Horseback Safari in Simalaha Conservancy & Victoria Falls

Día 1: Livingstone

ITALY/LIVINGSTONE (-/L/D)
An immersion into the heart of the most authentic Africa, where the journey is experienced at the rhythm of the horse. In the spectacular Simalaha Wildlife Conservancy, an immense wilderness area along the Zambezi River, nature unfolds in endless plains, mopane forests and ancient baobabs. On horseback, you cross remote territories inhabited by antelopes, birds and large herds of African wildlife, with the unique sensation of galloping toward the horizon in one of the most untouched areas of Zambia.
This horseback safari is not only an adventure, but also a responsible journey: the conservancy was created through a project shared with the local Lozi communities, who manage and protect this land together with sustainable tourism initiatives. Part of the stay contributes directly to the conservancy’s projects and to supporting the communities living along the Zambezi.
After days immersed in the wilderness, the itinerary continues with time available to explore Livingstone and the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the planet’s most iconic natural wonders. A journey that combines adventure, nature and culture, where every experience leaves its mark and every ride becomes part of a greater story.

Pick-up at Livingstone Airport (LVI) by our local representatives and transfer of about half an hour to Chundukwa River Lodge. After check-in and a light lunch on the patio overlooking the river, you will board the lodge boat to take part in the sunset cruise on the Zambezi (refreshments on board included). It is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Zambezi River. During the cruise there will be extraordinary photographic opportunities, with evocative African sunsets as a backdrop. Flocks of birds skim the surface of the water as the sun sets behind the African horizon. Guests may also have the opportunity to spot various wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants and numerous species of birds.

Día 2:

LIVINGSTONE /SIMALAHA CONSERVANCY (B/L/D)
After breakfast our journey begins with a road transfer of about 40 minutes to a small African harbor called Mambova. Here the villagers and local fishermen trade the day’s catch: a true kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, children, goats and chickens! At this point you will be completely outside the classic tourist routes, immersed in a remote and authentic area of Africa.
This magical boat journey will take you upstream along the Zambezi River, the fourth largest river in Africa. During the navigation you may observe hippos and crocodiles, local fishermen in their traditional dugout canoes called mokoro, grazing herds along the banks and glimpses of isolated villages. Make sure you have your riding equipment with you, because once we arrive we will immediately get into the saddle. It is also advisable to bring a warm jacket in case the temperature drops. After about two hours of navigation, keep your eyes on the riverbank: you will see the horses, already saddled and waiting for you. It is time to ride! Arrival at the permanent tented camp where your luggage will be waiting for you.

Día 3:

SIMALAHA CONSERVANCY (B/L/D)
The next 3 days will be dedicated to exploring the conservancy on horseback.
We will spend the morning exploring the Simalaha Wilderness on horseback, an area of extraordinary natural importance: 180,000 km² of wild nature where you can immerse yourself in immense and untouched plains. During the safaris it will be possible to approach large herds of wildlife calmly and respectfully, cross mopane forests and admire gigantic and ancient baobabs. The majestic Zambezi River is the thread that connects this landscape, a source of life for the entire ecosystem. These lands are also home to the Lozi people, who live along the riverbanks carrying out their daily activities: moving cattle along the riverbeds and fishing for their families. For riders, galloping toward the horizon across open terrain, free of predators and obstacles, is an extraordinary experience. Here we encourage riders to enjoy the space and experience the pure freedom of riding in Simalaha. In this place time seems to slow down: it is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature. We will return to camp for lunch and a moment of relaxation: a siesta or perhaps a swim. It is also the ideal time for birdwatching, observing animals coming to our waterhole to drink, or simply resting in the shade.
Later, when temperatures become cooler, we will set out again for a sunset safari. Each day will be slightly different: the route will be decided by Doug, our host, according to the needs of the group and the position of the wildlife.
For one night, riders may also choose to enjoy a truly special experience: the Star Bed Experience in the heart of the Simalaha Wildlife Conservancy. Guests can sleep in a special Stargazer tent, designed to allow observation of the night sky while remaining protected, safe and comfortable. From here it will be possible to admire the spectacular southern hemisphere skies, with the Milky Way, the Southern Cross and even distant dwarf galaxies, all from the comfort of your own tent. (extra cost).

Día 4:

SIMALAHA CONSERVANCY (B/L/D)
Horseback safari activities.

Día 5:

SIMALAHA CONSERVANCY (B/L/D)
Horseback safari activities.

Día 6:

SIMALAHA CONSERVANCY / LIVINGSTONE (B/L/D)
Last horseback safari at dawn before returning toward Livingstone following the reverse route, boat and then 4X4 to Chundukwa River Lodge.

Día 7:

LIVINGSTONE (B/L/D)
Over the next two days there will be free time available to explore Livingstone, the spectacular Victoria Falls and the surrounding area at your own pace. It is the perfect time to explore, enjoy new experiences and discover one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural destinations. Included in the stay is the use of a vehicle with driver/guide for one full day. There are numerous activities you may wish to try: your guide will accompany you to the various locations, wait for you during the experience and safely return you to the lodge at the end of the day.

Among the most interesting experiences (extra cost):
• Livingstone Island with a swim in the famous Devil’s Pool, with several departures during the day
• Guided tour of Victoria Falls from the Zambian side
• Visit to Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side, with the possibility of lunch (a Zimbabwe visa may be required at additional cost, depending on nationality)
• Walking safari to observe rhinos
• “Flight of the Angels”, scenic flight above Victoria Falls by microlight or helicopter
• Rafting on the Zambezi River, a white-water experience that requires the entire day
• Lunch at the Elephant Café, with the possibility of meeting a herd of rescued and protected elephants.

Día 8:

LIVINGSTONE (B/L/D)
Free time to visit the surrounding area.

Día 9:

LIVINGSTONE/ITALY (B/L/D)
Breakfast and transfer to the airport in time for your flight to Italy.

Note: The itinerary described above is indicative and may be subject to changes due to circumstances beyond our control.

Notes:
(B/L/D): B = breakfast; L = lunch; D = dinner
Difficulty level: From ° to °°°°°

DURATION: 9 DAYS/8 NIGHTS
DIFFICULTY: °°°° (INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED)
ACCOMMODATION: lodge
EQUIPMENT: endurance/trekking saddles
HORSES: 24 horses of mixed breeds available, including Quarter Horses, Basotho Horses and Thoroughbreds. They live outdoors in herds and are called in for veterinary procedures and daily management. -
PACE: about 4 H ON HORSEBACK per day. Two horseback safaris per day (morning and evening) in different areas of the conservancy depending on wildlife movement. All three gaits will be used. Riders must have good control of the horse in open spaces and good physical condition.
WHAT TO BRING: riding clothing, protective helmet. Prefer khaki/sand colors so as not to disturb the animals. Water bottle, waist pouch, sunscreen, insect repellent, swimsuit. Sufficient spare batteries and power bank, basic first aid medicines, headlamp.
MINIMUM AGE: 18 years
MAXIMUM WEIGHT: 85 kg
TYPE: horseback safari with overnight stays in luxury tented camp and lodge

ACCOMMODATION:
Night 1 : Chundukwa River Lodge
Night 2,3,4,5 luxury tented camp.
Night 6,7,8 Chundukwa River Lodge

TENTED CAMP: small camp, maximum occupancy 8 guests equipped with every comfort. Comfortable beds with sheets, hot water generated by boiler. Courtesy set with eco soaps. Electricity supplied by solar panels, wi-fi available in the common area (signal may be intermittent).
Swimming pool available with water pumped from the Kasaya River.

Guaranteed group departure dates with minimum 4 participants:
From 27/06 to 05/07
From 11/07 to 19/07
From 25/07 to 02/08
From 22/08 to 30/08
From 12/09 to 20/09
From 26/09 to 04/10
From 14/10 to 22/10
From 24/10 to 01/11
From 07/11 to 15/11
From 28/11 to 06/12
From 12/12 to 20/12

PARTICIPANTS: MIN 2 MAX 8