Go on a horseback safari in South Africa

Do you want to see wildlife conservation from a new perspective? Would you like to combine your love of horse riding with the chance to protect Africa’s wildlife? Then this is the experience for you.

Based on a private wildlife reserve, this project is home to a stable of retired racehorses. These amazing animals are the perfect vehicles to patrol South Africa’s challenging landscape – and scare off potential poachers.

As a volunteer on this experience, you’ll go on daily horseback rides and come face to face with giraffe, zebra, warthog and other wildlife. The patrol leaders are very knowledgeable and will give you a real understanding of the local wildlife. They’ll even show you how to track different animals in the wilderness.

Exploring the bush from the saddle will give you the chance to discover remote locations most tourists never get to see. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, you’ll get involved with the care and stabling of the thoroughbred herd, winners of 37 races between them!

Please bear in mind, as a volunteer on this project, you’ll need to be comfortable controlling a spirited horse both from the ground and in the saddle – even if it becomes spooked by other animals during a patrol.

What makes us different to other companies?

• We are southern Africa’s original conservation travel company, made up of qualified zoologists and conservationists.
• Every traveller of ours receives personal guidance before they book to ensure we find the right experience for their goals and passions.
• We work with a range of real partner projects, offering hands-on experience and meaningful work, so you know your efforts are truly making a difference.
• We bring people together from all around the world, so you can make friendships for life.
• We offer 24/7 in-country support. We will meet you when you arrive, see you safely onto your flight home, and throughout your trip we are always available if you need assistance or just want a chat.
• All money paid to us is financially protected through ABTA or ATOL, giving you full peace of mind when booking with us that your money is safe.
• We are full members of the Year Out Group, specialists in gap year travel programmes.