   Horse Riding Tour In Argentina
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Ride through the high Andes — the longest mountain range in the world — along historic gaucho trails to the Chilean border at Hito Pichi Trolón.
For five days, follow volcanic peaks and wide skies, cross petrified lava fields, and pass wind-carved rock formations where the silence feels ancient. At 3,600 meters, every breath is crisp, and every view stretches far beyond the horizon.
Nights bring star-filled skies so clear you’ll see the Milky Way, Magellanic Clouds, and Omega Centauri without a telescope. Days end with gaucho-style meals, fine wine, and the quiet rhythm of life in the saddle.
This is more than a crossing — it’s an immersion in land, tradition, and the raw beauty of the mountains.
It is recommended to spend the night before at the small mountain hostel “Mapicsa” to facilitate logistics and share the camaraderie dinner the night before. This night with breakfast before the horseback ride is included in the cost of the expedition. We will conduct the group presentation and customs procedures there since, although we are not leaving the country, it is a requirement of immigration for this type of expedition (to carry identification). If a minor is traveling without one of their parents, they must carry a signed authorization from the absent parent to present at immigration.
We meet at 8 AM at the Cafeteria of the Mapicsa Accommodation in Las Loicas, where we will complete the previously explained procedures. Check and pack individual gear into saddlebags to start our adventure towards the first camp, with an approximate duration of 3.5 hours, reaching an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level at MayllÃn Camp.
We wake up and have a leisurely breakfast before breaking camp and heading to our next refuge, reaching 2700 meters above sea level. The pioneer trails of the day will last approximately 4 hours. It is a journey through magical landscapes, surrounded by vertical walls of 4000 meters above sea level, reaching the Vilches Outpost, where we will prepare a delicious dinner.
After a nutritious breakfast, we head towards the Argentina – Chile border at Hito Pichi Trolón. This journey will take us approximately 2 hours. Once we reach the Hito, you can rest, take photos, and enjoy the view of the heart of our beautiful mountain range at an altitude of 3400 meters above sea level. The return to our camp will take another approximately 2 hours.
After everyone finishes breakfast, we will break camp and head to Los Alamos Outpost, where we will cross large valleys of volcanic sand. After approximately 3 hours of riding, we will relax and enjoy our last day together, preparing a regional delicacy for dinner.
We break camp and head back towards the starting point, Las Loicas, to return the horses and organize your belongings. Don’t forget to complete customs procedures with your identification. Group farewell and end of our services.
Empowering Rural Communities: By joining this tour, you actively support community-based rural tourism in remote areas of Argentina. Your participation provides economic opportunities for families and communities, contributing to their quality of life while preserving traditional ways of living.
Preserving Gaucho Heritage: Experience the rich traditions of Argentina’s gaucho culture, passed down through generations. By participating, you help keep these customs alive and ensure that the gaucho lifestyle continues to thrive.
Sustaining Local Economies: This tour prioritizes supporting local businesses and families, fostering a sustainable connection between tourism and rural livelihoods. Every ride helps strengthen the communities and preserve the breathtaking landscapes you explore.
Breeding Excellence, Responsibly: The Criollo horses you ride are bred for their gentleness and functionality, reflecting a deep respect for equine welfare and sustainable practices. This ensures a lasting legacy of healthy, happy horses.
Cultural Connection Through Stories: Your guides are passionate stewards of gaucho traditions, sharing their knowledge and love for the land. By learning from them, you contribute to the preservation of their stories and cultural identity.
Malargüe, a city in the province of Mendoza, located in the southwestern part of Argentina.
DIRECTIONS
From San Rafael Airport (AFA): Take a bus or taxi to the San Rafael bus terminal (11 kilometers away). From there, catch a bus to Malargüe (190 kilometers), where Gaucho Argentino will meet you.
Adventure Start Location: The adventure begins in Las Loicas, a small town in the Andes, about an hour west of Malargüe. The group will meet in Malargüe.
Travel Options:
We can advice a travel agent who can assist with your travel arrangements.
This is a gaucho experience, rustic and authentic. All meals, drinks, tents, horses and horse equipment will be provided.
List of Equipment and Personal Items for the horse riding tour Argentina:
The horseback rides are done at a suitable pace that allows you to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. The guide accompanying the group will try to assist you at all times, and you should follow their instructions. The climate is characterized by being very windy and changeable. If you have any significant physical or medical issues, you should indicate them so that appropriate action can be taken in case of needing first aid assistance. The same applies in the case of allergies or dietary issues. People with physical ailments or leg injuries cannot participate in the activity. The program is subject to weather and/or geographical conditions. Modifications may occur on the fly based on various circumstances and factors. Decisions are solely made by the guides, cowboys, and coordinators of the
company. The budgeted services are subject to availability of spaces at the time of requesting the firm reservation. After the client’s reservation request, we will proceed to request reservations at the establishments. If any of the establishments are full, an alternative will be offered that may vary the price either up or down.Â