Riders and cows along the Wild Coast
Africa > South Africa

The Wild Coast Trail

One of the most beautiful beach riding trails in the world! Explore on horseback the rugged and unspoilt natural beauty of the Wild Coast: ride down deserted beaches, exploring gorges and gullies on horseback. A fantastic journey with spectacular scenery from Kei Mouth into the southern region of the Wild Coast of South Africa, stopping at comfortable coastal hotels along the way. Ideal for experienced riders who enjoy exciting riding, with long gallops and some adventures along the way!
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Trail Riding
10 days / 8 riding
From £2,470

From the horse’s mouth

  • The Wild Coast Trail
    February 2023 Robin Christy aged 34
    Loved the rides with great horses (very well matched with the riders), lovely wild nature and beaches. Tour guides were very professional and pleasant company. Nice hotels and food. 'Dit was gesellig' ;) I won’t forget my horse Taitum! ❤️ I rode Taitum: a confident, fierce and fast mare who I trusted completely.
  • Cantering along the Wild Coast in South Africa
    Long canters and gallops are a highlight of this trail ride in South Africa
  • Horses against the sunset in South Africa
    A wonderful riding holiday for horse lovers
  • Riders and cows along the Wild Coast
    Riding alongside the beach, with a few surprises!
  • Trail rider climbing rocks on a riding holiday in South Africa
    This is a semi-adventurous trail, for experienced riders only
  • Riders on a trail riding holiday in South Africa, Wild Coast Trail
    Enjoy the contrasting landscapes of the Wild Coast in South Africa
  • Riders enjoying a scenic trail riding holiday
    Discover the beautiful scenery of the Wild Coast on a riding holiday
  • Riders in an open space in South Africa
    Discover South Africa in the saddle
  • Riders riding alongside the Wild Coast, South Africa
    This riding holiday offers a variety of terrain and scenery
  • Beach riding holiday in Africa, South Africa
    One of our best beach riding holiday in Africa
  • Riders and horses abroad the ferry
    Hitching a lift to cross the estuary
  • Cantering along the Wild Coast in South Africa
    Long canters and gallops are a highlight of this trail ride in South Africa
  • Horses against the sunset in South Africa
    A wonderful riding holiday for horse lovers
  • Riders and cows along the Wild Coast
    Riding alongside the beach, with a few surprises!
  • Trail rider climbing rocks on a riding holiday in South Africa
    This is a semi-adventurous trail, for experienced riders only

Itinerary

Highlights

- Exhilarating beach canters that go on and on for miles
- Horseback trails along the stunning coastline of the Eastern Cape and its beaches
- Ride inland through Transkei and past local traditional Xhosa villages
- The deserted and wild beaches are perfect for long canters and gallops
- Watch for dolphins and whales out to sea (peak viewing months for Southern Right whales and Humpbacks are July - November)
- Groups are usually limited to a maximum of 8 riders
- Varied and interesting, comfortable accommodation
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  • Day 1 1 : EUROPE - JOHANNESBURG

    International flight overnight to Johannesburg. Please note that you need to depart Europe at c. 19:00 so that you arrive in Johannesburg at c. 07:00 in time to make your connection onto the flight to East London.

  • Day 2 2 : JOHANNESBURG - EAST LONDON - KEI MOUTH - 1-2 hours riding

    On arrival at Johannesburg, you will make your way to the domestic terminal for your connecting flight to East London airport - again we can book this flight for you if requested. We recommend flight 4Z915 from Johannesburg, which arrives into East London at 12:00 noon. (If you arrive later than 12:00 noon then you may have to pay extra for a private transfer).

    You will be met on arrival and transferred by minibus to Kei Mouth. A light lunch will be served and you will change into your riding clothes. Your horse riding adventure starts now!

    The afternoon is a short introductory ride around the local area. It will give you the opportunity to blow away those travelling cobwebs and get to know your horse for the week. A relaxed, friendly evening meal awaits you back at the guesthouse along with a good night’s sleep. Overnight at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge.

  • Day 3 3 : KEI MOUTH - QOLORA MOUTH - 4-5 hours riding

    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.

    Overnight at Seagulls Hotel.

  • Day 4 4 : QOLORA MOUTH - WAVECREST - 5-6 hours riding

    Wavecrest hotel
    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 adventures.

  • Day 5 5: WAVECREST - KOB INN - 3-4 hours riding

    Kob Inn
    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’. Overnight at Kob Inn Hotel

  • Day 6 6 : WILD COAST - KOB INN - 5-6 hours riding

    Kob Inn
    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! Overnight at Kob Inn Hotel.

  • Day 7 7 : KOB INN - WAVECREST - 3-4 hours riding

    Wavecrest Hotel
    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. Overnight at Wavecrest Hotel.

  • Day 8 8 : WAVECREST - KEI MOUTH - 4-5 hours riding

    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 new-found 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.

  • Day 9 9 : EAST LONDON - JOHANNESBURG - LONDON - 1-2 hours riding

    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.

    On the final day of the ride, you will be transferred to the airport at either 9:00 am if taking a flight at noon or 2:00 pm for a late afternoon flight. Flights are not included but can be booked for you on request.

  • Day 10 10 : EUROPE

    Arrival in Europe early in the morning.

Dates & prices

Price details

- Flights to your destination (international/domestic) are not included, but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.

- Rates are per person, based on two riders sharing a twin or double room. There is no solo rider supplement. Single rooms will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Please let us know in advance if you'd like a single room, but there is no guarantee.

- Rides are confirmed for a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 8 international riders plus guides.

- Airport transfers are an extra c. 1400 ZAR (c. £70) per car per transfer at a set time. Transfers are payable locally in ZAR only and the cost is shared between the number of passengers.

- Please note that these prices are based on the South African Rand rate which can be volatile, we will confirm all prices to you upon booking

- There is a maximum weight limit of 15 stones/95 kg - please contact us if you weigh more than this as it may be possible to pay a supplement for an extra horse.

- Wild Coast Trails are available throughout the year at set dates to coincide with the tides. Rides are possible all year round on a semi-itinerant basis - contact us to find out more or see "Kei River Beach Trail".
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.

Price includes

Support Team

2 English-speaking tour leaders

Logistics

1 horse equipped with saddle and bridle per rider
1 assistant groom who looks after the horses

Accommodation

Comfortable hotels/guest houses from day 2 to day 8

Meals

Full board from lunch on day 2 to breakfast on day 9

Additional equipment

First aid kit

Price doesn't include

Meals

Beverages and personal extra
Price does not include breakfast on day 2 or lunch on day 9

Transports

Airport transfers
International flights

Extra

Tips to local team - at your discretion

Insurance

Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    09/05/2025 18/05/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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    07/06/2025 16/06/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    05/07/2025 14/07/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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    01/08/2025 10/08/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    05/09/2025 14/09/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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    04/10/2025 13/10/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    01/11/2025 10/11/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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    29/11/2025 08/12/2025 £2,470 €2,939 $3,186
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Equestrian info

Horses

There is a stable of 40 horses which are calm, energetic and sure footed. Many are home-breds and have been raised on the farm. They are a mixture of Arabs, Ango Arabs, Thoroughbreds, crossbreeds or local African horses such as Boeperds.

The saddles are comfortable for riders with a high pommel and shallow seat which permit a good seat - most also have a sheepskin seatsaver on top. Each saddle also has a small saddle bag sufficient for carrying bottles of water and sunscreen necessary for the entire riding day.

Guide & local team

There are always two guides with the group - a lead guide and a back-up guide. There may be extra support crew riding as well.

Your luggage is moved by vehicle and the driver may join you for dinner in the evenings as well.

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

You need to be a competent rider, capable and in control at all paces. You must be able to rise to the trot and canter/gallop in a forward seat. You should have experience of riding in the outdoors and over rough terrain as well as being fit for long hours in the saddle.

There is a maximum weight limit of 15 stones/95 kg - please contact us if you weigh more than this as it may be possible to pay a supplement for an extra horse.

Pace

The riding is at mixed pace, with plenty of opportunities for long trots and canters along the beaches or on inland paths.

Tacking ability and participation

Your guides will feed, care for and saddle your horses, but you may wish to help untack at the end of the day.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

You need to be physically fit for long hours in the saddle in the African sun.

Equestrian equipment

Guests who do not ride regularly are requested to get fit prior to the ride. It is of particular importance to ensure you are comfortable and balanced when riding at speed across rough terrain and open spaces.
We recommend our riders to wear a helmet to the correct standard and you should bring your own to ensure a proper fit.

Travel info

Comfort

Accommodation is in local hotels along the coastline with the first and last night's stay at Julie-Anne's guest house.

They are basic, but clean and comfortable. Tea and coffee making facilities are available. Meals are had from the set menus at the hotels and are prepared with local fresh produce. Special dietary requests can be accommodated for with advance notice. Please note that only the hotels on the first and last night have WiFi.

Meals

Meals are provided by each hotel you stay at. Breakfast is usually buffet style and includes cereals, bread, tea and coffee, fruit and often a hot option. Lunch may be a picnic carried in your guides saddlebag or something light at the hotel. Dinner usually consists of three courses and is local fare - hearty and tasty. Fish is often available!

Drinks are not included but are very cheap! You will put drinks on your room bill each evening and settle up before departing in the morning. Tea/coffee/water are provided.

Vegetarians and special diets can be catered for to a certain degree but must be advised at the time of booking.

Climate

The rainy season is between November and the end of March, with some storms at the end of the day. The warmest months are January and February: expect around 26°C. The South African winter (July/August) is cooler with 10°C during the day on average.

May: temperatures between 13°C-23°C during the day
June/July/August/September: average of 20°C.
October: between 14°C-22°C
November: lovely riding weather with temperatures between 16°C and 23°C
December: 17°C - 25°C

Tips

we would recommend approximately £10 per guest per day which you can give to your guide to distribute amongst the team

Packing list

Head
- Hard hats are compulsory and we recommend you take your own to ensure a correct fit.
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana

Upper body
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun
- T-shirts
- Fleece, jumper or jacket - the evenings can be cold
- Waterproof jacket - required all year round
- Casual clothes for the evening

Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Shorts for lazy lunchtimes
- Casual clothes for the evening

Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps. We don't recommend taking your favourite long leather boots in case they get damaged (they can also be hot!). Please note riding in salty water can damage the leather so don't bring your brand new boots.
- Sandals, flip-flops or trainers for when not riding
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun whilst riding

Nightwear
Pyjamas

Other useful items
- Swimsuit - for the pools - the sea is generally not safe for swimming
- Binoculars for spotting dolphins/whales along the coastline
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Bumbag for carrying your camera and small items whilst riding

Medical kit
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent
- Any medication you regularly take or needed for this trip
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Eye drops
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhoea medication
- Re-hydration sachets
- Antiseptic wipes
- Handwash gel

Our Recommendations
- In your hold luggage: Any liquids, such as shampoo, moisturiser, deodorant over 100 ml and all bottles can be decanted into small, clear, plastic Ziplock bags. We recommend biodegradable washing products where possible.
- Backpacks cannot be worn whilst riding. We recommend a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (camera, sunscreen, lipbalm etc)
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you in case you lose your originals
- In your hand luggage carry any valuables, such as your camera, ipod, ipad etc. We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!

Sustainable tourism

  1. Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
  2. Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
  3. Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
  4. Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
  5. Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
  6. Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.

For more information please see this page.

Did you know?

Did you know?

The Eastern Cape has slightly different weather to other areas of southern Africa and so the following guide may help you when planning your riding holiday.

January / February:  It’s summer, and the weather is hot & humid with afternoon thunder showers and possible flooding rivers!  While riding, you can cool off by playing with the horses in the sea and lagoons.
March:  Days are long and warm but there is still some chance of rain as the wet season tapers off.  The riding is good and the sun is not too harsh.
April / May : It's 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 you have to be careful with the river crossings.  The temperatures are pleasant until around mid-December when the summer heat kicks in.

Average temperatures in summer (Oct - Feb):  15-26° C (60-80° F) with highs up to 32° C (90° F) occasionally in Dec, Jan and Feb.
Average temperatures in winter (Jun - Aug):  10-22° C (50-70° F)

On the blog

Meet Julie-Anne from the Wild Coast trail!

"After several years of operating the Wild Coast Horse Trails in South Africa, we interviewed Julie-Anne, the founder and manager of this unique company.  She has shared her home, horses and lifestyle with riders from all over the world for over 23 years. And who knows…  you might be next!

The Wild Coast Horse Trails offer different programs that take place in the spectacular backdrop of Kei Mouth and the southern region of the Wild Coast of South Africa. Their programmes range from fully mobile 7-day trail rides where you can explore secluded beaches and local villages, to working holidays for those who are looking for a more organic experience."

Read more on the blog: click here.

Customer reviews

Customer reviews

All of our reviews are real, honest opinions from riders who have recently travelled with us. Upon their return, our riders will receive an email inviting them to share their experiences from their trip. Good or bad, each review will be published on our website, provided that they respect our editorial guidelines.
  • Robin Christy aged 34 SCHERPENZEEL 1 trip
    February 2023
    Loved the rides with great horses (very well matched with the riders), lovely wild nature and beaches. Tour guides were very professional and pleasant company. Nice hotels and food. 'Dit was gesellig' ;) I won’t forget my horse Taitum! ❤️ I rode Taitum: a confident, fierce and fast mare who I trusted completely.
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide