KHOTSO LODGE AND HORSE TRAILS
Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails is a farm camping and outdoor adventure destination in the Southern Drakensberg near Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal. The property is set on a working horse and sheep farm with mountain views, rivers, and open grassland, offering a quiet farmstay environment close to the Lesotho border.
The name “Khotso” means peace, which reflects the relaxed and unstructured atmosphere of the farm. Campers can enjoy wide open space, natural surroundings, and direct access to outdoor activities without the formality of a resort-style campsite.
Camping and Accommodation
Farm camping is offered on spacious grass stands suitable for tents, caravans, and overlanding setups. Campsites have shade, access to power points, and nearby communal ablution and kitchen facilities, making them practical for both short stays and longer visits.
In addition to camping, Khotso offers a range of accommodation options on the same property. These include self-catering rondavels, lodge rooms for couples or backpackers, and a large log cabin suitable for groups. This makes the location suitable for mixed groups where some prefer camping and others prefer solid accommodation.
Location and Natural Setting
The lodge is located along the Drakensberg Gardens Road, a short drive from Underberg. The surrounding area is known for dramatic mountain scenery, clear rivers, and wide open landscapes typical of the Southern Drakensberg.
The campsite and accommodation overlook fields and foothills with walking access to rivers and trails. The setting supports quiet stays, outdoor living, birdlife observation, and clear night skies, which appeal to campers seeking a natural and low-impact farm environment.
Horse Trails and Activities
Khotso Lodge is well known for its horse trails, which start directly from the farm and cover extensive mountain and valley terrain. Rides range from short scenic outings to full-day trails, suitable for both beginner and experienced riders depending on the route chosen.
Multi-day horse trails into Lesotho are also offered for experienced riders. These trails cross remote mountain areas and are a core feature of the lodge’s offering, setting it apart from standard farm campsites.
Other on-site and nearby activities include hiking, mountain biking, river swimming, fishing, and bird watching. The property encourages self-guided exploration, with trails and open land accessible directly from the campsite.
Facilities and Atmosphere
Campers have access to communal kitchens, ablution blocks, and basic shared facilities. A lodge and deck area serves as a social space where guests can relax, have coffee, or gather after activities.
The farm is child-friendly and suits families who prefer space and freedom rather than structured entertainment. The atmosphere is informal, with an emphasis on outdoor living, shared spaces, and respect for the natural environment.
Who It Suits
Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails is well suited to farm campers who want space, mountain scenery, and access to outdoor activities. It appeals to horse riders, hikers, overlanders, families, and small groups looking for a practical base in the Southern Drakensberg.
It is also suitable for travellers who want a mix of camping and solid accommodation on the same property, or who plan to explore the Underberg and Drakensberg area at a relaxed pace.
Conclusion
Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails offers farm camping combined with horse riding and mountain activities in the Southern Drakensberg. With open campsites, multiple accommodation options, access to trails and rivers, and a working farm setting, it provides a practical and nature-focused camping experience near Underberg