Santiago: Horseback Riding in the Andes Range

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Santiago and experience the beauty of the Andes Mountains, this horseback riding tour offers a memorable adventure. For $250 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring a lesser-known part of Chile’s awe-inspiring mountain range, guided by knowledgeable local arrieros (cowboys).

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning landscape — you’ll cross untouched valleys and see waterfalls formed by melting glaciers, a snapshot of nature’s raw power. Second, the focus on authenticity and safety — from a private, well-organized itinerary to respectful animal care, this isn’t a tourist trap but a genuine encounter with Chile’s natural beauty.

A minor consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of driving — around 3 hours each way — so it suits those comfortable with long scenic rides. It’s best for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and are eager to see remote, less crowded parts of the Andes.

This tour feels ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those wanting a hands-on experience in Chile’s mountains, away from the busy tourist spots.

Key Points

• Unique Route: Explore a seldom-visited part of the Andes, offering fresh scenery and fewer crowds.
• Authentic Experience: Ride with local arrieros who bring insight and friendliness to the adventure.
• Cultural Highlights: See Pre-Hispanic petroglyphs and a 100-year-old wooden pipeline.
• Scenic Waterfalls: Reach a glacier-formed waterfall after a scenic 2-hour horse ride.
• Comfort & Safety: Use of 4×4 vehicles ensures safe travel over mountainous terrain.
• Animal Welfare: Horses are well-cared-for and treated with respect, aligning with responsible tourism.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Out: From Santiago to the Andes

The day begins early, with hotel pickup in Santiago, including options in key districts like Providencia, Las Condes, or downtown. The drive south through the Chilean landscape takes approximately 3 hours, giving you time to soak in the changing scenery — from urban outskirts to sprawling countryside, finally giving way to the rugged peaks of the Andes.

The journey itself is part of the charm — you’ll appreciate the comfort of modern SUVs or jeeps, especially during winter months when snow blankets the region. This transportation choice ensures a smooth ride through sometimes challenging mountain roads, removing any concerns about rough terrain.

The Hidden Valley and Pre-Hispanic Petroglyphs

Once you arrive at the initial stop, the tour guides will introduce you to a lesser-known but fascinating part of the Andes. Here, you can see ancient petroglyphs, carvings made by indigenous peoples centuries ago — a quiet reminder of the land’s deep history.

Walking around this site, you’ll understand why archaeologists and travelers alike find these carvings captivating. It’s a rare chance to connect with the past in a setting so remote and pristine.

The Horseback Ride: A Scenic 2-Hour Adventure

The core of this tour is the horseback ride through a breathtaking glacial valley. Guided by local arrieros with years of experience, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes, crossing streams and open plains, with the Andes looming on all sides.

The ride lasts about two hours, and we loved how calm and gentle the horses are — perfect for beginners or those with limited riding experience. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor make the experience accessible and enjoyable, even for first-timers.

A highlight during the ride? Reaching a waterfall formed by melting glaciers. The sight of water tumbling down into a clear pool is both invigorating and soothing — a perfect spot to pause, take photos, and appreciate the immense forces shaping this land.

More Great Tours Nearby

Post-Ride Relaxation and Lunch

After the ride, you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy a delicious lunch or picnic prepared by the team. Surrounded by natural beauty, this meal is an opportunity to unwind and reflect on the morning’s adventure. Many travelers mention how the tranquility of the mountains makes the food taste even better.

Exploring Further: Additional Stops & Optional Activities

The tour includes visits to Pre-Hispanic petroglyphs and a wooden pipeline over 100 years old, still functioning today. These stops give a glimpse into Chile’s cultural and engineering history, adding depth to your scenic journey.

The use of 4×4 vehicles during the route ensures safety and comfort, especially if winter snow adds to the scenic views. This attention to safety and environmental respect enhances the overall value.

Returning to Santiago

The day concludes with the scenic drive back to Santiago, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on your start time. It’s a long day, but the memories of mountain waterfalls, ancient carvings, and authentic horse riding last well beyond the trip.

Authenticity and Responsible Tourism

We appreciated the emphasis on animal welfare — the horses are well cared for, and the guides are committed to respectful treatment of these animals. This reflects a broader focus on responsible tourism, which is vital when engaging with natural environments and indigenous history.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for outdoor lovers, history buffs, and anyone interested in seeing Chile’s remote mountain landscapes away from crowded tour buses. It’s suitable for children over 8 years old, provided they’re comfortable on horseback, but not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility challenges.

Expect a moderate physical activity level — mainly a relaxed horse ride and some light walking at stops. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and gentle physical activity, this is a great pick.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in the Andes offers a rare chance to see untouched mountain scenery with the guidance of friendly locals. The combination of stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and responsible animal treatment makes it a standout for those seeking an authentic, immersive experience outside Santiago.

While it involves a bit of travel — and some may find the long drive tiring — the sights and stories you’ll gather are worth it. Expect breathtaking views, quiet moments with ancient petroglyphs, and a sense of connection to the land that’s hard to find in more commercialized tours.

If you’re eager to combine adventure, culture, and nature in one day, this experience will likely leave you with a sense of wonder and a camera full of unforgettable photos.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Santiago to the Andes?
Approximately 3 hours each way, comfortably covered in a private SUV or jeep, with scenic views along the way.

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ride is described as beginner-level, and the horses are well-trained and gentle. The guides will assist and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A camera and water are also advisable.

Are the stops physically demanding?
No, the stops involve brief walks to see petroglyphs and the pipeline. The main activity, the horseback ride, is moderate and accessible.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch or picnic is provided after the horseback ride, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can children participate?
Children over 8 years old are welcome if they’re comfortable on horseback. The tour is not suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women.

What safety measures are in place?
Use of 4×4 vehicles during the route ensures safe travel over mountainous terrain. Guides are experienced in mountain safety and animal care.

Is the tour customizable or private?
Yes, this is a private group tour, allowing for a more tailored experience and flexibility with scheduling.

This horseback riding adventure in the Andes offers a thoughtful blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and gentle physical activity — a true highlight for those wanting to see a different side of Chile beyond Santiago.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby