Important Information

Mkulu Kei horse trails offers a number of all-inclusive packages that can be tailor made to suit your available time and horse riding capability. An owner run horse trail experience on the coastline of the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape South Africa.

Whether you are novice, intermediate or an experienced equestrian, we have the right horse for you. We keep a variety of horses and ponies, Friesian, Boerperds, Nooitgedachts, part breeds and Arabians to compliment your preferences. All are healthy and in good condition. Whether you are planning on travelling with a group or as a single rider, we do not have pre-determined equestrian trail dates but try to accommodate you with your own travel plan, or alternatively by joining another group, on their booked dates, the daily rates will be reduced on the trail.

A must read when booking your multi day over night riding safari holiday.

This safari horse trail in South Africa offers a total riding holiday experience. A memorable horse back eco adventure along the, Eastern Cape, Wild Coast, South Africa. For your African safari horse trekking adventure or equestrian working gap volunteer destination.

"A real ride to many places at any paces"

Mkulu Kei Horse Trails won the award of excellence from the official South African Eastern Cape Tourism Board. The category best adventure experience. "Best Hiking Trail 2009".

Mkulu Kei Horse Trails won the award of excellence, adventure experience, given by the official Eastern Cape Tourism Board. "The Best Horse Trail 2010".

Size of Rides

* We do not have pre-determined equestrian trail dates at Mkulu Kei Horse Trails & Riding Holidays and try to accommodate you with your own travel plans. However by joining another similar riding ability group we pass on the reduced daily rate to all in the trail! The more riders on trail the cheaper your daily rate.

* 2 - 16 riders in a group (excluding guide/s). If we put together a trail of different enquiries, we seldom make the trail more than 8 riders but are happy to accommodate up to 16 riders that book together.

* A single horse rider can be accommodated.

Riding Ability

* all riding abilities catered for: First time, novice riders, intermediate, adventure enthusiasts to advanced horse riders can be accommodated.

* We cater for beginners and novice horse riders on the shorter trails and recommend you be intermediate or experienced for the longer trail vacations.

* On the longer overnight trails: For your safety you are required to be competent at all paces on your horse and be able to swim unassisted should you be separated from your horse when crossing the Kobonquuba River or Nxaxo Estuary. If necessary we can adapt a longer trail holiday not to include any big river crossings and we reserve the right to judge the competency of a rider and change the itinerary if necessary.

* We do not cross if the river crossings are not save and it is the guides discretion, we know the rivers and we reserve the right to judge and change the itinerary if necessary.

* Please see our #New Trail. An opportunity to learn to ride a horse, an equestrian experience aimed at the never ridden or beginner rider.

* A horse will be allocated to you based from your description of your riding ability! This is important not only for your own safety and those riding in your group but for maximum enjoyment.

* The most nervous rider in each group sets the pace for safety reason and as they become more confident we increase the pace.

* For the safety and pleasure of yourself and others, please be totally honest with us regarding your riding ability and experience.

* We reserve the right to judge the attitude of and to dismount any rider, who in the guide's opinion is unwilling to control their horse, or who in any way poses a threat to the safety of themselves, other riders or horses. Holding your mount back and galloping into the back of a ride will not be tolerated. On trail we do have beaches that are safe beaches to race on and once all riders are ready you can compete.

* In the Transkei, and if the Wild Coast beach conditions are right, I am more than happy for you to open up your pace or even race. (If the sand is too soft you can blow a horses tendon).

* Our weight limit restriction is 95 kg (210 lbs) Please don't put us in the difficult position of having to turn you away - empathize with the horses.

Assess Your Riding Ability

It is extremely important that you are honest about your REAL riding ability. The most novice rider sets the pace for safety reasons both for the rider and the horse.

It is our experience that clients that have not had formal training are inclined to play up their riding ability while those that really can ride often say they have only had a few rides. We need to allocate you the correct horse or pony for you to enjoy your ride. If you are nervous or had a bad experience please say so. Like wise if you like a more spirited horse please discuss your preference.

Use the following criteria to judge your riding abilities

It is important that you are honest, with yourself as this affects your own safety and the other riders within the group.

* Can't ride: Has never been on a horse, or as been on a horse a few times and has some kind of idea as to how to stay on.

* Novice: Ridden a few times recently, but still not rising at the trot.

* Intermediate: Horseback rides regularly and had formal lessons, can rise at the trot, canter, gallop, and can handle a horse in most situations. These riders are divided into prefer a 'calm' or a 'hot' horse.

* Experienced: Has been riding for many years, and has had formal training and has his or her own horse, and can handle any horse, in any situation. These riders are divided into prefer a 'calm' or a 'hot' horse.

Breeds of Horses at Cher-a-Don Mkulu Kei Horse Trails & Riding Holidays

* We keep a variety of horses and ponies. Friesian, Boerperd, Nooitgedacht, part bred and Arab to compliment your preferences and riding ability.

* The size of our horses vary from 12 to 17 hands and they are fit and in good condition.

* They all have even temperaments and are forward moving.

* We ride in our in-house manufactured saddles designed for comfort for both rider and horse, snaffle bits, and our tack is kept in excellent condition.

* All our horses are voice controlled, giving us an element of control of the horses, giving beginners a chance to find their seat before having to worry about controlling their horses too.

* We have a selection of quality ponies and horses for your riding ability, from absolute beginners through to advanced rider.

Duration of Riding Per Day on an Over Night Trail

* Equine trail vacations are individually tailored to meet your riding ability and enthusiasm with a minimum of 3 hours riding a day, and for those who want to ride more, up to 6 hours.

* On trail the horses require some time to graze and rest, so we can't ride maximum hours every day.

Meals on Trail

Please let us know of any special dietary requirements when you book.

* All breakfasts and dinners are eaten at the hotels along the coast.

* Lunches are either at the hotel or packed and are eaten along the route.

Suggested Riding Kit List

* Jodhpurs, chaps or long trousers - jeans or pants with thick seams should be avoided for your comfort.

Tip: Wearing panty hose under your pants can be hot but will prevent rubs.

* Jodhpur boots or outdoors boots with a definite heel. (Full-length boots and cowboy boots are not recommended. (Please note that there is a compulsory river crossing for the longer trails so we suggest that you do not bring your show gear).

* T-Shirts.

* A long sleeved shirt is recommended against the sun.

* Half or full chaps recommended.

* No spurs allowed.

* Riding hats are compulsory for children, recommended for adults, but not enforced. Mkulu Kei has a number of riding hats available.

* Warm clothing such as a jersey or warm jacket.

* Rain Jacket.

* Sun hat or cap (Please bring one that stays on in the wind and at the canter/gallop, the guides cannot be expected to keep jumping off to recover them).

* Sun block.

* Swimming costume and shorts. Towels are available at the hotels.

* Camera and film or extra memory cards, and cables to down load pictures.

* The hotels do not enforce a dress code but bring something comfortable to change into at night

* There is a laundry service at the hotels for a small fee.

* Everything you require for your horse trail is carried by your horse, in a saddlebag, which we supply. Please pack as if you had to carry it yourself on a soft Wild Coast beach.

Please; no hairdryers, loads of makeup and remember toiletries are heavy, decant into small bottles.

A back up vehicle can be arranged at an extra charge. (A round trip by vehicle is +- 200km) And will require a driver to stay at each hotel stop. Please ask for a quote.

Bookings

* When booking a trail, a 50% deposit is required within 7 days of making the booking. The balance is payable 30 days before the trail commences.

* In the case of last minute bookings your full payment must be cleared by our bank before the trail commences.

* Your faxed/e-mailed deposit slip confirms your trail and indicates to us that you have read and acknowledged the information on this page.

* NB. Please we live in a rural area, without convenient banking facilitates and reliable phone lines for Internet banking, it is important you check that we are aware of all deposits made.

Make a Booking Now

Rates and Tariffs

* See Rates page for overnight trails. Rates & Tariffs

* Rates are calculated PER DAY OR PART THEREOF.

* Tariffs for trails include at least one guide, horse and equipment, overnight accommodation during the equine trail at various beach hotels and three meals a day. But exclude transport and transfer fees to Mkulu Kei Horse Trails, gratuities, personal bar account tabs and back up vehicle.

* In the event the trail group is larger or smaller, affecting your daily rate an adjustment will be made to the balance.

* Tariffs for day rides include a guide, and where necessary two/three guides will be supplied. See Short Day Rides for rates. Day Rides

* Tariffs for Pony camp. See the pony camp page for daily rates. Pony Camp

* For a working riding equine holiday see. Equine Working Holiday

* Tariffs for working riding gap volunteers. Volunteers Daily Rates

* For a non riding gap year experience see. Adventure Working Volunteer

* Tariffs for non riding volunteers Volunteers Daily Rates

Refunds

* No deposit or full payments will be refunded unless the client finds a replacement.

* No refunds are given if a client leaves early for whatever reason.

Payment Methods

* Payment may be made in cash, direct bank deposits, travellers cheques and bank guaranteed cheques. Our bank details will be forwarded on to you.

* If all payments have not been paid in full prior to your horse trail commencement date, it will be assumed the trail has been cancelled and the client will forfeit any money paid.

Indemnity

* All guests are required to sign a standard indemnity form on arrival.

* Please let me know at the time of booking of any existing medical conditions such as diabetes, partial sightedness, hard of hearing, etc. This is for your safety.

* It is very important that you let me know if you are a poor swimmer or cannot swim if we are crossing rivers.

General

* The horse trail vacation commences at approx 9:30 on the first day and finishes at approx 16:00 on the last day of trail. We can be flexible to fit in with your travel plans; the East London airport is
about an hour away.

* East London is our nearest airport; you can fly via Johannesburg or Cape Town. Shop around with your domestic flights as there is a price war and some good bargains are to be found. South African Airways - www.flysaa.com, One-time www.1time.co.za and Kulula www.kulula.com often have specials.

* You may require accommodation locally the night before or after the trail. We are happy to advise you of local accommodation

* Mkulu Kei Horse Trails reserves the rights without further notice to make use of any photographs (digital or 35mm) or video footage taken on trail by our staff for general purposes without payment or permission.

* International visitors are advised to obtain medical travel insurance before leaving their country of origin.

* Accommodation on route in the Wild Coast is at good family orientated beach hotels, cottages and B&B with clean rooms, hot water and incredible food. With the options of a night in a Xhosa hut and camp out.

* Our add on extra camping experience is an optional extra. Please make sure we are aware you would like to take advantage of adding another element to your trail.

Please Take Note

* Horse trails may be extended upon request, subject to availability of hotel accommodation and at the guide's discretion. Any extension of the trail must be paid in full prior to the extra days.

* Any extension of the equine Wild Coast trail due to inclement weather and the effects thereof (floods, swollen dangerous rivers, etc) will be for the clients account at the full daily rate.

* Arrangements can be made to accommodate guest's own horses, but any special feeds need to be brought by owners to the overnight hotels. There will be no reduction in rates for own horses used.

* Arrangements can be made for non-riding partners to join us on trail. Please contact us directly for details and to make arrangements.

* Although every attempt is made to adhere to the itinerary, please note that itineraries are subject to change according to riding abilities, availability of hotel accommodation, rider's preferences and possibility of inclement weather and swollen rivers along the Wild Coast. The beaches also change with the tides and the shifting of sand, making some paths inaccessible one day and an easy route the next.

* In the case of a change of route or itinerary due to adverse conditions (heavy rain or thunder storms, swollen rivers etc) please respect our guide's judgement - they have been doing this for a while, know the area and conditions, and the dangers and risks involved.

See you in the saddle soon!

The Transkei Wild Coast, a beautiful unpopulated coastal area, experienced on horseback, is a must do South African experience.

There are so many equestrian safaris riding holidays and riding working vacations, why choose us? Read on and find out.

Planning a South African safari horse-riding holiday? Mkulu Kei Horse Trails offers hours of riding along open savannah grasslands, pristine coastal forests or unspoiled Wild Coast beaches. Whatever type of equine eco-adventure you are looking for there's an Mkulu Kei package that suits you.

Ever thought you would like to canter your horse along a beach, or play in the waves? You could be here on your coastal horse riding vacation, Mkulu Kei Horse Trails The best of equestrian holidays.

The sound of the horse's hoofs on the sand or splash of the water will live with you forever.

Come Ride with Us ...

and you will see rolling hills, hidden valley trails, rich Savannah grasslands and thick-forested valleys with multitudes of rivulets cascading down to rivers that eventually spill out onto quiet sandy beaches, fantastic high rise cliffs and spectacular rock formations that make the Eastern Cape, Wild Coast in South Africa one of the most beautiful places in the world.

This unique safari South African equestrian trail offers a total horseback holiday experience, incorporating beach, rural life and Safari riding, while giving you the chance to sample the undeveloped beauty of the Wild Coast in South Africa. As a volunteer with us you can make a difference by teaching non-riders or taking the advanced group.

A horse ride through Sub-Tropical coastal hills and rivers to the beaches of the Wild Coast in South Africa, a horseback-riding holiday, with so much more.

There are so many equestrian holidays and vacations, why choose us? Because we go the extra mile and more.