Working Holidays
Horse Volunteer Project – Zambia
Calling all GAP year students, adult riders, and adventurers!
If you’re passionate about horses and excited to experience the rich culture and wildlife of Zambia, this programme might be perfect for you.
What to Expect:
This is an incredible opportunity for serious horse enthusiasts. You’ll spend every day at the stables and in the saddle, helping with both our horses and guests. Your time will be split between two stunning locations:
Our Lodge near Victoria Falls: When you’re not working with horses, you can explore this world-famous destination.
Simalaha Wildlife & Community Conservancy – this is where we host Zambian Horseback Safaris. Ride off the beaten path, across wild, untamed landscapes teeming with plains game. Here, you’ll work closely with horses, guests, and local wildlife in one of Africa’s hidden paradises.
Why Join Us?
Hands-on Riding Experience: Whether you're guiding guests, training horses, or working at the stable, your riding skills will improve every day.
Immerse Yourself in Nature: Ride through vast open landscapes and encounter wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and antelope along the way.
Explore Victoria Falls and Beyond: On your off-days, you’ll have the chance to enjoy everything the area offers, from the adrenaline of Chobe and Zambezi National Parks to cultural events and social activities in town.
Family-Like Atmosphere: Our horse volunteers become part of the family and regularly return. This is your chance to immerse yourself in Zambia’s natural beauty while gaining valuable equestrian experience and building lifelong friendships.
This hands-on volunteer program is perfect for experienced riders who want to hone their skills, explore Africa's wilderness, and make a meaningful contribution to horse care and safari training.
If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, we can’t wait to welcome you to Zambia!
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As a volunteer, you’ll play an active role in managing a large stable yard at our Livingstone lodge. The focus is on round-pen work under Doug’s instruction and bush outrides to prepare and condition horses for safari. Your tasks include:
Round-Pen Training: Assist with gentling the horses and preparing them for safari rides.
Bush Outrides: Explore the beautiful terrain while training and building the horses' fitness.
Stable Maintenance: After rides, you will hose down the horses, inspect the tack, and store everything neatly on labeled stands and hooks in the tack room.
Weekly Tack and Blanket Care:
Tack Inspection & Cleaning: Tack is inspected after each ride and thoroughly cleaned weekly.
Blanket Washing: Saddle blankets are washed weekly, and you’ll assist in this task.
Upkeep of Facilities: Volunteers are expected to keep both the stable and guest areas clean and organized proactively.
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This opportunity requires volunteers with:
Extensive horse experience and a proven track record of working with horses.
A mature attitude and a kind, sensitive approach when handling horses.
Strong references to demonstrate previous experience.
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Accommodation: Shared twin room with one other volunteer and shared bathroom facilities.
All Meals:
Cooked lunches provided daily.
Access to a fully stocked pantry for self-catered breakfasts and dinners.
Unlimited tea and coffee throughout the day.
Laundry: Weekly self-service laundry access.
Wi-Fi throughout your stay.
Riding Activities: Includes trail rides, schooling sessions, horsemanship training, and farm walks.
Day Off: One full day off each week.
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Flights to and from Livingstone Airport.
Visas (if required).
Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance (mandatory).
Personal Items: Toiletries, gifts, clothing, or souvenirs.
Optional Excursions and Activities beyond the planned itinerary.
Beverages and Special Foods not included in the provided pantry.
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Dates & Rates:
Please contact us for available placements in 2025!
