3-Day Mountain Horse Trail - "We will show you waterfalls, mountain peaks, river gorges & caves - some spots so secret that even the locals don't know about them!". The Wild Mountain Adventures is based at the Rosstrevor Guest Farm, near Barkley East, in the Eastern Cape Drakensberg Mountain range.

DAY 1 - Arrive at Rosstrevor Guest Farm (20kms from Barkley East) for welcome drinks and a briefing. During the afternoon you can get to know our lovely horses, walk along the river, fly-fish or simply relax. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal from our restaurant - housed in a recently converted sandstone barn built in 1890. Accommodation will be provided in our charming Victorian farmhouse.
DAY 2 - After a full farmhouse breakfast we will introduce you to your well-schooled and sure-footed horse, selected according to your height/weight and experience. All trails are accompanied by experienced professional guides who can help the more novice riders to gain confidence. The pace of the ride will be adjusted to suit all levels of experience. Each day we will stop for warming coffee breaks and lunch, in total spending approx 4 hours in the saddle. Today we will ride from Rosstrevor to Avoca across rural farmland with stunning mountain views. In the afternoon we will arrive at cozy Avoca Farm Cottage where we will serve dinner and then leave you to relax in front of the open log fire.


DAY 3 - After breakfast, our ride will continue from Avoca onto Snowdon Mountain. Snowdon is the second highest peak in the area and towers overhead at over 2,900 meters above sea level and is usually snow-capped throughout winter. This beautifully scenic section comprises farm tracks, river crossings and some steeper ascents. Experienced riders will enjoy cantering through the valley sections, whilst those who prefer a steadier pace can continue at more slowly. We will stop for a picnic lunch at a spot where wonderful views of Snowdon's high waterfall can be enjoyed. We will return to Avoca in the afternoon for a hearty farmhouse meal and a good night's sleep.
DAY 4 - Today we will head across country towards Rosstrevor, following a valley route that will take you via Mountain Rivers, gorges, stunning rock formations and bushman paintings. After a hot bath to revive weary legs, you will enjoy dinner in our restaurant and perhaps a few drinks to celebrate the completion of your exciting adventure. The following morning your hosts will prepare you a hearty breakfast to prepare you for your onward travels!


Our Horses: The horses that we use for the trails are mainly mixed breed, combining Arab, Boerperd and Basothoines to produce a tough and hardy type that handles our mountain terrain and climate well. Our horses are also used for checking stock and their varied lifestyle means that they are well-schooled, willing trail horses, happy in their work. All were born in this area meaning that they are sure-footed on the steepest mountain trails. Our saddler is a mix of English and trail saddles and we take the utmost care in maintaining all equipment in good condition to ensure comfort for the horses and safety for our riders. Head protection is provided and we highly recommend that it is used at all times.

You're Guides: At all times you will be guided by highly experienced riders who know the area and terrain well. Both Phil and Kate have ridden all their lives, adore working with horses and can give you plenty of tips to grow your confidence and riding skills.

Accommodation & Food: Accommodation is all provided in charming guest farms, each with lovely views and a unique character. Open fires, electric blankets and Esse stoves ensure that you stay cozy and warm through our snowy winters. We provide delicious home-cooked meals to keep you full of energy and we will ensure that your entire luggage is transported efficiently to the next overnight stop.
Total tour price per person: R2,195 based on 4-6 pox. Children U/12 years receive a discounted rate of R1,975

This price includes:
- Professional guiding 3x Trail Days.
- Accommodation and dinner on arrival day.
- Breakfast before departure.
- Use of horses and equipment including hard hat.
- Comfortable Farm stay accommodation.
- Hearty Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily.
- Landowner fees.
- Transportation of luggage between overnight stops.

We pride ourselves on providing a flexible service and all trails can be tailored to your requirements. Shorter day packages available on request.

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A must for all horseback lovers!

Amidst the rapid urbanization it is rare for the general public to have access to a major nature reserve only one hours drive from the Gauteng economic hub - even more so, is supplementing the wildlife experience with horseback safaris - it is a rare treat.

Ezemvelo Nature Reserve now offer guided horse back safaris varying from one hour to two days. This is done in conjunction with a partner who has more than 20 years experience in horseback trails. The horses are bred to be appropriate for the terrain and are very well schooled for adventure tourism activities. From Ezemvelo's stable yard guests have the opportunity to explore the 5 000 hectare reserve and move between 1 500 heads of game that include rhino, wildebeest, giraffe and leopard, keeping the adrenalin pumping!

Ezemvelo Nature Reserve is situated outside Bronkhorstspruit, 1 hour from PTA and 1 and half from JHB. Ezemvelo Nature Reserve is part of the Bankenveld eco-tone which is the transition between grassland an savanna biomes. Ecologically this is very valuable as the element of each of these biomes ate contained within the reserve, causing rich biodiversity.

Ezemvelo Horseback Safaris offer:
1 Hour rides, 3 Hour safaris.
2 Day Safaris - Self catering option.
2 Day Safaris - Catering included.
- The 2 Day Safari Package include accommodation in our chalets (lagaes) and 5 hours riding per day.
- No children u /12 allowed on 3 hours ride.
- No alcohol allowed on out rides.

Catering Included per person:
- 5 Meals, 2 Trail Snack Packs, Fruit Juice & Water.
- Meals: eg. Supper on Friday night, Breakfast, lunch and Supper the Saturday, and Brunch Sunday.

Fauna & Flora
Introduced game species include: Gemsbok, Springbok, Red Hartebeest, Blue Wildebeest, Kudu, Waterbuck, Blesbok, Eland, Zebra, Giraffe, Grey Duiker, White Rhino. Predators are Brown Hyena, Leopard, Caracal and Civet. 250 Bird species have been identified and the list is growing. Plant diversity is just as incredible.

Other Activities:
- Game drives, Mountain biking / Bicycle for hire, Putt putt, Fufee slide
- Guided walks and bird watching trails, Fishing, Swimming pool
- 2 day Hiking Trails and 1 overnight trail.

Other Accommodation Options:
Legaes: (Chalets) There are eight beautiful spaced legaes which are at the foothills of a ridge. All the legaes are fully equipped with bedding, cutlery, crockery and a small kitchenette has all the necessities for a relaxing comfortable stay.
Family Mountain Huts: There are three rustic self catering family huts snuggled into the rocks overlooking a sheer cliff. There is no electricity but all your appliances run on gas. There is a coldwater shower and flush toilets. These huts are definitely for the nature lover who doesn't mind giving up a few of life's little luxuries.
Caravan and Camping sites: There are 60 stands with electricity, clean ablution facility's and hot water showers. The camp site is close to the shop and the large dam.
Eland and Impala Lapa's: The Eland Lapa is ideal for large groups especially school/church and social groups of up to 70 persons. The Impala Lapa can accommodate 14 persons. These lapas has own braai areas, accommodation is dormitory style rooms with bunk beds and mattresses.
Tekwane Overnight camp: The Tekwane camp has two 16 bed huts next to the river. Beds, mattresses, gas stove and fridge provided. Self catering, bring own bedding, cutlery etc.

COME AND ENJOY NATURE AND GAME VIEWING ON HORSE BACK! DAY VISITORS WELCOME. PRIOR BOOKINGS FOR HORSE RIDING IS ESSENTIAL.

View our Rates

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Experience the Highveld on HORSE BACK, as the pioneers found it in the past century. Plains abounding with many antelope species such as Blesbok, Black-wildebeest and Eland (just a few we can mention). You may also have a chance of catching a glimpse of White Rhino or Cape Buffalo. More than 272 bird species have been recorded. The many water systems like the wetlands and dams provide excellent opportunities for birdwatchers to see birds unique to this part of the country. The best of all is that you do not have to drive for hours. Rietvlei Nature Reserve is just 20 km from the central business district of Pretoria.

Horse Trails: Our horses are well trained and use to our environment. Our riders will always be accompanied by a qualified guide. No unguided rides are allowed. All riders must arrive and park at the main gate of Rietvlei Nature Reserve (Reception office). Your vehicles are left at a safe guarded parking area. Your guide will meet your group here and guide you to the first overnight hut.

Keen horse riders can come and enjoy
OPTION 1: (Day Trails)
Duration: 3-4 Hours relaxing out ride with experienced guides through the reserve. Our riders just might be able to come close to our rhinos and other beautiful game. Day visitors group size: 4 -10 riders. Cost: R150.00 p/p

OPTION 2: (Overnight Trail)
This is a 2 and half day package (Weekend Friday – Sunday) from 17:00 on Friday to 12:00 on Sunday (may be altered). The route covers a distance of about 36 km through the reserve. Riders must be able to ride and have some experience. Group size: 6 – 8 riders only. Cost: R350.00 p/p

Included - The reserve also provides a stable assistant as well as trained horses and basic riding equipment (saddles, bridles, saddlebags and helmets). If using option 2 will our riders be accommodated in our overnight camps, both consist of adjoining rondavels with four double bunk beds and mattresses (sleeping 8 max), a flushing toilet, hot and cold shower (heated by the sun / solar) and a sink. Braai facilities and wood provided. There are limited cooking utensils: two cast iron pots and kettle. NB: No electricity, no gas. No fridge.

Our riders must bring:
Suitable clothing for riding (long pants), warm clothing for both summer and winter.
Hats, sunblock and insect repellent. Binoculars and cameras.
Snacks and drinks for the trail. A carrot or two for your horse (optional).
If using option 2 bring your own: bedding (sleeping bags and pillows), lights (candles, small gas lamps and torches). Cutlery and crockery. Food and drink, Clothing, good riding shoes / boots and toiletries. Hats and sun block for protection against the sun. Insect repellent, "mozzie" guard. Matches. Binoculars and cameras. Raincoats, warm jackets / wind breakers for night time. Luggage will be transported by the guide from the first overnight hut to the second by vehicle.

NB: Please take note of the following:
- The weight restriction for the horse trails is 120 kg.
- No children under the age of 12 are permitted on the trails due to the suitability of the equipment provided.
- An indemnity form must be completed prior to the activity.
- Children under the age of 18 must be assisted / accompanied by an adult guardian.

Horse Trails (NO ONE NIGHT BOOKING)
Option 1: Day trail
Duration: 3 - 4 hours
Cost per person: R150.00
Group size: 6 - 10 persons

Option 2: Overnight trail
Duration: 2 and a half days (36 km)
Cost per person: R350.00 (friday to sunday)
Group size: 6 - 8 persons
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