Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Practical information
Location: Underberg, South Africa / Lesotho
Airport: King Shaka International Airport (Durban)
Month: All year
Duration: 3 days
Group size: Min. 2 riders
Skill level: All levels
Weight limit: 90 kg
Accommodation: Rondavel
Embark on a 3-day off-road, off-grid horseback adventure through the Southern Drakensberg Mountains and into the remote highlands of Lesotho. The three-day trail forms the heart of the experience, with the option to extend your stay at Khotso Lodge to enjoy additional riding, scenic walks, river activities or simply unwind in the mountains.
Ride along winding mountain passes, through valleys and past traditional villages rarely seen by tourists. Crossing into Lesotho adds a sense of adventure - don’t forget your passport! Along the way, enjoy open canters, stops at rivers and waterfalls and a true sense of freedom in nature.
Khotso Lodge is run by Steve and Lulu Black, whose warmth and stories bring the region to life. Staying at the lodge gives you the chance to explore scenic walking trails, ride more horses, tube the river or take a guided Sani Pass tour, making it the perfect balance of adventure, discovery and relaxation.
This trail suits riders of varying experience levels who want to explore South Africa and Lesotho at a slower, more connected pace, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, rolling valleys and the authentic rhythm of mountain life. It’s the perfect way to enhance a trip to South Africa. Whether you’re already visiting the country or planning a journey there, this adventure adds an unique and unforgettable dimension to your travels.
What to expect?
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Your adventure begins with a 1,000 m ascent up Bushman’s Nek Pass, offering sweeping views across the mountains and valleys of South Africa and Lesotho. Along the way, you’ll cross the border into Lesotho (don’t forget your passport!) and enter a land of rugged hills and striking landscapes. After a packed lunch, the trail winds through a quiet valley, with stretches perfect for cantering and occasional small streams to cross on horseback. The day ends at Thamathu Village, a remote lodge tucked into the hills, where you can truly unwind in the quiet of the mountains. Today’s ride is approximately 6 to 7 hours, covering 24 km.
Sleep at Thamathu Lodge
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On day two, you descend into a deep canyon, riding along a clear river with the chance for a refreshing swim. Explore ancient caves with Bushman paintings, then climb up to a wide plateau for open canters beside a quiet mountain lake, surrounded by rolling hills and birdlife.
The trail passes through local villages, offering a glimpse into daily life and the chance to try locally brewed beer. Along the way, you’ll cross a few small streams and take in the changing landscapes of the mountains. Today’s ride covers approximately 20 km over 5–6 hours.
Sleep at Thamathu Lodge
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Your final day begins early, with the goal of reaching Bushman’s Nek Border Post before 4 PM. The route back follows a different trail, with a stop for a swim beneath a spectacular waterfall and lunch along the way. You may cross a few more small streams on horseback, adding a playful, adventurous touch before returning to South Africa. At the border, staff will welcome you with snacks and drinks, then transfer you to Khotso Lodge where a warm shower, dinner and celebratory drinks await to toast an unforgettable journey. Today’s ride covers around 20 km over 5–6 hours.
Accommodation
Khotso Lodge
Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails is nestled at the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg Mountains in Underberg, South Africa. It has become a beloved basecamp for adventurers and riders alike, offering a range of comfortable accommodation options: from cosy lodge rooms and self‑catering rondavels to communal backpacker spaces, campsites and a charming log cabin - all surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed night by the fire after a long day outdoors, a sociable backpacker vibe or a private retreat for a group, Khotso blends rustic charm with relaxed comfort. From here you can venture on locally guided horse trails, explore hiking routes, enjoy river activities or simply unwind beneath the vast Drakensberg skies.
Thamathu Lodge
2400 meter above sea-level, Thamatu Lodge in Lesotho is an authentic, purpose-built lodge with multiple dorm-style rondavels and a central lounge/kitchen building. It offers comfortable, clean and warm bedding, hot showers and an open fireplace. The lodge is surrounded by a paddock where horses graze. Thamatu village, where the lodge is located, is simple and lacks electricity but provides an authentic experience of the local way of life. The lodge was built and is run by locals, using local materials as much as possible and aims to provide sustainable support to the community.
Destination
The Southern Drakensberg Mountains stretch along the border between South Africa and Lesotho, forming one of the most striking landscapes in southern Africa. With high peaks, deep valleys and wide ridgelines, this is a place of fresh mountain air and endless views: perfect for riding, hiking and exploring nature.
Underberg, where Khotso Lodge is located, sits in the heart of this region. From here, trails lead up into the mountains and even across the border into Lesotho’s highlands.
Lesotho, often called the Mountain Kingdom, lies entirely above 1,000 m. It’s known for its wide mountain landscapes, green valleys and quiet way of life. Travelling here feels like stepping into a slower rhythm, with traditional villages and open spaces that give a true sense of remoteness and calm.
Dates & Rates
Available all year round, with cozy winter evenings around a fire and beautiful mountain scenery covered in grasses and snow. Summer offers greenery, heat and the potential for thunderstorms, so rides start early to avoid bad weather.
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3-day Lesotho horse trail: €810
2-day Lesotho horse trail: €760
Included
Accommodation in Lesotho
All horseback riding during your trail adventure
Guide
All meals from breakfast on departure day through dinner on return day at Khotso Lodge
One drink of your choice (wine, beer or soft drink) per person with dinner; additional drinks available for purchase
Park fees
Transport from Khotso Lodge to the start of the trail and back
Excluded
Transport to and from Khotso Lodge
Visas
Personal medical and travel insurance, including medi-evacuation cover (compulsory)
Additional drinks beyond the included one per dinner
Accommodation before the trail starts or after it ends (can be arranged at extra cost)
Gratuities and other personal expenses
