCOMMODATION: lodge
EQUIPMENT: AUSTRALIAN TREKKING STYLE SADDLES, very comfortable
HORSES: ANGLO-ARAB, THOROUGHBRED, CLEVELAND BAY, perfectly trained and well balanced. Lively yet respectful, suitable for riders with a good/excellent level.
RIDING TIME: FROM 4 TO 6 HOURS IN THE SADDLE. All three gaits will be used, with long trots and gallops. Absolute control of the horse in open spaces and good physical condition are required. Extremely varied terrain, from the shady banks of the Zambezi River to mopane woodland, Kalahari sand dunes and teak forests. Riding along the Zambezi is possible at any water level. All rides start in this area and, after the first morning, extend across different types of terrain. Kalahari sand firebreaks offer the best conditions for galloping.
MINIMUM AGE: 12 years (if truly advanced level)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT: 85 kg
TYPE: horseback safari with overnight stays in a luxury lodge
ACCOMMODATION:
3 nights at The Wallow Lodge. Located within a Private Game Reserve, this beautiful tented camp offers a very peaceful stay. Sixteen suites are thoughtfully positioned to capture the best views of the Masuwe River and the surrounding wilderness. The creative use of canvas evokes a classic safari atmosphere, enhanced with all modern comforts. Each suite is raised beneath the shade of ancient riverine trees; from this elevated position, guests can enjoy uninterrupted river views from their private balcony. The décor and attention to detail create a perfect balance between contemporary style and homely touches, without detracting from the surrounding wilderness.
There is also a small infinity pool, ideal for relaxing after a horseback ride.
Many optional activities are available: helicopter flight, sunset cruise, zip line, rafting, day trip to Chobe.
Departure dates on request year-round with a minimum of 2 participants (from November to April it may be rainy).
PARTICIPANTS: MIN 2 MAX 6
SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS
Extra night ON REQUEST
Child reduction NOT AVAILABLE