Explorer Adventure

Difficulty

Easy

Comfort

Basic

Basic+

Weight limit

Our 4-day trips are perfect for those seeking an exhilarating adventure within a limited timeframe, showcasing some of the spectacular and breathtaking scenery found on our longer safaris.

This horseback excursion is designed for fit and balanced beginner riders, offering an exciting taste of adventure. Riders will journey through the hills, valleys, and rivers of the South Island alongside traditional pack horses, staying in cabins along the way.

All necessities are transported on horseback, allowing participants to assist in loading provisions and experience a touch of pioneer life in the wild landscape. At the end of each day, enjoy hearty campfire-cooked meals.

Jenny O. is the provider of this trip

5.0 3 reviews

The provider speaks: English

Lawrie and Jenny have been running the horse safari business as a husband and wife team since 1992. Both Lawrie and Jenny have been involved with horses all their lives, and each contribute different parts of their knowledge to the smooth running of the safaris. In addition to the work on the farm, Lawrie cares for and trains the horses to make them a pleasure for people to ride, while Jenny concentrates on keeping the business side going and cooking and baking to feed those hungry mouths once the day’s riding is finished. Yet both Jenny and Lawrie have enough experience to do any job required of them and are interchangeable in their roles on the Safaris.

Tour highlights

Riverbank Journey

Follow the tranquil Hurunui River, soaking in the serene landscapes and glimpsing majestic mountain peaks along the way.

Remote Wilderness

Immerse yourself in the remote wilderness as you journey through beech forests, traverse rugged terrain, and ride alongside streams.

Alpine Vistas

Enjoy panoramic views from the top of Little Organs Range, overlooking Glynn Wye Station, the Lewis Pass Road, and the majestic Southern Alps.

Route details

Departing from Waitohi Downs Stable around 10:00-10:30 a.m., we ride along the track to where the Mandamus River flows into the Hurunui River. After crossing the Hurunui River, we follow the Mandamus River to the road, passing the Glens of Tekoa Homestead and buildings, and continue to Island Hills Station, owned by Ed and Jan. We ride over the saddle to the Glencoe River, traversing hill country with native scrub and scattered silver tussock, eventually reaching the Mandamus River again. We travel up the east bank, crossing it for the final time, and follow the track through dense manuka into Organ Stream, where we spend our first night at Valley Camp Hut.

Difficulty

Easy

Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age

Tour provider's comments

This ride is suitable for riders from novice to experienced level. There are no age or weight limits. Although the ride is taken at a walking pace only (although there is the odd spot for a trot or canter), riders should be in good fit health to be balanced in the saddle and ready for long hours in the saddle (around 6-9 hours per day). Riders are required to be able to mount and dismount unaided although there are often plenty of rocks and logs available to help.

Accommodation

Comfort

Basic

Basic+

Tent

3 nights

The accommodation ranges from tents to a woolshed, muster huts and a B&B. It may depend on external factors as to where riders will be staying, for instance if sheep are being sheared it will not be possible to stay in the woolshed. On some night there will be no electricity or running water but there will usually be a stream or river nearby to wash in - they are also great for a swim at the end of a day in the saddle! On some nights there may be a hot shower. Toilets also range from long-drop (whilst camping) to normal toilets. Airbeds are provided.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Canterbury, Christchurch City, Christchurch International Airport

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Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

transfers;
full board accommodation with coffee and tea;
horses;
riding;
guides.

Extras

international flights;
alcoholic and canned drinks;
optional sleeping bag hire;
items of a personal nature.

Group size

up to 10 tourists

Duration

4 days

3 nights

It's important to know

We suggest you bring with you at least three complete changes of clothes. Remember, in the South Island High Country it is possible to experience four seasons in one day. Warm clothes are essential all year round.

Reviews

5.0

Based on 3 reviews

G
Grant

5 Dec, 2023

about provider

I just completed the 12-day Tekapo trek, and before that, I did a 6-day trek with the team. The horses are incredibly robust and reliable on both journeys. These treks offer exceptional adventures, granting you the opportunity to witness breathtaking scenery that few will ever encounter.

5 Dec, 2023

4 more photos
B
Ben

10 Jun, 2023

about provider

Jenny and Lawrie were absolutely fantastic in organizing our trek and guiding us through the breathtaking scenery. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in the New Zealand outdoors, whether it's for a single day or a multi-day trek. Knowledgeable, kind, and outgoing, they provide exceptional service, and I'll definitely be returning. It's a solid 10/10 from me!

10 Jun, 2023
K
Kerrie

1 Apr, 2022

about provider

Last month, I returned from an amazing 3-day trek, and I'm already longing to go back. Every moment of the adventure was pure joy, from the stunning scenery to the incredible horses. Jenny is not only great with emails but also an excellent cook, ensuring we were always well-fed. Lawrie's knowledge and experience navigating the countryside were impressive, and the horses were sure-footed and a pleasure to ride. The entire experience was about learning and embracing new challenges, and it was incredibly rewarding. Jenny and Lawrie made us feel welcome, but they also encouraged us to participate and learn. Yvonne, our assistant, was equally amazing. The trek was a blast— the horses, the company, and the scenery made it unforgettable. I can't wait to go back for another adventure. Thank you for such a fantastic experience— Kerrie Whistler from Taupo.

1 Apr, 2022