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Explore this vast expanse of fauna and flora on horseback.
Namaqualand on horseback
Horse riding in Namaqualand.
© Namaqua Horse Trails
Did you know?
There are over 5 000 different species of plants in Namaqualand
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.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Namaqua Horse Trails
Tel: +27 (0)27 718 3583
Email: webmaster@namaquahorsetrails.co.za
Goegap Nature Reserve
Tel: +27 (0)27 718 9906
Namaqua Tourism Information
Tel: +27 (0)27 712 8035
How to get here
The closest town to the Goegap Nature Reserve is Springbok, approximately a 7-hour road trip from Cape Town (570kms). Alternatively you can charter a small plane to fly you to the Springbok airport.
Length of stay
Stay at least a few days to get a good feel for the area; there's plenty to see and do.
What to pack
A riding helmet, comfortable riding gear, sturdy footwear, warm clothes for the evening and cool clothes for the daytime. Plenty of sunscreen and a hat are very important in this semi-desert region.
Where to stay
Goegap Nature Reserve Bush Camp. Alternatively, there are a nunber of lodges and B&Bs in and around the Springbok area.