‘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!’

‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride was worth every penny spent. If you do this ride, you will not regret it. It was all so wonderful!! The scenery was outstanding! The guides were wonderful and really knew what they were doing. They knew how to handle the horses and take us through the best places at the rivers. They were a joy to talk to and really were a huge part of why this ride was so wonderful. I loved the changes in scenery and all the different places we stayed. The cottage at Paradise was so wonderful and fitting after riding in some rainy weather. I was so impressed with how well the horses were cared for, too. I rode Star and he was wonderful. I especially enjoyed running him up the big grassy hill. I would recommend this to my friends and anyone else who loves to ride.’

‘What an awesome time in Glenorchy. The scenery was mind blowing, words just doesn’t do this part of the world justice. The horse I was matched to, JT, was awesome and suited me perfectly – he was forward-moving but very relaxed when in the group. The food was wholesome and yummy, the accommodation was comfortable, and what a bonus on the last night to stay at the aptly named ‘Paradise’. Our guides were great – enthusiastic and with so much local knowledge to share. Jess and Bijmin are true horse people, it was definitely great to have met them both.’

‘This was an amazing ride. I loved seeing such beautiful country that not everyone has the opportunity to see. The other riders were all great and we enjoyed each other’s company. The horses, the guides, the mountains – all of it was amazing, awe inspiring and great, great fun. I feel like I am a better rider from my five days on a horse in Glenorchy. I am not afraid to gallop, or ford a river, or ride up and down steep hills. I would not hesitate for a moment to recommend this ride.’

‘The Glenorchy Back Country ride is a MUST DO ride.  Each day just got better – every scenic vision was amazing. The guides were up there with the best and went above and beyond for their clients. This ride is now equal favourite with my all-time high of the Namib Desert Ride… I didn’t think that would ever be possible. But this ride has everything, so it deserves it.’