The Horseboys of Ghana's Labadi Beach

One of the most popular activities on Labadi Beach is horse riding along the shoreline
One of the most popular activities on Labadi Beach is horse riding along the shoreline | © Daniel de Koekkoek / Culture Trip

In a stunning photo series, American photographer Daniel Gebhart de Koekkoek captures the talent and presence of the resident horseboys of Ghana’s Labadi Beach.

Horseboys take pride in maintaining their horses

Labadi Beach, formally known as La Pleasure Beach, is the most popular stretch of sand on Accra’s coastline. Lined with coconut palm trees and beachfront bars, people flock to Labadi Beach to swim, play football and ride horses along the seafront.

Horse rider at Labadi Beach in Accra, Ghana

With the last activity proving popular, resident “horseboys” have become a permanent fixture during holiday season on the beach. These young boys spend their days offering rides for 10 GHC (£1.40), as well as demonstrating their equestrian skills by performing tricks and stunts on their horses.

American photographer Daniel Gebhart de Koekkoek’s stunning photo series captures the horseboys of Labadi Beach in action.

Beachfront bars and restaurants draw crowds to Labadi Beach, Ghana’s most popular beach
Horse rider at Labadi Beach in Accra, Ghana
Local school children flock to Labadi Beach to play football, among other activities
Horseboys train their horses to perform stunts such as standing on horseback
Horse riding on the beach is a popular experience for visitors to Accra
Playing on Labadi Beach in Accra, Ghana

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