African Horse Company

African Horse Company in Stanford specialises in daily outrides and all-inclusive overnight trails ranging from one day to ten days. The terrain explored by African Horse Company covers the Cape Floral Kingdom and the southern tip of Africa’s coastal reserves, mountains and forests. Discover unspoiled white sandy beaches, fynbos and vineyard-covered mountain slopes, and ancient milkwood forests, that will treat the eyes, mind and soul. With experienced guides “born in the saddle”, the African Horse Company invites you to discover the magical bond between horse and rider while learning more about the Overberg. Whether you are a passionate rider, outdoor adventurer, nature enthusiast, birdwatcher, or wildlife photographer, African Horse Company has a riding experience just for you. African Horse Company offers horse riding lessons by arrangement.

About

“For thousands of years, horses and humans have shared a special bond. This partnership recognises the horse’s remarkable abilities and willingness to carry us while reminding us that its instinct belongs to a wild plains animal, not one bred for domestication.”

The African Horse Company is based in Stanford, 150 km from Cape Town, in the Western Cape’s unspoiled Overberg.

Founded by Howard Krut in 2007, the African Horse Company reflects his lifelong connection with horses and the natural world. His journey began with a horse-drawn wagon, selling fresh produce in the Oude Molen Eco Village in Pinelands. Over time, he travelled the Cape Floral Kingdom on horseback, eventually settling in Stanford to share his passion for riding and nature.

Howard’s farm in Stanford spans 3,000 hectares and is home to over 20 free-roaming horses. Crossbred with Arab, Boerperd, and Friesian bloodlines, they are agile, hardy, and perfectly suited to long-distance rides across diverse terrain. With their relaxed and friendly nature, these horses embody the harmony at the heart of The African Horse Company.

Guides

Outrides and overnight trails offered by the African Horse Company are primarily guided by Howard Krut and Randal Flores.

Howard and Randal are experienced riders, skilled in navigating the trails, and trained in first aid to ensure your safety throughout the journey.

Being Stanford locals, both guides have extensive knowledge of the area’s diverse flora and fauna. This ensures each ride is an adventure and an opportunity to learn and connect with nature.

Whether crossing sandy beaches or exploring fynbos-covered mountains, you can trust their expertise to guide you through the Overberg's breathtaking landscapes.

Outrides

African Horse Company offers short outrides for riders to enjoy the immediate area on horseback.

Group Size: 2 - 8 riders
Departure Time: ± 9.30 or 15:00 (to catch the cool mornings and stunning sunsets)

Mountain Ride - Stanford Hills

1 hour - R450 per person
2 hours - R750 per person

Beach Ride - De Kelders, Gansbaai

3 hours - R1,100 per person

Full Day Ride - Walker Bay Beach & Mountain

5 - 6 hours (includes lunch) - R1,900 per person

Mini-Outrides

Price and details on request

Overnight Trails

African Horse Company invites you on a cross-country adventure to discover the ever-changing landscapes of Overberg’s Cape Floral Kingdom and the southernmost tip of Africa from a whole new perspective… on horseback.

Group Size: 2 - 8 riders
Trail Duration: customised to suit riders, but can reach up to 40km per day

Guided Vehicle-supported Trails

With eyes free to take in the natural beauty of your surroundings, you will discover unspoiled beaches, untouched fynbos-covered mountain slopes, fertile farmlands, award-winning vineyards, old wagon trails and an ancient Indigenous milkwood forest - depending on your trail package.

On warm days, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean or swim in a dam with your horse.

Accommodation & Meals

Enjoy overnight stays at guesthouse accommodations include the luxurious Farm 215 and Bodhi Khaya Retreat.

Wholesome meals are prepared for you at the self-catering guest houses en route.

Skill Requirements

Trail riding requires a certain level of skill and fitness. Riders should be comfortable trotting and cantering, and be physically prepared for long hours in the saddle. The trail includes two "out of the saddle" half-days reserved for rest and rejuvenation. Travel medical insurance and sun protection are essential.

While hard hats are provided, it is recommended that you bring chaps for added comfort and protection.

Rates

2-day / 3-night Trail (Walker Bay) - R13,050
3-day /4-night Trail (Walker Bay) - R18,530
5-day / 6-night Trail (Walker Bay) - R31,900
6-day / 7-night Trail (The Southernmost Tip) - R38,500
9-day / 10-night Trail (The Agulhas Epic) - R44,545

Important:

Rates are quoted in rands and are subject to change.
Rates are per person, based on two persons sharing a room (a 15% supplement for
single occupancy will be applicable - price on request).
Rates are based on a minimum of two participating riders. Where indicated, supplement
rates are available for a one-person trial at 20% off the minimum two-rider rate.
Included: Horse rides, accommodation, all meals and refreshments, luggage transfers, and 14% VAT (where applicable).
Excluded: Alcoholic beverages.
Detailed itineraries are available upon request.

Terms & Conditions

T&Cs apply for reservations where the standard tour operator rate (STO) is applicable (unless another arrangement has been made in writing).
The full (accommodation) price is payable 8 weeks before arrival or - in the case of
reservations made less than 6 weeks before arrival, a week after the invoice date.
Cancellations made 30 to 7 days before arrival: 50% of full accommodation payable.
Cancellations made 7 to 0 days before arrival: 100% of full accommodation payable.
Provisional bookings expire after 14 days for bookings made 40-plus days before
arrival date, unless confirmed within such period.
Provisional bookings expire after 7 days for bookings made less than 40 days before
arrival date, unless confirmed within such period.
Provisional bookings are not accepted less than 20 days before arrival.
Credit card fees will be added to the invoice for STO payments made with a credit card.

Contact African Horse Company for detailed overnight trail itineraries.

Horse Riding Lessons

Contact the African Horse Company to explore a range of horse-riding lessons tailored to all skill levels.

Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your technique, Howard will be happy to discuss the best options for you.

Reviews

“My daughter and I had a wonderful time with the African Horse Company today. We were on lovely horses and had a good ride for two hours via tracks, small woods and up into the foothills to enjoy the views. The family were most welcoming and helpful. It was a first-class activity. The best way to see the beautiful countryside and see some wildlife.” Michael

“It was my first-time horse riding and it was amazing! The tour was two hours and the mountain view was spectacular. Randel was our tour guide and he was very friendly and fun. I give them 5 stars for the experience and 100 stars for Randel!” Abdulmajeed

“The African Horse Company has beautiful, gentle horses. Our guide was amazing. The one-hour trail is a little adventure and well worth it. Highly recommend.” Chavonn

“It was an enjoyable horseback experience with my family. The horses are very friendly and this is suitable for the whole family. All ages on a guided horseback ride are welcome and we had a friendly guide. Thank you, Howard and Randall! The views were awesome.” Steff

“Brilliant mountain ride. Randall was a fantastic guide and we went at a fast pace. The African Horse Company has lovely well-trained horses. I highly recommend the ride for anyone: beginners to advanced riders.” Brit