Wild Coast Horse Trail Wild Coast South Africa Explore the rugged, unspoiled natural beauty of the Wild Coast of South Africa. Miles and miles of empty beaches, remote rural villages, spectacular country side and fantastic riding! A malaria-free area, the Wild Coast offers unparalleled riding experiences over rocky headlands, through the rolling hills of the former homeland of the Transkei and along vast tracts of unoccupied golden beaches. This trail takes riders along the coast from Kei Mouth into the southern region of the Wild Coast, staying at coastal hotels along the way which provide comfortable, unpretentious stop-overs for horse and rider alike! The ride is carefully planned to ensure optimum riding experience balanced with rest periods for our hard-working horses whose responsiveness and enthusiasm is complemented by their fitness and stamina. Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Meeting: Kei Mouth Airport:   East London Airport Transfer: East London Airport Trip Brochure (PDF)

Packages and Options

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Transfer and Other Charges:

Trails are scheduled throughout the year to coincide with the New or Full moon, ensuring that we get maximum low tides on the beaches and safe river crossings.

Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
On arrival at East London Airport, you will be transferred to Kei Mouth. A light lunch is served, after which you will change into your riding clothes and head to the horse paddocks where you’ll meet your horses. A short introductory ride gives you the chance to get to know your horse and blow away some of those travelling cobwebs. A relaxed, friendly evening meal awaits you back at the guesthouse along with a good night’s sleep.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge

Day 2 (Sunday): Kei Mouth to Qolora
Now your horse-riding adventure starts in earnest! After breakfast, you’ll head back to the paddocks to mount up ready for a short ride down to the Kei River. Here, you and your horse will climb aboard the historic ferry and head over the river into the Old Transkei - where the real Wild Coast begins! The morning will be full of excitement and exploration as you ride over rocky headlands and discover freedom on the long, empty beaches. The ride will take you through forests and rolling hills to a hidden waterfall where you can enjoy a picnic lunch and one of the most scenic swims you’re ever likely to encounter! The afternoon ride meanders back towards the coast where Seagulls Hotel awaits with cold beers and a friendly beach vibe. Here you can stretch your legs on the beach, cool down in the pool, or simply sit and enjoy the sound of the waves as they crash into shore. The evening promises a generous meal, and the chance to share stories with your fellow riders. Our unhurried itinerary gives you plenty of time to explore the hotel and the nearby beaches. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Seagulls Hotel

Day 3 (Monday): Qolora to Mazeppa Bay
You will awake to the sound of the sea and the sense of solitude that comes with sleeping on the edge of Africa. After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to move up the coast to Wavecrest Hotel and Spa.
A brisk morning ride sees you traversing rolling hills, clambering up rocky outcrops, and enjoying never-ending canters along unspoilt sandy beaches. Friendly locals greet you as you pass through rural settlements that remain largely untouched by time.
You’ll encounter several inland river drifts, open grasslands, and winding sandy paths before veering back towards the sea where the warm hospitality of Wavecrest Hotel awaits.
With its traditional thatched cottages and breathtaking views, Wavecrest is a favourite among guides and guests alike. After a light lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore, or relax as you wish. Soothe aching muscles at the Wavecrest spa, explore the river on a kayak, or brave the restless waves of the Indian Ocean - let the spirit of the Wild Coast guide you!
As the sun dips below the horizon, the group will reconvene for sundowners to celebrate the day's journey. Later, you’ll enjoy a simple meal of home-cooked local dishes - the perfect end to a day of Wild Coast adventures.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Wavecrest Hotel

Day 4 (Tuesday): Mazeppa Bay to Qwaninga River
The tides dictate the next leg of your adventure as you embark on a fast-paced ride to your most remote destination – Kob Inn. Heading inland, you’ll cross several rivers before dropping back onto the beach for some exhilarating canters and thrilling stretches along pristine shorelines.
Enjoy breakfast "on the hoof" as you traverse the ever-changing landscape that is the Wild Coast. From rolling hills and open grasslands to narrow winding cattle paths that hover over the crashing waves below, you’ll experience a living tapestry of land and sea.
With one final river crossing under your belt, you’ll arrive at Kob Inn just in time for lunch. In the afternoon you can relax and soak up the laid-back hospitality of another coastal treasure. With a pub on the rocks overlooking the wild seas and sheltered private beaches on either side, this is an exquisite location in which to kick back and truly embrace ‘Africa time’. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kob Inn Hotel

Day 5 (Wednesday): Beach Ride
After an afternoon of relaxation, you should be fresh and ready for a full day in the saddle. Once again, the tides dictate the day’s schedule which will take you about 20 km up the coast along sheltered beaches into hidden coves and beautiful lagoons.
Your guide will select a suitable spot for you to enjoy a picnic and possibly even a swim in a lagoon before heading back to Kob Inn for an evening of delicious dining and maybe a few cocktails! 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kob Inn Hotel

Day 6 (Thursday): Qwaninga River to KwaGcaleka
Time is flying by and it’s already time to turn around and head back down the coast. Once more, the timing of the day’s riding will depend on the tides as you cross rivers, climb hills and speed along beaches on your way to Wavecrest Hotel. After a good +/- 30km ride, the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish, whether that’s another massage at the Wavecrest spa; or a canoe trip into the rare mangrove forests that line the Ngqusi and Nxaxo Rivers. More South African coastal hospitality awaits you as you relax and allow yourself to be spoilt by the caring Wavecrest staff. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Wavecrest Hotel

Day 7 (Friday): KwaGcaleka to Kei Mouth
The penultimate day of your adventure is full of riding with fast-paced stretches along the beach, winding canters through the grasslands, and some technical sections that will put your newfound partnership with your horse to the test.
Soak up every moment of the adventure as you traverse narrow coastal paths, and shallow river crossings that sparkle in the sunlight, and weave through scattered rural homesteads where children wave excitedly as you pass.
This varied terrain showcases the full tapestry of Wild Coast riding, demanding concentration and skill while rewarding you with ever-changing vistas that capture the untamed essence of this remarkable coastline.
Stop off at one of the coastal hotels for a much-needed break and a chance to refuel, before continuing your journey to the Kei River where the ferry awaits.
The ride ends with a quick trot through the village, or a final canter along the Kei Mouth beach depending on the tide, before arriving back at the paddock where your horse will receive some well-earned pampering and a hearty meal.
You’re in for some similar treatment as you head to the local restaurant, The Yard, to sample some of the region’s best seafood as you soak up the laid-back atmosphere and relive the week’s adventures. With its delicious seafood and warm hospitality, The Yard is the perfect place to unwind after an unforgettable ride.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge

Day 8 (Saturday): Departure day
Depending on your departure time, you could squeeze in one more ride before the shuttle picks you up to transfer you back to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast

Note: All riding and itineraries are subject to change due to variations in local conditions, hotel accommodation availability, rider’s abilities, the weather & the influences of the sea tides and during the rainy season the conditions of the rivers.

                                            East London area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	76	76	74	72	69	67	66	66	66	68	71	74
Average Low Temperature (°F)	62	63	61	58	54	51	50	50	52	55	58	61
Average High Temperature (°C)	24	24	24	22	21	20	19	19	19	20	21	23
Average Low Temperature (°C)	17	17	16	14	12	10	10	10	11	13	14	16
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	10	9	10	9	8	7	8	9	9	10	10	10

Source: NOAA
 
 
Seasons
The Indian Ocean creates a sub-tropical land of flora and fauna from different climates all flourishing side by side like nowhere else in Southern Africa. The east coast, encompassing KwaZulu-Natal and the Wild Coast, is sub-tropical, with high humidity.
 
The climate along the coast is nearly always warm to hot, with humidity levels rising form December to March. The climate is temperate with warm summers and mild winters. Soft gently falling rain occurs during the summer months (November to March) although it can be wet it is never cold.

The best time to visit is from the end of March through to August. During September, October and November the weather is generally good but can be unpredictable as this is when we have our spring rains!

Temperatures in summer: 15-26° C (60-80° F) with occasional highs of up to 32°C (90°F) in Dec, Jan and Feb.
Temperatures in winter: 10-22°C (50-70° F) 

January/February: It’s summer, and the weather is hot & humid with afternoon thunder showers, we have to be aware of flooding rivers!  While riding, you can cool off by playing with the horses in the sea and lagoons. 
March: days are long and warm, still some chances of rain as the wet season tapers off.  The riding is good and the sun is not as harsh. 
April/May: Autumn, with warm days and blue skies.  Good riding weather. 
June/July/August:  Winter days are dry and warm, with cool nights.   The sun sets early, but the weather is so fine you can be out on your horse all day. Good riding weather. 
September:  The end of winter.  It can be windy and wet. 
October/November/December:  Lovely time of year, everything is green and fresh as the spring rains bring relief to the parched earth.  Riding is mostly fine during the day, with late afternoon rainstorms and we have to watch the river crossings.  The temperatures are pleasant until around mid-December when the summer heat kicks in. 
December/January is the summer & Christmas holidays. 

Packing List
• Jodhpurs or riding pants.
• Riding chaps or long boots.
• Own hard hat.
• Shorts for walking and hiking.
• Walking shoes or boots to ride in.
• Slip slops or sandals.
• A couple of light long sleeved shirts with collars to protect you from the sun while riding.
• T shirts and tops.
• Light long trousers. Jeans will do.
• Something comfortable to wear to dinner in the evenings.
• Warm clothing 1 x jersey (jumper/fleece) to ride in and a nice one for the evenings!
• A good warm rain proof coat.
• Lightweight rain jacket/wind breaker that can be tied to your saddle.
• Sun block. Factor 50 is recommended!
• Swimming costume and swimming towel.
• A torch (flashlight)
• A camera and binoculars (battery charger).
• South African plug adaptor!
• Reading material
• Other items of a personal nature.
• Enough cash to cover your drinks and spa treatments and other items of a personal nature. All hotels accept Mastercard and Visa.

Note: A valid credit card to cover any unforeseen emergency. This would be used to cover the unlikely event of a medical emergency. The doctors and hospitals in our area demand a deposit to be paid up front. You would be able to reclaim this amount from your travel insurance.

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Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights will be spent in different locations.

Description
The hotels used by the trails offer a series of quaint accommodation all with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Only accessible by others by dirt road or airstrip, they offer a break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Each hotel has something special to offer, from stunning views, river boat trips, rickety rope bridges and whale and dolphin watching from the bar. All hotels will be well remembered even after a fleeting visit. The hotels are comfortable, old fashioned, family sea side resorts, that are made for sandy feet, sun kissed skin, wind blown hair and they welcome us horse riders with informal relaxed Wild Coast hospitality. All rooms have private bathrooms and WIFI on site.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge
Night 2: Seagulls Hotel
Night 3: Wavecrest Hotel
Night 4 & 5: Kob Inn
Night 6: Wavecrest Hotel
Night 7: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge


Kei Mouth Guest Lodge
Situated in the village of Kei Mouth and is a short distance away from the horse yard. There are several lovely rooms available for our riding guests, all with modern en-suite shower and toilets, tea making facilities, and everything else expected in a Bed & Breakfast guest lodge. The lodge is within walking distance to the supermarket, pubs, restaurants, the beach, the Kei River & ferry crossing. Laundry is available for an additional fee.

Seagulls Hotel
This 4-star hotel offers amazing ocean views. The newly renovated rooms are dotted around the property, offering a tranquil and charming space. Each room is fitted with a TV, ensuite bathroom, a patio, a fan and free Wi-Fi internet. Guests are welcome to relax in the outdoor pool.


Kob Inn
It is on the rocks on the edge of the sea. This is a lovely hotel.


Wavecrest Hotel
Stunningly situated, the thatched rondavels make this a very nice retreat. Both pools and hot tubs are available at your disposal. There is a table tennis room, jungle gym and sand-pit, tennis court, squash court and a fishing jetty. Feel free to book some time at the spa (fees not included) for some extra relaxation.

Room Occupancy
Single supplement fee is waived if you are willing to share.



Meals
All meals are included from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on the last day.

Breakfast is hearty, with a selection of cereals, fruit, yogurt, toast, and the traditional bacon and eggs.
Lunch is varied, sometimes light, a choice from a pub lunch menu, or picnic while out riding.
Dinner is normally around 7:00pm and will consist of a starter, main dish of roast meat/ chicken or casserole-type dish with vegetables, followed by a dessert.

Alcohol is not included, but can be purchased.

Dietary Restrictions
The hotels can cater to a limited degree for vegetarians and gluten intolerance or a food allergy, with prior notice.
It is assumed that people with "special needs" will simply leave what they dont want to eat, choose something from what is available or bring an alternative with them.
There is generally a selection at meal times, and for the most part food is prepared from fresh produce.  We are situated in a remote area, and access to special milk or fancy alternatives is difficult to source.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		Liversage trail & endurance saddles with snaffle mouths
Horses:		Mainly Boerperd, Thoroughbred, & home bred Anglo/Part Arabs and Percheron crosses.
Pace:		All paces 4- 5 hrs per day (30-40km daily). 190km total | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(3.5 to 5 out of 5)    Strong Intermediate
Weight:		Max 210 lbs / 95 kg
Riders:		Min 2	Max 8

Riding Experience
This trip is suitable for strong intermediate and advanced riders only as some days are 30 to 40 km in the saddle, along fast beaches & challenging terrain! Our holiday is for riders who have ridden before and are comfortable and confident at a trot, canter, and gallop, and who can control their horse independently and I open areas. If in doubt, it is a good idea to contact us and discuss your needs and expectations.

Pace
The trail pace varies from walking through the country side to enable good wild life viewing, long trots and canters on open plains, to fast gallops down the beaches if wanted. We generally ride 2 to 3 hours in the morning and again 1 ½ to 2 hours in the afternoon, depending on the weather, sea tides and what the riders can manage. Sometimes it is a little shorter, and sometimes a little longer.
On some days we cover 30 to 40 km in the saddle, along beaches & challenging terrain. We will ride a total of 190 km over 6 riding days.

Horses
Our horses are of a very high quality, endurance fit and well schooled. They are selected and trained for trail riding with great care. Just as your guides are professional and know the area in which they operate, the horses are familiar with the environment and conditions in which they are being ridden. They are sturdy, comfortable to ride, beautiful, forgiving, easy to ride and control, yet lively to command and enjoy their work. Athletic and barefoot, they take you over a wide range of terrain.
Many of our horses are homebred and include Arabs, Anglo Arabs, Arab/ Percheron crosses and of course the trusty Boerperd. The average height of our horses is about 15.2hh.  We find that for trail riders this is a good size horse- making them light and sure-footed along the sandy beaches and rocky headlands.
All types of riders can be catered for, from those that would appreciate gentle, confidence givers to people that like a horse with a lot of personality!

Tack
The saddles are especially designed for trail riding by Leon Liversage. The saddle distributes the weight equally on the horses back and is very comfortable for the rider. The design with a high pommel and cantle makes one sit straight automatically and is therefore better for you and the horse. Each horse has its own saddle to ensure a comfortable-and perfect fit.
Each saddle is equipped with a splash-proof saddlebag carrying 2 water bottles and can hold a camera and other essentials while out riding for the day. The tack and equipment is scrupulously maintained.

Riding Helmet
Helmets are mandatory for this trip. We have a selection, but it is always best to bring your own to ensure a good fit.

Guides
Your professional guides and hosts will receive you with true South African hospitality, having lived their whole lives in this area they ensure that you get the most from your adventure into the malaria-free Eastern Cape Province. Their high standard of service, love of horses, and passion for what they do make this horse-riding holiday exceptional. The guides are expert and the staff will pamper you.
This is a full service riding holiday. Your guides and grooms will prepare the horses for you in the morning and take care of them after the ride. You just show up and enjoy - unless of course you want to get involved - the choice is yours.

Passports

Passport valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure required by all nationals referred to in the chart.

Passport Note

Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry stamp. This cannot include the 'endorsement' page at the back. Passengers who also require a visa must have a passport with two blank facing pages, one for the visa and one for their entry stamp. Anyone attempting to enter South Africa without the required pages will be returned to their country of origin.



Visas

Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days for business and tourist purposes, except:

1. nationals of Cyprus, Hungary, Poland and Slovak Republic who may stay for up to 30 days, and nationals of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania and Slovenia who do require a visa, unless transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft provided holding onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport (advance notice of overnight stay is required).

Visa Note

(a) Proof of financial means may be required. (b) Unaccompanied children under the age of 18 years must hold written consent from their parents when travelling alone. (c) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses). (d) After entry, extensions of stay may be sought from the Department of Home Affairs.

Types of Visa and Cost

Visa fee: £35. UK nationals are exempt from visa fees.

Validity

Dependent on length of stay requested. Permits may be extended if done so 30 days prior to expiry of original permit.

Applications to:

Consulate (or consular section at embassy or high commission); see Contact Addresses. Applicants in countries where South Africa is not represented may send their applications to the embassy in the nearest country.

Working Days Required

Five to 10 days. 

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	Some
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes