Horse Riding Community Village Tour Experience

Traveling near Victoria Falls offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping adventures and cultural explorations. The Horse Riding Community Village Tour at Wild Bhiza Stables promises a unique way to see the countryside from a saddle, combining breathtaking scenery with genuine local life. The tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 13 reviews, and with good reason — it’s a highlight for those seeking a more authentic, engaging experience beyond typical sightseeing.

What makes this ride truly stand out? First, you get to explore villages largely untouched by other travelers, giving you a taste of everyday Zimbabwean life. Second, the scenery along the Batoka Gorge offers some of the most stunning views around Victoria Falls, especially at sunrise. Lastly, the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey both comfortable and enriching.

However, it’s worth noting that this activity isn’t suitable for absolute beginners or those over 80kg, and the pace is limited to walk and trot. For travelers with a moderate level of fitness who love outdoor adventures and cultural encounters, this experience hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for those who want a meaningful, scenic, and active addition to their Zimbabwe itinerary.

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Key Points:

Authentic cultural experience: Ride through local villages away from tourist crowds.
Stunning scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views along the Batoka Gorge at sunrise.
Well-reviewed guides: Friendly, informative guides enhance the journey.
Limited group size: Max of 4 travelers ensures personalized attention.
Practical details: 1 to 1.5-hour ride, suitable for those with moderate fitness.
Value for money: At $135, it offers an immersive experience with included transportation and refreshments.

An Introduction to the Horse Riding Community Village Tour

This tour is a rare chance to see Zimbabwe beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. It’s designed for people who enjoy outdoor activities and are curious about local life, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Batoka Gorge. The adventure begins early, at 6:00 am, ensuring you catch the sunrise if you choose the special morning ride — a spectacle often praised by reviewers.

What we love about this experience is how it balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personal connection. Guests are not just riding through landscapes; they are engaging with the community and observing rural Zimbabwean life as it unfolds around them. The inclusion of horse and riding equipment, private transportation, bottled water, and local soda makes this a seamless, comfortable outing.

One standout aspect is the personalized nature of the trip — with a maximum of four travelers, you won’t be lost in a crowd. The guides, like Lisa and Amie, are noted for their friendliness and willingness to answer questions about Zimbabwean life, adding an educational layer to the journey.

Looking for more options in Victoria Falls? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Meeting and Starting Point

The adventure kicks off early at 6:00 am, with pickup included. This timing is ideal for catching the sunrise, which provides extraordinary lighting and colors across the landscape. The tour is based at Wild Bhiza Stables, located just 30 minutes from Victoria Falls, making it an easy journey out of the busy tourist hub.

The Ride Through Villages

Once on horseback, you’ll traverse communal lands and the outskirts of local villages, offering a rare glimpse into everyday life. According to a review by Stewart_G, this is “a lovely way to see the local way of living in the villages,” with guides answering all questions about Zimbabwean culture and daily life. Expect to see rural homes, perhaps kids waving from the fields, and local farmers tending to their land.

Scenic Highlights

The ride along the Batoka Gorge is a highlight, with some reviewers mentioning the unmatched views. The gorge’s dramatic cliffs and river views provide a dramatic backdrop, particularly during sunrise, when the sky bursts into hues of pink and orange. The gentle pace, limited to walking and trotting, ensures you can soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

There's plenty more to explore in Victoria Falls

Cultural Insights and Interaction

Guides like Lisa and Amie are praised for their friendly, open approach, making you feel safe and comfortable, even if you’re not an experienced rider. A guest noted, “The horses were so well treated, and we all felt safe,” emphasizing the quality of care for the animals. This can be reassuring for travelers worried about inexperienced riding or the condition of the horses.

Refreshments and End of Tour

Post-ride, you’re offered bottled water and local soda, a thoughtful touch that keeps you refreshed after your adventure. The tour typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, fitting well into a morning schedule before other activities or safaris.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Price and Value

At $135 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package that includes horse and riding equipment, private transportation, refreshments, and a guided experience. Given the personalized group size and the quality of the experience, this fee is reasonable, especially considering the cultural and scenic richness you gain.

Transportation and Convenience

The pickup is included, removing the hassle of organizing transport. Meeting at the stables, about 30 minutes from Victoria Falls, makes it accessible without taking too much time out of your day.

Suitability and Restrictions

This experience is best for travelers with moderate physical fitness. It’s not recommended for complete beginners or those over 80kg, due to the riding pace and safety considerations. The activity is limited to walk and trot, avoiding more vigorous cantering or galloping.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions might result in a reschedule or full refund. The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours ensures flexibility for travelers who need to adjust plans.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Guests consistently praise the authenticity and safety of the ride. Stewart_G shared, “The horses were so well treated, and we all felt safe,” highlighting the quality of care. The depth of interaction with locals, as noted by one reviewer, makes this a meaningful addition to a Victoria Falls trip.

The sunrise ride is particularly popular, with visitors remarking on the magnetic beauty of the sky and gorge, often calling it a “breathtaking” moment. The tour feels like a genuine glimpse into rural life rather than a staged tourist attraction, which is a big plus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits outdoor enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape. It’s perfect for families with children over 8 (as long as they’re comfortable on horseback), small groups looking for a personalized experience, and anyone wanting a different perspective of the Zimbabwean countryside.

If you’re after adrenaline, this ride might feel too gentle, but for those interested in photography, nature, and local culture, it’s a winner.

The Horse Riding Community Village Tour offers more than just a ride — it’s an experience that combines stunning scenery, cultural insight, and personalized attention. The early morning sunrise ride along the Batoka Gorge is a standout feature, providing truly memorable visuals. The friendly guides and well-treated horses add to the overall feeling of safety and authenticity.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to see the real Zimbabwe beyond the tourist spots, this tour is a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who appreciate immersive, scenic adventures. While it’s not designed for complete beginners or those looking for high-speed riding, its intimate size and cultural focus make it an ideal choice for a meaningful morning out.

In short, if you’re after a gentle, scenic adventure with plenty of local charm, this tour offers authentic value at a reasonable price. It’s a memorable way to connect with Zimbabwe’s rural life, all from the comfort of a well-cared-for horse.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes private transportation from your accommodation or designated meeting point.

What is the duration of the ride? Expect to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours on horseback, which is perfect for a morning activity.

Can beginners join this tour? No, it’s not suitable for complete beginners, and a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

What is the weight limit? The maximum weight allowed is 80kg, ensuring safety and comfort for all riders.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding.

Are there age restrictions? While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the review suggests children over 8 years old can participate comfortably.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 154 days in advance for availability, especially during peak seasons.

What is included in the price? Horse and riding equipment, private transport, bottled water, and local soda are included.

What happens if the weather is bad? The experience may be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the weather is unsuitable.

Is there a safety briefing? While not explicitly mentioned, guides are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, so expect a thorough safety overview.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Zimbabwe’s rural life with scenic beauty and personalized service, making it an excellent addition to your Victoria Falls adventure.