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Natural Horsemanship in Namibia

by: African Horse Safaris

5 (2)Since 2016

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Namibia, surrounded by stunning Appaloosa horses. Enhance your natural horsemanship skills whilst assisting with looking after over 40 stud horses, miniature ponies, alpacas, and rehabilitated equine rescues. This programme is designed to develop your communication with horses using methods such as liberty, trust exercises, clicker training, and bodywork to build a deep connection. Experience the freedom of riding with just a halter or neckrein, using your seat, legs and balance to guide your horse. You will have an 8 module Natural Horsemanship Programme run by an incredible team. You will be assisting with the training and backing of horses, working with members of the Namibian San tribe, as well as helping the children of the local community develop a connection with these beautiful equines. You'll also have time to relax, enjoy guided safari rides, and appreciate Namibia's stunning nature and wildlife. All riding abilities accepted.

Program Highlights

Form deep bonds with the horses through natural horsemanship techniques – Building trust and communication with the animals, fostering a strong, respectful relationship

Receive hands-on training in various aspects of horse care, including grooming, feeding, and basic veterinary care

Head out on incredible trail rides in the bush, with lovely long canter stretches and the chance to see incredible wildlife from the saddle

Have the chance to head out on a camping safari with the horses, or explore further afield to see wildlife at nearby reserves

Build your confidence as you work with horses on the ground and in the saddle

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Windhoek, Namibia
Starts At: $600-900
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
Age Requirement: 18-30
Types & Subjects
Fields:
  • Animal Sciences
  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
Causes:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Equestrian
  • Wildlife
Types:
  • Adventure Travel
  • Animals
  • Experiential Learning
  • Internships
  • Volunteering
  • Wilderness
  • Working Holiday
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

5

Total Reviews

2

Surrounded by such lovely and welcoming people

August 17, 2024by: Amity
5

The Natural Horsemanship Working Holiday stables is the most amazing place in the world. I went for roughly 2 months when I was 18 on my gap year and had the most wonderful time. The minute you arrive you are surrounded by such lovely and welcoming people. The place itself is so incredibly beautiful and the food is amazing, I felt so at home immediately. Annika and Leon have created a place to learn and be with horses in an environment which doesn’t even seem real; they both care so much about the people, the animals and you. Annika has created an environment to work with horses where it’s okay to make mistakes which is something that I had never experienced when being around horses before. I was able to form the most beautiful connections with the horses and learn so so much. This experience is one of a kind and is a must do for anyone even if you have no experience with horses at all. I looked at lots of different programs to do whilst on my gap year but this one stood out to me and it was honestly the best experience of my life. You will learn so much about horses and yourself if you do this program there is nothing like it!!!

Annika cares so much about every single one of her animals

August 01, 2024by: Adele Cahill
5

I had the most amazing time on the Natural Horsemanship Working Holiday in Namibia and hope to be able to visit again. I learned so much about horses and liberty work and it helped me greatly when working with my own horse. Annika cares so much about every single one of her animals and it was wonderful to be able to work with horses in a force free and empathetic way. Anika, Leon and all the employees are welcoming and make you feel at home. The farm itself is so beautiful and I'll never forget the warm evenings, watching the wonderful sunsets at the chapel, surrounded by delicious food, playful dogs and amazing people.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Windhoek, Namibia

Types and Subjects

  • Fields
  • Animal Sciences
  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Equestrian
  • Wildlife
  • Types
  • Adventure Travel
  • Animals
  • Experiential Learning
  • Internships
  • Volunteering
  • Wilderness
  • Working Holiday

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
Intern Duration:
  • 1-3 Months
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • During College
  • Post High School

Age Requirement

18-30

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group

Starts At

$600-900

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Wifi Costs
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • In-Country Transportation To & From Project
  • Required Equipment
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Training
  • Laundry

Accommodation Options

  • Guest House

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • High School Senior (4th Year)
  • High School 5th Year or More
  • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
  • Some college credit, no degree
  • Trade/technical/vocational training
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree
  • Professional degree
  • Doctorate degree

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to join this programme?

You must be over 18 years of age and have a passion for horses. All riding abilities welcome. Please note, our volunteers are usually around 18 - 30 years old.

What kind of volunteer work will I be doing in this programme?

You will assist in the daily care and management of an African stables. This will include feeding, grooming, tacking up and exercising the horses. You will also help care for miniature ponies, alpacas and more. You will help teach the local children about riding and horse care.

What is the cost of Natural Horsemanship Working Holiday in Namibia?

The cost of this programme varies depending on length of your stay. Please visit the African Horse Safaris website for more information on pricing and availability.

How can I apply?

Apply by filling out the form on the African Horse Safaris website, providing your riding experience, skills and motivation. A horse safari specialist will be in touch to provide you with all the necessary information.

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