QOLORA TRAIL
Rider Limitations: Novice - experienced riders. (Must be able to walk, trot and canter).
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: £1900. 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 lunch is served, then you will change into your riding clothes and be taken to the yard to meet the horses.
The afternoon is a short introductory ride down to the beach and exploring the local area.
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 – everyone’s 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: TRENNERYS HOTEL
After a light breakfast it’s time to saddle up. Riders take a short ride down to the Kei River, cross by ferry, and ride onwards over rocky headlands and long stretches of beach. The guides will take you to hidden waterfalls for a picnic lunch and a swim if you choose!
Then it’s off to Trennerys or Seagulls Hotel (both quaint, authentic hotels that give guests a real taste of traditional South African holidaying). Here you can stretch your legs on the beach or unwind with a beer by the pool before enjoying a great dinner.
DAY 4: TRENNERYS HOTEL
The day is spent exploring the area of Qolora, including it’s untouched, spectacular beaches. Riders and horses pass the wreck of The Jacaranda, which has been high and dry on the beach since 1971. In this small seaside village, you will be lucky to see more than a handful of people on the beach the whole day.
Another night is spent at Trennerys Hotel, with sundowner drinks and snacks on the beach.
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DAY 5: WAVECREST HOTEL
A morning ride down the coast takes the group to the next destination of KwaGcekela. The afternoon is a choice of more riding in the local area, a river boat cruise, or a visit to the local spa. The night is spent at Wavecrest Hotel, where riders can kick back and relax in the Jacuzzi!
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.
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 relax on the beach.
DAY 7: KEI MOUTH GUEST HOUSE
From Wavecrest the ride back along the beach to Kei Mouth will be fast-paced! Horses and riders take a rest for lunch, before hitting the beaches at low tide for some fast canters in the afternoon.
Your last night of the trail is spent at Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, where you are treated to a typical South African Braai (barbeque); finishing off a week of unforgettable riding with the warm hospitality that the Wild Coast is known for.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE DAY
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.
TRAIL OVERVIEW
DAY 1: Arrival Day. Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 2: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 3: Trennerys Hotel, Qolora Mouth
DAY 4: Trennerys Hotel, Qolora Mouth
DAY 5: Wavecrest Hotel, KwaGcaleka
DAY 6: Wavecrest Hotel, KwaGcaleka
DAY 7: Kei Mouth Guest Lodge, Kei Mouth
DAY 8: Departure Day
