THE NORTHERN HORSE
Horseback Riding / Horse Trails
in Bergville, Northern Drakensberg
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
The Northern Horse - Drakensberg Horse Trails provides an equine experience
of a lifetime! Climb mountains, forge rivers and race over plains atop hardy
mountain horses and ponies all the while enjoying unspoilt scenery in the
foothills of this World Heritage Site.
RIDES AVAILABLE AT THE NORTHERN HORSE - Please contact us for prices and
availability.
One-Hour Trail Ride
Two grooms take groups of up to ten riders on trails around the Montusi Estate.
Trails vary from gentle plains to steeper valley trails to suit all levels of
confidence.
Kids' Pony Ride
A five minute lead ride around the stables suitable for kids up to 8 years.
Phansi-Phezulu Trail
Two grooms take groups of up to ten riders on a 2 hour trail that starts by
descending into a verdant river valley where the trail meanders with the
bubbling Putrill Stream past a cave, which boasts a waterfall in the wetter
months. We also pass a rock face where rock rabbits make their home. The trail
then climbs the Montusi Ridge where panoramic views of both the High and Little
‘Berg are breathtaking. Experienced groups will enjoy several good canters and a
phenomenal gallop, as well as some technical riding. Beginner groups will enjoy
the views at a slower pace, confident in the horses’ sure-footed competence.
Half or Full Day Rides
The more adventurous rider may enjoy a longer equine experience to see Bushman
Paintings or to visit a Sangoma (Traditional Zulu Healer).
The Zulu Cultural Trail provides interesting insights into the lives of Rural
South Africans by taking guests through beautiful scenery into a modern Zulu
village to visit a practicing Sangoma.
Those more interested in the Historical facets of our beautiful country will
enjoy the Bushman Trail which meanders is way over ridge and plain to a cave
once used by the Bushmen, evidenced by the paintings on the cave walls. In
summer months a waterfall sprinkles its way over the cave roof, which adds to
the amazing views from the cave.
These two trails can be combined to make a day long adventure.
Sundowner Ride
The sundowner ride leaves about 2 hours before sunset and follows a meandering
trail with spectacular views through quiet valleys and restful plains to a
beauty-spot in the veldt where a table has been set up with drinks of your
choice and a gourmet snack platter. The atmosphere is peaceful and romantic and
the light at this time of day is magical. Guests watch the sun setting behind
the mountains of the Little Berg, while the Amphitheatre grows ever moodier. The
ride home in the twilight is short and easy.
Overnight Trails
We offer a 1, 2 or 3 night trail. The ride starts at 9:30 on Day 1 and we
usually spend about 6 hours in the saddle each day. We do break for lunch at a
beauty-spot along the way where sensitive bottoms enjoy a well deserved reprieve
with a swim in a river or dam. The trails wind their way over the vast plains of
the Little Berg, and up steep ridges where breathtaking views abound. Visits to
the Zulu Sangoma or Bushman Cave can be incorporated. Guests are accommodated in
very comfortable, mountain accommodation with flushing toilets, running water
and proper beds (with linen)! All food and drinks are provided.
These outings are designed around each booking so that the individual needs and
interests of the rider are catered for. We pride ourselves on being flexible to
each individual guest.
Overnight Trails are usually not available over a Friday or Saturday night, due
to the lodges’ 2-night-stay policy over weekends.
Full Moon Trails
On three special nights a month, weather permitting, we take a Full Moon Trail.
This ride leaves at 7:30pm and lasts about 2 hours. The mountain slopes and
plains put on a whole new nighttime face, where silver light casts eerie shadows
and the quiet feels almost sacred. The connection to one’s steed is heightened
as the rider must trust the horse’s superior eyesight to navigate safely along
the trail. We stop at a river side for something hot to drink before returning
to the stables at +-9:30pm.
Contact us for dates.
OUR HORSES
We have over twenty horses of various breeds and backgrounds. We try to keep
them as natural as possible. They live out in fields around Montusi Mountain
Lodge and have a strong herd structure. Most have been bred by ourselves, or
rescued. We pride ourselves on putting the horses first and so we have a weight
limit on riders of 100kg (they're not very big horses!)
OUR STAFF
Michael Lee and Lindsay Du Plessis – Owner / Manager
We have a passion for horses and sharing this phenomenal riding country with our
guests.
Vusi Zondo, Sandile Moloi and Menzies Mlabe
Our guides are local to the area and live to ride. They are brilliant horsemen
and have trained many a spritely youngster to trail. Their enthusiasm is
contagious.
Contact Us
OR
See next to main photo for alternative contact details.
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