Horses were introduced to the island and breeders are few, but these animals adapt naturally. Horse trekking is an original, even unusual way to discover Madagascar. Riding across stretches of arid land dotted with small bushes beneath an azure sky, with landscapes of eroded red earth valleys, lakes, and earthen houses with thatched roofs scattered across hillsides: this scene seems to have sprung straight from a dream!

Prime destinations for horse trekking in Madagascar

In central-western Madagascar, particularly in the Itasy region, we will discover the famous lake as well as rich agricultural lands. What makes this journey special is the encounter with Malagasy people, who are smiling and warm-hearted. However, one cannot camp just anywhere, as sacred and taboo locations are numerous. This superstitious, yet also spiritual dimension is part of the destination's charm. The journey is all the more authentic for it!

Riding along white sand beaches beside a tumultuous sea: this is what awaits on a horse trek along Madagascar's east coast. The landscapes are far from limited to this alone! Fishing villages, expanses of coconut trees, palms and ravinala between the Indian Ocean and the Pangalanes Canal... This horse trek is unlike any other in the entire world! Fishermen on their distinctive pirogues will capture our attention.

In the south, Isalo National Park offers landscapes comparable to the American Far West and the great canyons. We will navigate through mazes of sandstone in this immense massif, passing through deep canyons and rivers. In this environment characterized by ochre rocks, forests of carpet plants, pandanus, and cacti, we will encounter lemurs. The Bara, the local ethnic group, will also be our hosts!

About the trek

Our guide will be a seasoned horseman and breeder, accompanied by a team of grooms and companions. He knows the country extremely well and will offer us a delightful human adventure. He will share his knowledge of Malagasy geography and the history of peoples and villages. Your trip to Madagascar will be truly authentic!

The horses are geldings and stallions raised and cared for in a local stud farm. The saddles are English-style and saddlebags are provided. Since the animals, while large, are not very strong, the maximum load is 90 kg. Wearing a helmet is mandatory, though you are free to dress as you wish.

Walking will be the basic gait, but you must master all three gaits to participate in this trek. We will ride for 4 to 6 hours per day, requiring good endurance. Children aged 15 or 16 are accepted provided they have the required riding level and are accompanied by an adult.

Preparing well for your trek

Before setting out on this horse trek in Madagascar, you must prepare yourself physically and mentally. Keep in mind that you will be in the saddle for 6 to 10 days, riding 4 to 6 hours per day. Even if you are a skilled rider and ride regularly, weather conditions, long distances, and nights camping are tiring.

You must have excellent endurance! It is recommended that you intensify your activity one or two months before departure to be in good shape. If you do not ride regularly, we advise you to get back in the saddle one to two times per week. You should ride for at least 2 consecutive hours, and this should be outdoors.

Why not test yourself by taking a weekend trek in France, Spain, or Switzerland? If you have never undertaken a week-long trek, this will allow you to assess your endurance after long hours in the saddle. If you have other tips or advice that would help travelers prepare well for our trek, please do not hesitate to share them with us!