Introduction: Saddle Up for the Safari of a Lifetime

There’s something profoundly timeless about experiencing Africa on horseback—no engines, no glass windows, just the rhythm of hooves and the pulse of the wild. For those seeking a deeper, more immersive adventure than the typical game drive, Offbeat Riding Safaris delivers an extraordinary opportunity to explore Kenya’s vast wilderness in a way that’s both authentic and exhilarating. Founded on the belief that the best safaris are those where nature sets the pace, Offbeat Riding Safaris has spent decades refining the art of the mobile horse safari—offering access to areas few vehicles can reach and experiences that stay etched in memory forever.

The Experience: Wild, Intimate, and Mobile

Unlike static lodge-based safaris, Offbeat Riding Safaris are fully mobile journeys—multi-day rides that traverse hundreds of kilometers across wild, game-rich terrain. You’re not just visiting Africa; you’re moving through it as part of it, camping under the stars and riding with expert guides who know the land, wildlife, and horses intimately.

Each safari typically includes between 4 to 8 hours of riding per day, split between morning and afternoon rides. The horses—predominantly Thoroughbred and Thoroughbred-cross breeds—are trained for the bush and carefully matched to the rider’s experience level. The rides are fast-paced and thrilling, especially when galloping alongside giraffes or weaving through herds of zebra and wildebeest, but the rhythm also slows to allow for scenic bush breakfasts, sundowners, and close observation of wildlife on foot.

Offbeat Riding Safaris only accepts experienced riders—those comfortable at a canter and capable of handling horses in open country. This ensures the safety of both guests and wildlife, and maintains the high standard of equestrian adventure the company is known for.

The Locations: From Laikipia to the Masai Mara

Offbeat Riding Safaris operates in two of Kenya’s most iconic and diverse regions—Laikipia and the Masai Mara—each offering distinct landscapes, wildlife, and cultural connections.

Laikipia: Located on the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley, Laikipia is a mosaic of private conservancies, community land, and dramatic highland scenery. The terrain here is rugged, wild, and varied, ranging from open plains to acacia woodlands and rocky escarpments. This is prime territory for riding safaris, thanks to its wide, uninterrupted landscapes and low tourism density. Expect close encounters with elephant, buffalo, Grevy’s zebra, and even wild dog.

Masai Mara: For many, the Mara needs no introduction—its rolling savannahs and abundant wildlife are legendary. But seeing it on horseback is a revelation. Offbeat’s Mara rides follow the Loita migration routes and explore private conservancies bordering the national reserve, offering riders the chance to move with the herds and avoid vehicle traffic. Riding with wildebeest during migration season or encountering big cats at eye level (with careful planning and guidance) makes this a heart-thumping, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Camps: Rustic Elegance in the Bush

Accommodation on an Offbeat Riding Safari is a key part of the adventure. These are fully serviced mobile camps, set up in different locations as the safari progresses. The camps strike a perfect balance between rugged charm and comfort, featuring large canvas tents with proper beds, hot bucket showers, and delicious meals cooked over an open fire.

Each camp is situated to maximize the wilderness feel—perched beside rivers, under acacia trees, or along open plains where wildlife often roams nearby. Nights are spent around the campfire, swapping stories under a blanket of stars, and falling asleep to the sounds of lions calling in the distance or hyenas cackling through the dark.

Despite the rustic nature, the service is polished and warm. A full team of staff manages everything from the camp setup to meals, logistics, and horse care, allowing guests to focus entirely on the experience.

The Guides: Expert Hands and Local Knowledge

Offbeat Riding Safaris’ success rests heavily on the shoulders of its exceptional guides. Led by founder Tristan Voorspuy and his successors, the team is composed of passionate horsemen and women who combine deep bush knowledge with a love for riding and conservation. They are adept not only at leading guests safely through Big Five territory, but also at interpreting the subtleties of the bush—from tracking lions to reading the wind and understanding animal behavior.

Safety is paramount, and each ride is supported by backup vehicles that carry gear and are available for emergencies. Guests receive detailed briefings before and during the safari, and the team remains in constant radio communication for coordination and reassurance.

Why Choose Offbeat Riding Safaris?

What makes Offbeat Riding Safaris truly special is the sense of freedom and connection it offers—both with nature and with your fellow riders. It’s not just a safari; it’s a journey through space, time, and spirit. You ride in harmony with the land, feel the alertness of the horse beneath you, and move with a pack of like-minded adventurers who share a love for the wild and a passion for riding.

It’s also one of the most low-impact safari options available. Horses leave no trace, and the mobile camp system ensures a minimal environmental footprint. This aligns beautifully with the ethos of conservation and sustainability that underpins the Offbeat experience.