The savanna, the old desert, and the ocean (extended)

Namibia

3750 €

We’re off to the extended, longer version of our expedition to far south of Africa, to central Namibia. There, we’ll stay on an absolutely extraordinary, stunning farm and explore its vast lands on horseback. We’ll ride out to a savanna, dotted with rolling hills, to meet giraffes, zebras, oryxes and antelopes. We’ll rest beneath the umbrella-shaped acacia trees and spend our evenings relaxing under the starry. We’ll also spend a part of our expedition sightseeing: go on a car safari, venture into the Namib—the world’s oldest desert, see the world-famous and incredibly photogenic “Valley of Death,” ride quad bikes across the dunes, and take a boat trip on the bay. It’s a magnificent and beautiful adventure amid breathtaking nature, wild animals, and magical places.

Days overall

11 days

Days in saddle

6 days
Group size

9

Available

check
Standard

African hospitality (comfy, tasty and beautiful)

Luggage

no limit kg

Food

local cuisine, vegetarian meals available
Skills

walk, trot, canter, gallop, trail riding experience

We have planned this journey as a combination of a horseback safari—rides across a vast farm—with several days of sightseeing to explore the must-see highlights of Namibia. We designed the itinerary to balance plenty of horseback and non-horseback adventures while still allowing time for relaxation, shared meals, and stories by the fire under the stars. This edition is two days longer than the “standard” tour, expanded to include additional horseback rides and visits to more of Namibia’s extraordinary sights.

We will spend the first four days in Namibia will on a large, family-run farm, where forty horses are the least exotic part of the local animal world. The property spans an impressive 11,000 hectares and is home to an abundance of wildlife. Alongside horses and domestic animals, the farm raises Simmental cattle—a breed also very common in Europe. Most importantly, the estate serves as a haven for many wild animals that we’ll observe from the saddle. On the vast terrain we’ll encounter giraffes, antelopes, zebras, oryxes (Namibia’s national symbol), somewhat mischievous ostriches, and warthogs—whose burrows require careful navigation while riding in certain areas. The region is also home to various lizards, small mammals, wild cats, jackals, and baboons—and with a bit of luck, we might even spot leopards.

The word “farm” hardly conveys the exotic charm or the vastness of the place where we’ll be staying and riding. This incredibly scenic property has a fascinating history dating back to the early 20th century. Over a hundred years, the farm has evolved in size and character, yet it has always remained a family enterprise—now in its fourth generation. In the evenings, our hosts will share stories about the history and daily life of the farm.

During the trip, we’ll also switch our horses for mechanical horsepower to go sightseeing. Over three days we’ll visit the must-see wonders of Namibia: explore the Namib—the oldest desert in the world, visit the Sesriem Canyon, climb a giant dune, see the world-famous salt pan of Sossusvlei and the even more iconic Deadvlei, often (and incorrectly) referred to as the “Valley of Death.”

Beyond these classic highlights, we’ll also visit Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, enjoy a picnic beneath the picturesque Spitzkoppe, see a seal colony, and visit the wreck of the Zeila trawler, which has become a nesting ground for cormorants. We’ll board a boat in Walvis Bay to admire Namibia’s coastline from the Atlantic, ride quad bikes across the dunes, and stop in Swakopmund, a fascinating coastal resort. Founded in 1892 as the main port of German South West Africa, the town still stands out for its distinctive 19th-century German colonial architecture.

On the ninth day, we’ll return to the farm. If we arrive before evening, we’ll head out for another ride to watch the sun set over the savanna before sitting down for dinner. The following, tenth day will be spent on the farm, with two final rides—one in the morning and one in the afternoon—in search of wildlife and adventure in the saddle.

For our Namibian horseback safari adventure, we’ll be riding horses that are a cross of several breeds, often referred to as “farm mix.” These horses are relatively small—around 155 cm at the withers—which is why the rider weight limit for this ride is set at 80 kg. They show clear influences of Arabian and English bloodlines, and our mounts are sturdy working horses, perfectly suited to Namibian farm conditions. They are well-trained and accustomed to trail riding, though they require attentive and competent riders.

While the routes on the farm are not technically difficult, the pace is relaxed, with controlled canters and daily riding times of around 4–5 hours. This Namibian ride is therefore intended for confident riders. Because of the presence of numerous animals—both domestic and wild—riders must remain in full control at all gaits and possible situations. Small animals may suddenly dart across the path, surprising the horses, and we will often approach larger animals quietly and calmly to avoid startling them. At times, it may also be necessary to move away quickly and in an orderly manner.

Rider weight limit for this safari is 80 kg.
(Exceptions may be considered within a few kilograms and must be discussed in advance.)

What is included in this tour?Items that are included in the cost of tour price.

6 nights in comfortable double cottages or rooms on the ranch and farm
4 nights in charming double cottages and guesthouses around Swakopmund
Boat cruise in the bay and quad excursion on the dunes
Entrance tickets to all visited sites
All meals from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day
English-speaking hosts and guides
Horse with full tack
Support vehicle with driver
Entrance fees to national parks
Airport transfers from/to Windhoek
Travel insurance including coverage for high-risk sports

What is not included in this tour?Items that are not included in the cost of tour price.

Bilety lotnicze do i z Namibii – lotnisko w Windhuk (Windhoek), Hosea Kutako, kod lotniska: WDH
Wiza do Namibii (około 80 euro / 1600 dolarów namibijskich) – na lotnisku w Windhuk
Opcjonalnie: półgodzinny lot awionetką nad ranczo (70 euro)
Wydatki własne (pamiątki, dodatkowe przekąski i napoje, bilety wstępów itp.)
Opcjonalnie: dopłata do pokoju jednoosobowego (dostępność ograniczona)

Day 1 First awe

Riders arrive at Windhoek Airport. After obtaining visas on arrival, we’ll set off by bus or car toward the farm. The journey takes up to an hour—the property is located about 75 km from the airport. Once there we’ll settle into our cottages or rooms, relax after the long trip, and spend part of the day getting acquainted with the surroundings. In the late afternoon we’ll meet our horses and head out for a warm-up ride through the area at sunset. In the evening we’ll gather for our first dinner together during this safari.
Day 2 Horses, zebras, and giraffes

After breakfast we’ll get ready, saddle up, and set off for a longer ride across the property in search of wild animals—zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. We’ll return to the farm for lunch and some rest before heading out again in the afternoon for the second part of the day’s horseback adventures. The evening ride will take about three hours, with a break for snacks and sundowners at sunset. Back at the farm, we’ll unsaddle the horses, wash off the dust, enjoy dinner, and spend the evening sharing lively stories.
Day 3 Under the Acacia’s Shade

After a hearty breakfast we’ll prepare the horses and set off on our ride. Wandering along dirt roads and trails we’ll watch for wildlife and admire the remarkable scenery. We’ll stop for a break beneath large umbrella-shaped acacia trees, so typical of this climate zone. These trees owe their distinctive shape—at least in part—to giraffes and other herbivores. In the afternoon we’ll return to the farm, and in the evening we’ll enjoy a barbecue dinner, a beautiful sunset, and long conversations late into the night.
Day 4 Dinner Under the Stars

After the morning bustle we’ll head out for a 3–4-hour ride. Following animal tracks we’ll make a loop and return to the farm just in time for lunch. After a break and some rest, we’ll mount up again and ride toward an area with picturesque, ancient trees. After about two hours we’ll arrive at our destination, where a dinner under the starry African sky will be already waiting for us. After the meal we’ll return to the farm by car.
Day 5 Windhoek, Elephants, and Rhinos

Today we’ll trade our real horses for mechanical ones and set off to explore Namibia. Our first stop will be Windhoek, the country’s capital, where we’ll visit the Craft Centre—a great place to pick up local souvenirs. Then we’ll head out on a car safari! There we’ll encounter elephants, rhinos, and many other animals, all viewed up close in their natural environment. We’ll spend the night in a beautifully located lodge surrounded by wild nature.
Day 6 Seals, the Namib, and Dinner by the Atlantic

We’ll start the day earlier than usual. After breakfast, we’ll drive to the Atlantic coast to see Namibia’s largest and most remarkable seal colony. Crossing the Namib Desert, we’ll continue to Swakopmund and settle into a charming guesthouse. In the evening, we’ll head to the pier, where we’ll enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant accompanied by the sound of ocean waves.
Day 7 A Ship on the Waves, Quads on the Dunes

This day will be a bit more relaxed. After breakfast we’ll head to Walvis Bay where we’ll board a small boat. During the short cruise around the harbor we’ll have the chance to admire the bay and the Namibian coastline from a new perspective—the Atlantic side. In the early afternoon we’ll stop for lunch and toward evening we’ll set out for a thrilling quad ride across the dunes. Later we’ll enjoy dinner at a unique, interesting restaurant.
Day 8 The Namib Desert and the Valley of Death

Today we’ll rise early to head out into the Namib Desert—considered by scientists to be the oldest desert in the world, estimated to be between 55 and 80 million years old. We’ll visit the Sesriem Canyon, the Sossusvlei salt pan, and climb the towering dune known as “Big Daddy” or the “Crazy Dune.” From its summit we’ll descend straight into Deadvlei—perhaps the most famous site in Namibia, whose photos have been seen around the world. The name is often translated as the “Valley of Death” or “Dead Valley,” though in Afrikaans it more accurately means “Dead Lake” or “Dead Marsh.” Regardless of the translation this place is so breathtaking and photogenic that it’s nearly impossible to take a bad picture there. We’ll spend the evening and night in a beautiful nearby guesthouse.
Day 9 Back To The Farm

After breakfast we’ll get into the car and drive back to the farm. Our travels have taken us quite far, so the drive will take about five hours. If we set off early enough in the morning we should arrive just in time for a short sunset ride on horseback. In the evening, of course, we’ll have a nice, relaxing dinner together.
Day 10 The Last Sunset

After breakfast and the morning preparations we’ll saddle up and head out for a 4–5-hour ride to fully enjoy the beauty of nature on our final day. Upon returning to the farm, we’ll have lunch and some time to relax. In the evening, we’ll set out one last time to watch the wildlife at sunset. Back at the farm a farewell dinner and celebration will await us.
Day 11 Out Of Africa

It’s time to leave Namibia. Everyone will be transferred to Windhoek Airport, from where they’ll begin their journey back home.

The guide might modify the route according to weather conditions and group's riding skills.

The tour in Namibia is quite a comfortable one—especially for a horseback expedition. 🙂

We’ll spend six nights on a beautiful, comfortable farm, staying in cozy double cottages or guest rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. Single rooms are available in limited numbers upon prior arrangement and for an additional fee (payable on-site).

During the sightseeing part of the trip, we’ll spend four nights around Swakopmund, staying in charming guesthouses or cottages, in double rooms with private bathrooms.

Full board is provided. The meals on the farm are delicious, carefully prepared, and beautifully served. Most will be enjoyed in the dining area, while some will be served outdoors—in true African style and atmosphere. Beer and wine are served with lunch and dinner, and we might even get the chance to taste some Namibian wines. During the sightseeing days, meals will be enjoyed at our accommodations, in restaurants, or as picnics along the way.

Riding equipment

On the Namibian ride, we use several types of saddles. Some horses are equipped with high-quality, fairly standard English all-purpose saddles. We also ride in South African trail saddles, which are closely related to the Western saddle. Typical Western saddles are used less frequently, but you may come across them as well.

We ride “lightweight,” taking only what we need for the next couple of hours in the saddle. Everything required for picnics or outdoor dinners is transported by vehicle.

Small saddle bags are available on-site for carrying water and personal items.

As always, we strongly recommend wearing helmets while riding.

What you should take with you

The Namibian ride is one of the more comfortable ones. All nights are spent in cozy cottages and guest rooms. For the daily horseback stages, you’ll only need a small waist bag or something similar—to carry your phone and personal essentials.

A detailed and extended packing list, along with our comments and recommendations, will be sent out in the organizational email one month before the ride.

passport
cash – in euro or USD
electronic equipment (e.g., camera, video camera, power bank)
waist bag or small backpack (for phone and personal items)
water bottle or canteen (a regular plastic bottle is fine)
high SPF sunscreen
insect repellent
sun hat or other head covering
riding helmet
personal riding gear: breeches, half chaps, gloves, etc.
trekking shoes or paddock boots
raincoat or waterproof jacket
some warmer clothing for the evenings
flip-flops for showers
swimsuit