A History of Horses
Horses are deeply rooted in South Africa's heritage and history, which have led to an exceptional equestrian culture from Johannesburg to Cape Town. What better way to explore this amazing country than from the saddle? The options are limitless, and the views are incredible.
Destinations
From high mountain peaks to white sand beaches, lush green farmland to dry desert, wild bush to sprawling metropolises, and abundant wildlife, South Africa offers an astounding diversity. No two areas of the country are the same, although the friendliness of its people, their laid-back lifestyle, and delicious cuisine are consistent throughout. Each region encompasses its own unique culture, landscape, and highlights, and will capture your heart.
Cape Town
A visit to South Africa wouldn't be complete without a visit to the "Mother City." Sip wine while riding from vineyard to vineyard in the winelands, and gallop on the the longest beach on the Cape Peninsula. Take in the sweeping views from atop Table Mountain, enjoy exquisite seafood, and take in the sunset on white sand beaches.
Kruger National Park
South Africa's oldest, and one of its largest game reserves, Kruger is home to hundreds of species of wildlife, including the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. There is nothing more thrilling and beautiful than riding alongside these majestic animals, abundant in their natural habitat, surrounded by sweeping views of the African bush.
Johannesburg
This diverse metropolis offers ample opportunities to follow in Nelson Mandela's footsteps as you explore the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the Soweto Township, all offering a glimpse into the country's tumultuous history. Centuries of British influence are evident still , with a thriving equestrian community and weekends full of foxhunts and polo.
Winelands
South Africa's wines are world-renowned, and the Winelands are a spectacular setting for riding. Enjoy a variety of vintages, paired with cheeses, charcuterie, or chocolate, while riding from scenic winery to picturesque vineyard. Just an hour from Cape Town, this is a great weekend trip to relax after your with other riding adventures.
Riding
With a thriving equestrian community and culture, South Africa offers a wide variety of riding activities, all easily within reach of one another. From jumping to dressage, trail riding to natural horsemanship, there is something here for everyone.
Safari
Riding alongside zebras, giraffe, rhinos, elephants, wildebeest, antelope, hippos, and many more is any equestrian's dream. This unforgettable adventure is the primary reason most riders come to Africa, and though it is the main attraction, it is certainly not the only one.
Beaches
Crashing waves and pounding hoofbeats on the sand are the stuff dreams are made of, and South Africa has miles of breathtaking coastline to choose from. From Noordhoek Beach in Cape Town to the often empty beaches of the Garden Route to the rugged Wild Coast, no two are alike.
Foxhunting
There is no better way to discover South Africa's horse country than by riding cross-country to the music of hounds in the misty morning. Foxhunt with the Rand Hunt Club, one of South Africa's oldest hunt clubs, based in Kyalami, the heart of South Africa's horse country.
Polo
South Africa's lush, green landscape is quite condusive to polo, and there are clubs scattered throughout the country, from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Kyalami to Kruger, the Winelands to the Garden Route.
Trips
Each year, Equescapes puts together unique and exceptional group trips, ranging from 8-21 days. Each trip is geared towards a certain discipline or type of riding. Choose from our available trips or work with us to create a custom itinerary of your own, to travel solo or with your family or friends.
Foxhunt & Safari
Foxhunt with the Rand Hunt Club, one of South Africa's oldest, near Johannesburg in Kyalami, the heart of horse country. This area boasts the highest horses per capita of any region in the world! Dotted with equestrian estates, stud farms, and show stables, there is never a dull moment in this equestrian paradise! Spend two weekends riding with the hunt, and the five days in between on a horseback wildlife safari!
8 days/7 nights
January - March
Prices starting at $2,750 per person sharing
CURRENT SALE PRICE $2,350 per person sharing
Wine Dine Ride
No trip to South Africa would be complete without a visit to the Mother City and her majestic mountains, beautiful beaches, and vibrant vineyards. Take in sweeping views from atop Table Mountain, dine on exquisite seafood on the waterfront, relax on white sand beaches, and enjoy vibrant nightlife. Crashing waves and pounding hoofbeats on the sand are the stuff dreams are made of, and South Africa offers miles of breathtaking coastline. South Africa's wines are world-renowned, and the Winelands are a spectacular setting for riding from scenic winery to picturesque vineyard.
5 days/4 nights
January - March
Prices starting at $2,850 per person sharing
CURRENT SALE PRICE $2,425 per person sharing
Cheetahs & Chukkers
Enjoy South Africa’s finest polo clubs and experience the thrill of a wildlife safari on horseback, where you can also try your hand at polo-crosse. Revel in the culture, cuisine, and shopping Johannesburg has to offer. This exquisite trip takes you to the heart of South Africa’s thriving and scenic horse country.
March 23-April 2, 2018 - Info Coming Soon
Create your own trip
Travel solo, with a partner, family, or a group of friends. Get in touch to start planning!
Trip Extensions
While in Africa, you might as well see a bit more of the continent, right? Check out these incredible opportunities to see and explore more of Southern Africa.
Mozambique - Beach Ride
This is absolutely the stuff equestrian dreams are made of, sparkling sand, crystal waters, pristine beaches to gallop and gallop.
3-5 days
Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls
Experience the mighty and majestic Victoria Falls while on horseback safari in Victoria Falls National Park.
3-5 days