Zanzibar, a stunning gem set in the Indian Ocean, offers beaches that are pure perfection, a vibrant culture, and riding opportunities that are out of this world. Imagine turquoise seas and the scent of spices blending seamlessly with the island’s rich heritage. If you’re looking for the ultimate tropical getaway that ticks all the boxes—from horseback swims to exploring pristine beaches—Zanzibar should be at the top of your bucket list.

Swimming with Horses at Zanzibar Horse Club is a Bucket List Experience

My adventure began at the Zanzibar Horse Club, where the experience of swimming with horses was unlike anything I had ever done before. The stables, which started with three beautiful Arabian/Somali mix horses named Lu Lu, Crumble, and Bob, have now grown to house 25 horses at the Nungwi stables and the paddocks in Kidoti village. Each horse is well-trained and perfectly suited to different riders, regardless of age, size, or capability.

Meeting the Horses at Zanzibar Horse Club

Upon arrival, I was welcomed by the friendly staff and introduced to some of the horses. The Nungwi stables are open most of the year, except for April and May when the horses move to Kidoti farm to rest and graze. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the staff clearly have a deep bond with these magnificent horses. The horses have cute colorful bridles in different colors and their own name plates in the stable.

Booking a Ride at Zanzibar Horse Club

Booking a ride is easy and can be done online up to two months in advance. I opted for the 30-minute swim with the horses, which costs $60 and is suitable for beginners and first-timers, as long as you can swim. High tide is the best time for this activity, as it ensures a memorable experience in the calm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean. They also provide lockers for your stuff to lock in during your ride.

My Experience Swimming with Horses in Zanzibar

I was paired with a gentle horse and we walked to the beach. The excitement built as we waded into the water, the horse’s legs creating gentle ripples in the turquoise sea.

Swimming with the horses was an exhilarating experience. Riding bareback with natural halters, I felt a unique connection to the horse as we moved through the water together. The sensation of swimming with such a beautiful horse was both calming and thrilling. The guide were supportive and ensuring I felt comfortable throughout the swim.

Photography at Zanzibar Horse Club

The experience was immortalized with a few photos and videos taken by our guides during the swim as well as at the end. These snapshots serve as a cherished reminder of a magical adventure. After the swim, we had the opportunity to explore more of Nungwi’s beautiful beaches, consistently voted among the top 10 in the world.

Giving Back to Zaaso

An added bonus to this incredible experience is knowing that 10% of all profits from Zanzibar Horse Club are donated to Zaaso, a donation-based horse and donkey sanctuary that also provides general animal clinic services. This commitment to the well-being of animals made the experience even more meaningful.