Frequently Asked Questions

This programme focuses on time in the saddle and is designed for those whose number one priority is to spend time adding value to horses. Besides re-educating thoroughbreds into a second career, Andy assists other horse owners with correcting vices and backing young horses. Training the horses in Polocrosse is his main method for ensuring a safe, obedient, mentally stable horse. You will have the chance to learn and play a fun and competitive sport which also provides a great social environment with other riders.

The focus is not on how you ride but on learning effective communication between horse and rider. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, there is plenty of work to be done with the horses.

Weekends in the polocrosse community are a highlight, with sociable braais at the polocrosse club after Sunday practices, and an opportunity to experience Bulawayo’s nightlife and restaurants. The facilities and accommodation are simple, yet it’s incredibly rewarding for those who wish to experience the equestrian world in Africa.

Riders of all levels, aged 18 and above, can join the programme. Andy is enthusiastic about teaching less experienced riders, helping them build confidence both on the ground and in the saddle. However, less experienced riders may have some limitations when working with younger horses and might struggle with the fast pace of the sport.

Whether you’ve been riding all your life and are wanting to sharpen your horsemanship skills, or an intermediate rider wanting to gain an insight into the equestrian lifestyle in Africa – Andy can help you achieve your goals whilst making unforgettable memories.

The riding style is a fusion of Western and English, making it adaptable for all riders. We use Stock saddles on our horses on a day to day basis; we also have English saddles available for showjumping activities.

No! We welcome a wide variety of riders, from those who have never even heard of polocrosse to those who currently play in their home countries. You will be taught the basics of polocrosse, rules of the game, use of a stick and ball and tactics. As your skills grow you can have friendly games with others and join games on a Sunday at the country club polocrosse field just down the road.

That’s totally okay! Taking part in local competitions is by no means mandatory.

We encourage and assist our interns to compete in any horse competitions (showjumping or polocrosse) around the country whilst on their placement with us. We see it as a good method of measuring your growth as horsemen and women.

Should you wish to ride at competition level whilst interning with African Hoofbeatz it shall be at your own expense to pay the nominal horse hire fee, horse transport and entry fees into the competitions of your choice, as well as your own transport & accommodation costs should the competition be away from Bulawayo. We will gladly assist you with all the logistics of entering and getting to competitions.

Thoroughbred horses mainly for the polo and polocrosse and as an intern with African Hoofbeatz you will spend a portion of your time each day schooling or fitness training the Hoofbeatz horses in preparation for competitions or instructing riders in basic horsemanship, our lessons differ slightly to the typical lesson one would receive at a normal riding school as we also encourage our students to try develop an understanding of the signals given off by their horses, in short we not only develop riding skills but try to also build a partnership between horse and rider.

Each volunteer will have a string of 2 horses to work each day during your stay. These horses will also be available for you to compete at weekly polocrosse practices at our local club, any showjumping shows in Bulawayo, and polocrosse tournaments countrywide.

During your time, you’ll have the chance to go to the Matopos for a 3-night horse safari. The wildlife reserve has large herds of wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, and many antelope species. This is a great opportunity to ride alongside unique African wildlife, and you can choose to do other activities in the reserve, such as guided walking safaris to see rhinos, cave painting tours, game drives and visits to World’s View. These are at an additional cost, and there may be the opportunity to upgrade to rooms at the lodge if you prefer that to camping. If you stay longer than 3 weeks, there may be opportunities to go back to the Matopos with newer volunteers – this is encouraged, but it will be at an extra cost.

Yes, are horses wellbeing is paramount. Therefore we have a weight limit of 90kg / 200lbs.

The minimum age in order to intern with us is 18 years old. We do not have a maximum age limit, but you do need to be physically fit.

Our minimum stay is 3 weeks, with no maximum stay (subject to visa requirements). Obviously the more time you spend with us the more knowledge there is to gain, and the more responsibility we can entrust to you.

Yes absolutely! Almost all of our interns are solo travellers.

We speak english.

Our equestrian internship is designed for small groups of up to 4 volunteers at a time for an intimate and personal experience. Your cottage has a large bedroom which sleeps up to four people.

Yes we are able to cater for vegetarians and gluten-free, as well as other dietary requirements where possible. However, please note the selection available in Zimbabwe to those with dietary requirements is more limited than at home.

Whilst we will try to accommodate for allergies as well, we cannot guarantee this. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with us directly to discuss.

Yes of course! You will generally have Saturdays and Mondays off. (Sundays are for playing polocrosse at the local club practice).

There are many exciting places to visit whilst on attachment with African Hoofbeatz or on completion of your internship. We will gladly assist you in arranging any trips you wish to do. The cost for any trips will be based on the service providers’ rates. Check out our Additional Activities page for more info.