|
Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Australia
Intro to Australia
----------------------------
|
|
|
|
|
Kosciuzsko Park Getaway
NSW
Australia
Experience Australia on horseback as you trek through the unsurpassed beauty of Kosciuszko National Park proudly located in the Snowy Mountains that inspired Banjo Patterson's, "The Man From Snowy River". Here is your chance to navigate the land renowned for its rugged mountain horsemen, wild brumbies and breathtaking Alpine wilderness. Unchanged by time and bestowed with a wealth of nature’s treasures, the park’s hidden caves and valleys are yours to discover with the help of our outfitters in nearby Adaminaby.
From the lush mountain tops, survey the valley below carpeted in wildflowers and marked by streams and natural watering holes. Ride over plains where the wild bush horses roam, then explore limestone caves and historic high country huts before refreshing with a dip in secluded mountain streams accessible only by horseback. You will be taken to prime trout fishing locations and encounter gold mines of the past where fortunes have been won and lost throughout history. Later, sitting pleasantly fatigued around the campfire you will share laughter and stories of the day's ride with your co-travelers. A warm and hearty three-course meal is cooked for you, accompanied by freshly-made damper washed down with mugs of billy tea. Sit back and enjoy the relaxation and sense of physical well-being from a great day's ride in the magnificent Australian high country. When the campfire goes out, sleep under the stars or in tents as you recharge over night for what the next day holds.
We trek throughout the northern part of the park, including landmarks such as Cave Creek, Curraingo Plain, Tantangara Creek and Mount Tantangara. A seven day expedition covers an approximate distance of 160 kilometers, although shorter treks are available upon request. At day end, 4x4 vehicles meet you with all the gear required for your overnight stays.
Camping Ride with vehicle support Short Getaway Family Vacation Riding with fishing options
|
Meeting:
|
Adaminaby
|
Airport:
|
Cooma
|
Transfer:
|
Country Link Bus Stop in Cooma
|
Riders:
|
Min
5 riders
Max
16 riders
|
|
Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
|
|
|
|
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals & 3 riding days
Helmets can be provided
A | 2023 | 5 day Camping Trip | 5d / 4n | $1750 | $1190 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
2023
|
Transfer from Cooma p.p. return
|
$
90
|
$65
|
Pick-up/ drop-off is from the Bus Stop in Cooma. Pick-up is at the 6:18pm Day 1 of the trip. On day of departure we drop off in Cooma in time for the 10:00am morning bus to Canberra/ Sydney.
Rates do not include:
Alcoholic drinks, Gratuities & Transfers
Sleeping bags and oilskin coats can be rented
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from Cooma. Please arrive between 5pm and 7pm, allowing time to meet fellow adventurers. Each adventure begins with an introductory dinner hosted by John and Roslyn, your hosts. Bring a bottle of wine for the first and last nights if you so desire. After dinner you will be briefed on the week ahead.
Day 2-5: Kosciuzsko National Park
All rides explore the breathtaking scenery of the Kosciuzsko National Park. You will be taken to streams where trout fishing is at its best, visit historic goldmines, limestone caves and high country huts. We ride through the northern part of the Park with places such as Cave Creek, Currango Plain, Tantangara Creek, Mount Tantangara (well known for the wild brumbies that frequent the area) and Mount Morgan.
Day 6: Back at the Lodge
Last night is back at the lodge for a hot shower, farewell dinner and overnight in a cozy bed.
Day 7: Departure
Departure after breakfast.
Note: Shorter trips of 4 or 5 nights are also available.
Meeting:
Adaminaby
Airport:
Cooma
Train station:
Canberra
Transfer:
Country Link Bus Stop in Cooma
Pick-up/ drop-off is from the Bus Stop in Cooma. Pick-up is at the 6:18pm Day 1 of the trip. On day of departure we drop off in Cooma in time for the 10:00am morning bus to Canberra/ Sydney.
Tack:
|
|
Australian Stock Saddles and English if required
|
Horses:
|
|
Thoroughbreds, Arabs and Australian Stockhorses
|
Pace:
|
|
walk. Trot, some canters
5-6 hours riding per day
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
Level:
|
|
(2
to
4
out of 5) Novice+
|
Age:
|
|
Min
10
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185 if beginner
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
5 riders
|
Max
16 riders
|
|
All rides are supported by 4WD.
Riding Experience
This ride caters to all level of rider, from novice to advanced. Those who have done very little or no riding find that they are soon confident on horseback, largely due to the expertise and encouragement of your guides. Experienced riders find that their skills are refined by the end of the week, also under the leaders' watchful eyes. A degree of physical fitness and good health is necessary for you to join this trek.
Our solid mountain horses are handpicked to suit riders of all ages and skill levels, in a safe and controlled manner.
There may be times during the trip that you will be requested to assist in various activities such as preparing the horses for the ride and to set up and pack up the campsite.
Pace & Riding Terrain
This ride covers up to 160km over 5 riding days (Park Ride), averaging 5-6 hours in the saddle per day. You can expect to ride approximately 20km per day and spend at least 5 hours a day in the saddle.
The trek includes negotiation of uneven countryside, streams and waterways, roads, forests, over pastureland, tracks and parts of the Kosciusko National Park.
Brumbies
Whilst we do not guarantee that you will come across brumbies whilst on safari, most guests have the privilege of brumby encounters.
Gear
As Alpine weather can change dramatically we do require you to either bring or hire an oilskin coat.
For camping, you do need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow (or you can hire one locally). Mattresses, tents and extra blankets are provided.
Hard Hats
Unless you are under 18, you will not be required to wear a helmet. You will be asked to sign a waiver if not wearing a helmet.
Age and Weight Restriction
There is no specific age or weight limit. However, participants should bet fit and healthy and be able to handle approx. 5 hours a day in the saddle.
Staff
Roslyn and John Rudd have over 49 years’ experience of mountain treks plus many more years of local history behind them. John or his staff, all experienced bushmen and women, lead the rides with the tales of the mountains they tell entertaining riders on the trail and around the campfire at night.
All guides are AHRC Certified with years of experience and all possess First Aid/CPR training. In the event of an injury, we will arrange evacuation, first aid, and medical assistance, at your expense.
FAQ
- Can I bring my own horse?
No, unfortunately we do not allow you to bring your own horse as the brumbies may try to run off with your horse.
- Can I bring my own saddle?
Yes, it is fine if you would like to bring your own stock saddle. We do not allow western style saddles.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in chart. Required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except: (a) those continuing their journey to a third country (who hold confirma. more
Adaminaby area
Month
|
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
78
|
77
|
72
|
64
|
45
|
40
|
49
|
52
|
57
|
63
|
68
|
74
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
48
|
49
|
44
|
36
|
32
|
28
|
26
|
29
|
32
|
38
|
42
|
45
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
26
|
25
|
22
|
18
|
13
|
10
|
9
|
11
|
14
|
17
|
20
|
24
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
9
|
9
|
7
|
2
|
0
|
-2
|
-3
|
-3
|
0
|
3
|
5
|
7
|
Average Precipitation (days of rain)
|
6
|
5
|
6
|
6
|
5
|
4
|
5
|
7
|
7
|
8
|
7
|
5
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
Alpine weather can change dramatically, so we ask that you be prepared for all conditions.
The summer months (we only offer our rides during the summer) enjoy a mild temperature in the alpine regions, with highs of around 22C, although the weather can still be unpredictable and snow sometimes falls even in summer, so take some warm clothing. In the lower altitudes the temperatures may climb into the 30s Celsius!
What to bring
Alpine weather can change dramatically, so we ask that you be prepared for cold, wet and windy conditions.
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Woolen jumper
- Long sleeve shirts
- Wet weather gear
- Old jeans/jodhpurs
- Riding or flat soled boots
- Comfortable shoes
- Bum bag - can purchase
- Torch or head torch
- Camera & battery
- Swimsuit & towel
- BYO alcohol/spirits
- Hat, gloves, sunglasses
- Hand, face wipes,
- Sunburn/lip balm
- Personal medications
- Fishing gear
- Musical instrument
Riding helmets and pillows can be borrowed. Let us know at the time of booking.
Oilskins and sleeping bag to rent at $45.00 each.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
** No trip reports found
with the tour ID you provided.
|
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so you will be staying in different locations during the trip.
Description
First and last night will be at the lodge and the other nights will be camping at one base camp. There is no WIFI at the homestead or while camping, allowing you to disconnect an immerse yourself in nature. Laundry is available at the homestead at no additional cost.
Limited phone coverage on rides. In regards to charging the phones, we recommend you bring your own power banks.
The Homestead
Accommodation is lodge style (20 rooms) with each room accommodating 2 to 6 people with shared bathroom facilities. Rooms are heated with all linen, bedding, and electric blankets provided. A separate games and TV room is available.
The Camps
At the end of each day our four-wheel drive vehicles will meet you with all the gear for the overnight stay. Tents are large 2-4 person tents. We supply all-weather tents, comfortable mattresses, and extra blankets for warmth, however, you are welcome to bring your own gear- just let us know in advance. We do not provide sleeping bags but you can hire some locally for about $45 per person. It is also a good idea to bring your own pillow for camping, but we do supply pillows for camping upon request. There are toilets at most campgrounds. Bush showers are available on-site. Most safaris provide the opportunity to refresh / swim in mountains streams and Lake Tantangarra. (No pollution to these areas with soaps etc.). There will be a campfire to socialize around at night.
While you would normally bring your own clothing, wet weather gear, riding boots, and sleeping bag, we can optionally supply you (at extra cost) with sleeping bags and oilskin coats.
Room Occupancy
Single rooms and single tents are available on request, dependent on availability. Please let us know your preference at the time of booking.

Meals
All meals are included from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on your last day.
Mealtimes are happy, communal events served in the homestead straight from Roslyn's kitchen. Homemade soups and colonial roast lamb are their specialties, while Snowy Mountain trout provides a mouth-watering appetizer. There will be a campfire to socialize around at night and a hearty three-course meal is cooked for you, with damper and mugs of billy tea. Meals are prepared by our wonderful Irish chef.
The lodge is not licensed for liquor sales, but you are free to bring your own wine for dinner.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to all dietary restrictions with prior notice.
This trip
can accommodate special dietary requests.
Tack:
|
|
Australian Stock Saddles and English if required
|
Horses:
|
|
Thoroughbreds, Arabs and Australian Stockhorses
|
Pace:
|
|
walk. Trot, some canters
5-6 hours riding per day
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
Level:
|
|
(2
to
4
out of 5) Novice+
|
Age:
|
|
Min
10
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185 if beginner
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
5 riders
|
Max
16 riders
|
|
All rides are supported by 4WD.
Riding Experience
This ride caters to all level of rider, from novice to advanced. Those who have done very little or no riding find that they are soon confident on horseback, largely due to the expertise and encouragement of your guides. Experienced riders find that their skills are refined by the end of the week, also under the leaders' watchful eyes. A degree of physical fitness and good health is necessary for you to join this trek.
Our solid mountain horses are handpicked to suit riders of all ages and skill levels, in a safe and controlled manner.
There may be times during the trip that you will be requested to assist in various activities such as preparing the horses for the ride and to set up and pack up the campsite.
Pace & Riding Terrain
This ride covers up to 160km over 5 riding days (Park Ride), averaging 5-6 hours in the saddle per day. You can expect to ride approximately 20km per day and spend at least 5 hours a day in the saddle.
The trek includes negotiation of uneven countryside, streams and waterways, roads, forests, over pastureland, tracks and parts of the Kosciusko National Park.
Brumbies
Whilst we do not guarantee that you will come across brumbies whilst on safari, most guests have the privilege of brumby encounters.
Gear
As Alpine weather can change dramatically we do require you to either bring or hire an oilskin coat.
For camping, you do need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow (or you can hire one locally). Mattresses, tents and extra blankets are provided.
Hard Hats
Unless you are under 18, you will not be required to wear a helmet. You will be asked to sign a waiver if not wearing a helmet.
Age and Weight Restriction
There is no specific age or weight limit. However, participants should bet fit and healthy and be able to handle approx. 5 hours a day in the saddle.
Staff
Roslyn and John Rudd have over 49 years’ experience of mountain treks plus many more years of local history behind them. John or his staff, all experienced bushmen and women, lead the rides with the tales of the mountains they tell entertaining riders on the trail and around the campfire at night.
All guides are AHRC Certified with years of experience and all possess First Aid/CPR training. In the event of an injury, we will arrange evacuation, first aid, and medical assistance, at your expense.
FAQ
- Can I bring my own horse?
No, unfortunately we do not allow you to bring your own horse as the brumbies may try to run off with your horse.
- Can I bring my own saddle?
Yes, it is fine if you would like to bring your own stock saddle. We do not allow western style saddles.
Passports
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in chart.
Visas
Required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) those continuing their journey to a third country (who hold confirmation of booking and documentation to enter country) within eight hours of arriving in Australia.
All other nationals must obtain a transit visa before travel if intending to remain in Australia no longer than 72 hours and a stopover is intended. Transit visas are free of charge.
Note: (a) Not all airports remain open all night; travellers should check with the airline. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the Department of Immigration at the high commission to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check that this information is still current by visiting the Department of Immigration online (website: www.immi.gov.au) or by calling the Australian Immigration and Citizenship 24-hour Information Service (tel: 0906 550 8900, in the UK; calls cost £1 per minute).
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visas
The ETA is an electronically stored authority for travel to Australia for tourism, short-term business or elective study purposes, that allows multiple entries for stays of up to three months for people from certain countries (see below). The ETA is valid for 12 months from date of issue, or for the life of the passport if it is less than 12 months. An ETA is invisible and therefore will not show up in your passport.
All nationals referred to in the chart are eligible for an ETA except: Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovak Republic and Slovenia.
Passport Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
N/A |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
Yes |
Visa Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
N/A |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
Yes |
Return Ticket Required? |
British |
No |
Australian |
N/A |
Canadian |
No |
USA |
No |
Other EU |
No |
Other types of visa
Visitors not eligible for an ETA, or seeking a longer stay than an ETA offers, may apply for Tourist (Non ETA) and Business Short-stay (Non ETA) visas.
There are also student visas, employers' visas for overseas workers and sponsored family visitor visas available; enquire at the Australian high commission.
Types of Visa and Cost
ETAs: Visitor/Short Validity Business: Free of charge. Business Visitor (Long Validity): A$75.
Note: A service fee of A$20 is charged when applying for an ETA online through the DIMIA ETA website. Some travel agents and airlines issuing ETAs also charge a processing fee.
Non-ETAs: Tourist and Business Short-stay visas: A$75.
Visa fees are generally adjusted on 1 July each year.
Validity
Visitor ETAs are valid for 12 months from date of issue (or until the passport expires, whichever comes first) and permit multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to three months on each visit. Short Validity Business ETAs are valid for 12 months from date of issue (or until the passport expires, whichever comes first) with stays of up to three months on each visit and can be used for single or multiple entry travel. Business Visitor (Long Validity) ETAs are valid for 10 years (or the life of the passport) and permit multiple entries for a stay of up to three months for each visit.
For non-ETA visas, the validity varies according to the type of visa, the purpose of the trip and the validity of the passport. Visas are usually valid from three to 12 months. The validity will be stated on the visa label in your passport.
Applications to:
ETA: Authorised travel agents or airlines; by telephone; some nationals may apply online through the main Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA) (website: www.eta.immi.gov.au) (Visitor and Short Validity Business ETAs only).
Non-ETA: Australian embassies, high commissions and consulates; see Contact Addresses.
There is a Tourist Short-Stay visa available online (website: www.eta.immi.gov.au) for all nationals referred to in chart above.
Working Days Required
ETA: When issued through DIMIA’s ETA website, or through travel agents or airline offices, usually processed and valid immediately or within three working days.
Non-ETA: 10-15 working days.
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
|
|
|
|
Kosciuzsko Park Getaway
Tour Code:
IT-AURT06
5 days /
4 nights
~$1,190.00
Dates :
Jan to Apr & Nov-Dec
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
|