Horseback Riding Safaris in Uganda
Horseback riding safaris in Uganda are one of the best tours done especially by luxury travelers. The taming of horses by human beings for transport started in the 4th century. Horse riding in Uganda is one of the adventurous activities in Uganda that travelers usually engage in and create everlasting memories. These activities bring you close to the wildlife since you explore the destination on the back of a horse.
Horse riding can either be done in groups or solo since if you are experienced in how to ride the horse, you are left to operate it alone. In Uganda, horse riding is one of the luxurious activities that travelers engage in during the Uganda safari. For safety purposes during horse riding, the travelers are required to wear the safety equipment. The safety equipment includes; helmets, sheen guards, gloves, and many others.
Where can I do a horse riding safari in Uganda?
Are you planning a horseback riding safari in Uganda? You will have to visit any of the following safari destinations.
Lake Mburo National Park
Located in western Uganda and is the nearest park to Kampala. The park is the smallest savannah park and a great destination for horseback riding. Horseback riding in the Lake Mburo is offered by a private organization under the Mihinga Lodge with several horses that travelers can use. This park is the only destination in Uganda where travelers can encounter wildlife on horseback. The horseback ride is usually accompanied by a trained guide in handling the horses. Mihingo Lodge started the horse riding safaris in 2008 outside the park. In 2009 the Uganda Wildlife Authority allowed them to do the activity within the park. During horseback riding, wildlife spotted included buffaloes, impalas, zebras, giraffes, and many others.
Jinja – the source of the River Nile
Uganda’s adventure and the most industrialized city is a great destination for horseback riding. The city has the source of the Nile which is the longest river in the world. Horse riding in Jinja is done along the shores of the river Nile. Riders are always recommended not to be more than 90 kilograms in weight. Horse riding in Jinja starts at 1000hrs for the morning session, the afternoon session starts at 1400hours, the sunset session starts at 1600hours and there is also a night session. Night session is only done by experienced travelers in horse riding. During horse riding, there are two guides where one of them leads in front and the other is at the back. Horseback riding in Jinja takes you to the farm villages, sugarcane plantations, hills, the source of the Nile the neighboring communities, and many others.
What are the requirements for horseback riding in Uganda?
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Foot ware
- Travelers should not be more than 90 kilograms in weight.
- Sunglasses
- Traveler should at least be 6 years and above.
- Travelers should also be physically fit to balance the body during horseback riding.
Which other places can I visit on my horseback riding safari in Uganda?
Uganda has several destinations that travelers on their horseback riding safaris can visit.
Ziwa rhino sanctuary
The sanctuary is located in the Nakasongola district and it is the only home for the endangered white rhinos. While in the sanctuary, travelers tend to engage in rhino tracking, birding, and many others. The purpose of the sanctuary is to conserve the endangered white rhinos which are in extinction.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in western Uganda and is one of the popular destinations in Uganda. The park is divided into two sectors; the Ishasha sector and the Kasenyi plains. In the Ishasha sector, there are several tree-climbing lions which make the park a popular destination. The activities in the park include; chimpanzee trekking, game drives, boat cruises, birding, and many others.
Murchison Falls National Park
The park with the most powerful waterfalls is located in the northeastern part of Uganda. The park was originally called the Kabalega National Park. It is also the largest park in Uganda and one of the most visited parks. The activities that the travelers on their Uganda safaris that can engage in include boat cruises, nature walks, game drives, and many others.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda. The park has a rich diversity and is home to the endemic gorilla species. These mountain gorillas are endemic species that are usually tracked in the forested areas of the park. The gorilla trekking is the main primary activity in the park. The gorilla trekking requires a traveler to have booked a gorilla trekking permit which indicates the availability for the gorilla trekking in the park.
What is the best time to go for horseback riding safaris in Uganda?
Horseback riding can be done throughout Uganda. From June to August and December to February, this is when Uganda is facing the dry season. This is the best time since the activity can be done without the interference of weather conditions like rain. Travelers are recommended to plan adequately for the safari.