Horse Riding Holidays in SOUTH AFRICA

Best Value Safaris and Diverse Landscapes

Apart from offering home of the best value horseback safaris in the world and virtually guaranteed Big 5 sightings (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo), South Africa has a huge diversity of landscapes: from dramatic coasts and endless white beaches through deserts and savannah, the high Drakensberg Mountains and bushveld. Most of these areas are best explored on horseback to get you away from the crowds and deep into the wilderness. There are native horse breeds adapted to the terrain such as the Boerperd and Cape Riding Horse to ride. And with many direct flights from Europe and the US and an abundance of non-riding activities too, South Africa should be on every riders “must-do” list.

You’ll be enveloped in the warm hospitality and generosity that South Africans are renowned for as soon as you arrive. With carefully planned routes, knowledgeable guides, and well-trained horses, riders can rest assured that every moment of their trip will be truly unforgettable.

Best Advice on Riding in South Africa

Unicorn Trails is in an exceptional position to advise you on horse riding safaris in South Africa. Our Managing Director, Wendy Hofstee, grew up in South Africa and throughout her 20 years of living in England, has continued to visit South Africa at least twice a year. She knows Southern Africa like the back of her hand and just about every riding opportunity south of the equator.  

Huge Amount of Land is Protected

One of South Africa’s most notable features is its abundance of national parks and private reserves. With 21 national parks and hundreds of private reserves, South Africa provides outstanding opportunities for game viewing throughout the year and across various regions. One of the benefits of South African game reserves is that they are all fenced and the game is actually owned, which means 1. the game is protected and guarded and 2. you know what to expect when you visit. Unlike in other Kenya or Tanzania, there are no large migrations, so you can plan your horseback safari in South Africa with confidence at almost any time of year. And don't be fooled into thinking that these are just safari park rides - most reserves are massive, ranging in size from around 20,000 acres all the way up to the incredible 4-million-acre Kruger National Park. No matter what season you choose to visit or which area you choose to explore, there is always something new and exciting to discover.

Variety of Horseback Riding Experiences

South Africa is a country of incredible natural beauty, and there's no better way to experience it than on horseback. Our riding focus not only on game viewing and visits to the country’s stunning beaches, but also the best off-the-beaten-track experiences that reflect South Africa's incredible culture, wildlife, and hospitality. Nelson Mandela famously referred to South Africa as the "rainbow nation," and we're proud to offer horseback riding vacations that showcase the incredible diversity of this magnificent country.

Horseback Safaris in South Africa for Riders of All Abilities

South Africa is a destination where riders of all abilities, whether seasoned, experienced riders or beginners, or something in between, all can safely experience riding with wildlife unlike some of the other Big Game destinations.

Safety when riding with game on a Horse Riding Safari in South Africa

Almost everyone asks “is this dangerous?” or “will I be attacked by lion?”. In a nutshell, no, this is not dangerous, and there is little chance of being attacked by a lion, but always make sure you are accompanied by an experienced guide.  

Horseback riding amongst game has some incredible advantages over vehicle-based safaris: you are at one with nature and your environment, plus you are seated up high with a good view. Not only is your horse watching his feet, but he is aware of all the smells and sounds of the bush around him at all times. And the horse you ride, being local and experienced, will know how to process this information. Have a look at the ears – that bush the horse is staring at intently probably hides a well camouflaged antelope. If he drops his head to graze you can be pretty sure there is no danger in the area. If he becomes uneasy or refuses to advance, look again for any danger. Your horse is experienced at preserving his safety, all you have to do is stay with him. 

Of course, the guides know the areas and habits of the game like the back of their hands and will be looking at spoor (footprints and droppings), and observing the behaviour of the wildlife and horses, so any warning signs of unease or aggression can be acted on.  There is always a lead guide (sometimes armed if there is dangerous game present) and a backup guide. In the event your guide thinks there may be an unsafe situation developing, you all turn round and follow the backup guide away. At all times there is a guide between you and any wildlife.  

This safety relies on two things: the ability of your guide to keep you away from dangerous situations (almost foolproof on our rides) and your ability to stay on your horse. So, although you may never have to gallop out of danger, if you do not have a secure seat, we suggest you stick to riding with non-dangerous game (no lion or elephant) where falling off may be embarrassing, but not life threatening!

For riders with less experience:

We recommend riding with plains game, which includes many iconic animals such as giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hyena and all antelope species, and sticking to vehicles when viewing lions, elephants, black rhinos, or leopards. You will still get the unique feel of a riding with game: cantering with zebra, just drifting along with grazing giraffe or being surrounded by a herd of kudu. Amazing.
For this sort of relaxed and safe introduction to game viewing consider:

Zululand Private Reserve – A 5-star safari in an extraordinarily beautiful setting. This horseback safari is small and exclusive with spacious and individual suites, private balconies, gourmet food and a stable of Arabian and Boerperd horses that are suitable for all riding abilities. The reserve is home to an array of non-dangerous game up to cheetah, and if that's not enough for you, guests can also opt for vehicle safaris into the neighbouring Big 5 Reserve.

Or Ants Reserve for a classic safari that can be enjoyed at all levels. Good riders go on further, faster and more challenging rides, non-riders enjoy classic jeep safaris and less experienced riders enjoy slower immersive riding with game, all ending up at the same sundowners or bush breakfast location together.
Or try Horizon Ranch: either the ranch or the Signature Horizon Safari offers riding with plains game (no lion or elephant) and the option to do a game drive on a nearby Big 5 reserve.

For more experienced riders

For riders with a secure seat at a canter looking for adventure, there are some truly incredible equestrian vacations in South Africa.

For some hidden gems with game riding

Consider: the incredible value Eastern Cape Beach and Game Safari where you can canter along endless beaches, ride with plains game, enjoy sundowners and dinner looking for elephant on the reserve over the river and visit elephant in the Addo Elephant park by vehicle. The marine life along this coast is sensational too, including plenty of dolphins and whales that can be spotted throughout the year. The best time to visit the area is outside of South African school holiday times.
Or try the Karoo to Coast which rides across two mountains ranges from the semi-desert karoo, through the unique Cape floral kingdom, to long white sand beaches and ends in a Big Game reserve where you can ride with Big Game including elephant.
Or try Moolmanshoek nestled at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains for superb riding and game viewing

Classic Horseback Safari Experience

For a classic top quality safari experience with (almost) guaranteed Big 5 sightings over a week head to Wait-a-Little the Karongwe Reserve in the Mpumalanga lowveld and try the Big 5 Safari or the indulgent Ride and Dine Safari for a perfect combination of up-close game viewing from horseback and gourmet food cooked right in front of you. Top quality boerperd horses, comfy saddles, super food, big luxury safari tents and often a waiting list! Book this one well in advance.

The African Explorer:  Combining three days riding in South Africa at Horizon with three days in the Tuli Block of Botswana, this itinerary offers the opportunity to see the Big 5, as well as countries in one trip. As long as you're a good confident intermediate rider or above, you'll be able to fully participate in this adventure. Bear in mind there is one long transfer day in the middle.

Not sure which horseback safari to pick? No problem! Contact our team of knowledgeable experts who will be more than happy to help you pick the safari that best fits your needs.

Riding in South Africa "Off the Beaten Track"

If you're looking to venture beyond the usual tourist spots, we offer fantastic riding experiences in some extraordinary and underappreciated regions.

Riding the Wild Coast of South Africa
The Wild Coast of South Africa is a truly magnificent destination for travellers looking for adventure, local culture, and extraordinary natural beauty. This area is rich in history and home to the Xhosa tribe, as well as the iconic Nelson Mandela. The region boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, as well as fantastic fishing and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Xhosa people. For those looking to experience the Wild Coast's magical allure in a unique and exciting way, the Wild Coast Beach Trail promises endless beach gallops on fit endurance horses, river crossings, as well as the chance to explore shipwrecks abandoned along the coast. This trail moves on almost every night and is perfect for good riders looking to soak in the area's sublime beauty and culture. For a more relaxing comfortable ride try the Qolora Trail, or  The Equestrian Connection is the ideal option for digital nomads to use the riding base as a home office for up to 12 weeks, while spending free time working with the horses, or heading out on rides to explore the Wild Coast. There is also a Volunteer Programme.

The Western Cape
Nestled just outside Cape Town lies a largely forgotten region, the West Coast. Although often overlooked, this region boasts stunning landscapes and riding in the Floral Kingdom of the Cape, and experiences that should not be missed. The Walker Bay Trail starts near Hermanus, another great spot to visit near Cape Town, famous for whale watching in the season June to November.
Further north in August and September, the fields come alive with vibrant orange Namaqualand daisies, drawing visitors from all over to marvel at their beauty. The coastline here is also famous for its fishing, seafood, and quality restaurants, and it is quickly becoming the place to have a second home for those who live in South Africa.

Non-Riding Extensions

At Unicorn Trails, we are experts on South Africa and offer many non riding extensions to round off your trip. From a relaxing trip to Sun City or swimming with penguins, to a stay in the winelands, there is something for everyone. And of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without a visit to Cape Town - with its iconic landmarks such as Robben Island and Table Mountain, stunning beaches, and the scenic drive along the Cape of Good Hope that will take your breath away. Our team at Unicorn Trails can help create a tailored itinerary for you, ensuring that you get the most out of your trip to South Africa and experience everything this beautiful country has to offer.

The Best Time of Year to Visit South Africa

South Africa is an excellent year-round destination for horse riding holidays and horse-riding safaris. However, the best time to visit depends on the rea (coast or bush) and experience you're looking for. Although the temperature is excellent all year round by European standards, the coast is best in the SA summer (November to April) and the bush is best in the SA winter (May-October). Avoid South African school holidays at most, but not all, destinations.

Explore South Africa on Horseback on One of Our Horse Riding Holidays

South Africa is a truly "world in one country" that offers something for everyone, and our horse riding holidays perfectly reflect this. From the beautiful Kruger National Park to the picturesque coastline, there is no better way to explore this diverse nation than on horseback. Our team of experts offer independent advice to ensure that each and every one of our clients has a truly remarkable experience. With the best collection of horse riding holidays in South Africa, we invite you to join us on an adventure that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.