You can now enjoy the beauty of the Wild Coast from horseback with The Haven Horse Safaris based here at the Haven Hotel. The Haven Horse Safaris was started in 2006 by Lloyd Gillespie who owned the very successful Fishriver Horse Safaris near Port Alfred.

Whether you are an accomplished rider or have never sat on a horse before, you will enjoy a ride adjusted to your ability and needs.

Ride through magnificent forests and over endless Wild Coast beaches and experience this pristine reserve from a new perspective.

All horses were handpicked by Lloyd and trained specifically for trail riding. We only use locally produced western-style saddles on our trails. This ensures a comfortable experience for horse and rider.

 All horses run barefoot and are never shod. The horses roam the reserve freely at night and are therefore habituated to the game in the reserve.

Mbashe River Loop

Our most popular ride takes you through the forest to the Mbashee river mouth, to Shark point and back to the hotel along the beach. It is a fantastic ride for beginners and experienced people alike. Enjoy riding through one of the last intact ancient coastal forests in the country, a stunning view of the great Mbashee River mouth and an exhilirating or calm ride over a pristine stretch of beach in a Marine Protected Area.

Forest Ride

These rides through the forest are a perfect opportunity for nature lovers to see many different species of birds, plants and trees.

Mangrove Mbashee Meander

This ride takes you through forest, mangrove swamps and pristine beaches. The highlight of this ride is the mangrove forest that lines the banks of the Mbashee river. Here is a good chance to see the rare Mangrove Kingfisher and to watch mangrove crabs foraging near their burrows.

 Mbanyana Falls Ride

On this ride your horse will take you deep into the heart of the Cwebe forest to the magnificient Mbanyana waterfall. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the true beauty of the forest. Huge ancient trees line the paths and birds serenade you from above. Tether your horse a short distance from the falls and take a short walk to the top of the falls, giving your legs and bottom a rest from the saddle. Walk to the plunge pool below the fall and enjoy a refreshing swim.

 Breezy Point Ride

Ride north through the Cwebe reserve to legendary Breezy Point. This is a longer ride for saddle fit riders. Enjoy long stretches of uninhabited beaches and the beauty of the Wild Coast.

 Children's ride

For the little ones that are too young to venture out in the reserve we offer a short riding experience over the golf course. The children are led around the hotel grounds on a calm pony. For kids aged 6 and older.

Rides are subject to tides, season, weather and the discretion of the guide.