If you are mad about 2 things horses and amazing beaches, then stop what you are doing right now. Stop everything and listen up. Somewhere on the east coast of Africa set amidst the beautiful beaches and archipelagos of Mozambique is the Xtreme Horse Conservation project, Run by Pat and Mandy.

Mozambique is a special place, while it has had its fair share of problems – not least was a long horrific civil war it has genuinely turned a corner. The Atmosphere is upbeat and reconstruction has happened so fast. No where else in Africa do you get such a blend of African, Arabic, European and Indian influences. With spicy cuisine, and one of the longest stretches of coastline in Africa, you get to sample and do it all with some of the best beach riding in the world.

Each year a select lucky few volunteers get to ride and care for horses during an unforgettable – life changing adventure. The Horse Conservation project is one of those hidden gap year gems, something that is so special, that you have to be fairly ruthless in getting your applications in, as it is so popular, yet space is extremly limited (maximum of 4 people at once) and here is why…