Horse Trek and Overnight Stay

Code: MAC602

$350
Location: Lake Tekapo
For: 1 person

Valid for 12 months
Free exchange

Description
Need to Know
Map

Travel on horseback to the Irishman Stream through spectacular tussock grasslands, glacial rills and huge boulders laid down by receding glaciers. Camp under the stars and watch the sunrise strike Mt Cook at dawn.

On the day of your trek, you will be met by your local guide at the trekking centre at the south end of Mount John. Your guide will instruct you on riding safety and select a mount to suit your ability.

After fitting and adjustments to your stock saddle, you will head off across the tussock country of the Mackenzie basin and the glacier flats towards The Old Man Range, just as the bullock wagons of last century did.

As you crest the main ridge, the amazing turquoise blue of Lake Tekapo appears. The lakes rare colour is caused by a suspension of glacial rock particles or ‘flour’ in the water which reflects light from the sky.

Turning to the west, you will follow the main ridge with amazing views of the Ben Ohau Range, The Gammacks, the Two Thumbs and of course Aoraki the Cloud Piercer Mount Cook. Here you will pause for photos of Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki and the mountains before dropping down the ridge towards camp.

At your night camp have a go at Clay Bird Shooting or Trout Fishing in a clear mountain stream. A home cooked meal and refreshments will see you ready for a comfortable night’s sleep.

After breakfast, you will cross the Fork Stream and traverse across to Lake Alexandrina. This lake is a world renowned trout-fishing spot that produces huge Brown and Rainbow Trout and Salmon that thrive in cool, glacier fed, underground spring water. Native birds are in abundance here.

Lake Tekapo appears as you crest the rolling hills to the east of Alexandrina. Turning to the south, you meander through fields and tussock country before climbing the North end of Mount John. Here you will pause at a hitching rail for photos of the Lake and mountains before riding along the lakeshore towards the village.

Your final stretch is a gentle ride up through pine and larch forest back to the trekking centre where you will be able to relax before moving on.

This experience voucher is valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Venue:

Lake Tekapo, the South Island of New Zealand, 2.5 hours drive South of Christchurch.

Session Length

Overnight Treks depart at 1.30pm on any day from November through to May. Arrive at least 20 minutes prior to departure time to allow for briefings and preparation. You will return at about 11.30 the following day. Bookings essential, a minimum of 4 days prior to departure date.

Guidelines:

Some experience required. You must identify any medical or physical special needs when booking, your suitability will be advised at that time. Minimum age is 10yrs, however, exceptions can be made on a case by case basis, dependant on size and experience of the child. Upper weight limit 110kg.

Numbers:

Minimum group size 2 people. Maximum group size per guide is 6 under IHLP rules. We do not offer unguided treks.

Spectators:

Spectators are able to stay at the trekking centre or can explore the facilities and experiences that the Lake Tekapo area has to offer. Non riders can also be transported to the overnight location via vehicle, they may participate in other non-riding activities, including meals by arrangement.

Weather:

Weather extremes are common in this mountain area. If weather conditions prevent the commencement of a ride, it will be rescheduled for another day

Other Info:

Guides have the authority to terminate a ride at any stage due to safety, environmental, or equine welfare concerns. Refunds will be at the discretion of the Operations Manager.Firearms, ammunition and targets are included. Professional Trout Fishing Guides are available for hire.