Man and horse have shared a special bond throughout history for thousands of years.

In the past, humans have used horses for war, transportation, food, companionship, work and sport. The most common use of horses right now is pleasure riding and horse-racing.

Many individuals think that owning a horse is very expensive, which is not the case.

This article explains the factors determining the cost of horses and the current cost of owning and maintaining a horse in Kenya.

Factors Determining the Price of Horses

The prices of horses depend on several factors such as age, breed, health and training levels.

• Age: The prime age of horses is between 4 – 16 years. Horses at this age are expected to cost more than older ones. Note that older does not necessarily mean worthless.
• Breed: The breed of a horse influences its price. Usually, Thoroughbreds, Fusaichi Pegasus and Dutch Warmblood are the most expensive breeds of horses. Quarter horse, Mustang and Standardbred are the budget-friendly breeds available in Kenya.
• Health Factors: A healthy horse is more expensive than one with underlying health conditions. However, a horse with a minor condition can be used for recreational and riding activities.
• Training Levels: A highly trained horse is more expensive than an untrained one. If you can afford hiring a horse trainer, you can even buy untrained horses and train them according to your needs.

If buying horses for racing purposes, ensure that they have strong foot muscles and can make a good jump.

Cost of a Foal in Kenya

A foal is a young horse, usually under a year old. The cost of buying a foal in Kenya is estimated to be between Kes. 100,000 – Kes. 250,000.

Price of Ponies

Ponies are smaller than regular horses in height. They cost between Kes. 250,000 to Kes. 500,000 depending on age, breed and training levels.

Cost of Buying a Mature Horse in Kenya

Mature and healthy horses cost between Kes. 500,000 – Kes. 2,500,000.

Tip: Do not choose a horse because of cheap prices. You may end up paying more for veterinary and training fees, getting into more expenses in the long run.

Anja du Joit, the owner of Malo Stables in Karen, says that Thoroughbreds are the most common breed of horses in Kenya.

“Normally, a fully-grown one would probably go for about Sh500,000 and since it has been working really hard as athletes, it needs about six months to rest, recover its joints and muscles then you can start somewhat retraining it to get the racing out of their head.” She told Business Daily Africa.

Anja says that some imported horses have been introduced to steroids and horse owners should get them off that.

“Often, they will surprise you and turn into the most wonderful animals,” She adds.

Horse Riding Price in Kenya

Horse riding cost Kes. 6,000 per hour. Usually, most agencies like Malo Stables offer a prepaid package of Kes. 55,000 for 10 hour riding at the foot of Ngong Hills and Dagoretti Forests.

Other horse-riding places you can try include New Muthaiga Horse Riding Stables, Hardy Stud, Kitisuru, and Xina Horse Riding School.

Horse riding is not a difficult task – as many people like to imagine. It takes about 3 weeks – 1 year for one to completely master the art of horse riding.

The more you practice, the more you become perfect.

Maintenance Cost of Horses in Kenya

The cost of owning horses does not end with the purchase price. Horses are delicate animals and need more attention and maintenance.

You’ll incur the following maintenance costs:

• Transport Costs: if you are importing the horse, you’ll likely incur transport cost and Import Duties. These costs can amount to Kes. 1.5 million.
• Feeding: Horses consume grass and hay, but also salts, concentrates, fruits and vegetables can also enhance their diet.
• Healthcare: Horses require frequent visits to the Vet. You’ll also need to buy additional vaccines to treat sick or injured horses.
• Training: Horses can be trained for sports racing or riding purposes.
• Supplies and Equipment: You’ll also need to pay for specific riding and grooming accessories such as stirrup leathers, saddles, riding pants, boots and helmet.

Final Word

That was the complete guide of the cost of buying a horse in Kenya. In case of any questions, feel free to comment below.