This horseback journey is designed for fit and balanced beginner riders seeking a thrilling yet accessible adventure. Participants will navigate the diverse terrain of New Zealand's South Island, crossing scenic hills, valleys, and rivers with the companionship of traditional pack horses. Nights will be spent in cozy cabins, offering a comfortable retreat after each day's ride. Riders will help load and manage the provisions carried by the horses, immersing themselves in the pioneer spirit and the rugged beauty of the wilderness. As the day winds down, savor delicious meals cooked over a campfire and share stories of the day's adventures while enjoying a glass of wine under the stars.
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Jenny O. is the provider of this trip
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
Scenic Diversity
Experience the varied landscapes of New Zealand's South Island, from native beech forests to wide-open country and stunning alpine views.
Rustic Charm
Enjoy stays in quaint DOC huts and rustic lodgings that offer a blend of comfort and wilderness immersion, with opportunities for swimming in pristine lakes.
Culinary Delights
Indulge in relaxing evenings with cheese and crackers, complemented by your pre-ordered selection of beverages, ensuring a cozy end to each adventurous day.
Route details
Day 1
River Valley Trail Ride Adventure
Departing from the Stable around 9:00 – 9:30 a.m., we ride along the track to where the Mandamus River meets the Hurunui River. After crossing the Hurunui River, we continue up the Mandamus River to the road, passing by the Glens of Tekoa Homestead and buildings, and then proceed to Island Hills Station, owned by Ed and Jan. Island Hills Station spans 6,850 hectares (17,000 acres) and is home to 5,000 sheep and 300 cattle.
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 for the final crossing, following the track through dense manuka scrub into Organ Stream, where we spend our first night at Valley Camp Hut.
Day 2
Gorge Creek
Day 3
Hope River Trail to Kiwi Lodge
Day 4
Lake Mason Wilderness Retreat
Day 5
Return to Civilization
Day 6
Riverbank Retreat
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
5 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.
5 nights
Tent
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 touristsDuration
6 days
5 nights
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
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.
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Tour reviews
- G Grant5 Dec, 2023about providerI 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
- B Ben10 Jun, 2023about providerJenny 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 Kerrie1 Apr, 2022about providerLast 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
