Introduction Ride
Upon arrival at Vilankulo Airport, our esteemed guests will receive a warm welcome from none other than Pat or Mandy Retzlaff, your gracious hosts and skilled guides for the week ahead. Following a brief transfer, you’ll be escorted to your lodge. Later in the afternoon, an opportunity will arise to acquaint yourself with both the equine companions and the dedicated stable team. A selection of horses will be presented, affording you the chance to also test them out in the riding arena. To foster a deeper connection with your chosen steed, we’ll set out on an initial ride, traversing boundless sandy beaches, traversing untamed bushland, passing by captivating mangrove banks, and conquering awe-inspiring rock formations that offer panoramic vistas. As night falls, a delectable spread of fresh seafood will be served beneath the twinkling expanse of stars, all while gazing out over the tranquil sea.

Exploring the Great Lakes on Horseback and Canoe: Today, we set out on a captivating trail through the heartland, passing by traditional African villages and expansive natural freshwater lakes. The avifauna in this region is truly enchanting, offering excellent chances to catch glimpses of eagles, pelicans, herons, storks, and kingfishers. Our journey takes us cantering along a bush path, weaving through African farmlands, and revealing glimpses of rural schools and the evocative ruins of former Portuguese residences. The time-honored pathways guide us on a brisk jaunt inland, leading us toward the Govuro River. A revitalising picnic awaits on the verdant riverbank, complete with icy refreshments to invigorate the senses. Our four-legged companions will also enjoy a nourishing meal and ample hydration before we follow the river’s course homeward. Prepare to immerse yourself in the opulent riverine vegetation, scout for indigenous fish, and be serenaded by the melodies of the local birdlife. As the sun dips beneath the horizon, relish a refreshing drink beneath the star-studded sky while gathered around the crackling campfire. Culminating the day is a Mozambican barbecue feast, certain to leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Anticipate three hours on horseback, encompassing lunch and an exhilarating canoeing experience.

Coastal Village Horseback Expedition: Commence your day with a delectable breakfast and a refreshing ocean dip before our ride sets off around 11:30 AM. Mandy will expertly guide us along the shoreline at a leisurely pace, revealing the distant glimmer of the ocean as the tide retreats.

Once we’ve passed the rocky outcrops, under Mandy’s adept direction, you’ll have the exhilarating opportunity to canter along the beach, heading towards the mangrove trees and the breathtaking “Fingerprint of God” viewpoint. Our journey continues through coconut plantations that line the beach, leading us to the charming fishing village of Managlise.

Here, we’ll take a pause within rustic thatched huts, indulging in refreshing coconuts. For lunch, an exquisite feast awaits: fresh crabs harvested from the shore, morning-caught grilled fish, and Matapa—a traditional Mozambican delicacy crafted from cassava leaves, nuts, and creamy coconut milk.

Allow the infectious joy of the village children’s songs and dances to envelop you as you soak in the local spirit. As the late afternoon approaches, we’ll ready our horses once more and embark on the return journey home.

Expect approximately 2 hours of riding time, with an additional 1.5 hours allocated for a leisurely lunch in the village.

Shoreline and Bush Ride: Indulge in a hearty breakfast at your restaurant to kickstart the day. Energized and ready, we saddle up and embark on our ride along the historic coastal main road, running parallel to the beach, before veering toward a slender river mouth. Along our route, we’ll glide by rural villages and cross paths with some of the friendly locals. As we venture past these settlements, an opportunity arises for invigorating bush gallops along the coast. After spending several hours in the saddle, we’ll reenter wooded areas that open up onto the beach, revealing a captivating vista over the bay. The extensive sandy stretches provide the perfect canvas for us to relish enchanting gallops once more as we trace our way back to the stables.
Concluding a fulfilling day on horseback, we’ll wind down with sundowners and savor a delectable dinner at a local eatery.

Anticipate a riding duration of approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Journey through the Crimson Dunes on Horseback: After savoring a delectable breakfast, you’ll be chauffeured to the stables. Riding in sync with Pat, we’ll canter alongside the ivory beach, while the breathtaking turquoise sea unfolds beside us.
Past the town of Vilankulo, our equestrian adventure leads us to the immense red coastal dunes. Feel the sheer power of your horse as it ascends these colossal dunes, revealing an awe-inspiring panorama of the cerulean sea and gleaming silver sandbanks. Capture this moment with your camera before we gallop back down to the shore. Descending to the beach, we’ll indulge in a seafood feast to replenish our energies.
Our subsequent halt brings us to a local artisan center that actively supports the community. Here, you’ll have ample time to explore and procure some mementos for your loved ones. As the late afternoon sets in, relish a tranquil poolside relaxation or a leisurely beachfront stroll. Dinner will be a leisurely affair, affording you the chance to revel in your final night’s stay to the fullest.

Anticipate a riding duration of 3 to 4 hours.

Ocean Walk and Swimming Ride: Our renowned swimming ride and ocean walk offer an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever. You’ll embark on this exceptional ride from the shore, riding bareback before venturing into the glistening blue waters, reaching chest-deep. Following the coastline for around 20 minutes, we’ll find a secure spot for swimming.

Upon dismounting, you’ll lead a different horse into the shallower waters. Often, they’ll play and frolic, splashing about before rolling in the water with pure joy. Once the horses are settled, you’ll mount up again, this time riding bareback into deeper waters, with your horse under gentle guidance from a long rein for most of the journey. As you and your horse reach the deeper part of the sea, you’ll feel the pull and power they employ to move forward—an indescribable experience. Remember, each horse is unique, and you’ll undoubtedly encounter an unforgettable moment that you shouldn’t miss out on.

Farewell Ride

Embark on a morning farewell ride tracing the shoreline southward, weaving through mangroves and palm forests. The journey includes exhilarating gallops that lead to the renowned “Fingerprint of God” viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Riding further through dune forests, we’ll conclude with a gallop along the beach back to the accommodation.