A Journey of a Lifetime

Volunteering at a Horse Safari in Africa

This year, I had the privilege of traveling to Africa to volunteer at a horse safari.

What started as a dream to explore the wild landscapes of Africa soon turned into one of the most exhilarating, eye-opening, and rewarding experiences of my life. This adventure, was filled with unforgettable encounters with the continent's wildlife, deep connections with the horses, and a chance to contribute through my work as a Balanced Through Movement Method (BTMM) apprentice trainer and nerve release practitioner. In this blog, I’ll share my journey—from riding alongside the Big Five to working with the safari’s horses—and the profound moments that made the trip truly exceptional.

Arriving in the Heart of Africa

Stepping off the plane, the warm, earthy air of Africa greeted me with a sense of anticipation and wonder. We arrived at the horse safari in a remote area where the land stretched out in all directions, untouched by the bustling modern world. The safari ranch was nestled deep within the wild, surrounded by open fields, thickets, and rocky terrain. The horses, which played a central role in the safari, were as much a part of the environment as the wildlife that roamed freely.

While the trip was an opportunity to immerse myself in Africa’s natural beauty, it also gave me the chance to use my skills to benefit the horses. As an apprentice trainer of BTMM, I’ve worked on many horses in various environments, helping them build soundness and release tension. This opportunity would allow me to bring those techniques to horses who worked in one of the most exciting environments on earth—the African safari.

Riding with Lions and Cheetahs

The highlight of the trip, without a doubt, was the chance to ride alongside lions and cheetahs. The power of these majestic animals, their calm yet predatory presence, was palpable as we ventured out into the bush.

The lions and cheetahs observed us from a close distance, their watchful eyes following our movements, but never once did we feel threatened. Instead, there was a surreal, almost magical quality to being that close to creatures so wild and untamed.

The horses, calm and composed, seemed to sense the same energy. They were entirely unbothered by the presence of these large predators. Their steadiness in the face of such powerful creatures was a testament to their training and their connection with us, their riders. This sense of calm among the horses made the entire experience even more surreal.

It was a profound feeling, riding through the African savanna, knowing that we were in the midst of some of the planet's most iconic creatures.

Being so close to them, observing them in their natural habitat, felt like being part of the landscape. It was exhilarating—not in the sense of fear, but in awe of how small we were in comparison to the vastness and grandeur of Africa’s wildlife.

The Big Five: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Sight

During our time on safari, we were fortunate enough to see the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Four of them we saw while riding on horseback.

We first saw the lions—majestic and powerful, moving with a grace that belied their size.

We observed them from a safe distance, feeling the thrill of being in their presence. Their piercing eyes and muscular frames held our attention, yet there was no sense of danger, only awe.

The elephants were among the most awe-inspiring animals we encountered. Their sheer size and presence were breathtaking, yet their movements carried a quiet grace. It was incredible to witness their intelligence and gentle nature firsthand, feeling a profound sense of respect for these magnificent creatures. 

Buffalo, known for their unpredictable behavior, kept their distance but still made a striking impression. Their imposing stature and the way they moved together as a herd added to the sense of adventure. We saw some rhino while visiting Kruger National Park, including a baby! Seeing such a powerful and endangered animal in the wild was humbling, a stark reminder of the importance of conservation efforts.

Lastly, we came across a leopard, perched on a rock. The sighting was rare, as leopards are elusive creatures, and seeing one from horseback was an extraordinary moment. We were able to watch it with a mixture of respect and fascination, admiring it's power and grace.

Making a Difference: Working with the Horses

Beyond the thrill of encountering Africa’s wildlife, one of the most fulfilling aspects of the trip was working with the safari’s horses. These horses were incredible—athletic, brave, and well-adapted to the demands of the safari. Yet, like all working horses, they carried tension from long days navigating rugged terrain.

I was able to perform nerve release work on a couple of the safari horses, helping them find relief from accumulated tension. It was rewarding to witness the subtle yet profound changes in their movement and demeanor. These horses give so much to the people who ride them, and being able to give back, even in a small way, was incredibly meaningful.

A Deeper Connection to Nature

What made this journey truly remarkable was the deeper connection it fostered—not just with the horses, but with nature itself. There is something raw and humbling about existing alongside such powerful creatures, understanding their behaviors, and feeling the pulse of the wild in every moment. The rhythm of the horses' hooves against the earth, the distant roar of a lion at dusk, and the rustling of the wind through the acacia trees all blended into an unforgettable symphony.

Each ride brought a new adventure, from galloping through open plains to carefully navigating rocky outcrops. Some mornings, we rode in silence, watching the golden light spill over the horizon, illuminating the land with a breathtaking glow. These moments, where the world felt untouched and time seemed to slow, left an imprint on my soul.

Lessons from the Wild

Spending time in such a remote and untamed environment taught me invaluable lessons. It reinforced the importance of patience, observation, and trust—both with the horses and with nature.

It showed me how animals communicate beyond words, through body language and energy, and how deeply connected everything in the natural world truly is.

The resilience of the horses, the wisdom of the wildlife, and the raw beauty of the land all served as reminders of the delicate balance that sustains life. It deepened my respect for conservation efforts and the need to protect these incredible ecosystems for future generations.

A Journey to Remember

My time volunteering at the horse safari in Africa was nothing short of life-changing. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, intimate encounters with wildlife, and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of the horses made this adventure unforgettable. Riding alongside lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo wasn’t just about the thrill—it was about feeling connected to nature in a way I had never experienced before.

This journey reaffirmed my passion for working with horses and deepened my appreciation for the delicate balance of nature. Africa has a way of leaving an imprint on your soul, and I know that one day, I will return to its wild and beautiful landscapes.