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Mozambique Equestrian Escape

FREQUENTLY ASKED

QUESTIONS

A woman wearing  sunhat, holding a horse on a sand dune and looking out to sea.
  • Do I need experience with horses to volunteer on this project? 

You do not need to be an experienced rider to take part in this project, but being used to being around horses is beneficial, as you will be required to care for them without direct supervision. Your experience level will affect what activities you are involved with. For instance, beginner riders will not be assisting with taking rides out, or training horses. For beginners, work will mostly include the care of the horses, with some riding when staff have time to give you lessons or help you. Intermediate - experienced riders tend to get more out of this project, however, anyone who wants the experience, is hard working and keep to help is more than welcome! Less experienced riders will go home having learnt lots!

 

  • What does the working riding holiday fee include?

The fee includes all riding, food, transfers to and from the airport and accommodation.

  • How do I get to the project?

A transfer will collect you at Vilankulos Airport and take you to your accommodation. 

 

  • When is the best time of year to volunteer?

The project runs all year round, you are welcome to volunteer any time over the year. It is really down to personal preference. Winter month tend to be a bit chillier in the early morning and evening. 

 

  • What is the best length of time to join the programme for?

You can stay from a minimum time of two weeks. As a general rule, the longer you can stay the more you will get out of your trip; all of our work is dependent on what is available at the time so the longer you stay the more varied your experience will be, and you will become part of the family. For periods longer a month please check visa requirements for Mozambique and plan early.

  • What is the accommodation like?

You will be staying in a comfortable house in Vilankulos, within walking distance to the beach and close to the stables and paddocks. The housing is both safe and comfortable, and very homely. The accommodation includes kitchen and bathroom facilities and a shared lounge and dining area. 

  • How many people sleep in a room?

This depends on how many other volunteers there are, but expect 2-3 people in one room. If you do not wish to share, we do have single supplement rates. 

 

  • Will there be a possibility to go shopping (for snacks, toiletries, etc)?

There are shops available in Vilankulo, a fifteen-minute drive away. You are free to come and go as you please during leisure time. 

 

  • What do I do in leisure time?

Staff are happy to help you plan and book any activities or tours. Please find a list of some of the activities available on the project page. You can make your days off jam-packed with action, or you can relax on the beach. Please note that although staff are usually willing to help, they need a few days' notice and you may need to arrange your own transportation at weekends. 

  • When do we work, and how long for?

Like most work with animals this largely depends on the activities that day. This can vary slightly depending on ride schedules. You will be expected to work hard when required, but staff will make sure you are rewarded with days off and leisure time to explore and relax. 

  • What will I be doing?

For a list of all activities on the project visit the project page. The Equestrian Escape involves care and husbandry of the trail horses, and lots of riding!

 

  • Will there be internet?

Wi-fi will be available at your accommodation, however, 'This Is Africa' and we cannot always guarantee the wi-fi working smoothly! It may also not be as fast as you are used to back home.

  • Can I do laundry while on the project?

Yes, you can, laundry is available at your accommodation. 

  • Do I need any vaccinations or anti-malarial medication? 

Mozambique is a malaria area so it is advisable to take anti-malarial medication. In the evening we suggest you wear long sleeve tops and trousers and put on mosquito repellent. All bedrooms have a mosquito net.

Regarding vaccinations prior to travelling. you will need to ask your doctor as this varies from country to country. We strongly recommend you get any vaccinations advised by your doctor. 

  • What should I pack?

See below for a suggested packing list.


Suggested Packing List


You should pack the following for all weather conditions:

 

  • Sweaters/jumpers and a  jacket 

  • Riding hat, gloves, riding boots, chaps. (Hard hats are mandatory when riding

  • Comfortable riding clothes

  • Work shoes (boots or sneakers that can get dirty)

  • Trainers/sneakers

  • Work tops (tank tops or t-shirts that can get dirty)

  • Work pants (shorts and long pants that can get dirty)

  • A few outfits for days off

  • Warm night clothes

  • Swimwear + beach clothes

  • Snorkel + mask

  • Raincoat

  • Camera and charger

  • Backpack or small bag 

  • International power plug converter/adapter

  • Towel

  • Insect Repellent

  • Sun cream, sunglasses, sunhat/cap

  • Water bottle


Keep in mind that you will often be working with horses. You should be prepared to get your clothes dirty and they should be comfortable and easy to move in.


It is important to take extra of all medications & prescriptions.

A girl and a grey horse in the sea in Mozambique.
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