Experience the Charm of Bariloche’s Countryside on Horseback with Asado

This horseback riding tour in San Carlos de Bariloche offers a half-day adventure blending stunning scenery, gentle rides, and hearty Argentine cuisine. For $298.12 per person, you’ll spend around four hours exploring diverse landscapes, crossing forests of ñires—an endemic tree—seeing hills like Las Buitreras and Carbón, and peering into the Ñirihuau river valley with the majestic Andes in the background. The highlight? A delicious Asado Criollo lunch featuring salads, drinks, and even vegetarian options, all in a rustic setting.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the well-trained horses that even beginners can handle easily, and the authenticity of the meal, which feels like a true local treat. The guides, such as Poncho or Leonardo, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the whole ride smooth and enjoyable. However, a potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included—so you’ll need to drive yourself or rent a car to get to the meeting point. This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and genuine local cuisine, especially those who enjoy a relaxed pace and manageable group sizes.

Key Points

Authentic Argentine experience combining horseback riding and a traditional asado.
Scenic routes through forests, hills, and river valleys with impressive mountain views.
Expert guides ensure safe, enjoyable rides, even for novices.
Flexible options for vegetarian meals, with bottled water and drinks included.
Self-driven logistics, as transportation isn’t provided.
Limited group size (up to 8 travelers), creating an intimate atmosphere.

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Exploring the Details: What to Expect from This Horseback Riding Adventure

Starting at the designated meeting point at Esandi & Ruta 40, travelers are responsible for their own transport—most find renting a car the simplest way to arrive. Once there, you’ll meet your guide and group, then be driven about 10 km to the farm where the adventure begins. The journey is part of the experience, offering a glimpse of local life before you saddle up.

The two-hour horseback ride winds through a mixed forest of ñires, trees unique to this region, whose gnarled branches and lush greenery create a magical backdrop. Riders will see notable sights like Las Buitreras and Carbón hills, and cross the Ñirihuau river valley—a wide, peaceful stretch that offers sweeping views of the Andes in the distance. The terrain is manageable for most, and the horses are described as well-trained and easy to handle, even for those new to riding, as one reviewer mentions: “Poncho is a great guide,” adding that the ride was so much fun.

Throughout the ride, you’ll be in the company of knowledgeable guides who are attentive and friendly. They help make the experience accessible while ensuring safety with helmets provided. The scenery is often a highlight, with impressive mountain ranges and lush forests creating a picture-perfect setting that seems straight out of a postcard.

After the ride, your group returns to the farm for a hearty Argentine asado. The lunch includes variety of salads, soft drinks, and local wines or craft beers—a genuine taste of Argentine hospitality. Vegetarian options are available, which is a thoughtful touch for those with dietary preferences. The meal is often praised as a highlight—one reviewer calls it “delicious,” and another remarks that the lunch alone was worth the price.

Authenticity and Quality: What Travelers Say

Guests consistently praise the authenticity and warm family-run atmosphere of the operation. One reviewer notes, “Excellent family run hotel,” emphasizing the personal touch and beautiful scenery. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor significantly enhance the experience.

The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, with all nine travelers rating it a perfect 5 out of 5. Comments highlight the well-trained horses, smooth logistics, and delicious meal as major pluses. For example, “This is a great experience,” and “Highly recommend!” are common sentiments. The small group size (maximum of 8) creates an intimate, personalized vibe that many travelers find appealing.

Some travelers mention that most participants can join, making this accessible to a wide range of ages and skill levels, though the maximum weight is 100 kg. The tour’s timing at 10:00 am gives plenty of room for a relaxed morning and a full day exploring Bariloche afterward.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At roughly $300, this experience offers a lot for those interested in combining outdoor adventure with local cuisine. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, helmet, and guide means you won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you opt for tips. Considering the scenic beauty, local interaction, and authentic meal, many find it to be good value.

However, since transportation isn’t included, it’s worth factoring in how you’ll get to the starting point, especially if you don’t plan to rent a car. For those who love rural landscapes, horseback riding, and hearty Argentine food, this tour balances leisure and adventure just right.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

Arrive by car or rent one, as no transportation is provided.
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity; layers work well.
Book in advance—most travelers book about 35 days ahead—because popularity is high.
Consider dietary preferences; vegetarian options are pre-ordered.
Plan to spend about four hours including transportation, riding, and lunch.
Group size is small, so this is a more personal experience.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy gentle outdoor adventures in beautiful natural settings, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suitable for beginners or those who prefer relaxed rides over adrenaline rushes. Food lovers will appreciate the authentic Argentine asado, often praised as a highlight. The small group size and friendly guides make it ideal for travelers seeking a personal touch.

Travelers who want to experience local culture, stunning scenery, and good company will find this outing fulfilling. The included lunch, scenic ride, and serene environment make it perfect for a laid-back day in Bariloche, especially if you value authentic, stress-free experiences.

FAQs

Do I need riding experience to join this tour?
No, the horses are well-trained and suitable for beginners. Guides ensure safety and comfort for all levels.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point at Esandi & Ruta 40. Renting a car is recommended.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately two hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing; layers are advisable for changing weather. Helmets are provided for safety.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a pre-ordered vegetarian menu is available upon request.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, making it more intimate and personalized.

What are the key sights during the ride?
You’ll see ñire forests, Las Buitreras and Carbón hills, and the Ñirihuau river valley, with the Andes Mountains in view.

Is the scenery worth it?
Absolutely. Guests consistently mention the stunning landscapes and peaceful environment as unforgettable.

Can I participate if I have a maximum weight of 100 kg?
Yes, the maximum weight limit is 100 kg.

What’s included in the price?
Lunch, bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, helmet, professional guide, and vegetarian options are included.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in San Carlos de Bariloche offers a rare chance to enjoy Argentina’s countryside in a relaxed, authentic setting. You’ll benefit from expert guides, beautiful scenery, and a hearty Argentine meal that leaves you satisfied. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of light adventure, cultural flavor, and natural beauty, all without the hassle of complex logistics.

While transportation is not included, the effort of driving to the meeting point pays off in the form of unparalleled views and a genuine farm experience. The small group size ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere, perfect for making new friends or just savoring the tranquility of the landscape.

Ultimately, if you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic, and delicious adventure that captures the spirit of rural Argentina, this tour fits the bill. It’s a memorable way to connect with local traditions, enjoy stunning vistas, and indulge in authentic food—all in just a few hours.