Pub Trail Trek, Intermediate Level
3 hours 30 minutes · The Cardrona
Guided tour with a beverage and gear.
from $396.54 per person Check availability →
2 To 3.5 Hour Cardrona Trek
Cardrona Valley: Horse Trekking Experience
from $277 per person
Check Price & Availability →Opens the live booking page with current dates. Book there; nothing is charged on this site. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
- Duration
- 2 to 3.5 hours
- Meeting point
- The Cardrona
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Run by
- The Cardrona
Overview
This trek puts you on a quiet mountain trail in Cardrona Valley, on horses the operator describes as calm and selected to match different rider weights and skill levels. It runs between 2 and 3.5 hours and starts at The Cardrona Horse Trekking & Quadbiking base on Cardrona Valley Road, Wānaka. Pickup is not stated, so plan to make your own way there.
The experience begins with a one-on-one riding lesson before anyone heads out. Guides cover steering and stopping until riders feel confident, then the group takes to the trail with an emphasis on a relaxed, loose-rein style of riding rather than constant control. Along the route the trek includes a photo stop, sightseeing, wildlife viewing and off-road riding through mountain scenery.
It suits a wide range of riders. The Gold Discovery Trail works for young families, while the High Country Pub Trail moves faster, with trotting and possibly cantering, and is not recommended for children or nervous beginners. Reviewers back this up. Several first-time riders said the guides were patient and clear, and other reviewers mentioned gallops, stream crossings and slopes. Riders are asked to give their riding ability, height and weight when booking so the right horse can be matched.
- 2 to 3.5 Hour Cardrona Trek (this tour)$277
- Small-Group Gold Discovery Trek$311.44
- Pub Trail Trek, Intermediate Level$396.54
What's Included
Included
- Guided horse trekking experience
Itinerary
- Meet at The CardronaThe trek starts at The Cardrona Horse Trekking & Quadbiking, 2125 Cardrona Valley Road, Wānaka 9381. Pickup is not stated.
- Riding lesson and briefingEach rider gets a one-on-one lesson covering steering and stopping, plus a safety briefing, before the group sets out.
- Cardrona Valley trail rideRide length depends on the option, from 2 to 3.5 hours in total, combining horse riding, an off-road adventure, scenic views on the way, wildlife viewing and a photo stop with guided commentary.
What To Expect From The Tour
A few practical points will help you prepare, from which trail to pick to what the weather can do.
$277from, per person
2 to 3.5 hoursduration
5.0across 16 guest reviews
- Pick your trail. The two trails suit different riders. The Gold Discovery Trail works for young families, while the High Country Pub Trail involves trotting and possibly cantering and is not recommended for children or nervous beginners.
- Give your details. Riders are asked to advise their horse riding ability, height and weight at the time of booking. This is how horses are matched to riders, so it matters more than most booking forms.
- Weather happens. One rider rode through light rain and still called it the best experience of their holiday, so a little weather does not necessarily spoil the ride. A packing list is not stated, so check the booking page for gear advice before you go.
- Camera ready. The itinerary includes a photo stop, and one reviewer mentioned their guide helping capture photos and videos of the ride.
- Pace can be quick. Multiple reviewers said the ride was more than a slow walk, with gallops, stream crossings and slopes on some routes. Beginners are well supported, but anyone expecting only a gentle plod on the faster trail should think again.
Common issues. The main limit is the trail split: the High Country Pub Trail demands comfort with trotting and possibly cantering, so it does not suit children or nervous beginners, and families should book the Gold Discovery Trail instead. Pickup is not stated, so plan your own transport to Cardrona Valley Road. Smoking is not allowed. Also note the cancellation window: you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so check the booking page for anything outside that policy.
Common Questions
Where Does The Tour Start And Is Pickup Included?
Pickup is not stated. The meeting point is The Cardrona Horse Trekking & Quadbiking at 2125 Cardrona Valley Road, Wānaka 9381, New Zealand. You need to make your own way there.
How Long Is The Horse Trek?
The overall experience runs 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on the option you pick. Exactly how the pre-ride lesson and briefing fit within that time is not stated.
Is It Suitable For Beginners And Children?
Yes for beginners, with several first-time riders praising the patient instruction. For children, the Gold Discovery Trail is recommended for young families, with the warning that the High Country Pub Trail, which involves trotting and possibly cantering, is not recommended for children or nervous beginners.
What Is Included In The Price?
The guided horse trekking experience is included. Food or drinks are not mentioned as included or excluded, so check the booking page if you are unsure about anything extra.
What Should I Tell The Operator When Booking?
Your horse riding ability, height and weight are requested at the time of booking. This is used to match you with a suitable horse from the herd, so it is worth being accurate.
Can I Cancel Or Change My Booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. For anything outside that window, check the booking page for the full terms before booking.
Compare And Book A Trek
Live dates, times and prices are on the booking page.
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