Full Day Horseback Riding at the Foot of the Andes.

Full Day Horseback Riding at the Foot of the Andes: A Full-Bodied Argentine Experience

Imagine starting your day at 8:00 am with a scenic drive along the iconic Route 40, winding past vineyards, lush plantations, and sparkling rivers. After about two hours, you’ll arrive at a charming farm in Mendoza Province, where the real adventure begins. For $200 per person, this full-day guided horseback ride offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore untouched landscapes, spot native animals like condors and guanacos, and indulge in authentic Argentine food. The tour is designed for those who cherish genuine nature encounters and who want to combine riding with delicious regional cuisine.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the personalized touches — from a hearty Creole breakfast to a locally prepared roast lunch, all served with top-level wines. The guided aspect ensures you’ll learn about the land and its wildlife from knowledgeable guides, making it more than just a ride but an educational trip into Argentine culture and nature.

One potential consideration is that riders are asked to bring their own helmet (costing around ARS 6000), which can be an extra step, especially if you’re traveling light. The tour’s 8-hour duration means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day out, but it’s a perfect fit for those eager to see Argentina’s stunning mountain foothills in one memorable day.

In short, this tour suits travelers who love horseback riding, want to enjoy authentic regional food, and are keen to explore Argentina’s wild, scenic side — all with a touch of guided expertise.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Ride through valleys and streams with views of the Andes, encountering native flora and fauna.
• Authentic Argentine cuisine: Enjoy a Creole breakfast, a traditional roast lunch, and mid-afternoon snacks with local wines.
• Flexible riding options: Riders can choose to ride between 3-4 hours, tailored to their comfort and preference.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enrich the ride with insights about the land and animals.
• All-inclusive value: Horses, saddles, food, and drinks are included, making it a well-rounded day out.
• Personalized menu: Menus can adapt to dietary needs or preferences if specified during reservation.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey to the Andes Footprint

The adventure starts early, with a pickup (included) from your hotel or designated meeting point at 8:00 am. The two-hour ride along Route 40 is itself a highlight, offering panoramic views of vineyards, rivers, and farmland that give a sense of Mendoza’s diverse landscape. This route is renowned for its scenery, and many travelers find the drive as enjoyable as the horseback riding itself. An added bonus: the opportunity to see the region’s characteristic plantations and grazing animals.

The Farm and Creole Breakfast

Upon arrival, the main house welcomes you with a typical Creole breakfast. Expect warm toasted bread, homemade sweets, scrambled eggs, and a variety of beverages including tea, coffee, mate, or fresh juices. This hearty start prepares you for a day of physical activity, especially if you’re new to riding or just want to enjoy a leisurely pace. The guides are friendly and eager to answer questions about the land and wildlife, making this moment both relaxing and informative.

The Horseback Ride: Trails and Wildlife

Next, you’ll meet your horse and guide at the corral. The ride can last anywhere from 3 to 4 hours, depending on your preference and riding skill. These trails are accessible only by horseback, winding through valleys, streams, and untouched landscapes that look like they belong in a postcard.

Expect to see native wildlife, such as condors soaring overhead, eagles, and guanacos grazing nearby. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often sharing fascinating facts about the flora and fauna, adding a layer of depth to your ride. As some reviewers noted, the landscapes are breathtaking, and the experience of being surrounded by such natural beauty is hard to match.

Midday Creole Barbecue and Wine

Halfway through, you’ll stop for a Creole barbecue featuring local roast meat, roasted vegetables, and seasonal salads. The meal is complemented by top-tier varietal wines, which add a touch of regional authenticity. The menu is flexible; if you have specific dietary preferences, just let the organizers know when booking. Guests from reviews mentioned that the food was delicious, and the setting in the open air adds to the rustic charm.

Return and Mid-Afternoon Snacks

After your meal and a brief rest, you’ll head back to the farm, where the day winds down with mid-afternoon snacks — including coffee, tea, mate, toast, and the famous Mendoza pancakes. This relaxing conclusion gives you time to reflect on your day and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes horses, saddles, meals, drinks, and air-conditioned transportation. The price of $200 per person covers a full day’s worth of memorable activities and excellent food, making it a good value for a guided, all-inclusive experience.

One detail to consider: You will need to bring your own helmet — an extra step but important for safety. The tour is designed for most travelers, including those with some riding experience, but beginners should communicate their comfort level in advance.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, describing the experience as a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Comments such as “Incredible landscapes and good energy from everyone” and “Beautiful place, excellent attention” highlight the genuine hospitality and quality of the experience.

The landscape receives particular admiration, with visitors noting it as “a crazy beautiful” and “very tranquil” — making this a prime choice for those looking to escape urban life and connect deeply with nature.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, horseback riding enthusiasts, and foodies who want a full day immersed in authentic Argentine culture. It’s a great option for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate guided tours and are comfortable with riding or eager to try. Given the focus on scenery and wildlife, it’s especially suited for those seeking a relaxing yet adventurous escape into the Andes’ foothills.

Travelers who value local cuisine and want to enjoy a regional gastronomic experience will find the meals particularly memorable. The inclusive nature and flexibility of the menu also make it accessible for various dietary needs.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Experience?

This full-day horseback riding trip offers much more than just a ride — it’s a gateway into the heart of Argentine rural life and Andean landscapes. The combination of scenic trails, native wildlife, and hearty regional cuisine makes for an experience that is both visually stunning and culinary satisfying.

For those who value guidance from experienced locals, the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat, and feeling the wind in your hair while surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture.

While it takes up a full day, the memories and photos you’ll bring home will be well worth the effort. And with free cancellation, you can book with confidence knowing that plans can change.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your location at the designated meeting point, typically around 8:00 am, making transportation hassle-free.

What is the duration of the horseback ride?
Riders can expect to be on horseback for approximately 3 to 4 hours total, depending on your preferences and what you choose at booking.

Do I need to bring my own helmet?
Yes, travelers are asked to bring their own helmet, which costs about ARS 6000, for safety reasons.

Are meals included?
Absolutely. The tour includes breakfast, a traditional roast lunch with wines, and mid-afternoon snacks with coffee or tea.

Can dietary preferences be accommodated?
Yes, the menu can be adapted to dietary needs if informed during the reservation process.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
While most travelers can participate, it’s advisable to communicate your riding experience when booking. Guides are experienced and can tailor the ride accordingly.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see condors, eagles, guanacos, and other native animals in their natural environment, which adds an exciting layer to the ride.

This horseback adventure at the foot of the Andes combines natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and good value, making it a wonderful choice for those seeking a memorable Argentine outdoor experience. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, the scenery, wildlife, and homemade food will leave you with stories to tell long after you leave.