Surely one of the most amazing experiences in the world has to be swimming with horses. Whether you are riding or swimming alongside this is the most beautiful marriage of human and horse – especially after a long ride on a hot day in the saddle. The feeling of weightlessness as the horse enters the water is indescribable – to have a 700kg animal powering through the water alongside you before resting in the shallows and allowing you to climb back on board once again is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
We have compiled a list of the finest places to swim with horses in the world. Granted they made the grade by also offering incredible post-ride experiences from spa safari in Bali to a cocktail at sundown watching over the giraffes in Africa, but all are unified by the bonding of water and horse.
Mozambique horse safari
At the Mozambique Horse Safari, Pat, Mandy and Charlotte offer the epic adventures of the 104 horses rescued from South Africa. To start the ride, the guides lead the horse into the sea where there is a sense of excitement as they thrash the water, then lay down to wallow and roll. This is the most wonderful wake up for the horses – equivalent to a splash of cold water for a human.
Once the horses have settled, riders are invited to mount bareback and wade out to the deeper water following their guide along the coastline past colourful dhows and sandy beaches towards distant Mangrove trees. As the riders get into the deeper sea they will feel the exploding surge and strength as the horse propels forward.
This is available from beginners up and prices start from £50 pp for a day rider Ocean Walk – accommodation is charged separately.
More info here.
Horizon Horseback, South Africa
Swimming with Horizon Horseback in South Africa
Horizon Horseback in South Africa has been running horseback safaris in Africa since 1993. They offer three-horse safaris (Signature Safari, African Explorer and the Tuli Safari) in South Africa and Botswana and with a huge herd of horses, the experience is suitable for everyone from beginners up.
As if galloping alongside giraffes and zebras is not enough the ending to these rides is always marked by this incredible unity of horse and rider as they submerge into the dam and cool off. The feeling of weightlessness as the horse leaves the ground promises to leave guests with a lasting memory.
Prices start from £225 which includes accommodation and meal per person per night.
More info here.
The wild horses Nihi, Sumba
Horses splashing in water
A mere 6,058 miles away are the shores of the remote island of Sumba and the wild horses of NIHI. Each morning the herd of 20 wild horses are released from Sandalwood Stables each morning to gallop along the 2.5km beach and swim in the sea.
For guests enjoying a morning coffee at the hotel, this is a truly magical spectacle to witness and often of some surprise how much the horses love engaging with the guests – from playing football to swimming together the horses really enjoy the interaction with humans.
The stables also offer everything from yoga to meditation and safari spa rides through the jungle to the NIHIoka Spa. Beach rides range from £75 pp for a one hour ride.
More info here.
Swimming Horses, Cornwall, England
We all recognise Cornwall for its captivating scenery, dramatic coastline and spectacular beaches that provide the perfect natural playground for many water sports; but did we include swimming with horses on this list?
Whether you are an experienced horse rider or a novice, ‘Cornwall Swimming Horses’ will be an ideal experience for you – everyone’s horse choice is tailored to your specific needs.
During the booking process, you will be assessed on your riding abilities, then taken down to the seaside to breathe in the fresh salty air and offered the incredible opportunity to venture into the wild waves on horseback for some swimming.
At only £150 per person, this 3-hour escape is a must-have addition to any Cornish adventure.
More info here.
Half Moon Equestrian Centre, Jamaica
The Half Moon Equestrian Centre located on the breath-taking island of Jamaica has been operating for 30 years. A trip with the horses to Half Moon can include relaxation at the spa, an exploration of Jamaican cuisine at their dining hall, the opportunity to visit the famous golf course and let’s not forget the most amazing offer of all, horseback swimming in the turquoise waters.
It is one thing to boast that you have swum in the crystal blue seas of Jamaica, but to share your swim with an animal as magical as the horse, is humbling.
More info here.