Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
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Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails

Drakensberg Gardens Road, Underberg 3257 South Africa
Traveller (151)
FARM VIEW
Room & Suite (64)
Dining (18)

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About

4.5
#1 of 2 hostels in Underberg
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.3 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Khotso Horse Trails and Accommodation, deep in the Southern Drakensberg, is both a working horse and sheep farm and a perfect base to either explore, adventure or relax. Khotso is famous in the area for its spectacular horse trails, which range from 1-hour rides to 3-day cross-border expeditions into Lesotho. There is the very cosy Backpackers Lodge, a new campsite with kitchen and ablution block in the orchard next to the mountain stream, as well as 3 newly refurbished self-catering rondawels overlooking a private gorge behind. Enjoy the idyllic life that comes with living in the mountains, far away from the hustle and bustle in the towns and cities. Spend precious time with friends and family in your own rondawel or head to the Lodge for the sociable atmosphere to embrace the wonderful characters that travel here from all over the world. With the full 1 000 hectare farm at your disposal, ride over the ridge tops on horseback, hike to one of the mineral water pools, swim or fish the Umzimkulu river, mountain bike the extensive single track routes, or just take time out from your hectic day-to-day routine to relax and unwind by a fire under the stars in the breathtaking scenery of the Southern Drakensberg.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Bar / lounge
Canoeing
Hiking
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Wifi
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Horseback riding
Fishing
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shared bathroom
Shared kitchen
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun terrace
Room features
Housekeeping
Sofa
Private bathrooms
Coffee / tea maker
Kitchenette
Oven
Refrigerator
Electric blanket
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Room types
Mountain view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
2.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Budget
Quaint
Languages Spoken
English, French, Spanish, Afrikaans and 4 more

Location

Drakensberg Gardens Road, Underberg 3257 South Africa
300Reviews6Q+A20Room tips

Reviews
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Detailed Reviews
louisemkeegan wrote a review Jan 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed in the backpackers which has a relaxed vibe and we had a great view of the mountain from our Double En Suite. Also did horse riding, tubing and swimming in the river - all fantastic. Room is better than in the picture, only negative is that the bed is quite bouncy and noisy when you move.
Just remember to bring your own food as the backpackers doesn't serve meals.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2020
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
3.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lulu Black, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 18 Jan 2021
Hi Louise! Thank you for taking the time to review us, we really appreciate it and hope you guys will be back to visit again some time soon :)
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Roving652548 wrote a review Jan 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We have been to Underberg many times but never thought of staying there as it seemed like it was just a "horse riding "place. I booked there because I was looking for a central camping spot near the river. Well, it completely stole my heart. We are on a 4-week trip around South Africa, started off at Khotso and we plan to finish off there too - it was just so good. We tubed in the river, did a tube and run race, went for walks to exquisite rock pools for swimming, mountain biked along the river with our kids and just generally enjoyed the cute and cosy campsite. It's the perfect location and also has the most perfect meditation spots on the rocks just behind the campsite. And the best part of all - the owner Steve Black is so personable, walks around the campsite in the early evening talking to all the campers, it really makes you feel at home. And the backpackers is one of the cleanest, most beautiful backpackers lodges I have ever seen. As you can tell we LOVED this place!!!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lulu Black, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 10 Jan 2021
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely, we really appreciate it and it makes us so happy to hear that you loved Khotso so much! We hope you will be back to stay with us again sometime :)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
natalie a wrote a review Apr 2021
Durban, South Africa
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
As a family we just had one night to camp over at Khotso Trails.
We were greeted with happy smiles and immediately felt at home.
The campsite is well equipped and set beautifully amongst the trees and along the stream with a backdrop of a small rocky hill side. The facilities are an easy few steps from the campsite and the Reception / Backpackers offers further comfort in a central sitting room. A longer stay next time will be planned for!
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Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Even though it's getting a little chiller, April to June is a great time to stay in the...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sam Cairns, General Manager at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 13 May 2021
Thanks for taking the time to review us Natalie! We hope you guys will get to visit us again, for a little longer next time too!
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976kerry wrote a review Jan 2022
Benoni, South Africa
1.0 of 5 bubbles
We arrived late in the afternoon. The greeting from the lady at reception was unprofessional, with some of it done while smoking a cigarette. We found the campsite totally unsuitable and were told that electricity was 'first come first serve' - which was a surprise as it is advertised as having electricity so would have thought there was enough for all. We would not have been able to get our vehicle down the road into the campsite and asked if there was alternative accommodation. Everything was fully booked (which was to be expected) except for one room which was basic and underwhelming. We forfeited our deposit and left
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2021
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
1.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
3.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Steve Black, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 21 Jan 2022
Hi there, thank you for your review. We have spoken to our staff regarding your arrival and, as it was a very busy period, our receptionist was unfortunately out of office and another staff member helped you during her off time! Please note that this is highly unusual - please refer to other reviews regarding our reception and team. This December we had a record number of rainy days and so the roads were a bit muddier than usual - we hope you'll consider staying with us over a quieter time (when there's a bit more sun!) or trying one of our cosy self-catering rondavels with an internal fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, lounge and bathroom area.
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Caro L wrote a review Oct 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
It was our second time staying here and will be going back again.
We stay in the one of the rondavel. Very well maintained, spotless and peaceful. The beds are really comfy and as it was winter there is a heated blanket. Of course if eskom is load shedding that doesn't help. But there are plenty of spare blankets, the sheets are thick, and the duvet is toasty, all helped by a fireplace that works a treat.
We had one load shed and there were matches and paraffin lamps also the cooker is gas, so you can still have hot drinks and food.
The kitchen is well-equipped with fridge, cooker, microwave and all the bits that go with it. If you don't want to cook, then they can do cooked meals up at the main lodge.

All the animals are friendly, and you have a leaflet in the cabin with who they are and their names.
Riding wise, excellent well trained horses and knowledgeable helpful staff. They have horses for all grades of riders from beginners to experienced and perfect riding country for long or short rides. And if you don't want to ride and do other things, they can arrange a trip up Sani-Pass or give ideas where else to visit.
Ideal country for trail runners, and Steve is a marathon runner himself and able to impart a load of tips.
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Date of stay: October 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Explore the area it is an amazing place
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Daydream33424675746 wrote a review Jul 2024
Durban, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Beautiful place located on excellent tranquility setting. The staff was friendly, from the receptionist to horse guides. Didn't even feel the cold at night because they have a fireplace with enough wood supply. Also in the bedroom, both the wall and blanket heaters were fully functional. Enjoyed horse riding in the morning.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LULU BLACK, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 12 Aug 2024
Thank you so much for your review! we are so happy to hear that you enjoyed your time at Khotso, we hope to welcome you back in the near future , take care Team Khotso!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Frixion wrote a review Jun 2024
Cape Town, South Africa
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Khotso is owned by the legendary "Steve Black" What an impressive setup he has on top of the world in the most breathtaking setting. We were welcomed on arrival and given the option to stay in a cottage or the main lodge up at the top. We chose one of the cottages. They are kitted out brilliantly with everything you could possible need for self catering. Beds were very comfortable, showers were hot, views from the deck stunning and to top it all off the fireplace was the highlight. My family loved staying in the cottage. Steve specialises in horse trails and organised a ride for my 7yr old daughter and I. We absolutely loved it. The horses were well trained, the guide was reassuring and the route was planned perfectly. We ate top hearty meals with Steve in the evenings and he had us over in the mornings for breakfast as we listened to "Radio Paradise". I highly recommend Khotso Lodge and Horse Trails to anyone wanting adventure, nature and pristine beauty. We will be back and I plan on bringing a group of 10 people here for a multi-way horse expedition in June next near or sooner. Thank you to all the staff for making our stay so warm and comfortable.
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Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LULU BLACK, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 12 Aug 2024
Hi there, thank you so much for taking the time to write us such a great review! Great to hear that all our hard work is seen and our guests are happy , we hope that you and your family will come and visit us again in the near future, take care and happy travels, Team Khotso.
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lleyde706982 wrote a review May 2021
Cape Town, South Africa
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails is a great establishment with amazing staff. The dinner and breakfasts we had were hearty, tasty meals made with love. We stayed in one of the rondawels, which was clean and well equipped. The mattresses on the beds were a little worn out and soft, but other than that everything was perfect.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2021
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
3.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sam Cairns, General Manager at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 13 May 2021
Thanks for reviewing us! We are so glad you guys had a great stay with us!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jonnyanddebbiefromho wrote a review Apr 2023
Howick, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had an amazing time camping at Khotso. The location is incredibly peaceful and beautiful. There's a little stream running through the campsite with small pools that you can swim in and bigger ones to walk to.
Also really good hot showers and toilets and a communal kitchen area where you can wash up or cook.
We will definitely be back again!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LULU BLACK, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 15 Jun 2023
Hi there, thank you so much for awesome review , we look to get feedback from our guests and it wonderful to know that we getting it right , thank you again! and hope to see you again! Team Khotso
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DaFowlerz wrote a review Dec 2021
Durban, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Started off with an awesome 2 hr family horse ride, with great horses and guides, Sanna and Charles! Despite the mixed bag of beginners and intermediates, they were able to cater to everyone’s level and we thoroughly enjoyed the spectacular views on the outride; not to mention the odd canter for us intermediates!

THEN it was off tubing the next day on a full-ish river. Great experience and worth doing.

Thx to Steve, Sanna and rest of the crew. Def be back next year!
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Date of stay: December 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Steve Black, Owner at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Responded 26 Dec 2021
Thanks so much for your review! Looking forward to having you back <3 !!
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…
Alda Grobler asked a question Nov 2019
Alberton, South Africa25 contributions3 helpful votes
Hi there, Is it safe to camp at Khotso Lodge?
Answer from LULU B
Underberg, South Africa4 contributions
Very safe! please read some of our guest riviews to check out what they think. Hope to see you soon ! Lulu
lynnvlasveld asked a question Sept 2018
St Lucia, South Africa4 contributions1 helpful vote
Can we do a 2 day horse trail with overnight in Lesotho thru sanipass?
Answer from KhotsoHorseTrails
Underberg, South Africa10 contributions
Hello, we do an overnight trail into Lesotho but not via Sani Pass. We use Bushmansnek border post and ride into Sheslabathebe national park.
Genuine49 asked a question Jul 2017
CRANBROOK27 contributions20 helpful votes
Is there trout fishing on the property?
Answer from SGJHB
Johannesburg, South Africa35 contributions16 helpful votes
We didn't fish so I'm not 100% sure.
Answer from LULU B
Underberg, South Africa4 contributions
Hello, our wifi is not super fast but good for e mails and sending photos. Most of the times you can skype. We also have coffee shops in town (10km) where the internet is better. Kind Regards Lulu
alebh1989 asked a question Nov 2014
brooklyn7 contributions1 helpful vote
whats the best way to get there from DUrban's airport?
Answer from Francis M
Trinity Beach, Australia23 contributions3 helpful votes
570Boba is right about the direction, but in the event of you wondering the "how" - "Other than hitch hiking (not recommended) or hiring a helicopter (well…it happens), there are three popular methods of arriving in Underberg. Once in the village of Underberg we will come fetch you ourselves at no additional cost. The most popular and cheapest method is to rent a car – plain and simple. However this is not that great an option if you aren’t comfortable or confident driving in a strange country. For that purpose there is the Underberg Express shuttle that runs on a daily basis between Underberg and Durban. Another less frequented option is to single out the local mini-bus system: This is a very cheap option but is generally speaking a little more risky and not very comfortable (as the buses don’t run on time schedules and aren’t designed for luxury travel – means to an end sort of travel)." Excerpt from Khotso's website.
Go12010986659 wrote a tip May 2024
7 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Wood not provided and closest spot to purchase is about 10min on the side of the road for cash only at around R50, or a shop about 30mins."
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Nick P wrote a tip Oct 2023
Jakarta, Indonesia3 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Do the Lesotho horseback trip. Cannot stress enough. Once in a lifetime kind of experience."
Read full review
Caro L wrote a tip Oct 2022
2 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Explore the area it is an amazing place"
Read full review
natalie a wrote a tip Apr 2021
Durban, South Africa59 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Even though it's getting a little chiller, April to June is a great time to stay in the Underberg. Summer time brings the heat but it is also the rainy season. "
Read full review
Akhona M wrote a tip Feb 2019
Johannesburg, South Africa3 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Rondavels are perfect for both couple and family of 5, they are large and everything you need is just there for you."
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Underberg area.
PRICE RANGE
£16 - £26 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Khotso Adventure Farm
LOCATION
South AfricaKwaZulu-NatalDrakensberg RegionUnderberg
NUMBER OF ROOMS
12
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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KHOTSO LODGE & HORSE TRAILS - Updated 2024 Reviews, Photos & Prices

Frequently Asked Questions about Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails
Which popular attractions are close to Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
Nearby attractions include The Himeville Museum (3.2 miles), Pucketty Farm (0.9 miles), and Sani Spoors (0.08 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a lounge, free parking, and kids activities.
Which room amenities are available at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a refrigerator, and a view of a nearby landmark.
What food & drink options are available at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
Guests can enjoy a lounge, barbeque facilities, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
Conveniently located restaurants include Lemon Tree Bistro, The Olde Duck, and Moorcroft Manor Restaurant.
Is Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.1 miles away from the centre of Underberg.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, and Afrikaans.
Does Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.
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