Horse riding at Leshiba

Leshiba has 20 horses. However, we ride only 7 of these. The rest are all under 3 and some of them are ready for training in 2010.
Our horses are the entire Nooitgedacht breed. This breed of horse is extremely sure footed, does not need to be shod and handles the mountainous terrain with ease. They can carry people up to 100kg in weight. As an almost natural herd, our horses stay out in the bush all day and are brought in at 4pm and stabled at night to protect them from our active leopard population. We therefore do what we call activity based riding with a guide, offering an early morning ride at 7am and a late afternoon ride departing between 4 and 5pm depending on the season. These rides last from 1 hour to up to 3 hours and are charged according to the duration. We do not allow anyone to take a horse out without one of our guides.

We use bitless bridles (not Hackamores) and Western saddles. We suggest you bring along your own helmet but we do have a few well- kept adjustable helmets on hand. Our herd is made up of geldings and mares with one or two foals sometimes joining the ride. We promote horseback riding at Leshiba for intermediate to experienced riders only as our horses are well behaved but spirited and enjoy a good run! There is also the added risk of the element of surprise with Rhino stepping out from behind bushes and warthog darting across the road or francolin bursting out of the wetland areas. The horses are well adjusted to the environment and are very comfortable around the game on the property but as flight animals they let themselves be spooked now and again!

Riding at Leshiba is an exceptional experience, not for the feint of heart but more for those who love adventure and an up close and personal encounter with nature and wildlife.

Please note: We vaccinate for African Horse sickness every year between September and October and there is no riding for a 6 week period over this time.