KEI RIVER HORSE TRAIL
Rider Limitations: Beginner - experienced riders.
Riders over 12 years old only.
Weight Limit: 90kg.
Season: January - December (all year).
Dates: Set dates throughout the year - ask us for dates.
Price: £1610. Inclusive of riding, accommodation and food.
Not Included: Flights, insurance, drinks purchased at local bars/restaurants, transfers.
Transfers are usually around R1400 (£67) each way from East London Airport, paid directly to the driver. Transfers will be booked for you.
Extra Costs: Tips for staff/guides.
Flights: Flights must be booked to arrive and depart from East London Airport (South Africa).
Internet: Wi-fi is available at accommodation.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Please note this is a sample only, individual experiences may vary slightly.
This itinerary acts as a guide to give you an overview of what your trail ride will be like.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL DAY, KEI MOUTH GUEST HOUSE
On arrival at East London airport, you will be transferred to Kei Mouth Guest Lodge.
A light snack will be served at the Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, before changing into your riding clothes. Your horse-riding adventure starts now! The afternoon ride will take you on an hour or so ride to assess your riding ability, and to make sure that you have been matched to the right horse.
You will ride down to the river mouth and have a chance to have your first walk, trot or canter along the beautiful beaches.
DAY 2: KEI MOUTH GUEST HOUSE
Today, riders explore the magnificent Morgan Cliff tops - you really are ‘on the edge of Africa’ as you sit perched on your horse and take in the spectacular views.
Then it is off to discover Yellowwood Forest - our favourite place for wood fired pizza at an eco-friendly restaurant in the woods.
You will finish the day with a ride down the Morgan Bay beach before heading back to the paddocks.
DAY 3: KEI MOUTH GUEST HOUSE
Enjoy a continental breakfast, the morning trail takes you through a kaleidoscope of rural Xhosa villages, mysterious waterfalls, rolling hillsides, and of course the beautiful beaches and bays.
After a picnic lunch, more waterfalls, and long canters over the endless hillsides ensure that you have a lovely day of riding!
DAY 4:KEI MOUTH GUEST HOUSE
Today is flexible, with the group choosing between:
1. A day at the yard getting to know the horses, and trying your hand at ground work or riding in the school; or a number of other lovely out rides to explore.
2. A boat cruise down the Great Kei River, witnessing the spectacle of the Fish Eagles hunting.
3. A game drive at a nearby reserve.
(There is a surcharge for this excursion, paid by cash or card directly to the taxi driver and game reserve. Please ask for a quote when booking).
DAY 5: WAVECREST HOTEL
Today is the start of the overnight beach trail adventure!
A full day of riding along the coast, and the scenery is simply stunning. There is a good chance of spotting dolphins in the surf as you canter along the many beaches.
Lunch is a picnic, and a chance to soak up the sun and sea, before heading off to Wavecrest Hotel in the afternoon.
DAY 6: WAVECREST HOTEL
The departure time this morning is dictated by the tide. A fantastic 3-hour ride; either up the beach and back across country through rolling hills and traditional villages; or the other way around, depending on the tides. Either way you get to ride on the hard, wet beach at low tide - the gallops are exhilarating. (Optional for beginner and novice riders).
Riders arrive back at the hotel in time for lunch. Alternatively, if the weather and tides are favourable, the group may take a picnic.
This afternoon is a choice of activities. You can take a boat trip up the river and explore the stunning mangrove estuary of the Nxaxo river by canoe or boat, go for a hike, or just kick back and relax in the Jacuzzi!
DAY 7: KEI MOUTH GUEST HOUSE
Today the group starts the journey back to Kei Mouth. The ride goes inland in the morning, crossing the river high up, and away from the tides influence. The sandy paths and tracks offer great canters as you wind your way back to the beach. Then riders head towards Kei Mouth and the pontoon crossing across the river.
The group has a late lunch at one of the local restaurants. Then it is a time to wander back to Kei Mouth, and your final night on the Wild Coast is celebrated with a traditional South Africa Braai (barbeque)!
DAY 8: DEPARTURE DAY
Your last morning depends on your flight plans. If there is time you will squeeze in one last ride!
TRAIL OVERVIEW
DAY 1: Arrival Day. Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 2: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 3: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 4: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 5: Wavecrest Hotel, KwaGcaleka
DAY 6: Wavecrest Hotel, KwaGcaleka
DAY 7: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 8: Departure Day
