If you are a keen rider then we’ve just the trip for you. Our two intrepid guinea pigs Fiona and Natasha are just back from their latest tough assignment – horse riding in the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
They were travelling with RAW Botswana, staying at Motswiri Camp in the Selinda reserve of the Okavango Delta. They were there for two nights and during this time explored the surrounding areas by horse. Both are experienced riders and loved the galloping across vast areas of grassland, jumping fallen trees and riding through the flood waters and channels.
The horses were well schooled and content, enjoying the ride-outs. The day started with coffee and pastries before heading off in the cool of first light on a long ride. Led by an experienced guide they explored different areas around the camp including riverine bush, floodplain and grasslands. They saw elephant, buffalo, hippos and lots of antelope while riding but no lions, although they were not sure whether to be relieved or disappointed over this…
After several hours riding they returned to the camp for a full breakfast and time to relax on the veranda of their tent or around the small plunge pool. After a late lunch they were off again, riding until sundown when they returned to camp for a shower and for supper.
Other activities offered were game-drives, something a family who were also staying there were enjoying, as well as walking safaris and boat trips. Fiona and Natasha did this one evening and saw hippos as well as the most beautiful sunset.
Getting to the camp was quite an adventure in itself, flying to the camps airstrip in a small 4-seater. It made them both realise the vastness of Africa, with the delta stretching out beneath them with no sign of villages, houses or roads. The camp of only five tents has a private concession of 120,000 acres exclusively for its own use.
In the evenings they sat in the open-sided bar, enjoying great views out over the adjacent waterway – the water-level was very high at the time. Dining was done in the adjacent dining area, eating with the other guests. The food was excellent and local drinks were included in the price.
They finished their brief reconnaissance by flying to Victoria Falls to check out the recently refurbished rooms of the Victoria Falls Hotel. The Falls were in full flood and they got soaked when visiting them but that, surely, is the best time to go?
Their verdict:
They loved it as they’re both keen riders, and the horses, tackle and landscape were perfect for them to explore and enjoy. The camp was small and peaceful, the service good and the food excellent. Both thought it was worth every penny so long as you were riding. If you simply want to game-drive or explore by canoe, there are other places you can go that better fit the bill for a smaller bill at the end of your stay.
