Price
$2500.00 pp
Experience
Strong Intermediate & Experienced
Duration
3 Days, 2 Night
Minimum Age
14 years old
Weight Limit
90kg
The Highlight Reel of the Rees Valley
We’ve crafted the ultimate 3-day ‘Heritage’ ride, showcasing the best of our five-day journey. Experience three unforgettable days exploring the breathtaking backcountry of Glenorchy, complete with two nights of glamping in our cozy NZ mustering huts nestled in the heart of the Rees and Dart Valleys. This adventure promises to be the ultimate Kiwi experience on horseback!
Please note that trails are subject to change but here is a sample itinerary:
Day One: Begin your journey by meeting your trusty steed, a companion for the next three days of exploration. After a brief introduction, set off on a scenic ride down into Glenorchy township, where the stunning landscapes unfold before you. As you traverse lush valleys and riverside trails, take in the majestic views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, settle into the iconic Rees Valley Shearers Shed, a rustic haven that offers comfort and warmth, all while being enveloped by the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps.
Day Two: After a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients, embark on an adventurous ride to Lovers Leap, a breathtaking geological feature that offers panoramic views of the valley below. The trail meanders through diverse landscapes, from rugged hills to lush forested areas. Continue your journey to Diamond Lake, where sparkling waters reflect the sky and surrounding peaks. As you enter Paradise, you’ll be captivated by its serene beauty, surrounded by towering mountains and vibrant beech trees. Spend the night in a charming hut beside the tranquil lake, where the sounds of nature will lull you to sleep.
Day Three: On your final day, prepare for an exhilarating ride as you traverse Mt Alfred. The trail takes you through the Dart River bed, where you can explore picturesque hillocks and witness the stunning interplay of light and shadow across the landscape. This day promises breathtaking vistas and plenty of opportunities to soak in the natural beauty that has inspired countless filmmakers. Conclude your adventure with a return to the horse yards, where you can unwind with a well-deserved beverage and share stories of your remarkable journey through this enchanting wilderness.
Availability is subject to change. To make your booking and confirm available dates, please contact the team at High Country Horses.
| October 2026 |
No Availability |
| November 2026 |
3rd November 17th November – Fully Booked |
| December 2026 |
1st December 15th December |
| January 2027 |
12th January 26th January |
| February 2027 |
9th February 16th February |
| March 2027 |
2nd March 16th March |
| April 2027 |
No availability |
Testimonials
Glenorchy naturally!! No they are not fake clouds…
#glenorchybackcountry #photgraphytours #paradise #lotr #privatetoursqueenstown #privatetournz
Mt Alfred overlooking the Dart River Valley. Paradise Discovery Tour #glenorchybackcountry #glenorchynz #paradisevalley #lotr #lotrseries #hikingnz #queenstownholidays #agritourism #privatetours #exclusiveaccess privatediscoverytours.co.nz
Glenorchy is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise! Glenorchy sits at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu, along a stunningly beautiful stretch of road that runs from Queenstown to the rural settlement of Paradise further north.….. Isengard Lookout 🖖🏻 #newsealand🇳🇿 #paradies #glenorchy #glenorchybackcountry #isengardlookout #triproundtheworld #naturephotography #naturereserve
Tales to inspire: ‘This was my second time on the Globetrotting Glenorchy Back Country Ride, and it was just as wonderful as the first one. I rode a wonderful little horse called Slim who was the real gentleman. The team did a wonderful job of matching us with willing, experienced horses who knew their job. I met wonderful friends and explored one of the most beautiful areas of NZ. The guides, Shaun and Joel looked after us so well. There was plenty of great food, and the accommodation was basic, rustic and clean. Put this ride on your bucket list!`
-Wow! 😍 How stunning are these photos from Rae Marie Gibbs? We can`t get enough 🤩 Thank you for sharing with us 🙌
Tales to inspire: ‘It took me a few days to come down from the high I was on after spending five days and four nights on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride. What an experience! We crossed glacier-fed rivers, swam with the horses, plunged into a waterfall and circumnavigated snow-capped mountains. The scenery is jaw-dropping! Our guide, Sean, was incredibly knowledgeable and fun, and the trip was made even sweeter by the best bunch of funny, strong women, capable horses and many, many bottles of wine. I would recommend it to anyone who’ll listen!’ 🏔️✨
-👏 A big shout out to Lauren Hockey for her delightful feedback and cracking images!
Tales to inspire: `What an absolutely incredible ride. Not only have I walked away from this with my bucket filled, but I got to experience so many things I’d never done before! Swimming with the horses in a glacier fed river, diving into a pool of ice-cold water under a waterfall and cantering and galloping across the most incredible landscapes - I will cherish these memories forever. I went on this trip with the mindset that I wouldn’t say no to anything, would expect the unexpected and enjoy each day as it came. I’m so glad I did, because the newfound confidence in my abilities as a rider that this trip gave me is just indescribable.`
-We are so proud of Jess Roddam! She overcame some big metal blocks after a riding injury at home and found her confidence again on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride in New Zealand. ✨
Tales to inspire: `Breathtaking scenery with snow-capped mountains in the foreground whilst crossing pristine alpine rivers on magnificent horses! I rode Kumara, and I adored him. He was a very responsive, keen adorable horse with good pep in his step and a smooth canter. The guides were amazing and knew a lot about the area and the horses. They offered great hospitality and were always positive. A real highlight was swimming the horses bareback in the pristine, ice-cold alpine river. Just enchanting!`
- A big thank you to Aliza Venn for this fabulous feedback. We are drooling over that pristine blue river!
... and of course I went for a horse ride 🐎🥰🏞
#newzealand #glenorchy #glenorchybackcountry #queenstownatnight #samsung
Tales to inspire: ‘Do yourself a favour and get on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride. The scenery is breathtaking, the air is fresh, the water is clean and crisp and the horses are outstanding. You`re off the grid for the whole trip and can truly reconnect with nature.
Every day was a highlight - the scenery was incredible. Swimming in the glacier-fed streams and with the horses was amazing, too. Bonus: there are no creatures in New Zealand that can kill you!`
- We are so chuffed that Carolyn Seuberlich had such a magical time in NZ - oh, and that no creatures ate her, of course! 😂
Check out your perfect summer holiday via the link in our bio!☝️
Tales to inspire: ‘I was absolutely ecstatic with this trip! The meals were so good and fresh, and I was very happy with the accommodation. I had a horse named Roll, who was sweet as. Bijmin was a genius when it came to horses, with more knowledge and experience than anyone I know, and Gabby went above and beyond to accommodate us all. I especially loved the river crossings on day 1, and day 3 when we got to gallop! The value for money was excellent and I’d happily book with Globetrotting again.’
- A big thank you to Tenille Licari for such brilliant feedback on the Glenorchy Back Country ride in New Zealand 🏔️✨.
You can still snatch up a saddle seat on this deliciously scenic ride in 2023!
Check the link in our bio for more information or to book ☝️.
Tales to Inspire: `Could it get any better - a beautiful horse, incredible scenery, fresh air and no mobile phone reception for days. New Zealand, you blow my mind. I can`t say enough good things about our guides Sean and Gabby, and hiking up to Lennox Falls was another highlight. I`d recommend this trip to anyone.`
- The Glenorchy Back Country Ride in New Zealand was a stunning escape for globetrotter Samantha Philp!
We’ve traded in the campervan for horses for the next five days. Trekking through the Glenorchy Mountains, spending our first night in a cabin on a sheep station by the Rees River ✨Magic✨ #glenorchy #glenorchybackcountry #trekking #lovetoridelivetotravel #travelmanagerheather
✨UPDATE: The Glenorchy Back Country Ride is a GO! ✨
For those of you who have long lusted after this legendary New Zealand holiday, try not to pee your pants when we tell you that we have NINE new departures up for grabs for summer 2023-24! 🥳
AND for those of you who just cannot wait that long, if you`re ready to STOP, DROP AND RIDE, there`s one spot up for grabs from December 5-9 - that`s right, next week!! 🏇
From riding through fields of purple lupines to splashing across glacier-fed rivers, this is an adventure you`ll remember on your deathbed.
It`s five days on the back of a horse you`ll want to smuggle home in your suitcase.
Five days with guides whose knowledge, friendliness and epic hospitality will blow you away.
Five days immersed in a landscape few are ever lucky enough to see.
Five days with a group of globetrotters who will feel like long-lost friends within minutes.
Ready to go on an adventure?!
Head to our website to learn more and book! The link is in our bio ☝️
Have you been lurking longingly on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride page lately, wishing you`d booked a spot before they all sold out?
Well TODAY is your lucky day - or more like your lucky hour, because you`ll have to drop everything to snap up the ONE saddle seat that`s become available from November 7-11!
Yep - two weeks from now, you could be riding a station-bred stock horse across eye-popping scenery in New Zealand`s untamed South Island, free at last from the pressures and distractions of modern life.
The Glenorchy Back Country Ride defies description: there`s just something so magical about it. You`ll be picking your jaw up off the ground on a regular basis as you traverse glacier-fed rivers, movie-star mountains (yep, really!), old growth native forest and sprawling, historical stations.
By night, you`ll spend two starlit evenings in tents with camp stretchers, swags, a hot shower and flushing toilets; and two nights in bunk bed cabins. The food is mouthwatering, hearty, served with generosity and made with love by your friendly, knowledgeable back country guides.
This ride is LEGENDARY among the Globetrotting community and saddle seats are as rare as hens` teeth.
SO if you`re ready to zip across to the South Island of New Zealand for an adventure that you`ll still be raving about when you`re grey and wrinkly, head to our website and grab this opportunity by the horns! The link is in our bio ☝️🏇
Affectionately known as "the gallop hill" how good does this look!?
Day 4 on the #glenorchybackcountry ride
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#highcountryhorses #gallop #adventure #horsesofinstagram #horses #wonderlust #mountains #scenery #nzmustdo #glenorchynz glenorchynz
we only regret the rides we didn`t take
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#highcountryhorses #adventure #freedom #glenorchybackcountry #mountains #wild #horse #riding #beauty #newzealand #nzmustdo
Affectionately known as "pride rock", how beautiful is this spot from our 5 day glenorchy back country ride!?
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Rees valley at its best 👌🏻
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#horses #adventure #wild #nzmustdo #nature #beauty #mountains #highcountryhorses #newzealand #freedom #glenorchybackcountry
🇳🇿 Kiwi globetrotters, heads up: you only have your fabulous backyard to yourselves for a couple more months! And what better way to explore it than by supporting a legendary local riding outfitter on an EPIC horse riding holiday?!
The rest of the world is champing at the bit to experience our New Zealand rides and we can see why - each of them offers a unique, authentic and totally immersive experience guaranteed to leave you breathless.
📷1&2: Glenorchy Back Country Ride, South Island - *NOT* available this season, but contact us to discuss next season! One of our most raved-about rides, this trip is a Lord of the Rings fantasy come to life (minus the monsters, of course!).
5 days, 4 nights. $3,285 NZD per person, twin share.
📷3&4: Twin Coast Adventure, North Island - January 13-17, March 24-28, April 21-15. Hosted by two of NZ`s top horsemanship clinicians, you`ll explore secluded and private pockets of the magnificent Twin Coast.
5 days, 4 nights. $2,995 NZD per person, twin share.
📷5&6: River Valley Ride {and her shorter sibling, the River Valley Escape}, North Island - limited saddle seats in Jan, Feb & March. Bitless, barefoot horses, High Country landscapes opened up just for you, family hospitality and real Māori culture.
8 days, 7 nights - $4,075 NZD twin share or $4,575 NZD single accom.
3 days, 3 nights - $1,800 NZD twin share or $2,040 NZD single accom.
Sound good? Head to our website to make this dream your reality! 🌏🏇
📍Glenorchy boat shed
#glenorchywharf #glenorchy #weekendadventures #southisland #newzealand #glenorchybackcountry
This gem of a 5 day, 4 night itinerary is situated one hour from Queenstown in the cute-as-a-button, lakeside community of Glenorchy, New Zealand.
Music: Hold On by Taxi Home and Takeaway
#TravelTuesday The Glenorchy Back Country Ride defies description: there`s just something so magical about it. Located amidst the untamed peaks of New Zealand`s South Island, this is an adventure you`ll remember on your deathbed.
It`s five days on the back of a horse you`ll want to smuggle home in your suitcase.
Five days with guides whose knowledge, friendliness and epic hospitality will blow you away.
Five days immersed in landscapes that few are ever lucky enough to see.
Five days with a group of globetrotters who will feel like long-lost friends within minutes.
It`s SO popular that we have no less than 18 departures on offer this summer, from early November right through to late March!
SO if you`re ready to zip across to the South Island of New Zealand for an adventure that you`ll still be raving about when you`re grey and wrinkly, head to our website and grab this opportunity by the horns! Link in bio 🇳🇿🏇
Wednesday Wishlist: On the Glenorchy Back Country Ride you’ll journey into the dramatic, pristine environment of Rees Valley. Rees Valley Station is rated one of the area’s most scenic places to ride.
Music: Chemtrails by Semo
Wednesday Wishlist: The land of the long white cloud might be small, but it makes up for size in globetrotting goodness!
Music: Mentis Spiritualis by Alex Zado
The Glenorchy Back Country Ride, New Zealand gives you exclusive access to over 100,000 acres of pristine back country stretching from the Dart Valley through to the Rees Valley with Mount Alfred sitting in the middle.
Music: Keep An Eye by Back To Dream
Tales to Inspire: `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.`
- Wowee, we`re absolutely stoked that the Glenorchy Back Country Ride gets Nadeen Mitchell`s tick of approval!
Frequently Asked Questions
To book, please contact us directly via info@highcountryhorses.nz with your desired ride, date and number of participants.
One of our friendly team will respond back with availability options, further information and a booking form to complete. Please fill out your form (individually) and send it back to us to hold your ride spot. Once this has been vetted by our team, you will receive our bank information to transfer your 50% deposit. As soon as we receive this fund your ride will be confirmed!
We will be here every step of the way to make this process as simple and easy as possible. Any further questions or queries please do not hesitate to reach out.
ALL Riders for our multiday treks are required to be Strong Intermediate or Experienced riders. This means, capable of riding a horse at all paces, over uneven, complex terrain in an uncontrolled environment.
Riders must be balanced in the saddle, have an independent seat and capable of using aids correctly and effectively.
Due to the terrain, pace, and horses, we cannot accommodate to anyone with less ability sorry – we are strict on this!
If you used to ride regularly but have not for a few years we strongly recommend building up some saddle hours before the ride. Your bum will thank you later!
Our multiday rides are all inclusive.
This means, all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), accommodation, Horse and tack hire, transfers to and from central Queenstown, personal guides and trail fees and taxes are all included in the price.
We do not supply any alcohol on our trips, although you are more then welcome to bring your own (applies to over 18). Same applies for any specific snacks or food you may wish to bring.
Our age limit for our Heritage ride is 14 years old, provided they have extensive riding experience and are riding fit. If your child is younger we recommend checking out our Rees River Ride.
All children under 18 years old and MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The well being and safety of our horses is of the utmost importance to our team and weight limits are put in place to ensure their welfare is kept in accordance to the world horse welfare tourism standard. We are strict on this policy.
Please note that guests may be weighed at check in and then introduced to the horse that best suits your riding ability and weight.
All booking cancellations 60 days prior to your trek date will be refunded in full. 50% of the booking cost will be refunded between 60 days and 30 days to your trek date. No refund is available within 30 days of your departure date.
Why’s this? Because your ride has been carefully curated months in advance, all accommodation, catering and other expenses have been pre organized by us based on the individual needs of yourself or group. Late change fees and expenses are incurred by us and as such no refunds will be permitted after that period.
If you are a movie lover, this is the ride for you!
The back drop of this ride has been featured in numerous Hollywood blockbuster films over the years. It’s not hard to see why, as you ride through fantasy based landscapes, mystical beech forests and around towering snow capped mountain ranges.
You’ll be riding beneath the famous “misty mountains” in The Lord of The Rings looking up at the Dart Valley that was the epic location of the tower of Isengard.
Rees Valley Station played host to Mission Impossible 6: Fallout, Walking with dinosaurs and Netflix’s hit ‘Sweet Tooth’ TV series, just to name a few.
Paradise is arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful and famous filming location in the Country. High Country Horses have exclusive horse riding rights to this incredible location and prides itself on offering an up close and personal riding experience amongst authentic scenes from Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, The chronicles of Narnia, X-men Origins: Wolverine, Taylor Swifts ‘Out of the Woods’ Music video and many many more.
Most importantly… this ride will leave you feeling like you’re the star in your own movie!
