Welcome to the Globetrotting Hall of Fame! We’re thrilled to introduce you to the remarkable globetrotters who’ve traded conventional travel for the untamed spirit of riding holidays, time and time again.
This section of our website is dedicated to celebrating and showcasing their experiences and unveiling the landscapes they’ve traversed with us. Get ready to meet our most seasoned riders, each with a unique story to tell – tales of discovery, camaraderie, and the thrill of chasing horizons – all from the back of a horse. From the charming cobblestone streets of old towns to the vast, untamed wilderness, these globetrotters have taken the spirit of adventure on horseback to the next level – something that we believe should be celebrated!
Platinum Level – The pinnacle of achievement with twenty+ awe-inspiring rides.
Gold Level – Reaching gold status with an impressive fifteen rides, a testament to the commitment to horse travel and exploring new places.
Silver Level – Achieving the silver status with ten adventurous rides. Recognition for double-digit equestrian adventures around the world.
Bronze Level – The completion of five thrilling rides. Entry into the Globetrotting Hall of Fame, through the enchanting world of globetrotting on horseback.
PLATINUM
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Bernadette Kelly
HOMETOWN: Kilmore, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 22
Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Ever since my first Globetrotting ride back in 2011, I’ve been hooked. This mode of travel offers far more than anything else I’ve ever experienced. Exploring amazing new destinations on horseback allows me to get up close and personal with the land, live among the locals, and see the world in a unique way not normally accessible to the average traveller. These trips are like a drug, and I’m completely and utterly addicted. Globetrotting has changed my life. That may sound a tad dramatic, but it’s true.
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If you had to pick just one, what is your absolute favourite ride to date?
Sorry, this is an impossible question. I used to have a top five, but the list just keeps growing. I find it really hard to choose between so many incredible experiences.
Walk us through the landscape, the atmosphere, and the unique elements that make it stand out among all your Globetrotting journeys.
The more remote and exotic the ride, the more I seem to be drawn to it. I’ve never tried to analyse why, but thinking now, perhaps I like the sense of achievement that comes with completing rides that have a sense of the intrepid about them, or perhaps it’s because I set the bar quite high by choosing Kenya, followed by the Andes and Patagonia in Chile and Argentina as my first GT destinations. Others that stand out are Iceland, Namibia, Morocco, Mongolia, the Scottish Borders, India, Ireland, the Camargue, and Andalucia.
Globetrotting often introduces riders to fascinating characters and encounters. Can you share a story of a particularly memorable interaction with locals or fellow riders that left an indelible mark on your globetrotting memories?
One memory that stands out (among many) as a particularly special moment in time was in Africa on the Maasai Mara. There had been a couple of rainstorms that day, creating a magical atmosphere of grey African sky, dark and broody, over a vast plain of straw-coloured savannah. We had been following a herd of elephant cows and calves from a respectful distance when the cows must have decided we might present some kind of threat. As we watched in wonder, the mums herded their babies into a tight ring. Facing out, the elephant cows used their own bodies to corral the youngsters safely inside a perfect circle. It was completely awe-inspiring to see these majestic animals collaborate to protect their precious babies right before my eyes.
Think back to a ride that threw unexpected challenges your way. How did you and your horse navigate through those moments, and what valuable lessons did you learn from overcoming obstacles on the trail?
I believe the most physically challenging experience was the Namib Desert Safari, which I completed earlier this year, coinciding with my 60th birthday. My horse, Napoleon, standing at around 14.3hh, was small but mighty—a little pocket rocket who covered ground at speed regardless of our pace. With my own horses at home and, of course, having completed so many GT rides, I’m fairly ride fit. However, when you’re covering between 30 and 50 kilometres a day, the riding is fast, furious, and fabulous. I loved every minute of it, but my quads certainly felt the strain. Across all GT rides, one lesson I’ve learned is to let the horses do their job with minimal interference. In situations where the terrain or obstacles pose mental challenges, trust your horse; he or she knows how to safely carry you through.
Looking ahead, what’s the next ride on the horizon for you? Could you provide a sneak peek into your upcoming adventure plans and the anticipation that comes with it?
After completing no less than three huge Globetrotting adventures this year, I’m taking some time to mull over the next destination. I am liking the look of the new Kosciuszko Ride, so that one might be on the cards when I find myself getting itchy feet for my next Globetrotting fix.
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RIDES COMPLETEDThe Masai Mara Ride, Kenya 2011 & 2015
Tassie Tiger Trail
Wilderness Expedition Exploratory Ride, Iceland
County Clare Ride, Ireland
Hunting in Ireland
Castle & Estate Ride, Ireland
Bordeaux Wine Trail, France
The Camargue Ride, France
Dressage Ride, Spain
Andalusia, Spain
The Coasta Azul Ride, Portugal Exploratory Ride
Sahara Ride, Morocco
The Scottish Borders Ride, Scotland
Golden Eagle Festival Ride, Mongolia
The Namib Desert Safari, Namibia
Whistler Wilderness Ride, BC Canada
The Marwari Ride, India
Bogong & Brumby Ride, Australia
Estancia Adelaida Ride, Patagonia, Chile
The Patagonia Trail, Argentina
SILVER
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Lara Peake
HOMETOWN: Jarrahdale, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 10Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I chose exploration by horseback because four legs are better than two.
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Among the horses you’ve had the pleasure of riding, could you recount the tale of the most memorable one? Where were you, and what made that particular horse stand out?
One of my best rides was on a compact chestnut named Zantari on the Namib Desert Safari. A wonderful fast horse who was born wild and brought up with a zebra herd, so had great balance and agility; I trusted her over any ground. At the end, when we galloped onto the beach at Swakomund, I was so grateful for her having carried me safely over hard country. One day was over 70 kilometres into the night and she was unfazed.
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Anthony Tietze
HOMETOWN: Newcastle, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 11Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I just like riding. You really do see the country on horseback. These holidays suit me, as they tend to suit the solo traveller. Not because I’m friendless, but rather that few of my friends have both the horsey inclination and the opportunity.
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Among the horses you’ve had the pleasure of riding, could you recount the tale of the most memorable one? Where were you, and what made that particular horse stand out?
On my first Globetrotting ride, on the Craig’s Hut & High Country Ride in the Victorian High Country, I rode George, a big strong chestnut gelding in his prime. A good walker. Loved people, but didn’t like horses much.
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Kaye Bracken
HOMETOWN: Sydney, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 14Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Riding holidays are the full package, filling up all our senses, to cherish every moment and to stay in the moment. Without these amazing horse holidays, I would never have experienced such beautiful scenery, met so many fabulous people, and be totally immersed in the country/area in which I find myself.
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Among the horses you’ve had the pleasure of riding, could you recount the tale of the most memorable one? Where were you, and what made that particular horse stand out?
It was on my first ride, some years after my heart horse had to be put down, that I went to Tasmania for my “last” trek! And now I have done 14!
Although on nearly every ride I have been matched really well, I have to admit that Ruby is a standout.
Ruby and I have a lot in common. She has taught me to trust again, to be patient, to really be in the moment, to absolutely respect her, and to have faith in her abilities to go anywhere safely and bravely.
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Mary Holmes
HOMETOWN: Warrnambool, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 13Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I guess, because I can combine my love of travel with my ability to ride – which of course not everyone can do – that is a point of difference. It also enables a unique view of the world: be it looking at wildlife, seeing the rural lifestyle, interacting with local people – from the back of a horse, it can only be better!
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Among the horses you’ve had the pleasure of riding, could you recount the tale of the most memorable one? Where were you, and what made that particular horse stand out?
It had to be riding Tatang on the Okavanga Horse Safari ride in Botswana. We were charged by an enormous enraged menopausal matriarch elephant, and truly, I was terrified. We got the order to ‘Go, go, go’, and I did. As I was rushing away, I thought, horsey, this is not the time to chuck me off and beat a hasty retreat. He did not even consider it. We just tore off and subsequently jumped up onto a roadway embankment, one stride, and flew off the other side… what an adrenaline rush! (Pretty sure I wet myself) Wanted to buy that little horse but distance and quarantine make bringing a horse from Africa pretty much impossible…
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Anna King
HOMETOWN: Sunshine Coast, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 14Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Globetrotting to me is about feeding my soul. I have always loved travelling and riding, and Globetrotting allows me to combine my two passions in a meaningful way. Being a country kid, when I was backpacking, I always wanted to know about the countryside I was travelling through. Yes, I did the obligatory museums, art galleries, and touristy stuff, but what I really wanted to see was the rural areas. Globetrotting allows me to do that, and it is so much more than the restorative holiday I was always looking for in the past.
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Among the horses you’ve had the pleasure of riding, could you recount the tale of the most memorable one? Where were you, and what made that particular horse stand out?
Tres from the Camargue: my brave, bold, speedy little baby. So intelligent, trusting and responsive at 3 years old. In a crazy week of wild weather, he barely batted an eye and carried me safely and surefootedly through the muddy paddocks without missing a beat. His stock sense was also impressive, his movements instinctive, and I am sure with further training he will go on to be one of their best horses.
Funnily enough, due to the crazy, wet, wild weather, this turned out to be one of the most fun and random rides on the ’10 Rides, 80 Days’ Globetrotting trip.
My other favourite horse was from Peebles in Scotland. Zeus was surefooted and had well balanced gaits, excellent stamina, and enough gears to let loose, get to the front of the crowd and stay there. An absolute delight to ride and a testament to the wonderful training Susie and her team give the horses. If he was better suited to our climate, I would have brought him home…
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Sandy Brogan
HOMETOWN: Brisbane, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 10Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Nothing compares to seeing the world between a pair of horses’ ears. Travel by horseback gives me wings; it leaves the everyday ho hum behind and makes my heart sing with the purest form of joy. It’s the best feeling in the world.Read More
Among the horses you’ve had the pleasure of riding, could you recount the tale of the most memorable one? Where were you, and what made that particular horse stand out?
I think it would have to be Gun on the Mongolian Golden Eagle Festival ride.Gun, the Mongolian horse so strong and true,With his half ear and coat of deep black hue.Riding across the vast plains so wild and free,His spirit untamed as far as the eye can see.What a cracker of a horse that fella was.Show less
BRONZE
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Gillian McSweeney
HOMETOWN:Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I choose horse travel as my choice of travel as it enables me to enjoy my passion for horses and get to ride a variety of amazing animals, as well as enjoying the different cultures and their countries, and meeting other like-minded horse-crazy people. Since I don’t own my own horse anymore, this is a fantastic way to travel. -
Robyn Smale
HOMETOWN: Matapouri, New Zealand & Shawnigan Lake, Canada
NUMBER OF RIDES: 7Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Two of my favourite things – horses/riding and travel, especially to places with different cultures. Because I move between New Zealand and Canada, I can’t own my own horse any longer. This is the perfect alternative! I trust GT rides and their organisation and information. All top-notch. -
Jo Momsen
HOMETOWN: Sydney, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 6Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I love to travel with globetrotters because I know my fellow travellers will be fun-loving, adventurous folk. The horses will be well cared for, the food will be delicious, and every single day will be exciting, different, and wondrous. -
Lindsey Sokolich
HOMETOWN: London, England
NUMBER OF RIDES: 7Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Because I love it! -
Kathy Davies
HOMETOWN: Coledale, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 6Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Combining my love of horses/riding with travel! -
Emma Tomlin
HOMETOWN: Melbourne, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Nothing compares to being sat on a horse, riding in nature; it’s my flow state, my happy place. As soon as I get onto a horse, my brain just quietens down, and I become so present with the movement of the horse, the way it breathes, the smells of the forests and trees in the air. It’s hours and hours of perfect calm, being fully present in the moment, connected to the horse and nature, while having the most amazing adventures. -
Kristi Keightley
HOMETOWN: Port Fairy, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I prefer to travel on horseback as it allows me to see parts of countries which otherwise would be hard to see. I get to travel with like-minded people with the same interests, and we get to meet the incredible local guides. I also get to experience riding a variety of amazing horses. -
Rosalind Beinke
HOMETOWN: Sunshine Coast, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 7Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I love riding holidays in diverse locations because riding is my passion. Travel comes in second because it’s a combination of different cultures, horses, and environment. Plus, it’s a fabulous way to enjoy travelling with like-minded people and making new friends. -
Brenda Morgan
HOMETOWN: Perth, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 7Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I chose a horse riding experience to explore areas otherwise not seen in normal circumstances. To really see a place, it takes the pace and strength of a horse. You see country you otherwise would not see. I love having a different horse under me and trying to find a bond with them over a matter of days. -
Margie Baldock
HOMETOWN: Gold Coast, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 8Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Seeing the world from between the ears of a horse that’s as hungry for adventure as I am is my greatest joy. I turn into a centaur and become one with mother nature in partnership with my horse. Horse trekking off the beaten path is my meditation. Nothing makes me more present and “in the moment” than exploring beautiful and remote parts of the world with a horse. It is my bliss. If I could spend all my days just circumventing the world on horseback continuously forever, I would do just that. -
Glenda Johnston
HOMETOWN: Gold Coast, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 6Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
This is the best way to travel, by including a horse riding adventure while exploring a new country with like-minded people. I love that you can go on any GT ride by yourself, confident that you will meet new friends just like yourself who are just as excited as you! -
Renee Lewis
HOMETOWN: Portland, Maine, USA
NUMBER OF RIDES: 6Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
To be able to combine my lifelong passion for horses with my love of travel was something I didn’t realise was even possible. Each GT adventure has been incredible – sometimes overwhelming me with beauty, sometimes pushing the edges of my comfort zone, always with spectacular horses and incredible people. They have brought me joy and a sense of accomplishment – with a good dose of leather and horse sweat! My life is so much richer for the experiences I have had. -
Robyn Stargatt
HOMETOWN: Melbourne, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 7Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I chose horse riding as it is a fabulous way to see the countryside and have an adventure. It is great for solo travel, and I have met some super people. -
Sharon Rayne
HOMETOWN: Canterbury, New Zealand
NUMBER OF RIDES: 7Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Horse-riding holidays are simply the best way of travelling. It combines good people who have a love of animals, lovely horses, exercise, and beautiful countryside. You see so much more on the back of a horse as you don’t have to look where you are putting your feet; the horse does that for you! -
Anne Sevior
HOMETOWN: Kilmore, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 8Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Well, for starters, I hate walking!!! Why walk when you can ride, I always say. Also, horse riding is the best way to take in the scenery and experience the journey, while enjoying the company of like-minded people. And then, at the end of the day, you get off your trusty steed and relive it all again over a bevvy or two, or three!!! -
Sarah Taylor
HOMETOWN: Melbourne, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 9Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I love going on horse riding holidays and try to go twice a year. It’s a beautiful and relaxing way to explore Australia and its mountains and bushland. Not into hiking, so a horse is the perfect option. Most of my rides have been in Australia and vary from Margaret River in WA to Tasmania, South Australia, and the wonderful Kimberley where I was lucky enough to do two trips. I recently went to Glenorchy in NZ and really enjoyed the scenery there as well. -
Maree Cornish
HOMETOWN: Orange, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
The reason I prefer horse travel as my preferred mode of exploration is because you can go places that would not normally be accessible by any other means. There is no hustle and bustle and you can enjoy your horse and the amazing scenery with like minded people. A truly wonderful way to relax and enjoy your holidays. -
Nicola Cattle
HOMETOWN: Virginia, USA
NUMBER OF RIDES: 6Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I choose Globetrotting because I feel comfortable traveling alone, and the rides are always 5 star. Great holidays meeting new friends and getting to do what I love most. -
Jeanette Hoogstad
HOMETOWN: Sydney, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 6Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I travel for solitude – but also for connection and to learn. I travel for adventure but also to relax. I travel for escape. I like deep travel – going to a place and really getting to know it. I have realised from my Globetrotting experiences that Globetrotting rides guarantee me all of this every time. It sounds lazy – but Globetrotting has taken half the work out of planning each adventure. -
Loretta Basei
HOMETOWN: Canberra, Australia
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
I’ve always been mad about everything horse-related despite never owning one. Luckily, I’ve found like-minded friends who think a holiday with horses is the way to travel. We get to ride great horses in amazing locations, all while having fun and making memories. What more could you ask for? -
Tricia Huerta
HOMETOWN: California, USA
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
Nothing looks as good as it does from the back of a horse. Horse travel gives you the opportunity to see terrain you’d never see otherwise, and meet wonderful horse people from all over the world – both the guests and the guides – and incredible horses! -
Diana Hendry
HOMETOWN: New Jersey, USA
NUMBER OF RIDES: 5Why did you choose horse travel as your preferred mode of exploration?
“Horse travel” is a double delight since I love to ride horses and love to travel. To me, being outdoors in the fresh air and enjoying the excitement of being on horseback, preferably with lots of cantering through lovely scenery, is the best! Traveling with Globetrotting gives me confidence that the details (comfortable lodging, delicious food, fantastic horses) will be attended to and any of my questions quickly answered. I’m looking forward to many more trips!