Wanaka Horse Riding, New Zealand

Back Country Saddle Expeditions Introduction

Explore the back country of New Zealand on a Wanaka horse riding adventure with Back Country Saddle Expeditions. We have been in the business of back country trekking for well over 12 years.

Whether you come with us for a couple of hours or for a full day, with our horse treks in Wanaka, you'll enjoy much of what horse riding in New Zealand has to offer.

About our Wanaka Horse Riding

On our horse treks in Wanaka you will experience exhilarating views of some of New Zealand's most picturesque country that is the Wanaka region.

Explore this great country the same way that many of New Zealand's pioneers once did. Enjoy some of New Zealand's beautiful scenery and learn some of the local history as you ride.

Whether you are an experienced rider or a novice we will provide a horse which is appropriate to your needs.

Our horses are spirited but well mannered and all our rides are adjusted to the experience and ability of each rider.

For further information about our horse riding treks in Wanaka, please contact us.

Safety on our Wanaka Horse Riding

You will be able to ride in confidence with our experienced staff who are knowledgeable to make your trip both safe and informative. All our guides are experienced in horse trekking, are first aid trained and well versed in the history of the area.

As we are a family operation children are well catered for. There is appropriately sized equipment and the horses' calm nature has seen us often taken children as young as four years out riding.

The horseback trips are available for photography, back country hiking, or just relaxing and enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery. We also use western saddles, ensuring a comfortable ride.

All of our horse riding treks are on Appaloosa horses, making your experience even better than can be imagined.

Horse Treks in Wanaka

Trekking routes vary from day to day through the historic gold mining valley, high country farm plateaus and under the mountains of the Cardrona Valley.

Half-day – Two hours in duration. Departs twice daily. Times may vary due to seasonal changes.

Full-day – Minimum of two people. One days notice required. Previous riding experience not essential.

Mountain weather can be unpredictable so it is recommended to be prepared for all extremes. Minimum of two people riding, and must book ahead—at least one day in advance. Previous riding experience not essential.

Extras and Prices

We offer a few extra services on our Wanaka horse riding trips that make the trekking experience even more enjoyable:

• A courtesy coach is available
• Safety helmets are provided
• Wet weather gear provided
• Transport is available from Wanaka
• Qualmark approved visitor activity

Our Wanaka horse treks are competitively priced as follows:

• Half-day treks: adults NZ$80.00
• Half-day treks: children NZ$60.00
• Transport NZ$15.00 per person (from Wanaka)

All prices include GST.

Location of Back Country Saddle Expeditions

Back Country Saddles are located between Wanaka and Queenstown on the Crown Range Road. The stables are situated 27 kilometres up the Cardrona Valley from Wanaka. It's a pleasant 20 minute drive with high country stations on either side of the valley floor. From Queenstown allow 50 minutes for a scenic drive over the Crown range.

Our Wanaka horse riding operation is situated 800 metres up the road from the iconic Cardrona Hotel, the main surviving local historic building. Back in the late 1800s the area was home to thousands of gold miners and even now the ruins of their accommodation and mine workings abound. You can't miss seeing them as your horse riding trip weaves around the hills and through the valleys of this beautiful part of New Zealand.

For further information about our horse riding treks in Wanaka, please contact us.