‘My sister and I did the River Valley trek and it was amazing. Such a great group of people joined us and everything was fantastic from the horses to the accommodation and food. Our guides were great, they taught us why they use natural horsemanship and the horses were in great condition. I rode Ranger and was very pleased to be on one of the bigger horses as that’s what I’m used to. He was very careful but also very fun. Such amazing sights and such a peaceful place, we will definitely be back! Thanks heaps Globetrotting.’

‘Nicola is an excellent guide and coached us well in our adjustment to bitless style riding. I rode Rio, a palomino gelding. He was well mannered and once I got used to riding bitless, we seemed to understand each other well. The Sunday ride up the escarpment was a great day, reaching great heights to be met by the wonderful chef Miranda cooking us a barbeque lunch with bubbles. All the meals were fresh, delicious and varied. VERY generous servings and the desserts… yummo! The accommodation was excellent. Everything was to a high standard. Even the glamping tent was well set up with a comfy mattress, rug and chairs. The hot water bottles were a bonus! This ride was excellent value for money and I would definitely recommend it!’

‘Every day was special, the scenery was spectacular and the banter was hilarious. Our evenings together over a few wines were also memorable and so much fun. I haven’t laughed so much in ages! Everyone at River Valley was friendly, knowledgeable and great fun. The accommodation was excellent and the meals were absolutely 10 out of 10. Miranda was an outstanding chief and used all the fresh produce out of their own garden. I rode Ranger. He was a real gentleman. It was my first time riding bitless and he didn’t put a foot wrong. I loved how everyone could go off for a canter and if you felt like walking a bit more, the horses would listen to you and keep on walking. I loved my time at River Valley and have made lifelong friends. I’ll be back for more next year!’

‘The River Valley Ride is a must do for those thrill seeking riders. The food and accommodation is excellent. Magnificent scenery. Safe, friendly, extremely well cared for steeds. This was the second time I have ridden Alphie. He’s a fast wee chappie with such a great personality. I loved that we could enjoy lots of long canters. Swimming in the very clean river each day was pure bliss, and swimming with our horses was a unique experience. Staying at the Maori marae was extra special. Basically, every minute was absolutely fantastic!
Because this ride is so special, I have already booked it for the third time in January 2023. “Just Ride It”, globetrotters, you won’t be disappointed!’

‘This ride really gives both kiwis and overseas visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a slice of kiwi life that not everyone has access to, or even knows about. I can’t even think of words to describe Nicola, Janey and their wonderful family. It felt like a great privilege to spend such incredible time with four generations of their family, from the seniors down to the great grand kids. Everyone at River Valley made my experience that much richer. I kept thinking, ‘this is the best day’, but every day brought surprises and variety in terrain, views and experiences. Nothing felt orchestrated; we rolled with each day as it came: finding new paths, meeting farmers and their curious kids, watching shearers at work, talking to colourful locals, swimming at the river and spending time with the family dogs. The great thing about the horses on this trip is that they are are trained to be independent, and we are shown how to ride them that way. So refreshing!
I for one value the ‘guarantee’ that comes from booking with Globetrotting: we always know the rides have been tested and are of a high standard, and we know that the horses, guides, accommodations and experiences are solid. Thank you!’

‘Every day on this ride was phenomenal – you really settled into the rhythm of your horse while breathing in the fresh air and viewing the stunning countryside.
Nicola and Janey are the real deal: a wonderful mother-daughter duo who bring their passion for horses and the land together in an incredible eight day trek. They are knowledgeable, easy-going and always up for a good laugh. The standard of professionalism and attention to detail was top notch, especially when pairing you up with your horse. I rode Dakota and he was a true gentleman with plenty of go. He never seemed to tire and was happy at the front, side or back of all his companions. He didn’t put a foot wrong and I loved cantering up long rolling hills on him and meandering slowly down steep terrain. He really bonded with me and took on all sorts of trail obstacles without hesitation. Swimming the horses was incredible – so liberating! A big shout out also goes out to Miranda, the incredible chef, who outdid herself with every meal! I loved all the farm-to-fork food.
I cannot recommend this ride highly enough — it was truly the trip of a lifetime in every way.’

‘Surreal landscapes, gourmet food, great company and challenging terrain. What more could you want?! An unforgettable experience that offers total freedom on your horse, a cracking itinerary and plenty of opportunities to feel the wind in your hair, with incredible views around every corner. Lots of thought is put into which horse you are given – I rode Blaze, who was perfectly matched to me and was exactly what I asked for: a forward-moving horse with a bit of sass! Nicola and Janey were incredible guides and their hospitality was second to none. Truly ABOVE expectations. I would highly recommend this trip for all the adventurous riders out there – you won’t regret it!’

‘River Valley is definitely the best riding adventure I’ve had. Nicola and Janey gave us the experience of a lifetime, never to be forgotten. I rode the handsome and snuggly Calibre, who was a great ride and taught me a lot. Nicola and Janey are fantastic guides, and their knowledge of the land we travelled over is unsurpassed. They are warm, friendly, funny, caring and so very helpful. The accommodation was so luxurious, with super comfy beds, lovely linen and a fantastic outlook. Miranda did an outstanding job feeding us, with different fabulous meals every night and sumptuous desserts. Definitely no complaints! Our visit to Moawhango marae was warm and welcoming and the tour around the settlement was really interesting. All the lands we traversed were so stunning and spiritual. There were two outstanding highlights: swimming with our horses and rafting – both in the stunning Rangitikei River, and both first time experiences. We were made to feel like part of the big River Valley family. I’ll definitely be going back again.’

‘My thoughts are, save the best ’til last. The Glenorchy and Twin Coast rides were fantastic in their own special ways, but if you’re thinking of doing all three of Globetrotting’s New Zealand rides, then save River Valley for last. We spent many, many hours in the saddle with just the right amount of stops, either for a yummy lunch, a snack or a photo. Outside of riding time we were totally entertained, be it a swim in the river (we swam the horses too), a spa, a sauna, a marae visit, white water rafting – to name a few. We met the local community and had a great, relaxing horsey holiday. The scenery and wildlife were fantastic and the guides were awesome. The lodges were well equipped with all the creature comforts, and a beautiful river to swim in a stone’s throw away. The horses are bitless, barefoot and happy, which adds a new dimension to your ride. My horse Shamrock was very handsome and very confident in his own abilities. You could take him anywhere. The more riding experience you have, the more you’ll get out of this holiday.’