Kaskazi Horse Safaris

What is the first place that comes to mind where you would love to drink it along your route on one of your safaris? Why there?

West Kilimanjaro. It’s a dry, very dramatic scenery where I have spent endless hours on horseback and where Kaskazi Horse Safaris really took off… brings back a lot of memories. Therefore, this is the place where I’d like to have a drink with my horse.

Your riding boots must have stories to tell of your adventures over the years. What is the most memorable experience you - and your boots - have shared?

Wow, not an easy one as the list is endless. If I were to pick one, it would be the first time I rode through Arusha NP. The place is so different to anywhere else that I’ve ridden in the world. It has a very mysterious feel to it, with a canopy forest that hides endless creatures. Riding on the endless paths made by elephant and buffalos, never knowing what to expect around the corner, following old trails that were used by the Germans and the British in the war - all this history, combined with incredible nature and wildlife, made my first ride through here a very memorable ride. I also was accompanied by a very special person on this recce which makes it extra special. 

And the funniest/quirkiest experience you have had?

Again, there are so many. All these lovely people that come on our safaris. They are all an endless entertainment.

Is a horse safari for everyone or do you need to be very fit?

To be a fit rider does help and you will be in a lot less pain. However, you will be amazed how your riding muscles wake up about 3-4 days into the ride. 

What have you found to be your clients’ greatest fears on a horse safari and what information/advice can you give them to avert those fears?

As always, people are worried about the big game. However, as we always say, our biggest enemies in the bush are the endless thorn bushes and holes dug by aardvarks or spring hares. I think it’s hard to say anything. Let them experience it and then very often you will find that you are hooked, that you caught the horse safaris bug, and will now spend endless money going on safari as it gets very addictive. 

Do you have any interesting information to share on the history of horses and horse riding in Africa?

Africa is a difficult place to keep horses, as it’s not the most horse-friendly environment. We mainly use thoroughbreds that have been born and raised in East Africa. They seem to cope a lot better and are also great for the hotter climate. Throughout history, Europeans have kept on bringing horses across to the African continent and we have to be thankful to them as, without them, there wouldn’t have been any horses this side.