Polo Match, BBQ and Lesson Day-Trip from Buenos Aires

Experience Argentina’s Polo Culture: A Day-Trip from Buenos Aires

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Argentine polo legendary, this full-day tour offers a fantastic taste of the sport’s elegance, skill, and tradition. For around $290 per person, you’ll travel from bustling Buenos Aires to a beautiful country club where the pace is fast and the scenery is stunning. The day includes watching a professional polo match, learning to play during a lesson, and savoring a hearty Argentinian barbecue, all with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the countryside.

What we especially love about this experience is how it’s suited to both polo enthusiasts and curious newcomers. You don’t need prior riding experience to participate, and the guides make sure everyone feels welcome. Plus, the combination of watching a high-energy game and trying your hand at it creates a genuine connection to Argentina’s most exclusive sport.

One thing to keep in mind is that riding boots aren’t included, so if you want to fully participate in the riding part, you may need to bring your own. This tour makes for a unique, authentic day outside the city that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone interested in Argentine culture and equestrian skills.

Key Points

• Authentic Culture: Dive into the world of Argentine polo and learn about its history, horses, and top players.
• Inclusive Experience: Suitable for all skill levels, with lessons tailored to your experience.
• Stunning Setting: Enjoy a beautifully maintained country club with lush grounds, a pool, and scenic walks.
• Tasty Food & Wine: Relish a traditional asado with local wines, and savor the flavors of Argentina.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides and instructors enhance the experience, making it engaging and accessible.
• Excellent Value: Combining sightseeing, sport, and food at a fair price, with many reviews praising the overall quality.

A Full Day of Polo and Countryside Charm

When we think about what makes this tour stand out, two things immediately come to mind: the setting and the experience. Traveling in a comfortable minivan from Buenos Aires, you’ll leave behind the city’s hustle for the peaceful Argentine pampas. The scenic drive takes about 45 minutes, during which your guide shares insights into the history and significance of polo in Argentina—a country where the sport is practically part of the national identity.

Arriving at an upscale polo center, you’re welcomed with empanadas and a glass of local wine. The guide’s talk about the breeding of the horses and the top players helps set the scene for the matches you’ll later watch. This is more than just a spectator sport here—it’s a cultural phenomenon, and your guide makes sure you understand what’s happening on the field.

Watching a Live Polo Match

The highlight for many is the live polo match—a fast-paced spectacle involving four chukkas (quarters) and 30 horses thundering across the field. The skill and agility of the players are impressive, and the guide’s explanations about rules, techniques, and strategies turn the game into an accessible and exciting show, even for first-timers.

A reviewer noted, “The polo match was professional and exciting, and learning and actually playing was an incredible adventure!” The energy is contagious, and whether you’re a sports fanatic or just a casual observer, you’ll likely find yourself captivated by the athleticism and tradition on display.

Hands-On Polo Lesson

Perhaps the most memorable part for many visitors is the opportunity to try your hand at polo. After lunch, a professional instructor will provide a safety briefing and instruction. You’ll get to saddle a horse, practice holding the mallet, and even engage in a mini-match with fellow participants.

The horses here are described as gentle and well-trained, making this a genuinely inclusive activity. Even if you’ve never been on a horse before, the guides work hard to ensure you feel comfortable. As one reviewer mentioned, “We learned all about polo, practiced on the ground, and even got to try a mutcha,” which is a fun way to get your first taste of the game.

A Hearty Argentinian Barbecue

No Argentine experience is complete without a good barbecue (asado). After the lessons, you’ll sit down to a delicious grilled meat feast accompanied by local wines. Vegetarians and fish lovers aren’t left out—there are options available, and most reviewers agree the food is beautifully presented and flavorful.

Post-lunch, you can wander the grounds or relax by the pool—a perfect way to digest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The grounds are well-maintained, and the tranquil setting offers a stark contrast to the busy city.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Buenos Aires, usually from central locations like Palermo. The ride to the country club is about 45 minutes, during which your guide shares fascinating insights about Argentine culture and its love affair with polo. Travelers mention the beautiful views of the pampas, which makes the journey almost as enjoyable as the destination.

Welcome and Introduction to Polo

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with empanadas and a glass of Malbec or local wine. A guide—often someone like “Ezequiel,” praised for being friendly and knowledgeable—explains the history, horses, and rules of polo. This helps demystify the game, making watching the fast-moving match later even more engaging.

Watching the Match

In the afternoon, your group watches a professional polo game unfold. The speed and skill on display are often highlighted in reviews, with spectators impressed by the athletic prowess of both the human and equine athletes. The guide’s commentary makes it easier to follow, explaining strategies and what each move signifies.

Hands-On Polo and Practice

Next comes the fun part—trying to play. With professional instruction, you’ll be able to stand on a horse, hold a mallet, and participate in a mini-match. The experience is designed so beginners can join in without stress, and many reviewers mention how encouraging and patient the instructors are.

Lunch and Leisure

After working up an appetite, it’s time for Argentine barbecue, with grilled meats, local wine, and vegetables. The setting is worth noting—beautifully set tables, friendly staff, and the delicious aroma of grilled meats create a festive atmosphere. Post-lunch, you’re free to walk the grounds, relax by the pool, or explore the lush surroundings.

Return Journey

The day wraps up with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel in Buenos Aires, leaving you with lasting memories of a genuine Argentine tradition.

What Makes This Tour Special

Based on countless reviews, it’s clear that the guides and staff make a significant difference. Many travelers mention guides like “Tommy” and “Augustin,” who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Their ability to explain complex rules and encourage participation turns this experience into a highlight of many trips.

The setting — a scenic, well-kept country club—combined with delicious food and wine—is often cited as a standout feature. Several reviewers mention the quality of the barbecue and the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The opportunity to actually ride and play polo, even for beginners, is a rarity that adds authentic value. Many leave feeling they’ve gained a true appreciation for a sport deeply woven into Argentina’s identity, with some expressing surprise at how accessible it was.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

A few travelers note that riding boots aren’t included, so if you want the full experience of riding, you might need to bring your own or rent at the site. Also, the cost of $290 might seem high, but most reviews agree the quality of the experience, food, and guides make it worthwhile.

Weather can also be a factor—this tour is weather-dependent, and if it’s canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers and culture lovers who want to see Argentina’s polo scene firsthand. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups looking for a day outside the city with a mix of sport, scenery, and cuisine. Since most travelers can participate, it’s a great choice for beginners and experienced riders alike. If you’re interested in learning about local traditions or simply want a fun, active day, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, there’s no minimum age, and most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since everyone can participate in the lessons.

Do I need prior horse-riding experience?
No, the lessons are designed for all levels, and guides tailor activities to your comfort. Even first-timers have praised the instructors.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim in the pool afterward. Note that riding boots aren’t included, so consider bringing your own if you want to participate fully in riding activities.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s approximately 9 hours, starting with hotel pickup around 10:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the BBQ lunch and drinks, the polo lesson, professional instruction, use of equipment, and the polo match.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Argentina’s love of polo, combining sport, culture, and cuisine in one memorable day. The expert guides and friendly instruction make it accessible, while the beautiful grounds and delicious food ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

If you’re looking for a genuine, immersive day outside Buenos Aires that’s perfect for beginners and aficionados alike, this trip will not disappoint. It’s a chance to see the countryside, watch thrilling polo, and even try your hand at it—all without needing prior experience.

Whether celebrating a special occasion, seeking a unique cultural activity, or simply wanting a break from city life, this tour offers an excellent balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Argentine flavor.