Horse riding in Gauteng
Photo courtesy Axel Bührmann
If you enjoy horse riding and a bit of adventure, Gauteng has plenty to offer for riders of all ages.
There are several popular riding locations to visit if you’re interested in trying out a few scenic and secure trails. You don’t have to be a natural at riding to enjoy the majestic Northern Farm Nature Reserve, which caters for riders of all experience levels. If you want a riding trail adventure with something extra, SA Trails offers two- to three-hour-long Western-style trail rides through the reserve, as well as lessons in the Western style for both adults and children.
There are also lots of outrides available, from challenging and technical to slow and social. Enjoy exciting canters, a series of daring river-crossings or simply an easy meander through the bush with friends. Riders are treated to personal instruction and assistance, and horses are carefully selected for specific trails.
The ranch also offers horses to lease, so you can ride with the same horse as often as you want, and also provides stables for privately owned horses. The animals housed by SA Trails are carefully looked after, and there are trainers available to ride them and keep them in good shape. For younger riders in particular, SA Trails hosts special hour-long trail rides through the reserve. There are also pony camps, which include lessons on how to groom, take care of and bond with your horse, as well as sports and additional fun activities, all held over the course of three to four days.
If you’re in the mood for some mountain scenery, contact Saddle Creek Ranch and organise a gentle outride through the beautiful foothills of the Magaliesberg mountain range, accompanied by trained riders. The Saddle Creek outrides also cater for riders of all disciplines, experience levels and ages. Saddle Creek prides itself on its safe and peaceful rides, so this is a good place to start if you’re a beginner. But more challenging rides are offered on request.
For something a little closer to urban borders, horse riding through the Voortrekker Monument Nature Reserve in Pretoria is also a popular choice. The trails are ridden on Cape Riding Horses, which are known for their peaceful natures. However, if you’re looking for more of a challenge, be sure to inquire about the "adrenaline-pumping ride". The Voortrekker rides are perfect for a relaxed family outing, and the scenery is breathtaking.
Contact details:
SA Trails
+27 (0)82 533 4545
Saddle Creek Ranch
+27 (0)79 467 9906
Horse riding at the Voortrekker Monument Nature Reserve
+27 (0)82 828 6323