Do I need to be an experienced rider?

You should be confident in all paces, but rides are tailored to your level. Feisty horses are optional, and informal lessons are available.

How much riding will I do?

It depends on your ability, initiative, and horse availability. We do our best to give everyone as much time in the saddle as possible – whether that’s joining trail rides, arena work, or guided hacks.

Will I be guided or ride solo?

You may join guided day rides or go on your own hacks with more experienced volunteers who know the routes. It all depends on your confidence, safety, and the season.

What’s the shopping situation?

You'll shop once a week, once on the way from the airport. Extra shopping needs should be requested 1–2 days ahead.

Do I need to clean the accommodation?

Yes. Volunteers are expected to keep their twin rooms and shared facilities clean. Bathrooms and floors are cleaned once a week, but general tidiness is up to you.

South Africa Horse Adventure Volunteer Project

Ride, Volunteer & Explore Local Wineries. Saddle up for a once-in-a-lifetime escape. Ride through vineyards, care for beautiful horses, and immerse yourself in the best of South Africa’s wine country.

This one’s for the horse lovers. Set on a busy riding and horse breeding farm near Cape Town, you’ll care for more than 60 horses, guide trail rides through lemon orchards and vineyards, and get stuck into stable life. You’ll also enjoy wine tasting, beach rides, and the kind of sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Volunteers start most Mondays or Thursdays and stay a minimum of 2 weeks – with longer stays unlocking even more adventures.

What Sets Us Apart

For over 30 years, International Working Holidays has helped turn dreams into destinations, providing safe, ethical, and truly unforgettable work and volunteer experiences worldwide. Every project is carefully vetted, with secure accommodations, trained staff, and 24/7 support. We handle the details so you can focus on the impact.

Ready to Explore?

Overview

Included

How It Works

Typical Day

FAQs

Reviews

Saddle up for a once-in-a-lifetime escape. Ride through vineyards, care for beautiful horses, and immerse yourself in the best of South Africa’s wine country.

Highlights

Daily Horse Work: Work hands-on with horses every day.
Scenic Riding: Ride through vineyards, orchards, and mountain trails.
Special Riding Experiences: Swim with horses in summer or join the occasional beach ride (if you stay 4+ weeks).
Stable Life: Groom, tack up, school young horses, and help with stable life.
Local Culture: Get a taste of local culture with wine tastings and foodie markets.
Free Time & Exploration: Enjoy free time to explore Cape Town, the coast, and beyond. Ubers are available.
Wine Ride Experience: Join at least one full-day wine ride with lunch as a guest during your stay

Overall Trip Rating:

Total Reviews 4

Average Rating

5.0

Based on 4 travel reviews

5 Excellent

4 Very Good

3 Average

2 Poor

1 Terrible

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By Courtney Cooper September 2, 2025 My Best Travel Experience
I went to South Africa for 4 weeks in 2015 with IWH to the South Africa Dream Horse Adventure Project. I have traveled to over 40 countries since then, but it is still my favourite place I have ever visited. I had always dreamed of going to Africa, and to ride horses on safari, but I had no idea how to make that happen. When I found IWH online, it was literally like my dream came true. Vicki and Shelby made everything so easy. They were always so available and helpful. The fact that they were both massive horse lovers, who had visited the project was such an added bonus, because they could answer all my (many) questions and share their experiences. And they seemed so genuinely excited for me. This was my first ever solo trip overseas, but I felt so safe and well looked after every step of the way. From the team that met us at the airport, to the orientation, and the family that ran the project, everyone was so lovely and helpful. The project far exceeded my expectations, I can’t even describe what an amazing experience it was. I could not fault anything from the moment I enquired, Vicki and Shelby provided incredible service and I could not recommend IWH highly enough.

Date of Experience: August 28, 2020
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By Emma Blakeley-Read September 2, 2025 IWH’s Care Made My South African Adventure Truly Unforgettable
I went to the South African dream horse safari and the team at IWH were absolutely amazing, from getting me in contact with someone flying the same way to keeping in contact with me before and even after my trip. I have recommended IWH to everyone who wants to have a work / travel holiday but isn't sure on what they want to do. Heaps of information given and both the projects and the local team. Felt really safe the whole time in South Africa knowing that I could easily contact the New Zealand or South African team. The team at IWH where really understanding and so caring throughout the whole experience.

Date of Experience: August 20, 2020
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By Jessica Downey September 2, 2025 Lovely staff
I had a great experience booking through IWH, the staff are all lovely to talk to and did a great job helping to tailor my trip to what would suit me, making it even better than I expected. They were with me every step of the way, I felt very comfortable under their guidance. I would highly recommend them, and would love to go on more trips through them!

Date of Experience: August 20, 2020
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By Courtney Chapman September 2, 2025 Once in a lifetime experience!
Looking for an adventurous holiday I came across the International Working Holidays website where the opportunity to be a volunteer in Africa caught my eye! Delving deeper into my research and with the help of the lovely ladies from IWH I was soon heading to the Lion Conservation Centre. I felt so supported every step of the way through the highly organized systems put in place and the phone calls to check in before I left. From the moment I landed I was in good hands! There was someone waiting at the airport, transportation, amazing accommodation and yummy meals. I was lucky enough to share my experience with one of the amazing IWH ladies. I have such incredible memories and could not recommend their services enough!

Date of Experience: August 25, 2020