‘This is the 13th week-long trek I’ve done in New Zealand. Most of these have been on the ‘Great New Zealand Trail Ride’, on a mix of my own and borrowed horses, which was held in some pretty great North Island locations. This trek in Glenorchy, however, was by far the best I’ve experienced. Each day was better than the last. The location is just epic and magical, the horses are perfect for the job and seem pretty darn happy with their life, and the guides are delightful. They are passionate, patient, helpful, interested and interesting people. I would absolutely do this ride again in a couple of years and would be delighted if they were still there.’

‘This ride was really wonderful. I can’t say enough good things about the guides. They were absolute champs, so experienced and helpful, and great to talk to. I was nearly moved to tears when they brought out a cake and sang Happy Birthday for me. So cool!
The horses were really well trained and willing. The day we got to swim the horses was the very best day, and the last night in the B&B was such a treat. I couldn’t be happier to have gone on this ride – it was truly spectacular country, and on horseback is the best way to see it. I had a fabulous time and would love to go back!’

‘If you are considering doing one of these rides, just DO IT! An amazing experience for any horse lover or traveller. Every day was spectacular. My horse Dylan was perfect… a well educated, safe little Appaloosa Quarter Horse who looked after me every day. Our guides were skilled in horsemanship, cooking and conversation among other things, and went above and beyond to make this ride incredible. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough. The food was delicious and served in huge quantities – dinners were spent laughing and sharing stories together.
Just an all-round amazing experience.’

‘I had an incredible time on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride, soaking in the beautiful scenery in the company of wonderful horses and people. Every day was a new adventure, with all the necessary comforts waiting for us at the end of the day’s ride. It was relaxed but also action packed, a perfect getaway to forget your troubles and just enjoy the moment. I loved swimming the horses – it was such a special experience. I rode Merlin and he was wonderful. All the horses on the ride looked to be much better than any other trail riding horses I have ridden before. The guides far exceeded expectations and it was a great pleasure to spend a week exploring the beautiful scenery in their company. Every moment was truly a joy, with our group of riders and guides always chatting and having fun. A priceless experience – paradise.’

‘I’d definitely recommend this trip! Every day was different and interesting; I enjoyed the whole experience. The accommodation was great, even the tents. Our guides were exceptional in every area, guiding our group with experience and a sense of humour. At the start I was hesitant, but they matched me with a perfect pony called Solly who took great care of me. I completely trusted their pairing and Solly really built my confidence. I fell in love with him!’

‘This is the first long ride I’ve done, and the first Globetrotting ride, but it won’t be the last. The whole experience was terrific, and excellent value for money. I really loved the last night at Paradise. Our guides, Jess and Bijmin, were exceptional, and I couldn’t believe how well Casey matched horses with riders. I rode JT and he was fabulous. I like a horse with a bit of ‘go’, so he was just right for me. I would definitely recommend this ride!’

‘My Glenorchy Back Country Ride was sublime… beyond expectations. The horses were exceptional. I was allocated the most divine, well-schooled, spirited gelding called Doobie, and we bonded instantly, as did the other riders with their steeds. Spending time with these stunning horses was a gift. We had snow the night before our trek (capping the mountains), sunshine for a few days (flushing the lupines), rain one day (flooding the streams) and sunshine on our last day; the perfect mix for exploring this striking landscape. Plus, our hosts and guides were among some of the nicest people I’ve ever met – generous, warmhearted and highly skilled. They tended to our every need, providing nourishing meals, welcoming lodgings and inspired conversations. I’ve made so many new friends from the experience and I’m blessed to have made the journey.’

‘I absolutely loved the Glenorchy Back Country Ride, it exceeded all expectations! The experience of riding through New Zealand’s most stunning, scenic back country was just incredible. We did the most amazing river crossings, rode through beautiful beech forests, up and down hills, and alongside the stunning Diamond Lake. The horses were very well looked after, kind and willing, and our guide Shaun was absolutely brilliant. I’m not a regular rider and wondered how my body would cope, but it was no problem. I rode Spud and he was the perfect confidence builder – we had some great canters and a gallop. Although none of us knew each other, it was a lovely small group and we had some great laughs and formed good friendships. It was my first Globetrotting ride and I’m hooked!’

‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride was an amazing treat for the senses. Spectacular New Zealand scenery and varied riding challenges across crystal clear rivers, through forests and over mountains, all with a backdrop of glaciers and snow-capped mountains… incredible! I rode Peso – I loved her. Very sweet and responsive when I asked her to be, but cruised along otherwise. She was quite laid-back and had a nice comfortable canter, so she was a relaxing ride, but always up for some fun. Jess and Bijmin were helpful and friendly – we were very well looked after. I loved every day!’