Horse riding in Sutherland

Starlit Saddles: Horse Riding in Sutherland

Experience the stark beauty of the Karoo beneath your mount as you explore the remote hills and wide-open plains around Sutherland on horseback. Known for its clear, cold air and dramatic landscapes, this region offers unforgettable rides for all skill levels—from gentle guided outrides to spirited gallops across veld and gravel tracks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, you'll feel a sense of connection with the land and the animal beneath you.

Rides wind through rolling hills, scrubland valleys, and dry riverbeds, often leading to hilltops with sweeping views of the grey-blue Roggeveld Mountains or the tiny dots of lights from the town far below. In winter, horses tread softly through patches of snow, while in summer the vast skies stretch overhead, sometimes revealing incredible stargazing as the sun dips beyond the horizon. Guided rides balance gentle gaits with opportunity for more spirited canters when terrain allows—making it fun for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

A ride typically lasts two to three hours, with options for shorter scenic tours or customized multi-hour adventures. Guides ensure comfort and safety, pairing riders with horses suited to their level and offering insights into the region’s flora, fauna, and culture. Along the way, moments of stillness—a grazing horse, a distant call of a Karoo bird, the muted colors of rocky outcrops—create a deep sense of peace.

Horse riding in Sutherland isn’t just a ride—it’s an immersion in the tranquil, timeless heart of the Karoo, followed by cosy evenings under star-filled skies and the gentle rhythm of horse hooves echoing in your memory.