Best for riding in Botswana
Whether exploring the Okavango Delta's floodplains and shallow reed-beds on the back of an elephant or the wide, dry grasslands of the Kwando-Linyanti area on horseback, riding in Botswana is a great way to get around these areas. Many of the camps occupy regions where the game densities are fairly moderate, but there is still every chance that you'll come across big game and you never know what's just around the corner.
If you're looking for a more isolated experience, a quad bike tour over the sparse landscape of the Kalahari's salt pans might be a great option for you. With less of a focus on big game, such rides cross a landscape that few will have witnessed before, making them a real adventure.
African Jacana Safari
7 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
US$7,770 - US$12,280 per person
Camp Kalahari
The exceptional scenery around Camp Kalahari makes a stunning backdrop for horseriding in Botswana. Horseback safaris, suitable for a range of riding abilities, last from a few hours to up to five nights.
Red Lechwe Safari
9 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
US$10,800 - US$25,210 per person
Jack's Camp
The grasslands and vast pans of the Makgadikgadi are a stunning place to enjoy horseriding in Botswana. Trips from Jack’s Camp last from a few hours to up to five nights and are suitable for a range of riding experience and ability.
Rock Hare Self-drive Safari
20 days • 12 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
US$5,230 - US$7,440 per person
Namib Outpost
Guests at Namib Outpost can take advantage of some of the best horseriding in Namibia at its sister property, Desert Homestead, situated only 10km away.
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Best camps & lodges for Riding holidays in Botswana
![Thamo Telele](/images/background-image/35b99bb19f654b4e81404f3876b29b87.jpg)
Thamo Telele
Thamo Telele provides a relatively safe environment for horseriders of all abilities to enjoy a short horseback safari. This is a great opportunity to get up close and personal to the reserve’s giraffe, zebra and other plains game without the risk of encountering predators.
![San Camp](/images/background-image/4dfd765749384ef0b6d51b00ed9910ca.jpg)
San Camp
Guests at San Camp can ride quadbikes out onto the vast Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, either for half a day or on expeditions of up to four days to the centre of the pans. Horse riding can also be arranged, lasting from two hours to several days.
![Jack's Camp](/images/background-image/08f7b275c8eb46b08b8af72f8b9c60e8.jpg)
Jack's Camp
The grasslands and vast pans of the Makgadikgadi are a stunning place to enjoy horseriding in Botswana. Trips from Jack’s Camp last from a few hours to up to five nights and are suitable for a range of riding experience and ability.
![Camp Kalahari](/images/background-image/2ad2c1a55c064ebca356c5e45b42827f.jpg)
Camp Kalahari
The exceptional scenery around Camp Kalahari makes a stunning backdrop for horseriding in Botswana. Horseback safaris, suitable for a range of riding abilities, last from a few hours to up to five nights.
Riding holidays elsewhere in Africa
Our top ideas and inspiration for Riding holidays in other countries.
![Riding holidays in Kenya](/images/special_interest_page/a0f8a20e986b48c5a82b9192627a68c6.jpg)
Kenya
Although it's not a major destination for riding holidays, Kenya offers a great diversity of scenery ...
![Riding holidays in Malawi](/images/special_interest_page/bc07de5ab9b74bad88be259cef8bd679.jpg)
Malawi
If you are interested in horseback riding in Malawi, there is just one place we'd advise you to visit...
![Riding holidays in Mozambique](/images/special_interest_page/df42604105744f1199570b709cb608c9.jpg)
Mozambique
We can't currently suggest any full-time riding holidays in Mozambique; there's nowhere that we ...
![Riding holidays in Namibia](/images/special_interest_page/b3c753c228c44261931d21ee9f338b5e.jpg)
Namibia
We don't specialise in riding holidays in Namibia; however, we do know several great small guest ...
![Riding holidays in South Africa](/images/special_interest_page/d5a498832ad14eacaee539f4ba3530cd.jpg)
South Africa
South Africa's Cape is well known for its stunning scenery and horse riding is just one of the ...
![Riding holidays in Tanzania](/images/special_interest_page/ef02dc794344491d87231371b6f82d9d.jpg)
Tanzania
While there are comparatively limited options for horse riding in Tanzania, one excellent option ...
![Riding holidays in Zambia](/images/special_interest_page/efa0eb68d4054c90920153719620d56d.jpg)
Zambia
Explore diverse scenery and remote environments whilst horseback riding in Zambia. Several lodges ...
![Riding holidays in Zimbabwe](/images/special_interest_page/b0feb866618949eebddaf1f43afdb830.jpg)
Zimbabwe
There are a handful of lodges that offer riding in Zimbabwe. While we do not offer multi-day riding ...
Where to see wildlife species in Botswana
Maximise the chances of seeing your favourite animals based on traveller sightings reports from the field.
![Lion](/images/animal/3be5dddd39f54519924bd6464b9aa290.jpg)
Lion
Panthera leo
Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.
81% SUCCESS
3,130 sightings from 3,868 observations
![Leopard](/images/animal/1856a32702c448b99fc306cf98f12d4f.jpg)
Leopard
Panthera pardus
The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.
47% SUCCESS
2,008 sightings from 4,295 observations
![Cheetah](/images/animal/d21539afba3b41758f9445a3487a851a.jpg)
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.
33% SUCCESS
1,075 sightings from 3,287 observations
![Wild dog](/images/animal/11f40419f6324d8997924abe9949a151.jpg)
Wild dog
Lycaon pictus
African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.
32% SUCCESS
908 sightings from 2,868 observations
![Spotted Hyena](/images/animal/1204c5262b8045ecb217ede6f289b410.jpg)
Spotted Hyena
Crocuta crocuta
The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.
55% SUCCESS
2,236 sightings from 4,089 observations
![Brown Hyena](/images/animal/e599554fd77d4f65bc162860c6450928.jpg)
Brown Hyena
Parahyaena brunnea
This largely solitary scavenger is one of the more elusive and little-known of Africa’s carnivores. Shaggier than its spotted cousin, it occurs only in the arid southwest of the continent.
16% SUCCESS
252 sightings from 1,587 observations
![Meerkat](/images/animal/a7eb94c7aec54c70a51804687c8df517.jpg)
Meerkat
Suricata suricatta
These highly sociable little mammals have an endearing appearance and comical antics. Found in the drier areas of Southern Africa, close encounters are a sought-after experience.
21% SUCCESS
91 sightings from 432 observations
![Elephant](/images/animal/2bce9b9aaaaa4c9ea1719c1744132cb9.jpg)
Elephant
Loxodonta africana
By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.
91% SUCCESS
3,760 sightings from 4,141 observations
![Buffalo](/images/animal/bf15712ef3fb4785a9e85cfe9c83bd8a.jpg)
Buffalo
Syncerus caffer
One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.
83% SUCCESS
2,649 sightings from 3,200 observations
![Giraffe](/images/animal/d4d65e53c00a4ff2a71946681c70bb5a.jpg)
Giraffe
Giraffa camelopardalis
The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.
86% SUCCESS
3,622 sightings from 4,218 observations
![Hippo](/images/animal/f79d438006d34a65bf799ef84a8861d6.jpg)
Hippo
Hippopotamus amphibius
The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.
89% SUCCESS
2,749 sightings from 3,077 observations
![Black Rhino](/images/animal/af8f6d5dedcf4d6d949587ef2de2bf10.jpg)
Black Rhino
Diceros bicornis
The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.
30% SUCCESS
637 sightings from 2,110 observations
![White Rhino](/images/animal/3d3435b0899e4eddbe3fdad972969b8b.jpg)
White Rhino
Ceratotherium simum
The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. They are larger, easier to see and generally more approachable than the black rhino.
43% SUCCESS
511 sightings from 1,178 observations
![Oryx](/images/animal/548893903b074147b07998bc27726a62.jpg)
Oryx
Oryx sp.
Oryx are impressive antelopes, with a powerful physique and elegant markings set off by rapier-like horns. They cut a distinctive dash in some of Africa’s harshest landscapes.
70% SUCCESS
1,374 sightings from 1,976 observations
![Eland](/images/animal/5142aeb73cc7443b9eb2e9fec06b6297.jpg)
Eland
Taurotragus oryx
Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.
49% SUCCESS
1,496 sightings from 3,071 observations
![Roan antelope](/images/animal/88981fb367b44200b1c38409355de14c.jpg)
Roan antelope
Hippotragus equinus
Africa’s second largest antelope and one of its most handsome, with a powerful build and distinctive markings, roan are wary of people, but renowned for their bravery against predators.
24% SUCCESS
497 sightings from 2,114 observations
![Sable antelope](/images/animal/86cc1b74b89b459394c0ec3df06e7bad.jpg)
Sable antelope
Hippotragus niger
Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.
23% SUCCESS
479 sightings from 2,115 observations
![Sitatunga](/images/animal/b0f4d993d122487ca8e0bf7448cf426b.jpg)
Sitatunga
Tragelaphus spekii
The sitatunga is the most aquatic of Africa’s antelopes and specially adapted to its swampy habitats. Though widespread across Africa, only a handful of places offer reliable sightings.
19% SUCCESS
65 sightings from 347 observations
![Wildebeest](/images/animal/c4b750701097425e878c20c2f0211255.jpg)
Wildebeest
Connochaetes sp.
Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.
68% SUCCESS
2,566 sightings from 3,801 observations
![Zebra](/images/animal/6bac41d636e94a75bc7d938dad41a62d.jpg)
Zebra
Equus sp.
The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.
84% SUCCESS
3,960 sightings from 4,713 observations
![Pangolin](/images/animal/476cc6ca24a44fe99aa3ab04efaae13b.jpg)
Pangolin
Smutsia sp.
Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.
2% SUCCESS
57 sightings from 3,448 observations
![Aardvark](/images/animal/999537b2d2434bb19cea235502d13ffb.jpg)
Aardvark
Orycteropus afer
The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.
2% SUCCESS
73 sightings from 3,435 observations
![Inspire me](/images/static-content/98cbe0d622a54f21be54e218d0ed0e18-2000.jpg)
Other styles of holiday in Botswana
Discover all that Botswana has to offer
![Birdwatching](/images/background-image/77bc77a6d915446c83758c30dc05e3ff.jpg)
Birdwatching
Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.
![Cultural experiences](/images/background-image/abd10e9119a843c0a85e4b9ca64384b5.jpg)
Cultural experiences
Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.
![Family holidays](/images/background-image/181d13ea91d647aeb5b5c9e70b66581f.jpg)
Family holidays
Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.
![Honeymoons](/images/background-image/9d653c4352644e74a59936021ee30e6f.jpg)
Honeymoons
Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.
![Luxury](/images/background-image/bbebd2ce981041368b38820d955b7dd9.jpg)
Luxury
First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays.
![Photography holidays](/images/background-image/23145eb9743a40529d7a58a4cb22ca97.jpg)
Photography holidays
Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.
![Private villas & houses](/images/background-image/dd36b26adaba4487838b161071708bc3.jpg)
Private villas & houses
Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family
![Riding holidays](/images/background-image/4a9553dedf154beb85d594c14acd8343.jpg)
Riding holidays
Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.
![Solo Travel](/images/background-image/6ed721d8190842cca92ce2eef604e06b.jpg)
Solo Travel
Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.
![Walking](/images/background-image/349eed59e815419a96a4fb460d1cfa85.jpg)
Walking
Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.
![Walking safaris](/images/background-image/80ff6b75989f4dca9fe9cba5e4f49462.jpg)
Walking safaris
Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.
![Wellbeing](/images/background-image/445d954f3c95494581dc6d7daac1d372.jpg)
Wellbeing
Wellness escapes in stunning locations
![Wildlife safaris](/images/background-image/aee8cb60b21f43cabea615436dd3de11.jpg)
Wildlife safaris
These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.