This African riding expedition offers an exceptional experience, delving into the wonders and untamed landscapes of the Masai Mara while lodging in movable tented camps for an authentic safari encounter. Led by Gordie, a renowned African riding guide, this safari promises encounters with diverse wildlife and the opportunity to interact with the Masai people as they tend to their livestock throughout the area. The adventure includes remarkable horseback riding, wildlife excursions, cultural immersions, dinners by candlelight and much more.
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Gordie C. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English
I was initiated into the safari world as a youngster. Born in Kenya and raised with the promise of adventure during every school holiday, I mastered the idiosyncratic skills of safari as a boy, helping the camp crew put up tents, pack trucks and saddle horses. I guided my first safari aged eighteen and now have over thirty years of experience in the bush. My untamed love of all things wild and my passion and respect for Africa's people and wildlife, makes me a fascinating and inspiring character. I am completely immersed in Africa.
Tour highlights
Top Class Luxury Camping
Experience royal-like accommodation in luxurious settings
In the Land of Wildlife
Watch elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, hippos and other wild species
Explore the Heart of Africa
Discover one of Africa's most renowned wildlife regions
Route details
Day 1
Arrival
You are required to have arrived in Nairobi the day prior, and lodging for that night is not provided. Your hosts will readily organize a transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to your hotel.
On the first day of the safari, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the nearby airstrip for a briefing, followed by a morning flight to the Mara. The flight departs at 10:30 am and arrives at 11:15 am. In the afternoon, you will experience your initial ride or game drive. Meals including lunch and dinner will be served at the camp.
Riding: 5-10 kilometers
Day 2
Nkilenya, Lemek Conservancy
Day 3
Nkilenya to Mara River
Day 4
Mara River, Mara North Conservancy
Day 5
To Mara Triangle
Day 6
Out of Africa, Mara Triangle
Day 7
To Kampi Ya Simba KO8
Day 8
Kampi Ya Simba KO 8, Mara North Conservancy
Day 9
Departure
Difficulty
Challenging
Does not require specific skills, but one must be in good health
Tour provider's comments
4-6 hours riding every day. Riders at an intermediate level or higher in English-style riding should feel comfortable riding at various speeds, be able to rise or post to the trot for extended periods, and have the ability to gallop when necessary. It is advantageous to be physically fit and skilled in riding. The guide will evaluate each participant's abilities, and if he deems a rider insufficiently skilled and potentially risky to themselves and others, they may be asked to continue the safari in a vehicle instead of on horseback.
The riding style involves English General Purpose (GP) and French cavalry saddles, with most horses using snaffle bridles. Double-sided saddlebags are provided for carrying water bottles, cameras and rain gear.
Children are welcome but must demonstrate strength and proficiency in riding, being able to ride comfortably at all speeds, trot for extended periods, endure long hours in the saddle and gallop when needed. Therefore, these rides are not recommended for children under 12 years old.
Horses: Mix of Somali-Arab Crosses and Thoroughbreds.
Accommodation
Comfort
Premium
Tent
8 nights
Single Supplement can be arranged for 2500 USD pp.
8 nights
Mobile Tented Camps
You will be staying in traditional mobile tented camps, a hallmark of a safari experience. These camps are relocated every other day, and you will ride out to meet them in the afternoon. These are not your typical camping accommodations; the tents are opulent, cozy and lavish. They are set up in remote and picturesque locations, carefully selected to provide an immersive experience while ensuring privacy. The sites could be nestled under a canopy of trees or next to a tranquil stream.
The spacious tents are equipped with either twin or double beds, rugs and nightstands. Guests can enjoy hot showers, plush towels, warm feather duvets, Egyptian cotton sheets and hot water bottles for added comfort after a day of exploration. Each tent has its own separate canvas shower and toilet units. Solar lights and hurricane lanterns illuminate the camp, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The camp staff handle all the details, and once your stay is over, the camp is packed up, leaving the wilderness untouched and pristine.
Tickets to group meeting place
Group meeting place
Nairobi County
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Partnered with
Weather during the tour
Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
- the forecasts for this season
- the statistics from previous years’ trips
Tour conditions
Included
- accommodation (8 nights);
- all meals;
- all drinks in camp (bottled water included);
- riding and other safari activities;
- guides;
- Nairobi airport transfers;
- Flying Doctors' membership;
- conservation fees;
- return domestic flights (Nairobi-Mara-Nairobi);
- laundry;
- taxes.
Extras
- international flights;
- Nairobi hotel on first night;
- visas;
- insurance;
- tips;
- additional services;
- activities not mentioned.
Group size
up to 12 touristsDuration
9 days
8 nights
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
Khaki riding clothes are recommended. Also bring your required medication and malarial prophylaxis.
- 1 half chaps and riding gloves
- 1 pair short riding boots
- 1 pair shoes and flip-flops
- 1 light rain jacket (essential)
- 1 warm jumper / fleece
- 1 jeans / long trousers / slacks
- 1 shorts
- 2 riding breeches / jodhpurs
- 4 long sleeved shirts
- underwear, socks & pajamas
- riding helmet, brimmed hat and dark glasses
- lightweight binoculars
- digital camera, memory cards, 300 x zoom and wide-angle lenses, power-bank
- mini first aid kit to include: insect repellent, eye drops, lip balm and sun cream (high protection factor)
PROVIDED
- Shampoo, conditioner and soap
- Safari baseball cap and 750 ml water bottle as a gift
Personal effects should be packed into a soft duffle bag with a maximum luggage weight limit of 15 kg per person, including carry-on luggage. Dinners are smart-casual, please bring appropriate clothing as temperatures can drop to 10C.
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Reviews
- MMary21 Jan, 2024about providerExploring the wild with Gordie and Felicia on safari is a top-notch adventure. The horses are not only safe but also well-trained, and there are many opportunities to engage with wildlife in the exclusive and untouched Mara North Conservancy. The team members are truly amazing, offering freshly prepared organic meals, including freshly baked bread, served with grace and a warm smile three times a day. The horses are well-cared for and protected at night. The campsite along the Mara River is breathtaking, and Gordie and Felicia are charming and welcoming hosts, treating everyone like cherished family members. Their extensive knowledge of the Mara and its wildlife is impressive, and they effortlessly oversee a staff of 25 while accommodating up to a dozen riders and their guests. Riding among giraffes, zebras, antelopes, elephants, lions, eagles and cape buffaloes is an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It's an opportunity not to be missed!21 Jan, 2024
- Pphilippa12 Dec, 2023about providerWebsite limits me to giving only 5 stars? What do you do when this experience is more than that?! Gordie, Felicia, their amazing team and the lovely horses truly deserve more than just stars! September 2023 was my third safari with this incredible team. It was an authentic safari experience, where we moved camp without leaving a trace. Riding through the bush, enjoying luxurious camping under the full moon (glamping!!), gathering around the fire in the evening to share stories of our game viewing adventures...all while receiving top-notch hospitality and having every need attended to. Why go anywhere else?12 Dec, 2023
- MMartin6 Oct, 2023about providerThe expectations were incredibly high for the trip, envisioned as a dream holiday involving horses and exceptional riding in a setting reminiscent of Out of Africa. These expectations were not only met but exceeded. Gordie and his team personalized the experience, fostering friendships among all participants. The mobile tents provided unparalleled comfort in the wilderness, with meticulous attention to detail and style that even Marylin Streep from Out of Africa would have appreciated. Despite the lack of shopping opportunities, the food was outstanding. The team not only offered constant support and assistance but also ensured that each day was not just a remarkable holiday but a life-changing experience. The well-trained horses were in superb condition, carefully matched to each rider, eliminating the need for any changes during the ride. They were easy to control even during challenging situations, with excellent cantering abilities. While some guests desired longer gallops, the multiple canters each day, including small jumps over obstacles, provided an exciting challenge. Safety was a top priority, surpassing other African rides we had experienced. Although we missed witnessing the big migration and crossing the Mara River due to high water levels, Gordie and his team arranged alternative activities, such as a game drive in the Mara Triangle. We encountered an abundance of wildlife, surpassing even the Okavango Delta in game sightings, except for leopards and rhinos. The lion sightings were particularly memorable, showcasing various behaviors like family interactions, mating rituals and hunting. Gordie and his team's expertise and knowledge make them exceptional guides in Africa. The encounters with zebras cantering alongside us, close-up views of giraffe herds and observing lions interacting with elephants will forever remain in our memories. Their cautious approach around elephants and buffalos stood out compared to other safaris. This once-in-a-lifetime experience was truly remarkable, and we look forward to returning in 2025.6 Oct, 2023
Dates and Prices
- 22 – 30 Jun, 2025 9 days 8 nights
- 15 – 23 Jul, 2025 9 days 8 nights
- 2 – 10 Aug, 2025 9 days 8 nights
- 10 – 18 Sep, 2025 9 days 8 nights
- 20 – 28 Sep, 2025 9 days 8 nights
