Horseback Riding in Namibia

Skeleton Coast

Overview

This ride combines the best of both the formidable Skeleton Coast and rugged Damaraland, with undulating, rocky landscapes and huge open plains. You’ll start from the coast and venture into the remote western Damaraland and back onto the wild Atlantic beaches. This is a riding trip for the true adventurous spirit.

The tents are two-person dome tents. You have the option of sleeping in the tents, or under the stars.

Meals are prepared over the open fire. This braai or potjiekos is typical for Namibia, and often a welcome surprise.

  • Overview:
    The horses are selected for their ability to negotiate the Namib terrain, and for their stamina. Arab cross, Trakehner, and local ranch breeds make up the outfitter’s string. They are small to mid-sized, swift in rough terrain, and with a kind and reliable disposition. Endurance saddles are provided.
  • Horse Breeds:
    Arab Cross, Trakehner, Local Ranch Bred
  • Trip Pace:
    moderate to fast
  • Tack:
    Endurance Saddles
  • Weight limit:
    85 kg (187 lb) in riding gear

This is not an option for non-riding companions.

Arrive any time on Day 1 at Windhoek International Airport (Hosea Kutako). If you plan to arrive a few days prior to the ride date, please inform Equitours of your travel plans and accommodations in Windhoek. You are responsible for making your own transfer arrangements to the guest house on the first day. Departure flights from Windhoek on Day 11 can be anytime after 3pm.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at Windhoek, transfer to a hotel for sundowners and dinner with your guide.

Day 2

Early breakfast and then the journey to the rugged Skeleton Coast – approximately 4 hours to the lunch spot in the charming town of Swakopmund, and then a further 3 hours up the coast to camp. Visit the Cape Cross Fur Seal Colony on the way. The abundance of oxygen will surely knock you out for a good nights sleep tonight while the Atlantic Ocean roars in the background.

Day 3

The first riding day begins with a saddling, briefing and getting acquainted with your horse. The landscape changes all the time and the pace quickens as the terrain allows. As the soft evening light descends you get into camp in time to enjoy sundowners as the spectacular Milky Way appears overhead. Here, where there is no light pollution, the stars are simply magnificent and sitting around a companionable campfire with new acquaintances, sharing the experiences of the day is a joy. The aroma of dinner cooking in large black pots on the fire stirs the imagination of what could possibly smell that good

Day 4

Negotiating a landscape which look like they belong on another planet – have your camera ready – you will cross undulating terrain, dry river washes and interesting geological formations. Damaraland has a violent geological history, leaving a legacy of unusual landscapes. Finally reaching the huge Ugab ephemeral river – these rivers only flow seasonally and sometimes not for years – but when they do flow, its best not to be in them as flash flooding is common here! You will see the well-known folded rock structures – called the Ugab Folds along the way before coming out of the river valley onto the wide plains above.

Day 7

Now you can expect some fast riding in this wide open and varied landscape. Sometimes the going is rocky but often it is perfect for long slow canters and even a touch of real speed! Our last ride takes us across huge desert plains to the ocean at last – the Skeleton Coast, apparently so called for the wrecked hulks of stranded ships that dot this coastline.

Day 10

After a final day of riding, spend tonight the small coastal town of Henties Bay in a wonderful private house with the most spectacular view over the Atlantic Ocean. What a trip THAT was

Day 11

Early breakfast and transfer to Windhoek (just over 5-hour commute) arriving around 13:00 – in time for departure flights from Windhoek International Airport after 15:00

Itinerary Addendum

This itinerary is flexible and may be modified at the guide's discretion due to unforeseen circumstances.

Trip Map

Trip Dates & Pricing

Departure Dates

Trip Starts
Trip Ends
Oct 16, 2024
Oct 25, 2024
Nov 6, 2024
Nov 15, 2024

Pricing & Options

  • Base Price
  • $7,540

  • Pricing Variation
  • $1,240

    Extra horse supplement: For riders over 85 kg (187 lb) in riding gear. Cannot accept riders over 93 kg (205 lb).

  • Single Supplement
  • $295

Additional Pricing Information:
Prices are based on the dollar/pound exchange and are subject to change. Ride price is set, guaranteed, and final at the time deposit is paid.


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Do you have questions about this ride itinerary? Do you want to make sure that this it is the right ride for you? Or are you ready to book? Please call or email our experienced and friendly ride consultants for more detailed information. With first-hand knowledge of the exciting tours we offer, the ride consultants at Equitours look forward to answering any questions you might have

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Contact Megan Barrett

I had the most fantastic time in Africa. The trip that you put together was simply unbelievable. I loved every minute of the three rides that I did and they were truly each a once in a life time experience. I could not recommend them more highly...

Daphne Chester