Authentic Rural Community Horse Riding Victoria Falls
Escape the crowds and experience a different side of Zimbabwe with Wild Bhiza Stables, located in Chisuma Village, just 25 km from Victoria Falls. We specialise in authentic Rural Community Horse Rides, private village homestead stays and meaningful volunteer experiences that connect visitors with the people, culture and landscapes of rural Zimbabwe. Unlike a wildlife safari, our experiences take you through village paths and communal lands where you’ll meet local people, pass traditional homesteads and discover everyday life from the saddle on our calm, bitless-trained horses.
Every experience is guided by our commitment to ethical horse riding, natural horsemanship and responsible tourism. With small groups of no more than four riders, experienced local horseback guides, we provide safe, personalised adventures suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. Whether you join us for a Rural Community Horse Ride, an overnight village stay or a volunteer programme, you’ll enjoy genuine Zimbabwean hospitality and create lasting memories beyond the traditional tourist trail.
Horse Riding Victoria FallsWhy Choose Wild Bhiza for a Rural Community Horse Riding Victoria Falls?
Wild Bhiza offers an authentic rural-community Horse Riding Victoria Falls, just 25 km away. Ride through the heart of Chisuma Village on calm, bitless-trained horses, discover everyday Zimbabwean village life, and enjoy a genuine cultural experience far from the busy tourist trail.
- Authentic Rural Community Ride – Explore village paths, communal grazing lands, traditional homesteads and the beautiful Zimbabwean countryside.
- Ethical Horse Riding – We practise natural horsemanship with calm, welfare-first horses that are trained to be ridden bitless wherever possible.
- Small Personal Groups – Maximum of four guests per ride, ensuring a relaxed, personalised experience suitable for every rider.
- Suitable for All Abilities – From complete beginners to experienced riders, we match every guest with the right horse and provide all safety equipment.
- Easy Access from Victoria Falls – Located in Chisuma Village, just 25 km from Victoria Falls, with return transfers available.
- Real Zimbabwe, Not a Staged Attraction – Meet local people, learn about rural life and experience authentic community tourism through genuine interactions.
- Responsible Tourism – Your visit helps support local employment and community initiatives, with opportunities to volunteer alongside organisations such as CARE and the Jafuta Foundation.
- Highly Rated by Guests – Visitors consistently praise Wild Bhiza Stables for its friendly guides, exceptional horse welfare and authentic cultural experiences.
Escape the crowds and discover a different side of Horse Riding Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Our Rural Community Horse Ride is a cultural horse-riding experience, not a wildlife safari. Instead of searching for game, you’ll ride through real villages, meet local people and experience the landscapes, traditions and hospitality that make rural Zimbabwe truly unforgettable.
What Guest Say:
``This was the highlight of our Victoria Falls trip. Riding at dawn through the bush, the home-cooked dinner, and the warmth of Lisa and her team made us feel like family. Truly authentic.`` The Martinez Family, USA
ABOUT OUR VILLAGE TOURRural Community Horse Rides – A Journey into Village Life
Village Horse Riding Victoria Falls
- Ride: 1–1.5 hours
- Total Experience: Approximately 3 hours (including transfers)
- Departures: 06:00–06:30 (minimum 1 guest) | 14:30 (minimum 2 guests)
- Group Size: Maximum 4 riders
- Suitable For: Ages 8+
- Maximum rider weight: 90 kg
- Adult: US$140
- Child (8–11): US$85
Extended Village Horse Riding Victoria Falls
- Ride: 2.5–3 hours
- Total Experience: Approximately 4.5 hours (including transfers)
- Departure: 06:00 or 06:30 (minimum 2 guests)
- Group Size: Maximum 4 riders
- Suitable For: Ages 8+ • Maximum rider weight 90 kg
- Adult: US$190
- Child (8–11): US$120
A TRUE AFRICAN EXPERIENCEPlaning Your Horse Riding Victoria Falls | FAQs
What are the timings for the riding experience?
We offer two Rural Community Horse Ride experiences, both starting from our stables in Chisuma Village, approximately 25 km from Victoria Falls.
Rural Community Horse Ride: The ride lasts 1–1.5 hours, with the total experience taking approximately 3.5 hours, including hotel transfers, horse preparation and refreshments. Pick-up is at approximately 6:00 AM or 2:30 PM (seasonal afternoon departure).
Extended Rural Community Horse Ride: The ride lasts 2.5–3 hours, with the total experience taking approximately 4.5 hours, including transfers and preparation. This experience is available in the morning only, with pick-up at approximately 6:00 AM.
Both experiences are limited to a maximum of four riders, creating a relaxed and personalised cultural horse-riding experience through the rural communities surrounding Victoria Falls.
What is included in the experience?
The experience includes:
- Transfer to and from Banko Farm
- Riding equipment
Is there a weight limit for riders?
What is the minimum age to participate?
How many guests can join at once?
Do I need to bring my own riding equipment?
No, all riding equipment will be supplied.
What should I wear for the ride?
It’s best to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for riding.
What should I wear for the horse riding cultural tour?
- Long pants or leggings (protects legs from saddle rubbing)
- Closed-toe shoes with a small heel (boots, sneakers, or sturdy walking shoes – no sandals or flip-flops)
- Comfortable shirt (short or long sleeves, depending on the weather)
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Light jacket for early morning tours (it can be cool before sunrise)
Can beginners join the horse riding village tour?
- All horses are gentle and well-trained using natural horsemanship methods
- Maximum 4 guests per tour ensures personalised attention and safety
- Horseback guides provide instruction and support throughout the ride
- Bitless riding makes horses more responsive and comfortable
- Minimum age is 8 years old, and riders must be under 90 kg (198 lbs)
We match each rider with a suitable horse based on experience level and confidence. Our guides walk you through mounting, basic controls, and safety before setting off. The pace is relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and an authentic African village experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Is the horse riding village tour safe for children?
Safety measures include:
- Gentle, child-friendly horses specifically chosen for temperament
- Qualified riding instructors with advanced certifications
- Maximum 4 guests per tour for close supervision
- All safety equipment provided: helmets, chaps, and proper tack
- Natural horsemanship training ensures calm, responsive horses
- Experienced equestrian leader, leads at a safe, controlled pace
Parents can ride alongside children, and our guides adjust the tour pace and difficulty to suit younger riders. We’ve welcomed many families, and children often have the most memorable experience—meeting village animals, riding through authentic African landscapes, and gaining confidence with horses.
ABOUT OUR HOMESTAYExperience genuine rural Zimbabwean hospitality in your own private homestead.
Share authentic village life with your family or friends and enjoy unforgettable horseback adventures at sunrise and sunset. Escape the tourist trail and immerse yourself in an exclusive overnight experience in Chisuma Village, just 25 km from Victoria Falls. This is not a hotel or safari lodge—it’s a private rural community experience where your group has exclusive use of a traditional Zimbabwean homestead. Meet local people, enjoy home-cooked meals and discover the rhythm of village life while riding calm, bitless-trained horses through the surrounding countryside.
Why Choose Our Private Village Homestead Stay?
- Exclusive Private Experience – Your group has sole use of the homestead with no other guests.
- Sunrise & Sunset Horse Riding – Enjoy two Rural Community Horse Rides through village paths and communal lands, experiencing the countryside at its most beautiful.
- Authentic Zimbabwean Hospitality – Share traditional home-cooked meals, local stories and genuine cultural experiences with your hosts.
- Comfortable Village Accommodation – Stay in a traditional three-bedroom homestead with solar lighting, an outdoor kitchen and rustic bathroom facilities for a true rural experience.
- Suitable for Everyone – Ideal for couples, families, friends and non-riders looking for an authentic cultural escape.
Accommodation & Pricing
- Duration: Overnight (approximately 20 hours)
- Group Size: Private experience for 1–6 guests (maximum 4 riders)
- Rider Age: 8 years and above
- Maximum Rider Weight: 90 kg (196 lbs)
- Adult Rider: US$290 per person
- Child (8–11 years): US$180 per person
- Non-Rider: US$180 per person
Questions? WhatsApp us on +263 77 965 0131.
A TRUE AFRICAN EXPERIENCEAuthentic African Farmstay FAQs
Is the homestead stay private to our group?
- The entire three-bedroom homestead to yourselves
- Personalised attention from our team
- Flexibility to relax, eat, and explore at your own pace
- Privacy and intimacy throughout your stay
Do I need horse riding experience?
- Gentle, bitless-trained horses chosen for calm temperament
- Horseback guides provide instruction and support throughout
- Natural horsemanship approach ensures safe, ethical riding
- Maximum 4 riders for personalised attention
- Safety briefing before each ride
- All equipment provided: helmets, chaps, saddles
We match each rider with a suitable horse based on confidence and experience. The pace is relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. If you’ve never ridden before, this is a perfect introduction!
What if someone in our group doesn't want to ride?
- Relax at the homestead and soak in village life
- Take a guided walk through Chisuma Village
- Meet local families, children, and farm animals
- Help prepare meals in the outdoor kitchen (if interested)
- Enjoy the scenery, birdwatching, and photography
- Rest, read, or simply unwind in the peaceful rural setting
Optional: We can offer a non-rider discount—$180, plus we can offer other activities: White Water Rafting, Batoka Gorge Walk, Village Tour at additional cost.
What meals are included?
- All meals and drinks are included in your stay:
Dinner (Day 1):
Traditional African home-cooked meal prepared with local ingredients:- Sadza (maize porridge, staple food)
- Nyama (grilled meat—chicken, beef, or goat)
- African vegetables (pumpkin leaves, okra, beans)
- Chimula (local dish)
- Fresh salads and sides
Breakfast (Day 2):
Light morning meal before dawn ride:- Muffins or scones
- Fresh fruit (bananas, oranges, seasonal)
- Tea, coffee, juice
Brunch (Day 2):
Simple brunch after morning ride:- Bacon and egg rolls
- Fresh fruit
- Tea, coffee, juice
Drinks Included:
- Local beer and alcoholic drinks
- Sodas (Coke, Fanta, Sprite)
- Juice and water
- Tea and coffee
All meals are cooked in our rustic outdoor kitchen and served with warm hospitality. Dietary restrictions? Let us know in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
What should I bring?
For Horse Riding:
- Long pants or leggings (protects legs)
- Closed-toe shoes with small heel (boots, sneakers—no sandals)
- Comfortable shirt (short or long sleeves)
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Light jacket for dawn ride (can be cool)
For the Homestead:
- Comfortable casual clothing
- Flashlight or headlamp (solar lighting only)
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes in evening)
- Personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush)
- Towel (we provide bedding, but bring your own towel)
- Camera or phone for photos
- Any personal medications
- Small backpack for rides
Optional:
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- Book or journal for downtime
- Reusable water bottle
Is the homestead stay safe?
Horse Riding Safety:
- Gentle, well-trained horses with calm temperaments
- Qualified guides with advanced riding certifications
- All safety equipment provided (helmets, chaps)
- Natural horsemanship and bitless riding (ethical, safe)
- Maximum 4 riders for close supervision
- Public liability insurance covers all guests
Accommodation Safety:
- Secure homestead in friendly village community
- Our team is on-site throughout your stay
- Emergency contact numbers provided
- Access to medical facilities in Victoria Falls (25 km away)
- Mosquito nets provided (malaria precautions recommended)
Food & Water Safety:
- All meals prepared with clean, safe ingredients
- Drinking water provided (bottled or boiled)
- Kitchen hygiene standards maintained
How do I get to Chisuma Village?
- Minimum age for riding: 8 years old
- Weight limit for riding: 90 kg
- Maximum group size: 5 guests total (including children)
- Supervision: Parents/guardians must supervise children at all times
- Child-friendly horses: We have gentle horses suitable for young riders
- Non-riding children: Welcome to enjoy the homestead and village activities
What's the cancellation policy?
Full refund: If you cancel 30 days before arrival
No refund: If you cancel within 30 days or no-show
Weather cancellations: If we cancel due to unsafe weather, you’ll receive a full refund or reschedule option
Flexible rebooking: We’re happy to work with you if plans changePayment: Full payment is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation.
We recommend travel insurance to protect against unexpected cancellations.
What's Included in Your Private Village Homestead Stay?
What’s Included
- Return transfers from Victoria Falls
- Private overnight homestead accommodation
- Sunset and Sunrise Rural Community Horse Ride
- Helmet and riding equipment
- Traditional home-cooked dinner
- Light breakfast and simple brunch
- Local drinks (beer, soft drinks, juice and water)
Do I need a visa for the homestead stay experience?
Yes, international visitors need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. You can obtain:
- Tourist visa on arrival at Victoria Falls Airport (US$30-55 depending on entry type)
- KAZA UniVisa (US$50) if you’re also visiting Zambia
- eVisa in advance at www.evisa.gov.zw
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months and have blank pages. Some nationalities (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, etc.) don’t require a visa. Check requirements for your specific country before booking.
What can I expect during the overnight village experience?
Day 1
2:30 PM pick-up from Victoria Falls • Arrive at the homestead • Meet your hosts • Horse and safety briefing • Sunset Rural Community Horse Ride • Traditional dinner under the stars • Relax around the fire, sharing stories of village life.
Day 2
Early morning Sunrise Rural Community Horse Ride • Light breakfast • Simple brunch • Depart for Victoria Falls at approximately 12:00 noon.
Who is the Village Homestead Stay suitable for?
Perfect For
Couples seeking an authentic romantic escape, families wanting a unique adventure, friends travelling together, eco-conscious travellers, cultural explorers and non-riders who want to experience genuine Zimbabwean village life beyond the usual tourist attractions.
ABOUT OUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAMSMake a Difference Through Ethical Horse Riding & Rural Community Living
Looking for more than just a holiday? Join Wild Bhiza Stables for a unique horse riding volunteer programme in Chisuma Village, just 25 km from Victoria Falls. Designed for gap year students, career breakers, horse enthusiasts and anyone seeking a meaningful cultural experience, our programme combines ethical horse care, community engagement and authentic rural Zimbabwean life.
Over two to four weeks, you’ll become part of our small team, working alongside experienced horse guides and local community members. You’ll help care for our calm, bitless-trained horses using natural horsemanship principles, support community animal welfare initiatives and contribute to projects that benefit both people and animals. This is not voluntourism—it’s an opportunity to live, learn and make a genuine contribution while experiencing everyday life in rural Zimbabwe.
What You’ll Experience
Your time with Wild Bhiza is varied and rewarding. Depending on the season and community needs, you may assist with horse care and stable management, veterinary and animal welfare outreach, youth horse education, community gardening, environmental projects, village clean-up campaigns and educational initiatives. Every day offers new opportunities to develop practical skills while building lasting friendships within the local community.
Accommodation & Village Life
Volunteers stay in our traditional village homestead, sharing comfortable accommodation while experiencing genuine Zimbabwean hospitality. Home-cooked meals are prepared using fresh local ingredients, and on scheduled days off you’ll have the opportunity to stay at a backpackers’ lodge in Victoria Falls to explore one of Africa’s most iconic destinations.
Why Volunteer with Wild Bhiza?
We intentionally keep our volunteer programme small, welcoming a maximum of four volunteers at any one time. This allows for personalised mentoring, meaningful involvement and the chance to become part of the community rather than simply observing it. Our programme is built around ethical horse riding, natural horsemanship and responsible community tourism, working in partnership with organisations including Community Animal Research and Education (CARE) and other local education and community initiatives.
Programme Information
Duration: Flexible 2–4 week programmes
Age: 18 years and above
Group Size: Maximum 4 volunteers
Location: Chisuma Village, 25 km from Victoria Falls
Includes: Accommodation, meals, activities, local transfers and volunteer support.
Volunteer Programme Fees
2 Weeks: US$2,190
3 Weeks: US$2,680
4 Weeks: US$3,395
Whether you’re taking a gap year, career break, or simply looking for a purposeful adventure, Wild Bhiza Stables offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience rural Zimbabwe, contribute to meaningful community projects and develop your horsemanship in an ethical, supportive environment.
A TRUE AFRICAN EXPERIENCEFAQs - Why Do You Want To Volunteer near Victoria Falls?
How long are the volunteer programs?
Our horse riding volunteer programs near Victoria Falls run from 1 to 4 weeks, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your availability. You can choose the duration that works best for your schedule and goals.
What is the typical age range for volunteers?
We welcome volunteers aged 18-80 who are passionate about ethical horse riding in Africa and community development.
Do I need horse riding experience to volunteer?
No prior horse riding experience is required! Our horseback guides provide comprehensive instruction and support. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider, our volunteer programs in Zimbabwe are designed for all skill levels.
Is there a weight limit for volunteers?
Yes, for the safety of both riders and horses, we have a maximum weight limit of 90 kg (196 lbs)
What will I do as a volunteer at Wild Bhiza?
Volunteers participate in a variety of meaningful activities:
- Daily Horse Care: Feed, groom, and bond with our 8 gentle horses
- Horse Riding: Daily riding excursions led by experienced guides using natural horsemanship techniques
- Veterinary Care: Assist with veterinary care and animal welfare outreach
- Youth Education: Teach horse care and riding skills to local youth in Chisuma Village
- Community Projects: Participate in horticulture, community clean-ups, education initiatives, and empowerment programs
Will I ride horses every day?
Yes! Daily horse riding excursions are a core part of our volunteer programs. You’ll ride using ethical horse riding practices and natural horsemanship methods under the guidance of our qualified instructors. *Except for days off.
Are there any wildlife encounters during rides?
No, our riding excursions take place in the communal lands of Chisuma Village and do not include planned wildlife encounters. However, a breeding herd of elephants passes through the area once or twice a year, and there’s a small chance of spotting hyena or leopard, though this is rare. The experience focuses on authentic African village life, traditional homesteads, and the beautiful rural landscapes surrounding Victoria Falls.
Where will I stay during the volunteer program?
Volunteers stay in our traditional homestead on the stables’ property in Chisuma Village, 25 km from Victoria Falls. The accommodation includes:
- 6 single beds (shared accommodation)
- 2 outhouses with showers
- Kitchen facilities
- Traditional rondavel
- Off days at Backpackers Lodge (excludes meals)
What meals are included?
All nutritious meals are included and prepared from local ingredients. You’ll enjoy traditional African dishes, including sadza, nyama, chimula, and other authentic Zimbabwean cuisine. This is part of your cultural tourism Zimbabwe experience!
What happens on days off?
On days off, accommodation can be arranged at a local backpackers’ lodge (meals not included at the lodge). This gives you the opportunity to explore Victoria Falls activities such as:
- Victoria Falls rainforest tours ($50 park fee)
- Scenic helicopter flights ($150-$360)
- White water rafting ($139-$272)
- Bungee jumping ($168)
- Wildlife safaris ($78-$350)
- Cultural tours and dining experiences
Contact Lisa at +263 779650131 for bookings (no markups, all prices in USD).
What if I need medical attention?
Volunteers have access to medical facilities in Victoria Falls and emergency transport via ACE ambulance during the program. We recommend you take out ACE air cover $40
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, all volunteers must have valid travel insurance. This is a requirement for participation in our volunteer programs. We recommend you take out ACE air cover ($40 USD) for emergency medical evacuation during your stay.
What visa do I need for the volunteer program?
What visa do I need for the volunteer program?
For volunteer programs of 1-4 weeks, you’ll need a tourist visa (not a work visa, as this is a volunteer cultural exchange program):
Single entry visa: US$30 (sufficient for most volunteers)
Double entry visa: US$45 (if leaving Zimbabwe during your stay)
KAZA UniVisa: US$50 (if visiting Zambia during days off)
How to get your visa:
On arrival at Victoria Falls Airport or border (easiest option)
eVisa before travel at www.evisa.gov.zw
Requirements:
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Blank pages for stamps
- Return flight details
- Proof of accommodation (we’ll provide this)
Visa-exempt nationalities: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and others don’t need a visa.
💡 Tip: We recommend applying for your visa on arrival – it’s quick and straightforward at Victoria Falls Airport.
Our Community Partnerships Support Community Animal Welfare CARE
The Community Animal Research & Education (CARE) Centre provides essential veterinary care, education and animal welfare support to rural communities around Victoria Falls. Working with local owners, CARE delivers vaccinations, sterilisation programmes, medical treatment and practical education to improve the health and wellbeing of dogs, donkeys, horses, cattle and goats.
By helping prevent disease, treating injuries and promoting responsible animal ownership, CARE has made a lasting difference to thousands of animals and the families who depend on them. Every donation helps provide vital medicines, veterinary care and outreach services to communities where access to animal healthcare is limited.
If you would like to support sustainable animal welfare and rural communities in Zimbabwe, please consider making a donation. Your generosity helps improve the lives of both animals and the people who care for them.
DONATE NOW
Volunteer Programs Zimbabwe Volunteer with Horses Near Victoria Falls
Wild Bhiza's Horse Riding Volunteer Programme offers a meaningful opportunity to experience rural Zimbabwe while making a positive impact in the local community. Based in Chisuma Village, just 25 km from Victoria Falls, you'll combine hands-on horse care with community engagement, supporting ethical horse riding, responsible tourism and animal welfare.
Develop practical horsemanship skills, work alongside our experienced team, connect with local people and gain an authentic insight into everyday village life. Whether you're taking a gap year, career break or simply looking for a purposeful adventure, our volunteer programme provides a rewarding and unforgettable experience beyond the traditional tourist trail.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Our Community Partnerships Support Communities JAFUTA FOUNDATION
Wild Bhiza Stables is proud to support the Jafuta Foundation by welcoming children to our stables for free educational and horse experiences, giving them the opportunity to connect with horses, nature and rural life.
With additional funding, we hope to expand this work by introducing equine-assisted sessions for children with disabilities, creating opportunities for confidence-building, learning and enjoyment through interaction with our gentle horses.
Every donation helps us move closer to making this vision a reality. Together, we can provide more children with life-changing experiences and ensure that no child misses the opportunity to benefit from the unique bond between horses and people.
DONATE NOW
Wild Bhiza Empowering African Children Sponsor a Young Person's Equine Career for Just $1 a Day
Your support can help a young person in rural Zimbabwe build a future through horses. For just $1 a day, you can provide equine education, practical training and mentoring that opens the door to employment in the horse, tourism and conservation industries.
At Wild Bhiza Stables, young people learn horse care, natural horsemanship, stable management, guiding, customer service and leadership while gaining confidence, responsibility and valuable life skills. Your sponsorship helps cover training, equipment and hands-on experience, giving aspiring equestrians the opportunity to build a sustainable career.
By sponsoring a young person, you're not only investing in their future—you are helping strengthen rural communities, promote ethical horsemanship and create lasting opportunities for the next generation.
Sponsor a future equestrian for just $1 a day and help transform a passion for horses into a lifelong career.
CONTACT US ON HOW TO DONATE
THE SMOKE THAT THUNDERSWhy Visit Victoria Falls?
Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, combining spectacular natural beauty, unforgettable wildlife encounters and world-class adventure activities. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, there’s something for every traveller.
Marvel at the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, experience thrilling adventures such as white-water rafting, zip-lining and helicopter flights, or enjoy unforgettable wildlife safaris in nearby national parks where elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos and an incredible variety of birdlife roam freely.
For those looking to experience a different side of Zimbabwe, venture beyond the tourist trail with Wild Bhiza Stables. Our Rural Community Horse Rides, private village homestead stays and volunteer programmes offer an authentic insight into everyday life in Chisuma Village, just 25 km from Victoria Falls. It’s the perfect way to complement your visit with a genuine cultural experience.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our recommended guide to Victoria Falls accommodation, attractions and activities to help you plan your stay.
What Guests Say:
``We had the entire homestead to ourselves. The horses were gentle, the food was incredible, and waking up in a real African village was unforgettable. Highly recommend!`` Sarah & Tom, UK
MEET THE TEAM AT WILD BHIZA STABLES – HORSE RIDING VICTORIA FALLS
