Riders Gone Wild

Company : Wild Inside Adventures
Location : Middleburg, South Africa
Duration: 2 weeks to 3 months
Approx Costs: 500 to 1000 £ Pound (UK)

Based in Middleburg, South Africa, this working riding holiday gives equestrian enthusiasts the opportunity to volunteer with horses and explore a 4500-hectare reserve. Volunteer caring for highly trained trail horses, in return for riding. Discover the joys of South Africa from between the ears of a horse, with some beautiful encounters with wildlife on the reserve. Wildlife on the reserve includes giraffe, zebra, sable, eland, kudu, red hartebeest, springbok, klipspringer, impala and nyala. Stay in the heart of the reserve, and be lulled to sleep most nights by the sounds of wildlife calling. The herd of highly trained trail horses need continued attention and care. Volunteers become part of the family, and establish deep bonds with each of the horses. Eat. Sleep. Ride. Repeat.

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The idea of this equestrian escape, is to allow riders to experience a riding holiday in South Africa, at a much reduced rate. With full riding safaris costing in the range of £2000-£4400 per week, this opportunity just isn't affordable for everyone.

Volunteers pay just £500 per week, to cover their accommodation, food, and conservation fees within the reserve, and receive the rest of their trip free of charge, in return for helping out with the horses between rides.

Work is not strenuous, as the horses live out, so there is no mucking out. Expect to spend 1-2 hours a day working with the horses, including feeding twice daily, grooming, tacking up, untacking, and hosing down or brushing off the horses after rides. Volunteers act as an extra pair of hands, providing the horses with even more love, care and attention.

Volunteers spend between 2-5 hours per day in the saddle, keeping the horses fit, exploring the reserve and encountering wildlife!

We believe that life is best viewed from between the ears of a horse, and this work exchange programme is a great way to explore the wonders of South Africa, and it's wildlife. Whether you want a unique holiday, are taking a gap year, need a career break, or just want to get back in touch with horses, this trip has a little something for every equestrian addict.

Riders must be over 18 years old, and experienced riders.