A horse safari in Taupo on New Zealand’s North Island gives riders a chance to experience one of the country’s most popular destinations. Routes go through remote areas where you can encounter ungulates, including deer. You will also see a wide variety of birds, and other animals. There are even two active volcanoes, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.
The scenery is varied and beautiful, with snow-capped mountains surrounding the famous Lake Taupo, as well as geysers and volcanic craters.
The vast expanses and rolling hills in the Taupo area make for a long gallop, and riders interested in traditional New Zealand sheep farms can try herding or shearing sheep.
Reliable quarterhorses are most often used in the area, and the varied terrain means that riders of all levels will be able to find a route that suits them.
Essential information for lovers of horseback riding:
- Horses are mostly quarterhorse breeds
- Equipment – there are both English and Western-style walks
- Housing options – ranches, cabins
- The landscape is varied: mountains, meadows, and sandy roads
- The best time of year to visit is from October to April.