Bariloche Horseback Riding & Traditional Argentine Barbecue Tour

Bariloche Horseback Riding & Traditional Argentine Barbecue Tour – a delightful mix of scenery, culture, and good old-fashioned fun. For $165 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring the rugged foothills of the Argentine Andes, riding gentle horses suited for all experience levels, then relaxing with a hearty asado (barbecue) lunch and open bar in a historic estancia.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to truly see the landscape from the saddle, with a 2-hour trail ride through mountain lakes, forest zones, and the Patagonian steppe. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature—and your inner cowboy or cowgirl. Plus, the comfortable transportation and friendly guides make the whole experience feel effortless and authentic.

A potential consideration is that the tour moves at a relaxed pace, so if you’re looking for high-adrenaline riding, this might not be your best bet. However, for those wanting scenic views, good company, and a taste of rural Argentine life, it hits the mark beautifully.

This experience suits travelers craving a blend of outdoor adventure and culture, especially those who appreciate friendly guides, excellent food, and picturesque landscapes. The reviews show it’s popular with both first-timers and seasoned riders—making it a versatile choice for most visitors.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Ride through lakes, forests, and the Patagonian steppe, with stunning mountain views.
• All abilities welcome: Horses are gentle and well cared for, suitable for beginners and experienced riders.
• Authentic Argentine cuisine: Enjoy a hearty asado lunch, complemented by an open bar of wine, sodas, and water.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides help make the ride safe and informative.
• Well-organized experience: Includes hotel pickup, light breakfast, and all necessary equipment.
• Authentic ranch setting: San Ramón Ranch is a historic estancia covering 62,000 acres, adding a sense of tradition.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from most hotels in Bariloche, with a scenic 45-minute drive eastward in an air-conditioned coach. The departure time is 9:30 am, allowing ample daylight for a full day of activities. This hassle-free transfer is appreciated, especially since it’s included in the price, saving you the trouble of navigating local transport or taxis.

San Ramón Ranch: A Historic Setting

Your destination is Puesto La Fragua de Estancia San Ramón, one of the oldest working ranches in the area. Spanning 62,000 acres, it offers a glimpse into traditional Argentine ranch life. Many reviews mention the warm welcome and the chance to learn about the area’s history from guides. Inside an old countryside school, converted into a dining area, you’ll start with a light breakfast of sweets, coffee, juice, and mate tea—an Argentine staple.

The Riding Experience

The main event is a 2-hour guided horseback ride, led by expert gauchos who tailor the experience to your skill level. According to reviews, even complete beginners are well cared for, with simple instructions and horses that are calm and easy to handle. Several travelers mention their initial apprehension but feel reassured once in the saddle, thanks to the attentive guides and tame horses.

Along the way, you’ll pass scenic spots like a peaceful lake, traverse transitional forests, and reach the Patagonian steppe, with its wide-open spaces. Keep an eye out for native animals—though you might find some of the local fauna shy and elusive.

The Scenic Trail

The ride itself is leisurely but diverse, allowing you to take in the stunning natural landscape at a relaxed pace. Many reviews highlight the incredible views and the smoothness of the horses, with descriptions like “very quiet horses” and “beautiful countryside.” It’s more about experiencing the landscape than adrenaline, making it perfect for most fitness levels.

The Argentine Asado and Open Bar

Back at the ranch, you’ll be treated to a traditional three-course asado, which features an assortment of barbecued meats—think beef, sausage, and possibly other regional specialties. The food is universally praised as delicious, with many reviewers describing it as “a feast of traditional meats” and “absolutely fabulous.” The open bar of wine, sodas, and mineral water ensures you can toast the day and relax after your ride.

Guests often mention the convivial atmosphere, with guides sharing stories and local insights. One reviewer fondly recalls having a “great time singing Happy Birthday” during the meal, illustrating the friendly vibe.

Additional Activities & Considerations

While the tour doesn’t include a formal tour of the ranch beyond the ride and meal, the setting is historic and expansive, giving a real feel for rural life in Patagonia. The tour ends back at the hotel, making logistics easy.

It’s worth noting that the tour is most suitable for travelers comfortable with a casual outdoor activity and who don’t have serious medical conditions like back problems or heart issues. The maximum group size is 20, ensuring a personal experience.

Authenticity and Value

Many travelers comment on the professionalism and warmth of the guides, who are praised for their patience and knowledge. The value here is high, considering the included transportation, the quality of the horses, the hearty meal, and the scenic ride. For those wanting an active yet relaxed day with a taste of local culture, this tour offers fantastic value.

What Sets This Tour Apart

• The combination of scenic riding through diverse landscapes
• The authentic ranch experience with historical roots
• The delicious Argentine barbecue and open bar
• The approachable guides who make everyone comfortable

Possible Downsides

A few reviews mention language barriers—since most guides speak Spanish, non-Spanish speakers might miss some details unless they know some basics. Also, the pace is gentle, so thrill-seekers looking for high-speed riding may find it too relaxed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is excellent for beginners and families seeking a scenic outdoor activity. It’s also perfect for travelers interested in Argentina’s rural traditions and genuine local food. If you love mountain views, quiet horses, and a laid-back atmosphere, this tour will resonate strongly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, pickup and drop-off are not included but are available from most hotels in Bariloche. The meeting point is Villegas 222, at 9:30 am.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, led by guides who adapt to your experience level.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, this tour is suitable for beginners. Guides provide simple instructions, and horses are chosen to match your comfort level.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity. Closed-toe shoes and a hat are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is not specified, but given the nature of horseback riding and the moderate physical activity, children who are comfortable around horses will enjoy it.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment, a light breakfast, the 2-hour ride, a three-course Argentine asado, and an open bar with wine, sodas, and water are included.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Participants with back problems, heart issues, or other serious medical conditions are advised against taking part.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. You’ll get a full refund if canceled in time.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.

What language do guides speak?
Most guides speak Spanish; some reviews note limited English, so some knowledge of Spanish could enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour from Bariloche offers an authentic taste of Patagonian ranch life, set against some of the most scenic landscapes in Argentina. The combination of gentle rides, stunning scenery, and a hearty asado lunch makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed but memorable outdoor adventure.

Whether you’re a first-time rider, a family wanting a fun day out, or simply someone eager to see the mountains from a different perspective, this tour delivers. It balances nature, culture, and cuisine in a way that leaves most travelers satisfied and eager to recommend it.

The professionalism of guides, the quality of the horses, and the delicious food stand out as highlights—reviews consistently praise the friendly atmosphere and the beauty of the scenery. Just be aware of the language barrier if you don’t speak Spanish, and remember it’s a slow-paced ride meant to enjoy the landscape, not a high-adrenaline experience.

This is a well-organized, authentic, and genuinely enjoyable way to spend part of your time in Bariloche. It’s worth considering if you want to combine outdoor activity, culture, and good food—a true taste of rural Argentina with a friendly, welcoming vibe.