Horse Riding
The Horse Trails were established in 1994 by Christo Germishuys, with a private concession on the 17 000 hectare Berlin forestry plantation of Komatiland. It is a well-known and peaceful retreat on the Drakensberg escarpment, 35km from Nelspruit, Mpumalanga in South Africa.
Reception Opening and Closing Times : Tue to Sun 08h00-16h00
Departure : 1 hour (all rider levels)
Mon – Sat : 09h30 – 11h30 – 13h30
Sun : 09h30 & 11h30
Day rides : 2-hour rides (experienced riders only)
Depart 7 days a week at 09h00
The experienced rider, meanwhile, will revel in the scenic, one-hour ride that will include both trotting and cantering, alternatively, you may opt for a longer ride (please enquire).
The breeds used for our trails are mainly crossbred horses that include Boerperd-, Friesian-, and draught horse crossbreeds, Kaapsehoop Horse Trails’ proprietor, Christo Germishuys, is an equine legend and gifted horseman. He pursues the natural horsemanship philosophy and his horses have excellent temperaments and are well-schooled. The horses are free-roaming, hence they’re never over-taxed.
Our trails run through rolling grasslands, pine forests and along the edge of the breath-taking escarpment.
About Kaapsehoop Horse Trails
The farm-style self-catering accommodation offers a reviving getaway in the countryside. The houses are fully equipped for your basic needs and with barbecue facilities. Firewood is supplied but it is recommended to bring charcoal with you. Note that Kaapsehoop has an altitude of 1600 m with temperatures of up to 10° cooler than Nelspruit, so bring some warm clothes.
With over 30 years of trail-riding experience your host Christo works on a natural horsemanship basis. Here you can enjoy comfortable and safe horse riding, whether a beginner or an experienced rider, on the well-trained cross-bred horses with a choice of English or western-type saddles.
As part of our educational programme, we offer an exciting five-day pony camp for the kids during school holidays, an alternative way of learning through these tailor-made packages. This is also a unique venue for small weddings, functions and corporate events.
Facilities
- Braai/Barbecue
- Indoor Fireplace
- No Credit Card Facilities
- Parking on Premises
Before you embark on your ride we will carefully match you according to your level of expertise, skill and physique (our weight limit is 95 kg). You may choose to ride with either a trail saddle or an English saddle.
Riding hats are compulsory and are provided.
All trails are guided.
A one-hour scenic ride is suitable for beginners and the not-so-fit rider, as well as for the experienced rider who can also expect to have a fun ride.
Our two-hour ride is aimed at more experienced and frequent riders; a minimum of three riders per ride is required.
Our four- to six-hour rides are suitable for experienced and regular riders; we require at least four riders for these trails.
Advance booking is required.
Only for 2 hour and full-day rides
The ride includes a stop in the Kaapsehoop village for a light lunch (on rider’s account) at one of the awesome local restaurants before trailing leisurely back to home base. The day rides are for experienced riders only.
Q: What shoes do we need to wear?
A: Comfortable closed shoes recommended.
Q: What pants are recommended?
A: We recommend wearing long pants (like jeans).
Q: Do I need sunblock?
A: Recommended for outdoor activities.
Q: Weather conditions?
A: Due to our spasmodic weather conditions, it is recommended to have a light jacket.
Q: What time must we arrive?
A: 15 to 20 mins before departure.
Q: When do we pay?
A: Pre-payment only.
Q: Do we need to book?
A: Bookings essential to avoid disappointment.