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WWith such a diverse range of natural scenery, the Overberg region in Western Cape is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination. The expanse of ocean, the towering mountains surrounding the fertile plain, the colourful flowers and dense fynbos – with contrasting ‘strandveld’ succulents on the beach dunes – all set the perfect scene for an unforgettable horseback trail ride.
The Overberg is widely regarded as the world’s best location for land-based whale watching, too – seeing these ocean giants breaching while trotting along the beach on the back of a horse will make your day.
The African Horse Company owns 300 hectares of land in the southern Overberg, on which their horses (Arabian, Friesian and saddler) roam freely when they are not being ridden. They have also been allowed access to several neighbouring farms, so they can offer guests an authentic outride experience.
These rides can be anything from a 1-hour trail ride to a 9-day expedition. Meals and accommodation are included in the packages. Trips may involve up to 7 hours of riding per day, giving explorers the chance to live like the settler pioneers who traversed this region centuries before them.
On the longer trail rides, there are a lot of opportunities for cantering and trotting. But remember, ‘Why the rush?’ is the African Horse Company’s informal motto.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the urban working world, life is much simpler in many ways, and an Overberg horseback expedition will remind you of this. The guides on these rides have expert knowledge of the area and are trained in basic first aid – this is a superb way to connect with nature on horseback.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
African Horse Company
Tel: +27 (0)82 667 9232
Email: contact@africanhorseco.com
How to get here
The African Horse Company is based at Danger Point, 20km from Gansbaai and about a 2-hour drive from Cape Town. Self-driving is the best way to get to this remote location, and if you need to, you can hire a vehicle at Cape Town International Airport.
Best time to visit
For whale watching, between June and November.
Around the area
The Overberg straddles the Agulhas Peninsula, stretching from the Hottentots Holland Mountains and the southern Cape Fold Belt Mountains to the ocean, with the Breede River serving as its eastern boundary.
This region contains many small historic towns like Swellendam, Caledon, Gansbaai, Hermanus, Grabouw, Bredasdorp and Arniston, with nature reserves, a variety of museums, canopy tours, shark-cage diving, boat-based whale-watching, archaeology sites, cycling trails, river cruises and several water sports on the menu.
Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of Africa and the divider between the Indian and Atlantic oceans, is also nearby – see the listed websites for all the Overberg tour options.
What will it cost
Prices depend on the length of your trail ride. Consult the listed website for details.
What to pack
Bring jeans, comfortable but sturdy boots, and lots of sun and rain protection.
What's happening
The Hermanus Whale Festival takes place annually at the end of September.
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