Sometimes, all you need to do is disconnect from everyday life. Though we have many ways in which to do so, have you ever thought of trail riding? Trail riding involves recreational horse riding, particularly in public spaces. That way, you can take in the beauty of your surroundings at a slow and steady pace.
Does this sound like something you might be into? Continue reading and discover the top 3 places you can go to experience horse riding on the beach in and around the city of Durban. A trip along the Indian Ocean shores might just be what you need…
Planning a trip to Durban? Looking for things to do? Check out these pages below:
1. Horseback Beach Adventures
Photo courtesy of Horseback Beach Adventures
Saddle up! First up we have Horseback Beach Adventures for those in Durban longing to live out their horse riding dream. Situated in Sapref, you can trot along Isipingo beach kickstarting your trail among lush greenery. With endless new sights to see, there is no doubt that this journey will bring about a meditative effect. That is why we recommend unwinding alongside gentle waves – it will ease any stress or anxiety you might be experiencing. Feel free to take a break during your 12 km adventure and enjoy tasty refreshments!
Let us tell you a little bit more about the team behind Horseback Beach Adventures. Brought into operation more than 20 years ago, Terrence and Karin Byrne kickstarted their venture offering horse riding lessons in Bluff. As years passed, their main focus came to be trail riding on the beach. Today, you are afforded the opportunity to partake in bush rides and carriage rides, too! The couple’s daughter, Amelia, is now responsible for most of the admin and guiding. Backed by a loving family, you can only expect service of the highest quality accompanied by a heartwarming atmosphere.
Did you know that there are over 150 breeds of horses? At this establishment, you will find quite a few! The horses are also well cared for, ranging from the age of 5 to 30 years old! Their needs are attended to in the most natural way possible, with the favourable climate of Durban providing an outdoor, herd environment. Most of Horseback Beach Adventures’ horses were bred and trained to do trail riding by the owners themselves.
Important information:
Address: Refinery Dr, Sapref, Durban, 4000
Office hours: 2 pm – 6 pm (Monday – Friday)
Riding times: 2 pm during winter & 3 pm during summer (Friday – Sunday & Public holidays)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Weight limit: 80 kg
Age limit: 5 – 60 years old (with an additional cost for extra guides available to children aged from 5 – 12 years old)
Contact Details:
WhatsApp/SMS: 084 467 0752
Email: horsebeachride@gmail.com
2. Gary’s Beach Rides
Photo courtesy of Gary’s Beach Rides
Gary’s Beach Rides is a shoo-in for the best horse riding experience in Durban. Upon departing from the stables in Warner Beach while getting acquainted with your horse, you will get the opportunity to choose whether the destination lies north or south of Doonside. Riders can, however, arrange to meet their horses at the beach. With Gary’s Beach Rides, your needs are thoroughly attended to. Building a connection with your horse will come naturally – this sense of companionship is one of the best benefits of horse riding! Another would be meeting new people with a shared interest. This is a great way to potentially expand your circle if you are looking to do so.
Located in Amanzimtoti, Gary Coetzee has been operating this booming business since the year 2002. In 2012 he acquired bigger stables for his 24 horses, ensuring their home of optimal space and comfort. This skilled owner can accommodate varying ages along with any level of riding experience – from novice to professional! You can also be at ease knowing that there will be at least 1 experienced guide on your trek.
But what makes Gary’s Beach Rides so famous? It might be their offering of additional services! Here you can organise a party for your little one with a donkey cart ride or pony rides. You can also get that horse-themed photoshoot you have always dreamed of. Get this: they even do horse-drawn carriages for weddings in the Durban area!
Important information:
Address: 71 School Road, Amanzimtoti, Durban, 4140
Office hours: 6 am – 5:30 pm (Monday) & 7 am – 5 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
Duration: Approximately 1 – 2 hours
Age limit: 7 – 70 years old
Contact Details:
Contact number: 084 205 9797
Email: coetzee3@polka.co.za / garycoetzee57@gmail.com
3. Ocean Trails
Photo courtesy of Dirty Boots
Though a bit further down the South Coast, Ocean Trails is yet another spot where you can experience beach horse riding, easily accessible from Durban. As soon as you mount your house, an expertly-trained guide will take you down a short path leading to the beach at the Wild Coast Sun. While you spend time with nature you will come across a variety of fish in Thomson’s Lagoon, along with diverse birdlife. As you continue your journey, you will pass a petrified forest which is best visible at low tide (keep an eye out for ancient fossils!). With more sights crafted by Mother Nature, you will have to experience the rest for yourself…
With a flat stretch of beautiful sand, you will feel how confident the horses are of their footing – ensuring an easy, blissful ride. This will probably leave you coming back to Ocean Trails, which will be beneficial for your health! If you frequently take up horse riding, you will notice increased flexibility, enhanced muscle tone and a stronger core. You will burn several calories in the meantime, too! So, just imagine that… seeing the results of boosted physical health all while marvelling at the best of what this nature-filled environment has to offer. Oh… you will get good posture, too! This sounds like one irresistible combo if you ask us…
We absolutely love that Ocean Trails caters to the young ones, too! They have short rides available for children and a pony experience for the very young ones. If you are planning on spoiling the family with a fun day of activities, we highly recommend stopping by this spot! The fresh, salty air will do anyone and every one good!
Important information:
Address: Wild Coast Sun, Main Bizana Road, South Coast, 4295
Office hours: 9 am – 2:30 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Riding times: From 9 am
Duration: 20, 40 or 60 minutes
Weight limit: 85 kg
Contact Details:
Contact number: 083 334 7711/ 039 305 2788
Email: oceant@saol.com
How to best prepare for your beach horse riding experience:
We would love for you to have the perfect horseback trek as the sun shines on your face while breathing in the ocean spray. The mental and physical health benefits are a bonus, after all. So, take a look at what to keep in mind as you are preparing for an experience of a lifetime!
Book in advance
Nothing is more disappointing than getting ready for a day of adventure and arriving at the place, only to find out that there is no capacity to slot you in. Avoid this downer by contacting any of the vendors above, and asking about availability for a specific day. Some places have a strict appointment-only policy, so this is a very important call to make (or email to send). In the same breath, be sure to reschedule your booking as soon as possible, in case needed.
Disclose important medical information
Wherever your fitness is being challenged, it is pivotal to disclose any underlying medical conditions to the vendor you are booking with. Conditions that should be brought to their attention include asthma, diabetes, lack of sight or hearing and any heart condition. You should also note that – due to safety reasons – anyone who is pregnant, has recently experienced a major injury or has undergone surgery, will not be permitted to partake in this activity.
Dress accordingly
We would not want you to experience any form of discomfort during this thrilling experience – and it all comes down to dressing appropriately! Please be sure to wear the following to avoid possible injury:
- Long pants
- Closed, comfortable shoes – to fit into the stirrups
- Light and reflective clothing items
- Sunscreen and insect repellant
- Camera and binoculars (just make sure beforehand!)
- Horse riding, rock climbing or cycling helmet (protective headgear will, however, be provided by the vendor)
Let us get more into detail – just to be sure. The following items may NOT be worn:
- Spurs or crops (will be provided by the vendor)
- Sandals or Crocs
- Cloaks or loose clothing items
- Any jewellery
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