Namaqualand on horseback

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Horse riding in Namaqualand.

© Namaqua Horse Trails

Namaqualand is home to an amazing array of flora. Each spring, the semi-desert landscape is transformed; carpeted by a seemingly endless expanse of wildflowers.

If you visit this Northern Cape region in the months of September, October and November, you're sure to enjoy the visual feast of blooming yellow Namaqua daisies, orange gazanias and purple mesembryanthemums, among others – and you're sure to take some memorable photographs.

The region also offers plentiful wildlife such as zebra, jackal, springbok, oryx, and bat-eared foxes. You may even catch a glimpse of the world's smallest tortoise, the Namaqua speckled padloper.

The vast area of the Namaqua district is begging to be explored; and one of the most comfortable and relaxing ways to do so is on horseback.

The Goegap Nature Reserve has much to offer riders of all experience levels. Beginners can even take lessons with qualified instructors before embarking on a horse ride.

David and Ann Barnes, who run Namaqua Horse Trails, have excellent knowledge of horses and have an intimate knowledge of the Goegap Nature Reserve and its surrounds.

Ann is a South African National Equestrian Federation-qualified horse riding instructor who also spends a large amount of time training horses. She says the most scenic months to ride in the area are between July and October.

Namaqua Horse Trails offers a 3-day trail ride on weekends. The trail ride includes a 2-night stay at the Goegap Nature Reserve Bush Camp, where dinner is cooked on an open fire and you can listen to the sound of distant jackals as you dine.

You could also opt for the 1-day mountain climbing ride if you prefer. There are also 1-hour rides available for children and beginners.