Moments That Stay With Us: A Horse Safari Story from the Okavango Delta

Posted on 19th October 2026

(by Steffi Presske)

There are moments in every life that shape us – some filled with joy, others with hardship. Moments when we experience pain, say goodbye to loved ones, lose a job, or face difficult times. In those moments, we often look back on beautiful memories: times when we experienced something truly special, when we felt completely free and could simply “be.”

One of those moments for me was a horseback safari at Macatoo Camp in the Okavango Delta. I am not a particularly experienced rider, but my curiosity took the reins, allowing me to comfortably keep pace with the group and our guides on the long, multi-hour rides.

Led by experienced riding guides who grew up in the Delta, our journeys took us through dense mopane forests, along deep, winding water channels, and across open floodplains. From the back of a horse, we were able to explore and experience this unique landscape from a completely new perspective. We rode alongside huge herds of elephants with their young, towering giraffes, and grumpy herds of buffalo.

On the back of my powerful animal, I felt untouched and free as the wind. With every stride, I could feel the tension of the horse’s muscles and the flare of its nostrils. The rhythmic pounding of hooves became almost like a mantra, allowing me to completely surrender to the moment.

Eventually, we reached a clearing overlooking a vast floodplain covered in knee-deep, crystal-clear water. The sight alone took my breath away.

Our group galloped shoulder to shoulder, carrying us straight into the sunrise and through the water. Hooves splashed against the surface before finding firm ground beneath and pushing powerfully forward. It was an incredible feeling – riders cheered with exhilaration while the horses whinnied, fuelled by the energy and joy of the moment. Suddenly, you are right in the middle of it all, merging completely with the world around you.

In the evenings, we played Jenga, laughed, and shared stories around the camp. We were a group of strangers from France, America, Germany, Argentina, and beyond, connecting instantly through our shared passion for nature and riding, letting all borders melt away.