
Offbeat Safaris
Tristan Voorspuy, one of Africa’s top safari guides, leads guests on adventurous mobile riding safaris in remote wilderness areas. The two main regions in which he operates are the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s most exciting wildlife areas, and Laikipia, an area of spectacular scenery with Mount Kenya as its backdrop.
The well schooled thoroughbred and thoroughbred cross horses vary in size from 15hh to 16hh. They have all been tried and tested for polo and even the best go out on safari, ensuring a fit, tough and agile ride. Guests should expect to spend between four to seven hours a day in the saddle and must be confident at all paces. Should such a scenario present itself, you need to be able to sit tight if a horse turns sharply to get out of trouble. You will be riding in country with elephants, buffalo and lion, the wildlife sightings are excellent. Non-riders are welcome and can be accommodated with advance warning. The activities that can be enjoyed by both riders and non-riders include vehicle based day and night game drives, guided bush walks and long picnics.
The camp accommodation on the mobile safaris in Laikipia or the Masai Mara consists of traditional safari style green canvas tents with wash stands. Each tent has an adjacent long drop loo and there are a couple of shower tents housing safari style bucket showers. At Deloraine (the Voorspuy’s family home), where many of the safaris end, there is more of a house party atmosphere. Whilst here, you are able to choose to ride as well as visit other parks, or just flop and relax after the safari.
Offbeat Safaris - Fact Box
Horse type |
Thoroughbred and thoroughbred crosses | |
| Saddles used | English, polo, Wintec, French trekking and Australian stock |
|
| Maximum number | 12 riders |
|
| Hours in the saddle per day | Between 4 and 6 | |
| Standard of riding required | Experienced |
| Children accepted? | No minimum age limit, but children myst be competent |
|
| When to go? | All year except April, May and November |
|
| Non-riders welcome? | Yes, but to be discussed on booking | |
| Activities other than riding | Day and night game drives and guided bush walks |



