Botswana Tuli Horse Safari
This Great Expeditions-led group departure is a classic!
Very limited availability – book your space asap!
Overview:
This classic journey explores the wildlife-rich region of Southern Botswana known as the Land of the Giants. Ride each day between beautiful safari camps that offer the true definition of a safari from the unique vantage point of horseback. The Tuli Safari is a seven night mobile safari with each riding day ending at beautiful camps with welcoming walk-in tents, full size beds, fresh cotton linen and hot showers. The safari embraces fine dining in the wilderness and every evening is a delightful mix of good food and good company. This journey embraces the true definition of a safari: an expedition to observe animals in their natural habitat with excellent chances of seeing Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and plains game. From horseback, the beauty of the African topography, fauna and flora will unfurl, and be complimented by a touch of classic safari luxury: hot showers, mouth-watering food, and memorable camps. This safari covers approximately 120 miles over the course of the week, at least 15 - 20 miles and a maximum of 5.5 hours in the saddle each day. During rides enjoy exploring the differing topography of the area: open bush, wooded riverine areas, wetlands, and strange rock formations home to large baobabs. Game is plentiful, so there is always something exciting to look at. Rides are hosted by our qualified lead guides and their back up guides with a herd of 50 Boerperd, Thoroughbred, Warmblood, and Arab crosses. Long extended canters are a feature of the safari. End each day at one of the beautiful welcoming camps. Riding Level: Advanced intermediate to experienced. Must be able to independently control a horse at all paces. Jumping – ability to jump natural obstacle, a benefit, but not essential as can be ridden around. Must be able to take a light seat at canter. Before each safari, every rider will take a short riding test to ensure they are competent enough for the safari, and fall into the above guidelines.
Itinerary Summary:
Days 1 - 2 - Horizon Signature Safari Lodge
Day 3 - Tree Camp
Days 4 - 5 - The Kgotla
Days 6 - 7 - Tree Camp
Days 8 - 9 - Two Mashatus Camp
Day 10 - Depart
The Essentials:
Date: July 29 - August 7, 2023
$6,500.00 per person (limited to 8 riders)
Pricing includes: Inclusive of accommodation, riding, meals, tea/coffee, drinks, game
drives, bush walks and laundry. Includes transfers by road from Johannesburg to Botswana and Charter flight from Botswana to Johannesburg. McClellan trail rider saddles specifically designed for long hours in the saddle and hard hats are also provided.Pricing excludes: International airfare to Johannesburg, South Africa, pre /post hotel or extensions, gratuities, items of a personal nature
Accommodation:
Horizon Signature Safari Lodge
Offering an expansive, 21,000 acres of private game reserve, Horizon Horseback Lodge is located at the northwestern region of South Africa, a 3-hour road transfer from Johannesburg International Airport. The heart of the lodge it its 25-year history of horse management with a free roaming herd of over 100 horses that graze over large tracts of natural pasture, encouraging their comfort within the environment. The horses live freely in the bush and come in at dawn for breakfast and again in the afternoon. Horseback riding experiences from the lodge include exploring the conservancy and reserve, swimming with the horses, polo, cross country courses, family-friendly western games, and a visit to the local village on horseback. All rooms of the lodge are en suite with either a shower or bath or both facilities. Seven double rooms are separate from the main lodge: three suites overlook the lake and have a small verandah area, the rondavels are a traditional African dwelling adjacent to the lodge. There are also two double rooms in the main lodge. There is a large living area, dining room and large stoep (or verandah) for guests to enjoy. Three delicious meals are served each day with afternoon tea before the ride. All drinks are complimentary. Special diet requirements are catered for. The lodge has a swimming pool alongside the lake.
Tree Camp
This is a very unique camp; any childhood dream of sleeping up in the arms of a tree, will be completely fulfilled here. Nestled in the bough of a giant Mashatu tree and two ancient Leadwood trees, this Seligna deck, 4 metres off the ground, will be your retreat for the night. Two guests each share an airy and cool sleeping pod. Along a short walkway, shared showers and toilets are under the Leadwood trees. The spacious dining and lounge area flow from the sleeping pods and overlook the Majale River. This truly extraordinary camp is one that will be remembered and spoken about for years to come.
The Kgotla
The ‘Kgotla’ is an old traditional court enclosure from a nearby community, which was relocated to the banks of the Motloutse River on the western periphery of Mashatu. This open-air enclosure, made of Leadwood logs, provides a secure location for a camp. The camp has hot running water, beautiful openair showers and flushing toilets: the perfect combination for comfort and an authentic bush experience. Guests sleep on single beds around a large log fire in the centre of the enclosure. The highlight of this camp to guests is sleeping in the open under the stars and listening to the resonance of an Africa evening.
Two Mashatus Camp
Nestled in the shade of two large Mashatu trees, the heart of the camp has two traditionally built Lala Palm rondavels for dining and lounge areas. Guest accommodation is in large A-frame walkin tents set on teak platforms each with en-suite bathrooms. Each tent is private and positioned in the shade of a tree in the bush, not far from the main area. Each tent has a small deck area in front where guests can relax privately during the afternoons. Two Mashatu also has a small swimming pool under a Mashatu tree for guests to enjoy.
Ready to Book?
To confirm your spot on the trip, we require a 25% non-refundable deposit. Click below to submit your traveler details and we'll be in touch to collect your payment and follow up with guidance on travel insurance and flight arrangements.
Have Questions?
Please call us on +1 720 494 1530 or email Travel@grtexp.com to discuss this trip further with a safari travel expert.