- Ballito Horse Trails – Ballito
- Ocean Trails – South Coast
- Hoof Prints @ Giba – Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park
- Gary’s Beach Horse Rides – Amanzimtoti
- Bhangazi Horse Safaris – iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Horseback riding in and around Durban offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to connect with nature and explore the scenic beauty of the region. In this guide, we’ll dive into the diverse horse riding options provided by Ballito Horse Trails, Ocean Trails, Hoof Prints @ Giba, Gary’s Beach Horse Rides and Bhangazi Horse Safaris, ensuring you find the perfect equine adventure to suit your preferences.
Ballito Horse Trails – Ballito
For those dreaming of a beach horseback ride, Ballito Horse Trails provides the perfect opportunity to turn that dream into reality. With a 2-hour Beach and Bush Ride priced at R800 per person and a Scenic Ride at R600 per person, there’s an option for every type of adventurer. Importantly, age doesn’t impact the rate, ensuring that riders of all ages can partake in this delightful experience. The itinerary includes a safety briefing, a picturesque horseback ride along the beach, and a chance to relax afterward with cold beverages and treats for your four-legged companion. Learn more about Ballito Trails here.
Ocean Trails – South Coast
If you’re willing to venture a bit farther down the South Coast, Ocean Trails beckons with another fantastic opportunity for beach horse riding accessible from Durban. Accompanied by skilled guides, riders traverse paths leading to the beach at the Wild Coast Sun. Along the way, immerse yourself in nature as you encounter the beauty of Thomson’s Lagoon, a petrified forest visible during low tide, and an array of birdlife. Ocean Trails promises a journey filled with natural wonders that are best experienced firsthand. Get the contact details for Ocean Trails here.
READ| Equestrian Wonders: Horse Riding Centres in Johannesburg
Hoof Prints @ Giba – Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park
For an unparalleled horseback riding experience in Durban, look no further than Hoof Prints @ Giba. They offer horseback riding tours tailored for riders of every proficiency level, from novices to accomplished equestrians. Adept guides ensure not only a safe but also an enjoyable ride through Giba Gorge. Meticulously trained horses, matched to riders based on skill level and experience, reflect their commitment to providing a remarkable and unforgettable adventure. Get the contact details for Hoof Prints @ Giba here.
Gary’s Beach Horse Rides – Amanzimtoti
Situated just 20 minutes south of Durban in Warner Beach, Gary’s Beach Horse Rides has been organizing beach horse rides since 2002. With a team of well-maintained horses that share the love for beach outings, riders can enjoy a picturesque walk through coastal dunes before reaching the expansive golden shores. The stables, conveniently located a short walk from the beach, provide a charming introduction to the experience.
Riders can expect the first half-hour to acquaint themselves with their horse, gradually transitioning from a slow walk to the beach. Once there, the group can collectively decide whether to head North or South, depending on beach conditions. Approximately an hour is spent on the beach, tailored to the least experienced rider’s pace, with opportunities for more experienced riders to pick up the pace if desired. The return route may vary based on the initial direction. Gary’s Beach Horse Rides also offers rural horse rides and waterfall day trips for those seeking a different kind of equine adventure. Get the contact details for Gary’s Beach Horse Rides here.
Bhangazi Horse Safaris – iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Immersing yourself in the beauty of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is an unparalleled experience, and there’s truly no better way to do it than from the back of a horse with Bhangazi Horse Safaris. They cater to both beginners and experienced riders, ensuring everyone can partake in this extraordinary adventure.
Exploring the Southern end of the Eastern Shores section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on their bush rides allows riders to experience riding alongside Zebra, Wildebeest, Warthog, Impala, and other plains games. Glimpses of the elusive Leopard, and perhaps witnessing Buffalo & Elephant in the distance, add to the adventure.
Taking the horses to the ocean, heading either North towards First Rocks or South towards Lake St Lucia, offers a unique perspective when on the Beach and Bush Combo rides. During the whale season (June to Nov), riders might even spot Humpback Whales breaching in the deeper waters. The second part of the ride allows riders to traverse the savanna, riding among various animals such as Zebra, Wildebeest, and warthogs. Get more info about Bhangazi Horse Safaris here.
READ| The Best Pet-friendly restaurants around Durban
Durban’s coastal beauty is best experienced on horseback, and the array of reputable stables provides options for riders of all levels. Whether you opt for tranquil beach rides, scenic trails, or exhilarating gallops, the memories forged during these horseback adventures will be etched in your heart forever. Seize the opportunity to explore Durban’s stunning coastline in a way that only horse riding can offer. Let the rhythmic beat of hooves be your guide as you embark on a journey of discovery and connection with nature.
