waipio valley

[kaygela]

We are travelling to Hawaii next month and want to visit Waipio Valley. We would love to go horseback riding there but my DS11 had a very bad experience on a horse last summer and absolutely refuses to ride again. I don't want to push this on him. I found a website that does wagon tours pulled by mules through the valley and was wondering if anyone has done it and whether it was worth it. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[kaygela]

Bumping

 

[mommytotwo]

I have never been on it, but have seen people horseback and also go on the wagon tour. Since your son had a bad experience on a horse, I would not do it since you go down the steep cliffs and that might frighten him. At least with the wagon tours, you will be able to sit next to him. Just let the driver know about your sons past experience and they may be able to talk to him if they see him a bit frightened or reassure him.

 

[grlpwrd]

I think with his past experience he may fare better on a wagon ride or a 4WD tour. He can enjoy the landscape and have a great experience yet not be nervous or worried about horseback riding.

I also think some of the horseback tour companies require a child be at least 12yo with experience or be under their parent's direct supervision. It really may be too much for him.

There are wild horses in the valley and some of them are friendly so maybe this also might spark a learning experience for him that not all horses are the same.

Have fun!