Itinerary
Highlights
- Turquoise lagoons, white sands and fishing dhows
- Fresh seafood and delicious local meals
- Go swimming with your horse and canter down beaches and through sand dunes
- Numerous non-riding activities also possible (may be extra cost): scuba diving, snorkelling, sea kayaking, fishing, dugout canoe.
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Day 1 1 : EUROPE - JOHANNESBURG
Depart from Europe on an overnight flight to Johannesburg. These flights are not included but we can book them for you on request.
If booking your own flight then you need to depart London at c. 19:00 so that you arrive in Johannesburg at c. 07:00 in time for your flight to Vilanculos which will depart Johannesburg at around c. 11 to 11:30 am. Arrival in Vilanculos is on Day 2. -
Day 2 2 : JOHANNESBURG - VILANCULOS - 1.5 hours riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseOn arrival at Johannesburg airport you will need to connect onto your onward flight to Vilanculos. Again we can book this flight for you on request.
You are met on arrival at Vilankulos airport by either Pat or Mandy Retzlaff, your hosts and guides for the week. After a short transfer from the airport, you will be settled into your accommodation for the week. Later in the afternoon you will have an opportunity to meet the horses and staff at the stables. You will be presented with a number of horses to try at the riding school. Once you feel comfortable, you will head out onto the beach for a slow and relaxing ride, allowing you to become familiar with your horse and the equipment. This ride incorporates all the wonderful eco-systems in the archipelago; wide open beaches, incredible cliff top views, pristine dune bush and mangrove shoreline. In the evening a fresh seafood dinner will be served under the stars overlooking the sea.
IMPORTANT: the following itinerary is just an example - the actual itinerary is flexible and will depend on your preferences. -
Day 3 3: GREAT LAKE RIDE - 3 hours riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseToday you ride inland on trails skirting African villages and vast natural freshwater lakes. The birdlife is fantastic and there is a good chance of seeing eagles, herons, harriers, rollers, pelicans and kingfishers. There should be opportunities to canter along bush paths through African farmlands and past the ruins of old Portuguese homesteads. Back on the beach for the final stretch, you will pass Chibuene - a key trading post from as far back as the 7th century that connected the southern African interior and the Indian Ocean. This ancient dune is covered in baobabs planted centuries before for their vitamin rich fruit - creme of tartar. In the evening, enjoy a quiet drink and watch the stars light up an African sky as you sit around a bonfire for a mouthwatering Mozambican BBQ. -
Day 4 4: BENGUERRA ISLAND - 3-4 hours riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseDepending on tide times an early start from your hotel sees you on a motorized dhow to whisk you through the Bazaruto National Park to Benguerra Island. A packed breakfast is served on board while you take in the sea views and look for dolphins, turtles and rays. There are horses living on Benguerra Island and the landscape of massive sand dunes, freshwater lakes and white sandy beaches makes for a breathtaking ride. The varied eco system offers exceptional birding with large flocks of flamingo often seen. After your ride, a mouth-watering seafood lunch prepared by the boat captain will be 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. Return to Vilanculos as the sun sets over the ocean for dinner at a local restaurant. -
Day 5 5: FISHING VILLAGE - 2 hours riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseAfter a relaxing breakfast and morning swim the ride begins at 11.30 am.
Today’s ride takes you down to the beach. Past the rocks the beach opens up and under Mandy’s instruction you will canter towards mangrove trees in the distance and up a red bank to the "Finger Print of God". The panoramic views look out over the Bazaruto Archipelago, you will see colourful dhows glide along the channels and fisherwoman hunting crab in shallow sands. You continue through winding coconut plantations along a beach path to the Managlise Fishing Village.
The local chief entertains you in true Mozambican style, setting up a table with traditional food. Start off with a refreshing coconut drink before being shown how to eat fresh crab and taste Matapa, a traditional Mozambique dish made from cassava leaves, nuts and coconut milk.
Ride back to the accommodation.. -
Day 6 6: BUSH AND BEACH - 3-4 hours riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseAfter a hearty breakfast served at your hotel, set out on your ride following the old coastal main road running parallel to the beach before meandering up and wading across a small river estuary. Along the route you pass through small rural villages where young children will come to wave at the horses. As the local population thins out there are long safe canters through coastal bush. After several hours in the saddle, a bush track through woodlands leads you down on to the beach with amazing views over the bay. The long, deserted, sandy beaches offer a chance to experience dream-like canters on your way back to the stables. After a long day in the saddle, there is a chance for sundowners and a fine dinner at a local restaurant. -
Day 7 7: RED DUNES - 3-4 hours riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseAfter another delicious breakfast you will be driven over to the stables to 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 ample opportunities for controlled canters on the wide open beaches before climbing 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 gorgeous beachside restaurant overflowing with seafood specialties. After lunch you will stop at an arts and crafts centre that supports the local community. Relax by the pool in the late afternoon or take a stroll on the beach. Dinner will be served in tranquil settings as you savour and toast your final night. -
Day 8 8: BEACH RIDE AND CANOE TRIP - 1 hour riding
Sea Horse Beach HouseToday you will mount your horse bareback on the beach before wading chest deep into the blue turquoise seas.
Once dismounted, you will lead a new horse into the shallows. There is a sense of excitement as they thrash the water, then lay down to wallow and roll. Once the horses have settled, you will again mount bareback and this time wade out to the deeper water, the majority of time your horse will be attached to a long lead rope for safety.
In the late afternoon you will travel out to the Govuro River by vehicle where you will paddle/be paddled along a picture-perfect waterway. Soak up the lush river riverine, look out for native fish and listen to the magical calls of birdlife.
As evening falls ducks will return inland to roost and there is a good chance that you will see fireflies lighting up the evening sky. -
Day 9 9 : VILANCULOS - JOHANNESBURG - 1.5 hours riding
After a relaxed breakfast take a short morning farewell ride up the coastline. The views over the bay and long stretches of unspoilt beach will be a memory that you never forget. You finish off your safari with the world renowned swim - to see horses wallowing and rolling in the sea is a once in a lifetime opportunity and truly magical experience. Time for one more lunch before you bid farewell to Vilanculos in preparation for your onward journey. Please note that if the tide is out on your final morning, you will do the swim on another day.
You will be transferred to Vilanculos airport in time for your flight to Johannesburg and connecting flight back home. -
Day 10 10 : EUROPE
Arrival back in Europe.
Dates & prices
Price details
- The groups are composed of a minimum of 2 riders and a maximum of 8 riders.
- The itinerary is flexible and you can do as much or as little riding as you like. Dates are flexible and you can arrive/depart on any day - the above dates are only a suggestion.
- It is possible to guarantee the ride from one rider, with the payment of a solo rider supplement of $575/£460/€535, waived once more riders join. This supplement is ONLY required if you will be riding on your preferred dates without any other horse riders in your group.
- All guests are allocated a private bedroom with their own en-suite bathroom, unless they request to share. The is no supplement for the private bedroom.
- Group discounts are available for 3+ guests booking together. If 3 riders in the group; one gets 35% discount, if 4 – 6 riders in the group; one gets 75% discount, if 7 – 10 riders in the group; one person goes free
- This ride works perfectly as an extension to other rides in Southern Africa - shorter stays are possible.
- Non-riders are welcome at a discounted rate.
- Weight Limit: 90 kg, 198.5 lbs. or 14.2 stone. Heavier riders please contact us.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
Price includes
Support Team
Logistic
Inland transports
Accommodation
Meals
All local drinks (soft drinks, spirits, beers and house wines)
Price doesn't include
Meals
Transport
Visa fees
Extras
Extras
Small group supplement - see above for the details
Insurance
Optional
Extras
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Departure Return Price without flights Status 03/01/2025 12/01/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 10/01/2025 19/01/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 17/01/2025 26/01/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 24/01/2025 02/02/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 31/01/2025 09/02/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 07/02/2025 16/02/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 14/02/2025 23/02/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 21/02/2025 02/03/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 28/02/2025 09/03/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 07/03/2025 16/03/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 14/03/2025 23/03/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 21/03/2025 30/03/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 28/03/2025 06/04/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 04/04/2025 13/04/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 11/04/2025 20/04/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 18/04/2025 27/04/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 25/04/2025 04/05/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 02/05/2025 11/05/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 09/05/2025 18/05/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 16/05/2025 25/05/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 23/05/2025 01/06/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 30/05/2025 08/06/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 06/06/2025 15/06/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 13/06/2025 22/06/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 20/06/2025 29/06/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 27/06/2025 06/07/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 04/07/2025 13/07/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 11/07/2025 20/07/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 18/07/2025 27/07/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 25/07/2025 03/08/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 01/08/2025 10/08/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 08/08/2025 17/08/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 15/08/2025 24/08/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 22/08/2025 31/08/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 29/08/2025 07/09/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 05/09/2025 14/09/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 12/09/2025 21/09/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 19/09/2025 28/09/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 26/09/2025 05/10/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 03/10/2025 12/10/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 10/10/2025 19/10/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 17/10/2025 26/10/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 24/10/2025 02/11/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 31/10/2025 09/11/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 07/11/2025 16/11/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 14/11/2025 23/11/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 21/11/2025 30/11/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 28/11/2025 07/12/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 05/12/2025 14/12/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 12/12/2025 21/12/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 19/12/2025 28/12/2025 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now 26/12/2025 04/01/2026 £3,628 €4,172 $4,499 Book now
Equestrian info
Horses
Guide & local team
"One Hundred and Four Horses": The book "One Hundred and Four Horses" tells the story of Pat and Mandy Retzlaff and how they fled war-torn Zimbabwe with the horses they refused to leave behind. Eventually they reached Mozambique and set up home on the beautiful sandy beaches around Vilanculos. Some of the horses they rescued are still available for you to ride on our riding holidays in Mozambique.
Minimum riding ability
Minimum riding ability
Weight Limit: 90 kg, 198.5 lbs. or 14.2 stone. Heavier riders please contact us.
Pace
Tacking ability and participation
Trip conditions and Requested experience
Equestrian equipment
We recommend our riders to wear a helmet to the correct standard and you should bring your own to ensure a proper fit.
Travel info
Comfort
The luxury beach house is fully serviced, sleeping up to 6 people with 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It has a fully equipped kitchen with large dining island and a comfortable lounge with all the modern conveniences of a beach home. It is tastefully decorated with handcrafted furniture, kilim rugs and local art & photography. The terraced lawns run towards the beach with swimming pool, al fresco dining area and fire pit. At the bottom of the garden is an ancient Baobab tree and private access to the incredible beach below.
If Sea Horse Beach House is full, we will look to accommodate guests in similar private homes and resorts in the area.
Meals
Breakfast: fresh fruit, ceral or oats, eggs, bacon or tomatoes, Portuguese rolls or toasts.
Lunch and dinner are freshly cooked by your personal chef.
Vegetarians can be catered for with advance notice. There are limitations when it comes to vegan and gluten free diets as the safari is quite remote with limited access to special products.
Climate
- Wet season: from November to March, with hot temperatures (25-30°+ during the day). This is the hotter, wetter season, when brief but vigorous downpours before the sun starts shining again. It seldom rains enough to spoil the riding fun though.
Tips
Packing list
- A riding helmet is compulsory and we recommend that you take your own to ensure a correct fit. Helmet makers (GPA, HKM, LAS Helmets, Lamicell, Troxel, Equithème) now offer horse-riding helmets that are ventilated, strong, light and comfortable. You also have the option of buying protective shells to go under your hats (Ranch & Rider, Lexington Safety Products) or western hat helmets (Troxel).
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana
Upper body
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun and dust
- T-shirts
- Fleece, jumper or jacket - the evenings can be cold
- Waterproof jacket - the rains can be difficult to foresee in the wet season. and it's better to be prepared. Layering is key to cope with the fluctuations in temperature between day and night
- Casual clothes for the evening
Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Shorts for lazy lunchtimes
- Bathing suit
- Casual clothes for the evening
Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps as long chaps/long boots can get very hot.
- Sandals, flip-flops or trainers for moving around at night.
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun whilst riding/
Nightwear
- Thermals are a good option for sleeping in in the colder months, or a t-shirt and shorts for warmer nights
Other useful items
- Water bottle (1.5 litre or two x 1 litre)
- Hand sanitiser
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Bumbag for carrying your camera and small items whilst riding
- Binoculars
- Mask and tuba
In your luggage
- Any liquids, such as shampoo, moisturiser, deodorant unless they are less than 100ml and all bottles can fit in a small, clear, plastic ziplock bag.
- Small penknife
In your hand luggage
- Any valuables, such as your camera, ipod, ipad etc.
- Your riding hat
Medical kit
- Sunscreen and lip balm - must be high factor
- Insect repellent
- Any medication you regularly take
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Rehydration sachets (dioralyte or similar)
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Ear plugs, particularly if you are a light sleeper
Our Recommendations
- We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you in case you lose your originals
Sustainable tourism
- Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
- Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
- Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
- Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
- Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
- Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.
Did you know?
Did you know?
For more information, please contact us.
CANOEING
The Guvuro River canoe trip is unquestionably on of the best activities in Vilankulo, with an ideal combination of unspoilt riverine and incredible birdlife. Join Jonathan Retzlaff, an experienced and qualified guide with a great sense of fun and adventure.
SCUBA DIVING & SNORKELING
The waters around the Bazaruto Archipelago are one of the largest marine conservation areas in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago's coral reefs and clear waters offer some of the best diving in the world, dive sites are uncrowded and marine life is varied and abundant. With sites at a depth of 12 to 30m and visibility up to 40m you will discover protected reefs teeming with dolphin, hump back whales, whale sharks, sharks, manta and spotted eagle rays, green and turtles. The endangered dugong, of which only a very small number still exist, swim in the shallow crystal clear waters that are also home to abundant starfish, soft and hard corals, anemones, seahorses and a dazzling array of beautiful tropical fish.
DHOW TRIPS
Experience the wonder of a traditional sailing dhow gliding through the Bazaruto Archipelago. The islands of Benguerra, Bazaruto, Magaruque and Santa Carolina are complete with azure waters, sandy beaches, palm trees and pristine coral reefs. The islands consist of huge 100m sand dunes, freshwater lakes, mangrove swamps and sandy beaches. You are likely to spot whales, dolphins, turtles and the only viable dugong population remaining in this part of the world. So bring your camera, and capture the freedom of unspoilt beach's, solitude, and stunning scenery on a traditional sailing dhow, locally built by hand in the age old method and comfortably furnished is the idyllic way to watch the sun setting over the sea.
FISHING
Vilanculos is renowned for its excellent game fishing.
KITEBOARDING
During the windy season you can kiteboard and windsurf in Vilanculos; the conditions are perfects due to the shallow water and flat waves.