Private Rides
& Packages
Your adventure, your rules. Our private rides are fully customisable experiences designed around you—whether it’s a romantic ride for two, an advanced trek for seasoned riders, or something totally unique you’ve dreamed up.
Private Rides
& Packages
If you can dream it, we can create it!
Your private Adventure
No Sharing the Reins…
Forget the group ride. This is your adventure, your way. Our private experiences are completely tailored to you—whether that’s an intimate ride for two, an adrenaline-fueled gallop for experienced riders, or that once-in-a-lifetime proposal moment you’ve been planning. The Dart Valley becomes your private playground, the itinerary is yours to design, and our expert guides are here to bring your dream ride to life.
Private 1.5 Hour Trek | Full focus
A 1.5-hour ride through Glenorchy’s stunning landscape, tailored to your experience level. First time in the saddle or seasoned rider—we’ve got you covered, it’s pure magic.
A trail ride for everybody, even the kids! This is a relaxing, slow paced trek that allows you to explore the coveted landscapes of the Glenorchy river systems with its dramatic mountain backdrop.
Once you arrive our friendly, experienced team will get you “geared up” and take you through an introduction to our horses and how we communicate with them. You’ll have a chance to meet and bond with your horse before heading out for the easy ride along the valley and river systems. There’s no more magical experience than venturing through the wilderness with you and your horse in harmony together!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Rider Weight Limit — Current Season
Our rider weight limit is 105kg, weighed fully dressed with clothes and boots on.
This winter season, we have no exceptions to this limit. Our larger horses are on their winter break, and the horses currently in work are matched to riders within this range. We ask you to respect this — not because we want to exclude anyone, but because asking a horse to carry more than they’re conditioned for isn’t something we’re willing to do.
Not sure where you land?
Please contact us before booking* —If you are at or near the weight limit, please contact us before booking.
📞 +64 21 766 437
✉️ bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
Weighed at check-in. If your weight on the day exceeds 105kg, we won’t be able to put you on a horse, and no refund will be issued.
Why This Limit Exists
Horse riding is an athletic activity that places physical demands on both rider and horse. Exceeding these limits places unnecessary strain on the horse’s joints and back, and increases risk of injury to both you and the horse. Our weight limits ensure:
– The welfare and safety of our horses
– You can mount and dismount safely without risk of injury
– A quality experience for all participants
We have different sized horses for different riders. Discussing your requirements in advance allows us to:
– Confirm suitability
– Arrange the appropriate horse
– Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
Weight limits will be reviewed as seasonal conditions change.
*If you cannot participate due to inaccurate weight information provided at booking, no refund will be issued
As this is an education based adventure, ALL RIDERS in your group must have sufficient English and be able to understand all instructions and exchanges between the Guides and other members of their group.
Please contact our team prior to booking if you require special assistance. We require a minimum of 24 hours notice for bookings that require special assistance including disabilities.
LATE ARRIVAL POLICY
Check-In Time
Check-in is mandatory 30 minutes before your scheduled ride departure time.
For example:
10:30 AM departure = 10:00 AM check-in
2:00 PM departure = 1:30 PM check-in
The Safety Briefing
During check-in, all riders must complete a mandatory 30-minute safety briefing covering:
– Emergency procedures
– Horse behaviour and communication
– Equipment use and safety
– Trail hazards and safety protocols
– Hand signals and group riding procedures
– What to do if separated from the group
This briefing is a legal requirement and cannot be abbreviated, skipped, or completed while other riders wait.
What Happens If You Arrive Late
– You will not be permitted to participate
– We cannot hold back riders already on horses
– No refund will be issued (operational costs remain the same)
How to Avoid Late Arrival
Allow extra time for unfamiliar routes and remote location
GPS estimates may not account for unsealed roads
By Booking With Us, You Acknowledge:
1. Check-in is 30 minutes before departure
2. The safety briefing is non-negotiable
3. Late arrival may result in exclusion from your scheduled ride
4. No refund will be issued for late arrival
5. Alternative rides are offered at our discretion
Questions? Call us: +64 21 766 437 Email: bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
We take safety seriously. These policies exist to protect you, our staff, and our horses.
Private 2.5 Hour Trek | Explorers Dream
A custom or private 2.5 hour adventure through the Glenorchy wilderness on beautifully trained horses that is completely catered to you or your group’s needs.
A beautiful private experience, where all the focus is on you at the head of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand’s longest lake. Riding alongside braided, glacial fed rivers. This adventure offers river crossings and spectacular scenery, including views of The Misty Mountains, The Wizard’s Vale and The Mighty Methedras. An unforgettable experience for all levels of rider and a great option for mixed ability couples and groups.
Before you head out, our friendly, experienced guides will take you through an intro session on horsemanship and you’ll get a chance to bond with your horse on the ground and then in the saddle. This session will set you up for a fun, harmonious ride and you’ll feel like a horseman (or horsewoman) as you venture through the coveted landscapes of the Glenorchy river systems with its dramatic mountain backdrop. An experience you won’t forget!
*Faster paces are dependent on rider abilities and environmental factors and are not guaranteed on any ride.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Rider Weight Limit — Current Season
Our rider weight limit is 105kg, weighed fully dressed with clothes and boots on.
This winter season, we have no exceptions to this limit. Our larger horses are on their winter break, and the horses currently in work are matched to riders within this range. We ask you to respect this — not because we want to exclude anyone, but because asking a horse to carry more than they’re conditioned for isn’t something we’re willing to do.
Not sure where you land?
Please contact us before booking* —If you are at or near the weight limit, please contact us before booking.
📞 +64 21 766 437
✉️ bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
Weighed at check-in. If your weight on the day exceeds 105kg, we won’t be able to put you on a horse, and no refund will be issued.
Why This Limit Exists
Horse riding is an athletic activity that places physical demands on both rider and horse. Exceeding these limits places unnecessary strain on the horse’s joints and back, and increases risk of injury to both you and the horse. Our weight limits ensure:
– The welfare and safety of our horses
– You can mount and dismount safely without risk of injury
– A quality experience for all participants
We have different sized horses for different riders. Discussing your requirements in advance allows us to:
– Confirm suitability
– Arrange the appropriate horse
– Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
Weight limits will be reviewed as seasonal conditions change.
*If you cannot participate due to inaccurate weight information provided at booking, no refund will be issued
As this is an education based adventure, ALL RIDERS in your group must have sufficient English and be able to understand all instructions and exchanges between the Guides and other members of their group.
Please contact our team prior to booking if you require special assistance. We require a minimum of 24 hours notice for bookings that require special assistance including disabilities.
LATE ARRIVAL POLICY
Check-In Time
Check-in is mandatory 30 minutes before your scheduled ride departure time.
For example:
10:30 AM departure = 10:00 AM check-in
2:00 PM departure = 1:30 PM check-in
The Safety Briefing
During check-in, all riders must complete a mandatory 30-minute safety briefing covering:
– Emergency procedures
– Horse behaviour and communication
– Equipment use and safety
– Trail hazards and safety protocols
– Hand signals and group riding procedures
– What to do if separated from the group
This briefing is a legal requirement and cannot be abbreviated, skipped, or completed while other riders wait.
What Happens If You Arrive Late
– You will not be permitted to participate
– We cannot hold back riders already on horses
– No refund will be issued (operational costs remain the same)
How to Avoid Late Arrival
Allow extra time for unfamiliar routes and remote location
GPS estimates may not account for unsealed roads
By Booking With Us, You Acknowledge:
1. Check-in is 30 minutes before departure
2. The safety briefing is non-negotiable
3. Late arrival may result in exclusion from your scheduled ride
4. No refund will be issued for late arrival
5. Alternative rides are offered at our discretion
Questions? Call us: +64 21 766 437 Email: bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
We take safety seriously. These policies exist to protect you, our staff, and our horses.
Private 3.5 Hour Trek | Deep Dive
A 3.5-hour adventure through diverse terrain—cross rivers*, canter through lupin fields**, and wind through forests. We mix up the pace to keep things interesting, plus a relaxing picnic lunch* option with views that’ll make you want to stay forever.
Build your own experience! This ride will not be open to the public, we will tailor this ride to your group’s needs*. Spend the entire ride in the saddle or have a picnic lunch stop added and enjoy grazing by the river with your horse. Picnic lunches can be brought with you, or ordered through us.
*River crossings subject to conditions
**Lupins bloom November-January
*While we endeavour to tailor this ride to each group’s specific requirements, our guides will have discretion over appropriate paces and behaviour used with our horses in the environmental conditions present on the day and the group’s riding capabilities.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Rider Weight Limit — Current Season
Our rider weight limit is 105kg, weighed fully dressed with clothes and boots on.
This winter season, we have no exceptions to this limit. Our larger horses are on their winter break, and the horses currently in work are matched to riders within this range. We ask you to respect this — not because we want to exclude anyone, but because asking a horse to carry more than they’re conditioned for isn’t something we’re willing to do.
Not sure where you land?
Please contact us before booking* —If you are at or near the weight limit, please contact us before booking.
📞 +64 21 766 437
✉️ bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
Weighed at check-in. If your weight on the day exceeds 105kg, we won’t be able to put you on a horse, and no refund will be issued.
Why This Limit Exists
Horse riding is an athletic activity that places physical demands on both rider and horse. Exceeding these limits places unnecessary strain on the horse’s joints and back, and increases risk of injury to both you and the horse. Our weight limits ensure:
– The welfare and safety of our horses
– You can mount and dismount safely without risk of injury
– A quality experience for all participants
We have different sized horses for different riders. Discussing your requirements in advance allows us to:
– Confirm suitability
– Arrange the appropriate horse
– Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
Weight limits will be reviewed as seasonal conditions change.
*If you cannot participate due to inaccurate weight information provided at booking, no refund will be issued
As this is an education based adventure, ALL RIDERS in your group must have sufficient English and be able to understand all instructions and exchanges between the Guides and other members of their group.
Please contact our team prior to booking if you require special assistance. We require a minimum of 24 hours notice for bookings that require special assistance including disabilities.
LATE ARRIVAL POLICY
Check-In Time
Check-in is mandatory 30 minutes before your scheduled ride departure time.
For example:
10:30 AM departure = 10:00 AM check-in
2:00 PM departure = 1:30 PM check-in
The Safety Briefing
During check-in, all riders must complete a mandatory 30-minute safety briefing covering:
– Emergency procedures
– Horse behaviour and communication
– Equipment use and safety
– Trail hazards and safety protocols
– Hand signals and group riding procedures
– What to do if separated from the group
This briefing is a legal requirement and cannot be abbreviated, skipped, or completed while other riders wait.
What Happens If You Arrive Late
– You will not be permitted to participate
– We cannot hold back riders already on horses
– No refund will be issued (operational costs remain the same)
How to Avoid Late Arrival
Allow extra time for unfamiliar routes and remote location
GPS estimates may not account for unsealed roads
By Booking With Us, You Acknowledge:
1. Check-in is 30 minutes before departure
2. The safety briefing is non-negotiable
3. Late arrival may result in exclusion from your scheduled ride
4. No refund will be issued for late arrival
5. Alternative rides are offered at our discretion
Questions? Call us: +64 21 766 437 Email: bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
We take safety seriously. These policies exist to protect you, our staff, and our horses.
Custom Packages | Where dreams come true
Your vision, our expertise = pure magic. Whether it’s a proposal beneath the alpine peaks, a cinematic photo shoot, an anniversary escape, or your personal Middle-Earth pilgrimage—we craft bespoke experiences that exist nowhere else.
Got something extra special in mind? We’re talking surprise proposals with mountain backdrops that’ll make them cry, anniversary rides through Middle-Earth that put your relationship goals on full display, private photo shoots where you and your horse look like you walked straight out of a fantasy novel, or full-blown LOTR pilgrimages for the superfans who know exactly which scenes were filmed where.
This is your blank canvas—tell us your wildest idea and we’ll wrangle the horses, scout the perfect locations, and make it happen. Whether you want to gallop through glacial rivers at golden hour or recreate that iconic Arwen river scene (minus the Nazgûl, obviously), we’re here for it. Dream big, because the Dart Valley can handle it.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Rider Weight Limit — Current Season
Our rider weight limit is 105kg, weighed fully dressed with clothes and boots on.
This winter season, we have no exceptions to this limit. Our larger horses are on their winter break, and the horses currently in work are matched to riders within this range. We ask you to respect this — not because we want to exclude anyone, but because asking a horse to carry more than they’re conditioned for isn’t something we’re willing to do.
Not sure where you land?
Please contact us before booking* —If you are at or near the weight limit, please contact us before booking.
📞 +64 21 766 437
✉️ bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
Weighed at check-in. If your weight on the day exceeds 105kg, we won’t be able to put you on a horse, and no refund will be issued.
Why This Limit Exists
Horse riding is an athletic activity that places physical demands on both rider and horse. Exceeding these limits places unnecessary strain on the horse’s joints and back, and increases risk of injury to both you and the horse. Our weight limits ensure:
– The welfare and safety of our horses
– You can mount and dismount safely without risk of injury
– A quality experience for all participants
We have different sized horses for different riders. Discussing your requirements in advance allows us to:
– Confirm suitability
– Arrange the appropriate horse
– Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
Weight limits will be reviewed as seasonal conditions change.
*If you cannot participate due to inaccurate weight information provided at booking, no refund will be issued
As this is an education based adventure, ALL RIDERS in your group must have sufficient English and be able to understand all instructions and exchanges between the Guides and other members of their group.
Please contact our team prior to booking if you require special assistance. We require a minimum of 24 hours notice for bookings that require special assistance including disabilities.
LATE ARRIVAL POLICY
Check-In Time
Check-in is mandatory 30 minutes before your scheduled ride departure time.
For example:
10:30 AM departure = 10:00 AM check-in
2:00 PM departure = 1:30 PM check-in
The Safety Briefing
During check-in, all riders must complete a mandatory 30-minute safety briefing covering:
– Emergency procedures
– Horse behaviour and communication
– Equipment use and safety
– Trail hazards and safety protocols
– Hand signals and group riding procedures
– What to do if separated from the group
This briefing is a legal requirement and cannot be abbreviated, skipped, or completed while other riders wait.
What Happens If You Arrive Late
– You will not be permitted to participate
– We cannot hold back riders already on horses
– No refund will be issued (operational costs remain the same)
How to Avoid Late Arrival
Allow extra time for unfamiliar routes and remote location
GPS estimates may not account for unsealed roads
By Booking With Us, You Acknowledge:
1. Check-in is 30 minutes before departure
2. The safety briefing is non-negotiable
3. Late arrival may result in exclusion from your scheduled ride
4. No refund will be issued for late arrival
5. Alternative rides are offered at our discretion
Questions? Call us: +64 21 766 437 Email: bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
We take safety seriously. These policies exist to protect you, our staff, and our horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are located in the Dart Valley, Glenorchy.
You will need to allow 1 hour to drive from Queenstown.
We’ve partnered with Evolve Rentals to offer an exclusive offer. Simply mention Lighthorse Adventures when booking with them directly via email and you’ll get a flat rate of $100 per day with any hatchback vehicle booking with them!
Yes! Say cheese! 📸 We’ve got photo packages at checkout because let’s be honest—your phone’s gonna be in your bag while you’re having too much fun. Our photographers know all the best spots to capture your victory poses, mid-gallop action shots, and those pure joy moments. Grab a package and turn your Lighthorse adventure into frame-worthy memories
We use high-quality western saddles from Natural Horseman Saddles, specifically designed for both rider comfort and horse performance. Our fleet includes a variety of models—Easy Rider, Deep Seats, Litita Wade, and Roper saddles—each carefully selected to suit different riders and horses.
These aren’t your typical saddles.
They’re custom-made with features that make a real difference on the trail:
– Horn for security – Something solid to hold onto when you need it, giving you confidence and stability.
– Padded seats – Designed for comfort on longer rides so you can focus on the experience, not saddle soreness.
– Flexible tree design – Moves naturally with your horse’s body, allowing them to perform at their best while keeping you balanced and secure
.
The difference is noticeable. These saddles are purpose-built for trekking—giving you the security and comfort you need to relax and enjoy the ride, while ensuring your horse can move freely and comfortably beneath you. When both horse and rider are comfortable, that’s when the real magic happens.
You’ll feel better, ride better, and connect better in quality equipment designed with both you and your horse in mind.
Standard Weight Limit
Our standard rider weight limit is 105kg.
Why This Limit Exists
Horse riding is an athletic activity that places physical demands on both rider and horse. Exceeding these limits places unnecessary strain on the horse’s joints and back, and increases risk of injury to both you and the horse. Our weight limits ensure:
– The welfare and safety of our horses
– You can mount and dismount safely without risk of injury
– A quality experience for all participants
Before You Book
If you are at or near the weight limit, please contact us before booking.
We have different sized horses for different riders. Discussing your requirements in advance allows us to:
– Confirm suitability
– Arrange the appropriate horse
– Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
Phone: +64 21 766 437
E-Mail: bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
On the Day
Your weight will be checked at check-in
*If you cannot participate due to inaccurate weight information provided at booking, no refund will be issued
We endeavour to make Lighthorse experiences accessible to everyone. Please contact our team prior to booking so we can discuss your specific needs and determine how we can best accommodate you. We require a minimum of 24 hours notice for bookings requiring special assistance or disability accommodations. Every rider and every need is different, so reach out and let’s have a conversation about what’s possible for your visit.
Cancellations must be made with a minimum of 48 hours notice prior to the day of your booked ride to qualify for a booking re-schedule or refund. Cancellations and booking changes made after 30 days, but prior to 48 hours will incur a 10% of the total booking fee, cancellations and changes made within 48 hours of the day of your booked ride are non-refundable.
All terms and conditions can be found here: www.lighthorseadventures.com/terms-conditions
LATE ARRIVAL POLICY
Check-In Time
Check-in is mandatory 30 minutes before your scheduled ride departure time.
For example:
10:30 AM departure = 10:00 AM check-in
2:00 PM departure = 1:30 PM check-in
The Safety Briefing
During check-in, all riders must complete a mandatory 30-minute safety briefing covering:
– Emergency procedures
– Horse behaviour and communication
– Equipment use and safety
– Trail hazards and safety protocols
– Hand signals and group riding procedures
– What to do if separated from the group
This briefing is a legal requirement and cannot be abbreviated, skipped, or completed while other riders wait.
What Happens If You Arrive Late
Within 10 minutes of check-in time:
Contact us immediately. We may accommodate you if the briefing hasn’t started, but there is no guarantee.
More than 10 minutes late:
The safety briefing will have commenced with the group. You cannot join the ride once it has started.
Consequence:
– You will not be permitted to participate
– We cannot hold back riders already on horses
– No refund will be issued (operational costs remain the same)
How to Avoid Late Arrival
Plan ahead:
Allow extra time for unfamiliar routes and remote location
GPS estimates may not account for unsealed roads
Notify us if running late:
Call immediately: [phone number]
Email after check-in time won’t change the outcome
Ask questions:
Unsure about travel time? Contact us before your ride date
By Booking With Us, You Acknowledge:
1. Check-in is 30 minutes before departure
2. The safety briefing is non-negotiable
3. Late arrival may result in exclusion from your scheduled ride
4. No refund will be issued for late arrival
5. Alternative rides are offered at our discretion
Questions? Call us: +64 21 766 437 Email: bookings@lighthorseadventures.com
We take safety seriously. These policies exist to protect you, our staff, and our horses.
EXCELLENTTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Truly amazing experience!! I was lucky enough to take the Wild River trek on a beautiful day in May. My horse, Rose, was the perfect companion and fit and happy to take me on the 2hour trek. The trek also included some basic natural horsemanship skills, which was really interesting to learn. The instructors were extremely helpful and knowledgeable about the area we trekked through and answered questions throughout. The yard was clean and tidy and the horses are very well cared for and loved. The staff are friendly and kind which made the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. They also take great photos which I will treasure!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a fantastic ride on a lovely little horse. All of the horses were well behaved. Beautiful scenery. Friendly informed guides keeping everything safe and fun. Riders were well informed on how to handle the horses properly and everyone on the trek had a ball. Best organised trek I've been on.*****Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an absolutely amazing experience with Lighthorse Adventures Horse Treks in New Zealand! I especially loved the introduction to Natural Horsemanship, which made it easy to connect with my horse right from the start. I did the Advanced River Wild Tour, and we rode through the breathtaking landscapes around Glenorchy, also known from The Lord of the Rings. The ride took us along the Dart River, where we trotted, cantered, and even crossed the river. It was exciting, beautiful, and truly unforgettable. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a special horse-riding adventure in New Zealand!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic 90min ride. Guides were excellent. They care for their horses and for the riders. Book a ride with them. You won't regret itPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a wonderful 2.5 hrs beginners riding trip with Lighthorse! Everyone (shoutout to receptionist Emily) was so welcoming and helpful, and especially our instructor Tereza who gave extremely clear instructions and detailed guidance from beginning till end. A big big shoutout to our horses, Vikings & Patch who were the greatest and most compatible partners we had wished for!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is an amazing experience - I couldnt recommend it more highly. We did a private ride with my two teenagers and had Lesley as our fabulous guide. The area is breathtaking and the horses are so healthy and well cared for. We had mixed levels of experience but it was all accomodated and everyone had the best time.Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 這是我第一次的騎馬體驗，剛開始有點緊張，很感謝Luca及Mariska 2位溫柔又親切的引導，Luca不僅在行前訓練時說明如何與馬相處溝通，對於騎馬技巧的教導也很仔細，更棒的是在騎行過程中，她會隨時關照每個夥伴，提醒如何順利完成整趟的任務。 不管是周邊騎行的風景、好幾段渡河的新鮮感及馬兒小跑起來的刺激感，都是人生嶄新又新奇的體驗，整體2個多小時的騎馬經驗，非常難忘！ 這兒的馬兒被教導的很好，加上教練全程的引導，整趟行程安全又好玩，非常謝謝Luca及Mariska 用心的協助，很推薦這樣的騎馬行程！Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had the amazing opportunity to go on the Easy Rider tour at the beginning of April. I was blown away by the friendly yet professional care and guidance we had from our Guides Jeanie and Indi. It was first time riding a horse for my son (10 y/0) and myself, we were very well looked after and can't wait to go back and repeat the experience. Best "new" experience I had in so many years! XXPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 教練非常友善，不會英文也很親切，行程也超棒的，超推薦有來一定要來體驗😆Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
RIDE THE GLACIAL RIVERS
WHERE MIDDLE-EARTH COMES ALIVE.
We offer tailor made custom day rides and package experiences.
Perfect for private groups, couples, surprise proposals, advanced horsemanship
or any adventure you can dream up through the stunning surrounds of the Dart Valley.