Horse Riding in Queenstown; A Unique Way to See the City!

Horse riding in Queenstown is one of the best ways to view the spectacular scenery, green landscapes and white-sand beaches of Queenstown. Whether you’re a proficient equestrian or someone who has never even touched a saddle, there will be a horse trek that fits your skill level. Have a look at the incredible locations written down in the list below and start planning your trip already! 
If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings then this will be a treat for you!

Five Best Spots for Horse Riding in Queenstown:

• Walter Peak:
  
  The TSS Earnslaw, the vintage steamship also known as the "Lady of the Lake" has been carrying travellers across the unblemished Lake Wakatipu since 1912. Board the Lady of the Lake and appreciate the quietness of a brief journey over the dazzling Lake Wakatipu before getting off at Walter Peak to set out on a 40 minute guided horse ride. Your friendly and well-informed guide will lead you across the farmland to a point where you will heave at the most astonishing spectacles on Lake Wakatipu outlined by the majestic mountains. The ride is a smooth one and an ideal choice for novices wanting to try out horse riding in Queenstown. 

COST: NZD 159(Adult) 

                                                                           

• Dart Stables:
  
  Situated in Glenorchy, only 40 minutes away from Queenstown, this is a gentle and slow-paced horse trek across the Dart Valley area. A gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, this ride has 1-hour and 2-hour trek options from both Queenstown and Glenorchy, taking you through grand landscapes, peaceful river flats, across the Dart River and the Rees River. This experience of horse riding in Queenstown is ideal for people of all experience and wellness levels. Bonus Fact: This area was shot as Isengard in the Lord of the Rings films!

COST: NZD 174 to NZD 224

• Ben Lomond: 
  
  Nestled opposite to Queenstown's Gondola, Ben Lomond caters to both skilled and beginner riders. You can enjoy the stunning view of the greenery on the back of your horse and the breathtaking views of mountains and lakes. This location takes you to four different trails - Moke Lake, Lake Trek and Gold Panning, Gills Creek and McConachies Creek(riding experience required). 

COST:  Moke Lake: NZD 99                   
Lake Trek and Gold Panning: NZD 120                     
McConachies Creek: NZD 190                        
Gills Creek: NZD 130

• Cardrona Valley:
  
  Located 45 minutes away from Queenstown, this ride takes an excursion along the River Cardrona with willow trees on the sides, then crosses the river and moves up into the majestic mountains treating you with breath-taking scenery of the valley. No riding experience is required here and the guides will provide proper instructions to every person. 

        COST: NZD 169 to NZD 279 depending on the ride you choose.

• Moonlight Stables:
  
  Located only 15-20 minutes away from Queenstown, it takes you through the farmland, rivers and hills where you can enjoy the incredible sights of the Kawarau River, Mt. Remarkables, and the Wakatipu Basin. What makes it unique is that you can closely have a look at the Wapiti deer and, if you are lucky, even the white fallow deer. The Wapiti species are special because of their large size and will be surprising for those who have never seen it before.

COST: NZD 120

Best Time to Visit to go Horse Riding in Queenstown

The best time to visit New Zealand for horse riding in Queenstown is Spring(September to November) when the weather starts to warm up a little making it comfortable for outdoor activities. Temperature ranges from 16˚C - 19˚C which is ideal when you have to remain under the sun throughout the day. Summer(December to February) is also fine but not the best because of the high temperature. If you want to avoid the crowd and avail the benefit of cheap prices, March to May will be a good time.

New Zealand's equestrian industry is renowned throughout the world for breeding horses that are dependable, friendly and comfortable to ride. If you do visit the land of the Kiwis, then do not miss out on seeing the city on horseback by going horse riding in Queenstown. Gallop your way to making beautiful memories!