At a glance
The Masai Mara Ride is without a doubt the crème-the-la-crème of African horseback safaris. During this eight-night safari you’ll explore the beauty of the Masai Mara wilderness, home to abundant plains game, elephant, giraffe, lion, leopard, cheetah and hyena. The landscape is one of rolling savannah and acacia woodland, intersected by dark green veins of riverine forest on the banks of the Mara and Olare Orok rivers. The annual ‘great migration’ of up to one million wildebeest is thrillingly dramatic and considered to be one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world.
Your hosts are the legendary guides Gordie and Felicia Church. Back in the 1970’s, it was Gordie’s father, Tony Church, who helped pioneer the idea of the long distance horse safari. Now internationally renowned for its professionalism and extraordinary experiences, the Church’s offer excellent, bespoke horse safaris. They are all personally guided by Gordie himself, with Felicia on hand to assist with the horses and logistics. Gordie’s understanding of the African landscapes, wildlife and indigenous people are second to none and he loves sharing this passion with his guests.
More information
You’ll travel 15 to 30 kilometres per day on horseback through the magical greater Mara Conservancies. Full days of riding when the group moves camp are alternated with days where you ride out of camp and return for lunch and a siesta in the afternoon. Spectacular wildlife encounters, exceptional riding country and incredible open landscapes are a few of your daily treats. The horses, primarily bred and raised at home, are a mixture of Somali-Arab crossbreds and thoroughbreds. Each safari horse is carefully schooled, exercised and loved to carry the guests safely through the African wilderness. Additionally, there are 4 x 4 safari vehicles and walking guides available for any non-riders or for those who wish to spend some time out of the saddle.
You are accommodated in exclusive, traditional mobile private tented camps, with large and comfortably furnished tents with twin or double beds and imported linen. The friendly camp crew makes you feel at home and part of the family from the very beginning. Hot bucket showers under the stars, big towels, warm duvets and hot water bottles are just a few of the features that you may expect. You’ll be spoilt with delicious food and tasty drinks. Enjoying a gin & tonic for sundowner around the campfire and a heart-warming meal at a candlelit dinner completes a day full of adventures.
