Tally-Ho Carriage Tours — Attraction in Victoria

As a travel agent, I called to get information on this tour when stopping at this port city Victoria, BC. I was told the premium package was 90 minutes and cost $385. I asked how many people could fit in the carriage and if that price covered everyone. I was told yes the price covered everyone and it held 6 people. i asked to reserve a carriage and she would only do so by paying up front. Upon arrival, our party of 6 (4women & 2 men) would obviously not fit as the carriage is designed for 4. The drivers are all young college kids who just kept saying their insurance allows 6 in a carriage. But know before you go, that would be 4 adults and 2 lap children. After having the college kid in charge talk to the owner twice about the issue, the only option provided was to hire a second carriage at full price. We disappointingly did as we have all toured cities by carriage ride and find it delightful. This tour was a complete disappointment. the young drivers know very little about Victoria. We kept having to ask questions to get information and we would never recommend!

In response to the owners replies, the website and brochures may identify this information, but the person taking the call and payment by phone for the reservation did NOT explain the carriage was recommended for 4, hence this review. The solution was not acceptable to us but the ONLY solution allowed after 2 phone calls were made to the owner. In regards to age discrimination, "College kid" is not derogatory, just explains the level of customer service being provided to consumers. In the last 10 cities I have taken carriage rides, the drivers have been mature, very experienced drivers with many years of expert tour giving. In this event, our taxi cab driver actually gave us a more comprehensive tour of the area. Your defensive response does not simply address the issue of poor communication when booking regarding the carriage size, problem solving as an owner that actually compromises with customers when communication issues occur and identify the need to follow up with your team regarding the tour experience to meet your standards. I believe that is what reviews are intended to provide the opportunity to do and for new customers to see that when an issue occurs, owners respond...

Our adventure began with a gentle horse named Tucker and our knowledgeable guide, Ursela, both of whom instantly made us feel welcomed and at ease. As we ambled through the serene pathways of the park and the quaint local streets, the leisurely pace of our ride provided the perfect tempo for truly absorbing the beauty around us. This experience starkly contrasted the often rushed and impersonal nature of conventional bus or car tours.

Ursela was a fountain of historical knowledge, delivering her wisdom with eloquence and enthusiasm. It was evident in her every word and action that she doesn't just work in her role but thrives in it, displaying a genuine love for both her job and the horses in her care. Speaking of the horses, it was heartwarming to see the great conditions they're kept in; these magnificent creatures are not just well-cared-for but cherished and respected, leading lives that are enviable even by human standards!

The journey wasn't just a horseback ride; it was a tranquil escape into the heart of the city, offering intimate glimpses and perspectives that one would never encounter through traditional tours. Ursela's passion, combined with Tucker's calm demeanor, created an atmosphere of peace and enjoyment that resonated deeply with us.

For those seeking to explore the city's true essence, to hear its heartbeat and breathe in its soul, this horseback tour is not merely an option; it's a necessity. It's more than a tour; it's an emotional and spiritual journey, a carousel of joy, history, and utmost care for animal welfare. Don't just tour; live the city, feel its pulse, and bask in its hidden wonders with Ursela and her...

Visited: June 27, 2025

I went on a 30-minute carriage ride with Tally-Ho, which cost $165 per carriage (not per person) with tax. Honestly, I think that’s way too much for what you get. Of course, no one forced me to do it—it was an experience I chose—but the pricing feels like it’s taking advantage of tourists.

What rubbed me the wrong way was being asked for a tip while prepaying. Tips should reflect the service provided, not be requested upfront. I did leave a tip at the end of the ride, which was no issue once I’d experienced the tour.

Looking at the price jump—going from a 30-minute ride to a 45-minute one was nearly $100 more, and a 1-hour ride was way pricier still. It felt like gouging. Just to compare: a 45-minute Harbour Air seaplane tour is about $195 per person, and that has way higher operating costs (runway fees, fuel, etc.). A horse and carriage surely costs much less to run—though that’s just my assumption. Even the water taxi in the harbour was only $15 per person to get anywhere in the official drop-off points.

That said, the ride itself was great. Our driver, Aaliyah, was fantastic—super kind and personable, sharing lots of interesting facts and history about the city. Her friendly service made the ride enjoyable and memorable.

I’d love to see the business model adjusted to be a bit more cost-friendly—if pricing were more reasonable, I’d happily rate the experience higher because the service was excellent.

My star ranking system: 1: Bad / Don't go there 2: Could be better 3: Average 4: Above average but not the best 5: A true...