Two day ride through the Sierras

Imagine riding through the stunning Sierras Chicas of Córdoba with the chance to connect with Argentina’s iconic gaucho lifestyle. For $230 per person, you can spend two days on horseback, exploring mountain peaks, lush valleys, and rugged terrain, all while learning about local traditions like music, dance, and food. This tour, led by Salvador Gimenez, promises a real taste of rural Argentine life, far from the tourist crowds.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and authenticity. You’ll meet a variety of horses suited to your skill level, ensuring a comfortable ride whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned rider. Plus, the inclusion of all meals—featuring local salami, wine, and hearty Argentine fare—makes it a fantastic value.

One consideration is the physical demand: expect around 6 hours of riding each day, so a good level of fitness helps you enjoy it fully. Also, since it’s a small, private tour, the experience feels personalized, perfect for those seeking a genuine connection with nature and local culture.

This trip is best suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, are eager to learn gaucho skills, and want to soak in breathtaking mountain views. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a meaningful, active experience in Argentina’s countryside will find this tour especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Gaucho Experience: Enjoy Argentine cowboy culture through riding, music, and food.
• All Skill Levels Welcome: Horses are suited to beginners and experienced riders alike.
• Scenic Landscape: Expect breathtaking views of mountain summits and lush countryside.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, drinks, and accommodation are part of the package.
• Authentic Lodging: Sleep at the El Rosal ranch, surrounded by farm animals in a natural setting.
• Good Physical Condition Needed: Comfortable riding for about 6 hours daily, so prepare accordingly.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at the Ruta Provincial E53RP E53, El Manzano, in Córdoba. From there, you’re transported into the countryside, where the real magic starts. The tour is designed as a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility that larger, packaged tours often lack.

The tour spans roughly two days, with the opportunity to disconnect from city life and dive into nature. The flexible schedule and small group size mean you won’t feel rushed, and there’s ample time to enjoy the scenery, the horses, and the company of your guides.

The Horses and Riding Experience

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the horses. Salvador and his team have carefully selected breeds that cater to all riding levels, making it accessible whether you’re new to horseback riding or a seasoned rider. According to reviews, the horses are well-behaved, noble, and safe, with each animal having its own personality, which adds charm and character to your ride.

During the first day, you’ll meet your horse, learn about caring for it, and then set off across the countryside. Expect to traverse diverse terrains, from mountain trails to open pastures, so the landscape changes constantly, keeping the ride engaging. The guides are attentive and aim to match riders with the right horse quickly, so the experience feels natural rather than intimidating.

Scenic Highlights and Stops

The tour explores the interior of the ranch and surrounding mountains, providing plenty of opportunities for photographs and peaceful moments. You’ll ride through various geographies, such as forests, rocky outcrops, and mountain peaks, each offering a different perspective of this rugged region.

The views from the summits are a particular highlight, giving a sense of achievement and awe. Reviewers mention the beautiful landscapes and the quiet serenity, perfect for those who appreciate nature’s quieter moments.

Cultural Engagement and Food

What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to learn about gaucho culture firsthand. You’ll hear traditional music, enjoy local dancing, and try salami and Argentine wine—all included in the tour. This focus on cultural authenticity makes the experience much more than just a horseback ride; it becomes a window into rural Argentine traditions.

Meal times are thoughtfully included, and the rustic ranch setting at El Rosal offers a cozy, genuine atmosphere. If you desire more comfort, the hosts are happy to suggest alternative accommodation options, though most find the ranch’s natural simplicity charming.

Overnight at the Ranch

Staying at El Rosal ranch is one of the tour’s highlights. You’ll sleep surrounded by farm animals and nature, waking up refreshed and ready for another day of exploration. It’s a great way to fully learn about the gaucho way of life, away from the hustle of city life.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the noble and well-trained horses, noting that each animal’s character adds charm to the ride. One reviewer mentions, “each one with their own characters who made them so approachable,” emphasizing the personalized attention given to each horse and rider.

The scenic landscapes are another frequent compliment. One reviewer describes their experience as “spending two incredible days with Salvador and his French crew,” with beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere, despite some waiting time, which felt “still chill.”

Practical Considerations

The tour requires good physical condition since you’ll be riding about 6 hours a day. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues or health concerns should consider their comfort level. The price of $230 includes all meals, drinks, accommodation, and the guided riding experience, offering excellent value considering the full immersive nature of the trip.

Since this is a private tour, it’s easy to personalize the experience—whether you want to focus more on riding, cultural activities, or simply relaxing and soaking up the scenery. The free cancellation policy also provides peace of mind, allowing you to adjust plans up to 24 hours in advance if needed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Unlike more commercialized excursions, this tour emphasizes authenticity and connection. You’re not just riding through a scenic area—you’re learning the skills and traditions of the gaucho way of life, enjoying local food and music, and sleeping under the stars in a ranch setting. That’s a rare combination that appeals to travelers craving genuine cultural encounters.

This experience is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Córdoba’s mountains on horseback. It suits those interested in culture, as well as travelers who enjoy peaceful landscapes and rustic charm. Families with responsible children, couples, or solo travelers eager for a hands-on Argentine experience will find it especially rewarding.

If you’re looking for a luxury spa retreat or a quick sightseeing ride, this isn’t it. But if you want to feel like a gaucho for two days, meet friendly guides, and enjoy authentic local food, this tour offers a memorable, heartfelt experience.

This two-day horseback ride through the Sierras provides more than just scenery—it’s a chance to step into Argentina’s gaucho culture, ride well-trained horses through breathtaking landscapes, and connect with nature and tradition in a meaningful way. The all-inclusive price, cozy ranch overnight, and personalized approach make it a standout for those seeking an immersive outdoor adventure.

While it demands some physical stamina, the reward is a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s hard to find in more commercial tours. Whether you’re a riding enthusiast or a curious traveler eager to learn about local customs, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and natural beauty.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is open to all skill levels. The guides match riders with suitable horses, and the horses are well-trained, making it accessible for beginners.

What is included in the price?
The $230 fee includes all meals and drinks, accommodation at the ranch, and the guided horseback riding experience. Additional comfort options can be arranged if desired.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect to ride about 6 hours each day, so good physical condition helps you enjoy the experience fully. If you have mobility concerns or health issues, it’s worth considering your stamina.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ruta Provincial E53RP E53, El Manzano, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What kind of horses will I ride?
The tour features a variety of horses chosen for their suitability to different experience levels; they are described as noble, safe, and well-behaved.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at El Rosal ranch, in a natural setting surrounded by farm animals. It provides an authentic gaucho experience, ideal for disconnecting and relaxing.

Are there cultural activities involved?
Yes, traditional music, dancing, and local food—such as salami and Argentine wine—are part of the experience, enriching the ride with a cultural dimension.

Embark on this two-day gaucho experience and discover the natural beauty and traditions of Argentina’s Sierras—an adventure you’ll carry with you long after the horses stop grazing.