Horseback Riding Experience – Cañadones & Saddles
Location: Santa Cruz Province, Argentina
Price: $180 per person
Duration: 4 hours (approximately 12 km of riding)
Rating: 5 out of 5 (based on 2 reviews)
Provider: Patagonia Profunda
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Imagine riding through the wide, open landscapes of Patagonia, where the immensity of nature surrounds you. For just four hours, you’ll traverse the Estancia 25 de Mayo, crossing streams and geological formations, all while feeling the wind and hearing tales of local gauchos. The experience is capped off with a country-style picnic at the Cueva del Arroyo, with a delicious 3-course meal and local wine.
Two things we love about this tour are the scenic variety—from ravines to creek gorges—making each moment visually engaging, and the authentic gaucho stories shared along the way, which add a heartfelt touch of local culture. Plus, the included lunch is a real highlight—nothing beats a hearty creole steak after a good ride.
A potential consideration is the intermediate level of difficulty. You should be comfortable riding for about three hours, covering roughly 12 km. If you’re a total beginner or have mobility issues, this might be more challenging. Also, the group size is limited to six—which makes for a personalized experience, but it’s worth noting if you prefer larger tours.
This ride is ideal for adventurous travelers aged 12 to 60 who want a genuine taste of Patagonia’s wild beauty, with the right balance of activity and comfort. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy stories, scenic landscapes, and hearty regional food.
Key Points
- Authentic Patagonian scenery: Cross ravines, streams, and geological formations.
- Cultural insight: Stories of gauchos enrich the experience.
- Comfortable logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Well-balanced meal: Hearty creole lunch with wine, perfect after riding.
- Small group size: Limited to six people, ensuring personalized attention.
- Active but manageable: Suitable for ages 12-60 with intermediate riding skills.
Exploring the Ride Through Patagonia’s Heart
The Cañadones & Saddles horseback tour offers a genuine slice of Patagonia’s rugged beauty combined with a touch of local history. Starting at the main estate of Estancia 25 de Mayo, you’ll be greeted with a brief technical talk—an important step, especially if you’re new to riding. The guides are professional and certified, ensuring safety and clarity.
After your gear-up with helmets and gaiters, you set out southward, crossing the Calafate Creek Gorge. This gorge is a standout feature. It’s a natural barrier against the persistent Patagonian winds, creating a calmer environment for your ride. As you traverse streams and ancient rock formations, you’ll gain a sense of how the landscape has been shaped over millions of years. It’s not just a scenic walk; it’s a landscape that tells a geological story, which guides love to share.
The riding portion lasts about 3 hours, covering around 12 km of diverse terrain. The pace is moderate, making it manageable for those with intermediate riding experience. We loved the way the guide explained the geological formations, turning a simple ride into an educational experience. Expect to cross streams, climb gentle inclines, and enjoy views that stretch across the Patagonian plains.
One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at the Cueva del Arroyo, a natural shelter where the gauchos prepare your picnic. Here, you’ll relax and indulge in a three-step menu: starting with a traditional “picada” (appetizer platter), followed by Creole steaks served in bread, and topped with a cheesecake dessert. The included drinks—water and wine—complement the hearty meal perfectly. James, one of the reviewers, summed it up nicely: “Care taken for very enjoyable ride, lunch excellent including vegetarian options.”
The return journey takes you back through the landscape, offering another chance to absorb Patagonia’s vastness. The entire experience lasts about four hours, including transit, riding, and lunch.
Planning more time in El Calafate? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Why This Tour Offers Real Value
At $180, this horseback ride isn’t just about the ride—it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. The equipment—helmets and gaiters—are provided, removing the hassle of bringing your own, and the small group size ensures you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
The scenery is arguably the star of this experience. Patagonia’s wide, open spaces are hard to match elsewhere. The geological formations and streams offer a tangible connection to the land’s deep history. Plus, the storytelling aspect adds cultural depth, making it a more meaningful experience than just a ride.
In terms of the meal, the picnic at the cave is a delight. The menu is satisfying and authentic, and the wine toast adds a celebratory touch. Vegetarian options are available, making it accessible for a wider range of dietary preferences.
While the intermediate difficulty level means it’s not suitable for complete beginners, those with some riding experience will find it a rewarding challenge. The limited group size is a plus for those who prefer a quieter, more personal tour.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who appreciate authentic cultural experiences and outdoor scenery. It’s also ideal if you enjoy a mix of activity, storytelling, and regional cuisine. If you’re comfortable riding for several hours and want to avoid large tour groups, this is a perfect pick.
However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed or beginner-friendly ride, or are traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options. The tour is designed for those aged 12 to 60, so younger kids or seniors over 60 should consider their comfort level before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous riding experience?
Yes, the tour requires intermediate riding skills. You should be comfortable riding for about three hours and covering roughly 12 km.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, helmet and gaiters, a certified guide, and a three-course lunch with drinks—water and wine.
How long is the horseback riding portion?
The actual riding lasts about 3 hours, covering approximately 12 km across varied terrain.
Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old, and the experience is geared toward those with at least some riding familiarity. It’s not recommended for children under 10.
What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing is best. Helmets and gaiters are provided, but bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Final Thoughts
The Horseback Riding Experience at Cañadones & Saddles is a standout for travelers craving an authentic adventure into Patagonia’s wild landscape. It combines scenic beauty, cultural storytelling, and hearty regional cuisine into a manageable four-hour outing that leaves you feeling both invigorated and connected to the land.
This tour offers excellent value, especially considering that hotel transportation and a full meal are included. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activity, are comfortable riding, and want to experience Patagonia beyond the typical sightseeing. The small group size fosters a personalized, relaxed atmosphere, making it a memorable part of your trip.
If you’re after a genuine, active day out that captures Patagonia’s rugged charm with some local flavor, this horseback ride is hard to beat.
Enjoy your adventure on horseback in Patagonia. It’s a chance to slow down, take in the landscape, and share stories with new friends—all in the company of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
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