Programma Mozambique African Paradise - 4 nachten

The following itinerary is designed so you experience the variety of riding and beauty of Vilanculos. However, the weather, tide times and the riding experience of the group may influence the content and running order of the days.

Please note that Mozambique is still a third world country and therefore things do not always run as they do in other Southern African countries. For example taxis can sometimes be an open back pick-up truck. You need to be prepared to be flexible and go with an open mind.

Please note that depending on the size of your group, you may, at times, be joined by other riders who are staying in the area.

Day One
Transfer from Vilanculos Airport to your lodge. You will be based at Archipelago Lodge on the outskirts of Vilanculos.
After settling into your room, you have an opportunity to meet the horses and staff at the stables. After trying out your horse in the arena you head out for your first beach ride. This will be a slow, relaxing ride giving you a chance to become familiar with the horses and tack.

Early evening drinks will be served at the lodge followed by a fresh seafood dinner under the stars.
(Approx. 2 hours riding)

Day Two – Benguerra Island Ride
With an early start from town a motorized dhow will whisk you through the Bazaruto National Park to Benguerra Island. A tasty packed breakfast is served on board while you take in the sea views and look for dolphins, turtles and rays.
You ride on Benguerra Island on horses which are based here. The island consists of massive sand dunes, freshwater lakes and white sandy beaches which make for a breath-taking ride. The varied eco system offers exceptional birding and large flocks of flamingo are often seen.

After your ride a mouth-watering seafood lunch will be prepared for you by the boat captain and served on board as you island hop by sail to Margaruque. Mask, fins and snorkels are provided and you are encouraged to enjoy some of the world’s finest drift snorkelling along a vertical rock drop off. For those not keen on the water, you can relax or take a long walk on the beach.
At the end of a magical day return to Vilankulos, as the sun sets over the ocean, to enjoy dinner at a lovely restaurant.
(Approx 3 hours riding, depending on the tides)

Day 3 – Fishing Village and Bush  Ride
You can have a late morning with a relaxing breakfast and perhaps a morning swim before your ride begins at 11.30 am. This wonderful ride takes you through coconut plantations along the beach to Enrique's Fishing Village.

The local chief will entertain you in true Mozambican style setting up a table with traditional food. You are likely to start off with a refreshing coconut drink and are then shown how to eat fresh crab and taste Matapa, a traditional Mozambique dish made from cassava leaves, nuts and coconut milk.
After lunch, continue riding through the village and head onto the “Fingerprint of God”; a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the archipelago. In the evening you will be driven into town and have dinner at one of the many restaurants.
(Approx 2 hours riding)

Day 4 – Red Dine Ride, North Beach
After breakfast you will be driven over to the stables where you mount up and set off on an exhilarating ride through the outskirts of town and along deserted sand beaches to the Red Dunes on North Beach. There are plenty of opportunities for controlled canters on the wide open beaches before you climb up the giant red coastal dunes.
The panoramic views of the white sandbars and turquoise seas below are spectacular and one of the special highlights of this holiday.

Lunch will be served at a beachside restaurant overflowing with seafood specialties. After lunch you can stop off at a local arts and crafts centre that supports the local community and there will be plenty of time to explore and get some souvenirs for friends and family back home. Relax by the pool in the late afternoon or take a stroll on the beach before you enjoy your final dinner.
(Approx 3 to 4 hours riding)

Day 5 – Farewell Ride and Swim
After a relaxed breakfast enjoy a short morning farewell ride up the coastline. The views over the bay and long stretches of unspoiled beach will be a memory you never forget. Finish off your holiday with a wonderful swim in the sea with your horse.

You will be mesmerized by the grace, power and movement of the horses as they swim. Now there is time for just one more lunch before you bid farewell to Vilankulos.