Frequently Asked Questions
Who takes a horse riding holiday?
Our customers are from a wide demographic, many are riders, others rode as children, worked/lived on farms and others are friends and family of horse crazy riders who are seeking to enjoy stepping into the world of their friends and loved ones.
Families and friends celebrating a milestone in someone’s life such as birthdays, anniversaries, businesses seeking team building, someone ticking off an item on their bucket list or they are retracing the steps of their ancestors who lived and worked on these iconic stations.
Why take a horse riding holiday?
Horses have a way of getting into your soul, they are kind, gentle and intuitive. There is no better way to relax from the stresses and strains of modern life that to spend time in their company.
Age is no barrier to exploring the wilderness when you team up with an amazing adventure horse and that is certainly one of the attractive parts of taking a horse riding holiday. On horseback you can ride far from the tourist routes, deep into the heart of the wilderness without disturbing Nature. This is such a gift as we often ride through wild deer, even Tahr, native falcons often swoop overhead as we ride by.
We have a catalogue of boutique horseback adventures to suit differing riding abilities and so many breathtaking locations to choose from. Many of our clients returning season after season to enjoy sharing the love and laughter we all enjoy on the trails.
What are your trail locations?
Our trails take place in parts of Canterbury and Otago on New Zealand’s beautiful South Island. We cover lakes, valleys, mountain ranges and usually ride on private stations with exclusive access. Sometimes we cross DOC-land and public hiking treks. Most of our trails are very remote and ideal for a digital detox period. For details please have a look on the Ride Itineraries.
Do I need to bring my own horse?
No. You will be teamed up with one of our gentle, forward moving adventure horses for the duration of your trail. This horse is matched to your riding ability (if any) and we supply all tack required for you to enjoy your horseback riding holiday with us.
Can I join a horse trek if it’s just me?
Many of our guests travel to the trails alone, you can join a group of riders who have one thing in common – the love of horses. Within no time you will have made some new friends and shared lots of laughter and an incredible experience alongside them.
What pace are we riding in?
Due to packhorses and challenging terrain, all our current trails are ridden in walk only. That ensures healthy horses and riders and also gives less confident riders a chance to enjoy this adventure.
Do I need to wear a hard hat?
For beginners and novices, wearing a hard hat is mandatory. Everyone else can make his or her own decision. We recommend you to wear one and have a selection of hard hats to borrow for free.
What shoes are the best?
We recommend wearing waterproof, high-ankle hiking boots. That will give you comfort in the stirrups and around the horse. On some of our trails, you have to walk a few sections, and maybe you also enjoy a little walk from time to time to stretch your legs, so comfortable boots are a must!
What if my partner doesn’t ride?
Many of our rides are suitable for beginners or novices; if your partner really doesn’t want to ride then we can direct you to a trek location that allows you to include other family member’s needs. Many of our customers meet up with their family members along the trail when we reach our hotel stops! There is nothing more amazing than seeing your loved one riding into an old gold mining town on horseback with the pack horses! Like stepping back into the history of these amazing places.
Can we celebrate a special event on the horse trek?
If you let us know in advance, we will arrange a special cake that fits on the pack horses! I am sure if you want to bring along a special tipple it can be fitted into the packs as well, just keep the sizes in mind on a pack trail as everything has to fit into the pack boxes.
Am I going to be like a fish out of water if I don’t ride?
We have people from all walks of life on our trails, our horses gear up or gear down to the needs of the rider. Our staff are there to help you every step of the way so there is no need to worry, just hop on, relax and enjoy and let your dreams unfurl!
Are there weight restrictions for horse trekking at Adventure Horse Trekking?
The weight restriction is a maximum of 100 kilograms (15.75 stone / 220.46 pounds) for a rider. This guideline is in place for the health of the horse.
We have a limited selection of heavy horses that can take heavier riders. Please email us to check availability of these horses for the specific trail that you wish to ride.
I have dietary requirements/food allergies. Is that a problem?
No! Just let us know in immediately after booking! Most of our food is self-prepared either before the trail or on the trail. We will make sure your requirements are dealed with. But please be aware, that we have a very limited space in the pack boxes on the pack trails and therefore ask you not to ask for special requirements if they are not really necessary!
How much luggage can I bring on a pack trail?
You will have a blue bag for your personal belongings that goes on the packhorse. It should not be heavier than 9 kg. Please bring dry bags for your stuff – the blue bags are not waterproof! Additionally, you’ll have a saddle bag to put on your riding horse. You can also tie a raincoat/jacket behind the saddle.
What do I need to bring on my horse trekking adventure?
We have compiled a comprehensive list of what you will need to bring on your horse trek plus what we will provide for you. Take a closer look on the “Proper Packing” Page.
Will there be cell phone coverage on the horse trek?
Depends on the trail, but much of the time we will be outside cell phone coverage.
Will the accommodation have electricity and WIFI?
Depends on the trail, but most back huts do not have electricity nor WIFI.
Can I bring my dog along on the horse trek?
Unfortunately we do not permit guests to bring their dogs for the safety of all riders and horses.
