Northern Drak Horse Trails

A day in the saddle on this Northern Berg Horse trail will see you traversing mountain ridges, forging crisp streams and galloping along wide open plains; whilst overnighting in the comfort of a mountain lodge at night.

The sure-footed horses have been bred in the area, so whilst the terrain may be technical, you are on experienced footing. This overnight trail is a pioneer adventure suited to both novice and experienced riders.

Trip Duration1.5 - 2 Ride Days / 1 Night2 - 3 Ride Days/ 2 Nights
Daily DistancesRide Day 1: 6.5 - 7hr ride timeRide Day 2: 7 - 7.5hr ride timeRide Day 2/3: 3-4hr ride time
Trail Grading3/ 5 - Fitness. Moderate to good overall fitness and endurance needed, but previous horse-riding experience not essential.3/ 5 - Technicality. The trail covers some technical riding, but you can trust in the sure-footed horses.
Trail TerrainExciting riding, with steep descents into river valleys and climbs up ridges. The steep terrain is punctuated by wide open plains conducive to galloping for the more experienced riders.
Accommodation1 Night at a Tented Bush Camp in Northern Drak Valley1 Night in a Log Cabin Lodge
Logistic SupportA fully-catered trail, sleeping in comfortable lodges with meals and all equipment provided.
Group SizePossible from 2 persons, maximum 8 persons/group.
Pricing1.5 Day/ 1 Night Option: R3,900/pp

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At a Glance

High mountains, sandstone cliffs and rolling plains provide a scenic backdrop to this Northern Drakensberg multi-day horse trail. Guests wishing to include a cultural element to their ride, can ride through the local village, visiting a Sangoma, and getting a feel for contemporary rural Zulu life.

The sure-footed horses have been bred in the area so whilst the terrain may seem technical, you are on experienced footing.

Each night you will sleep in a comfy mountain lodge, so you get to play cowboy by day... but sleep in a proper bed by night.

Day 1Arrival Day
Self-drive to Northern Berg (3-3.5hr) from Durban/JHB.
Overnight: own accom booking – we can assist with options.
Day 2Ride Day 1: 4-6hr ride up to Drak Mountain Lodge.
09h30: Meet at stables, saddle-up, and embark on the trail traversing river valleys, and climbing up the ridge line to Drak Mountain Lodge. Luggage transferred by vehicle.
Overnight: Drak Mountain Lodge (Lunch on the trail. Dinner at Mountain lodge)
Day 3Ride Day 2: Approx 3.5hr ride back to stables
After a relaxed breakfast, enjoy a sure-footed descent back down the valley, returning by midday on the 1.5 day package or mid-afternoon on the 2 day trip. (Breakfast and optional lunch on the trail)

1 Night at Eco-Camp in the Northern Berg valley (2 Night trail)

1 Night at Mountain Lodge – log cabins nestled under the sandstone cliffs (1 & 2 night trail)

Mountain Lodge CabinsOvernight on the Northern Drak 2 Day/ 1 Night Horse Trail

Do we need previous riding experience?
No, the horses have been bred in the area so whilst the terrain is fairly technical, you are on experienced footing. However, a good level of endurance and overall physical fitness is required for the 'time in the saddle' - which many people underestimate.
Is there an age and weight limit for these trails?
Yes. There is a rider weight limit of 100kgs (the horses are a smaller sturdy breed). Children should be 13yrs or older, unless solid riding experience (preferably multi-day), can be proven.
What is the best time of year for this trail?
In the high berg, one can experience 4 seasons in a day. Autumn (Mar-May) and Spring (mid August - Oct) are some of the best months, but for the most stable weather, winter months (June-July) can be the best – chilly starts but generally warm and dry days with a warm lodge to snuggle down overnight. Afternoon thunderstorms are most common in the hottest months (Nov-Feb).
Do you run scheduled trips or when can we do these trips?
We do not run scheduled tours, and will try to accommodate your date request provided you are a minimum of 2 persons, and as per lodge and the guide/horse availability.
The overnight trails are not usually available over a weekend (Friday or Saturday night), due to the lodges ‘2-night stay’ policy over weekends. But if the weekend is outside of a popular period (i.e. not a long weekend or school holiday) – we will endeavour to organise it for you.
What riding equipment do we need?
All tack and helmets will be provided. However we recommend you bring along a small daypack that can carry a water-bladder for easy hydration enroute (In summer months you will need to carry at least 1.5l of water).
What clothing should we wear?
Closed shoes (boots or tekkies), long and tight fitting pants (jeans or jodphurs) to prevent chaffe, long sleeve cotton or light wicking top, and sunscreen – NB. The dress code at the overnight lodge is practical casual.