Is prior horseback riding experience required?

No, the Enchanted Forest ride is designed specifically for beginners and nervous riders.

What is the minimum or maximum age for riders?

The experience welcomes adventurous kids aged 3 and up; adults and children alike are catered for.

Are helmets provided?

Yes, helmets are supplied for all riders to ensure maximum safety.

Can I bring my child if they have never been on a horse before?

Absolutely. This ride helps build confidence with patient guides and gentle horses.

Is there a weight limit for riders?

Yes, the maximum weight is 95 kg; if you’re close to this, please contact Korohe to discuss options.

What should I wear for the ride?

We recommend full-length trousers and sturdy closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety.

Horseback Ride to Santa’s Hideout with Korohe Treks | Guided Tour

Korohe Horse Treks invites riders of all ages to a unique horseback experience set in the heart of Tūrangi, in New Zealand’s Waikato Region. Their signature Enchanted Forest ride is an engaging, one-hour journey crafted especially for kids and beginner riders looking to build confidence on horseback. This trail winds through a distinct forested area marked by native trees and undergrowth, leading to the whimsical ‘Santa’s Hideout’—a charming, secret nook that sparks the imagination while keeping the terrain gentle and accessible.

Tūrangi is known for its proximity to Lake Taupō and rugged volcanic landscapes, but the Enchanted Forest offers a softer, approachable side of outdoor adventure with Korohe Horse Treks. The ride’s slow pace and expert guides make it ideal for first-timers and nervous riders, ensuring a supportive environment to connect with both nature and horse. The forest itself features local flora like manuka and ribbonwood, while bird calls punctuate the quiet, offering glimpses of New Zealand’s endemic wildlife.

What sets Korohe apart is its family-friendly approach alongside professionalism and care—every ride includes thorough horse preparation and safety briefing to make this a safe and memorable introduction to trekking. Riders are encouraged to wear full-length trousers and covered footwear for comfort and protection. Beyond the ride, young adventurers can join the “Cool Kidz Club,” a behind-the-scenes opportunity to groom horses and learn stable skills that deepen the bond between rider and mount.

This ride is not just a trail but a confidence-building adventure wrapped in charm, situated in a region steeped in indigenous history and natural beauty. Korohe Horse Treks caters thoughtfully to beginners, making the Enchanted Forest an exceptional destination for families seeking safe, immersive, and playful outdoor experiences.

About Korohe Horse Treks

Korohe Horse Treks is a horseback riding operator based in Tūrangi in the Waikato Region, offering guided treks through native bush, pine plantations and along the Waimarino River. Guests can choose from short lead-rein rides for beginners, family-friendly one-hour trips through the Enchanted Forest, energetic fast treks for confident riders, and scenic half-day experiences that include grooming, saddling and a riverside swim.

All experiences emphasize rider safety and horse welfare. Korohe Horse Treks works with well-trained Waimarino horses and experienced guides to match riders to suitable mounts and routes. Popular options include the Enchanted Forest and River treks that explore ‘Santa’s Hideout’, the extended family-friendly forest and river journey, and half-day outings that finish with a complimentary lunch and lookout views.

The operation accommodates a range of abilities: lead-rein sessions are ideal for very young or nervous riders, one-hour forest loops build confidence for beginners and fast-paced rides provide trotting and cantering for experienced guests. A dedicated photoshoot experience lets visitors feed, groom and capture memories with the horses.

Korohe Horse Treks is featured on The Adventure Collective, highlighting local recognition for its scenic routes and family appeal. Bookings are recommended for popular times and group reservations. Prospective guests should confirm age, weight and rider ability when booking to ensure appropriate safety planning. Korohe Horse Treks provides clear pre-ride instructions and guides trail choices to suit families, first-timers and experienced riders seeking adventure. Detailed booking information, availability and specific ride requirements are provided at time of reservation online or phone.