The 7-Day Journey
Ride from farmland into the heart of the uMgeni Valley on our longest and most immersive horseback adventure.
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Beginning at the horses' home farm, we travel through a constantly changing landscape of reserve lands, forests, river valleys, grasslands, dramatic gorges, and working farmland. Along the way, discover secluded waterfalls, abundant wildlife, spectacular viewpoints, and long stretches of unforgettable riding.
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This is a true journey through the landscapes, wildlife, and hidden corners of KwaZulu-Natal.
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Limited spaces available. Suitable for confident intermediate riders and above.
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Itinerary
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Food
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Drinks
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Riding
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Accommodation
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Horses and Tack
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Insurance and Safety
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Luggage
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Experience Required
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Tacking Up and Horse Care
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Our Values
Itinerary
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Day 1 – Taking Horses to the Reserve
Arrive in the morning at the farm where the horses stay and take a moment to settle in.
After lunch and a briefing, we meet the horses and head out for the first ride.
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We ride from the farm, across bushveld cattle farmland and sugarcane fields, and into the reserve.
This opening stretch of our adventure takes us to Fountain Hill Estate, where we will stay for three nights.
Each evening: sundowners, a campfire, and horses grazing nearby.
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Estimated total riding time: 2 - 3 hours.
Accommodation: Fountain Hill Estate
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Day 2 – Settling In
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We do a morning ride on the section of the reserve closest to our accommodation. We get to see lots of animals, ride around the dam and really settle in and get to know your horse.
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In the afternoon, do another loop closer to the accommodation, getting more chances to canter and soak in all the wildlife.
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Estimated morning ride time: 2 - 3 hours.
Estimated evening ride time: 1 - 2 hours.
Accommodation: Fountain Hill Estate
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Day 3 – The Waterfall
We ride deep into a dramatic rocky gorge, following winding tracks that lead to a secluded waterfall.
This is a stunning, immersive day with varied terrain and plenty of time in the saddle.
We enjoy a packed lunch by the waterfall while the horses are tied to a highland.
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Estimated total riding time: 4 - 5 hours.
Accommodation: Fountain Hill Estate
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Day 4 – Crossing the River
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Today we explore a wide, beautiful section of the reserve bordering the river — grasslands, forests, open plains, and plenty of game.
There are opportunities for cantering, and the landscapes open up beautifully.
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We then tie up the horses near the river while guests paddle across in a small rowboat (approximately a 10 m crossing). From there, guests hop onto the back of a bakkie and travel a short distance to the next accommodation.
The horses are transported across the river by truck, as the river is too deep, rocky, and steep to cross safely.
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In the late afternoon, you may join a bakkie drive or walk to a spectacular lookout point over the river for sundowners, with excellent chances for spotting wildlife.
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Estimated total riding time: 3 - 4 hours.
Accommodation: Cumberland Nature Reserve
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Day 5 – Summit the Kranz​​​
In the morning, we climb a massive kranz overlooking the entire valley — an unforgettable viewpoint.
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After lunch, we explore a different part of the reserve, with gentler terrain, river loops, and more opportunities for cantering.
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Estimated morning ride time: 2 - 3 hours.
Estimated evening ride time: 1 - 2 hours.
Accommodation: Cumberland Nature Reserve
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Day 6 – Exploring
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Morning ride: zigzagging paths, cantering through grasslands and through forests through the reserve.
In the afternoon we get the unique opportunity to explore local farmland surrounding the reserve: sugarcane fields, avocado and orange tree plantations, with wildlife free canters and easy paths and dramatic vistas overlooking the river.
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Spend the afternoon relaxing and reflecting on the journey.
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Estimated morning ride time: 1 - 2 hours.
Estimated evening ride time: 2 - 3 hours.
Accommodation: Cumberland Nature Reserve
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Day 7 – Goodbye for Now
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No riding today.
Enjoy breakfast and an easy morning before beginning your journey home.
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Please note: Routes and daily plans may change depending on weather, wildlife movements, and local conditions.
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Food
Our food is South African–style cooking inspired by the flavours of KwaZulu-Natal. Meals are healthy, filling, and delicious—perfect fuel for long days in the saddle.
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• Plenty of fresh vegetables
• Picnic lunches on riding days
• Snacks, tea, and coffee available between rides
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We can cater for: vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other common dietary needs.
We do not cater for carnivore diets or no-carb diets.
We proudly support local farmers, chefs, and producers. A single ride directly supports several local small businesses.
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Drinks
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Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included in the price of your trip.
You will pre-order your preferences (beer, wine, cider, etc.) so we can pack the right amounts for each person. We cannot carry a full bar into remote locations, so pre-ordering helps us plan.
Accommodation
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Fountain Hill Estate – The Estate
Four nights under the stars at our rustic bush camp inside the reserve.
• Comfortable beds
• Horses grazing nearby
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Swimming pool
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Cumberland Nature Reserve – The Cottages
Four nights under the stars at our rustic bush camp inside the reserve.
• Comfortable beds
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Incredible views
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Swimming pool
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Horses and Tack
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Our horses are hardy South African crossbreeds (Boerperd, Nooitgedacht, Basotho, Friesian, Appaloosa influences) ranging from 14.3 – 15.2hh. They are fit, experienced on the trail, and used to wild game.
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We ride in lightweight trail saddles.
Every rider has a saddle bag for water, snacks, and a jacket.
Insurance and Safety
• All guests must complete and sign an indemnity form.
• Helmets are strongly recommended. If you choose not to wear one, you do so at your own risk.
• Riders must provide medical aid or health insurance details before the ride.
• International guests must hold valid, comprehensive travel insurance that includes horse riding.
Luggage
Your luggage will be transported in the support vehicle.
Regular-sized bags are fine. Please avoid hard suitcases where possible.
Experience Required
Our safaris are designed exclusively for competent riders.
Not Suitable:
• Beginners
• Novice or strong novice riders not fully secure in open country
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Suitable:
• Intermediate riders – balanced, in control at all paces, confident outdoors
• Advanced riders – experienced, independent seat, fit for long days, comfortable with responsive horses
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This standard protects our horses’ wellbeing and ensures safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Tacking Up and Horse Care
Your horse will be tacked up for you.
When arriving at a new location, we ask that you:
• Remove the bridle
• Put the halter on
• Tie up your horse
• Loosen the girth
Please do not assist with full tacking or untacking.
Our Values
• Healthy, happy horses
• Ethically sourced, local products
• Supporting small local businesses
• Respect for the land and wildlife
• Minimal plastic and thoughtful resource use
• Slow, meaningful travel—not rushed tourism
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