‘This trip has reignited something in me which I can’t quite put into words… so thank you. For someone who had only recently returned to riding after a prolonged break, this was the perfect opportunity to get back in the saddle, enjoy some wonderful company and see beautiful NZ! I rode Jungle, who looked after me and brought back my confidence galloping and jumping! He was just brilliant!

I personally can’t thank our guides enough for making us feel so welcome, comfortable, confident and safe. My sincere thanks also go to Deana, Casey, Di and the rest of the support crew, who made it a wonderful experience I will never forget. Our guides and crew were the first up in the morning and last to bed, ensuring we had everything we needed and that the horses were well fed and rested. They could not have done anything more for us. It was great to see them looking after the environment along the way, too, ensuring we were only leaving hoofprints behind.

Overall, the experience was one in a million and I can’t wait to book my next one!’

‘I really enjoyed my five day ride through the Glenorchy back country. The whole experience, from booking with Globetrotting to the pre-trip information to the ride itself, was easy and seamless. The guides were amazing – knowledgeable, helpful, always thinking of safety, tolerant, enthusiastic, cheerful, great role models and fabulous horse people. The horses were great, the food was fabulous, the place itself was magnificent – and I met some wonderful new friends! Cantering through the forest, the occasional gallop and going to the waterfall were some of my favourite moments. Loved it!’

‘My third Globetrotting experience was all about the superstars of Glenorchy. Being greeted by the infamous Bijmin was a semi-surreal moment. But there was no time for autographs because the all-important four legged crew were saddled and waiting to take our all-Aussie girl group to the glaciers.
The gallops, the gals and the guides (Bijmin, Shaun and Nat) made this trip special. The backdrop of the snow-capped mountains and glacial waters made it unforgettable.’

‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride would be hard to equal if you have a deep respect and passion for immersing yourself in unspoilt, stunning scenery and environments. Every day holds its own magic and I didn’t want it to end. Our guides were exceptional with both the horses and guests. They are knowledgeable, friendly, hard working, patient and kind people. The horses were well matched to the riders, well looked after and well educated. I have only compliments on every aspect of this wonderful journey. This ride far exceeded my expectations and will forever remain as a treasured memory. Thank you to all involved in providing such a well run trek, you’re a terrific and polished team. Just keep doing it this way, it’s the right mix!’

‘I really struggled to write this as I can’t find the exact words to describe the trip. But I did manage to find one fitting word: FREEDOM. This ride is absolutely stunning from start to finish. The environment is something out of a fairytale (quite literally): the pristine forestry, snow-capped mountain ranges, glacier-fed rivers and waterfalls that hold the cleanest and purest water in the world. Our guides, Jess and Bijmin, were outstanding in their knowledge of the land, horses, people and cooking. Every night the meals were cooked to perfection, and although I’m a little disappointed I didn’t lose weight, I don’t regret for a second not eating the delicious food they provided each and every day. The horses were all superb and well educated – some of the hardiest yet most responsive I’ve had the privilege of riding. If you are thinking of doing this trip, JUST DO IT! The memories and friendships I made over that week will forever be in my heart, and I am so grateful to Globetrotting for allowing me to be a part of something so surreal.’

‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride was a special horse riding trip I will always remember. Being my first international ride, I was in awe of the beautiful countryside we rode through each day. Having 5 Kates and 2 Sheryls in the group meant there was loads of laughter and fun along the way. The group all bonded so well and new friendships for life have been made too.

Thank you Globetrotting!! Your fine selection of rides and outfitters is just awesome!’

‘This was such a good experience! Everything was outstanding. Our guides were amazing hosts and horse people. Jess and Bijmin were outstanding! They knew everything, or would find out anything they didn’t know already. They really complimented each other, too.

I rode Kale. He was wonderful – very responsive, young and quite forward, which is exactly the kind of horse I’d suggested I’d like to ride. Absolutely no complaints. We were treated like royalty and allowed to have a holiday. There was so much good food, too! I’m recommending this ride to anyone who will listen!’

‘This ride is very well organised, with a different schedule every day. I had plenty of time to relax and enjoy every moment – and there were a lot of them. We had lots of time for great photos and our wonderful guides helped us find the best spots to do it. Bijmin and Jess were so kind, happy and accommodating. I loved how the scenery changes throughout the day, making for a very interesting and fun ride. We cantered fast, cantered slow, trotted, walked through fairytale forests, crossed rivers and gazed at one beautiful scene after another. Swimming with the horses in beautiful turquoise glacier water was breathtaking. All of the food was delicious, with plenty of it. Our accommodations were clean and tidy with great views.
I’ve ridden many miles in many countries and found the three things that make a great ride: good food, beautiful scenery, and good, fun people. This ride had it all to the highest degree. LOVED IT!’

‘If you want a holiday of a lifetime, this is it. You can’t get better scenery, guides, and experiences than this! I rode Gizzy and within five minutes of riding him I was absolutely in love. He was the best horse for me. He built my confidence up, and when we got to gallop he went as fast as I wanted him to go. I felt so connected to him. He was amazing! I absolutely loved swimming the horses through the river, and also the big run up the grassy hill. My mom, sisters, cousin, aunt and I all got to run our horses up the hill at the same time and it was so fun!!

Our guides were outstanding! They just don’t come better than Bijmin and Jess! They work well together and they were so personable to everyone in the group. The accommodations were awesome – rustic and nice. The day we reached Paradise it had rained most of the ride, and when we got to the cottage there was a fire going and snacks out for us. I thought we had died and gone to heaven!’