Two days horseback riding in the Andes, a real gaucho experience.

Two days horseback riding in the Andes, a genuine gaucho experience.
For anyone craving a break from city life, this tour offers a chance to explore Mendoza’s spectacular highlands on horseback, guided by local experts. At $600 per person, it’s a significant investment, but one that promises authentic scenery, regional culture, and a real taste of gaucho life over two full days. The tour includes transportation from Mendoza, meals, camping gear, and professional bilingual guides, making it a well-rounded package for adventurous travelers.

What we especially like about this experience are two things: first, the stunning panoramic views of the Andes that are nearly impossible to find elsewhere, and second, the opportunity to enjoy home-cooked gaucho food—from barbecue to local wines—prepared with love in a remote setting.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour demands a moderate level of physical fitness. While not overly strenuous, riding at high altitudes (up to almost 4,000 meters above sea level) and camping overnight in the mountains can be challenging for some. Still, if you’re reasonably fit and prepared for rustic conditions, this tour will be a highlight of your Mendoza visit.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who love nature, authentic cultural experiences, and don’t mind sleeping under the stars. It’s perfect for those seeking a break from typical wine tours and looking to truly connect with the land and its people.

Key Points

• Authentic Gaucho Experience: Ride through the Andes with guides who share local knowledge and stories.
• Stunning Landscapes: Expect breathtaking views, streams, native flora, and fauna like Guanacos and Condors.
• High Altitude Camping: Spend a night at nearly 3,000 meters, marveling at the starry sky.
• Delicious Regional Food: Enjoy homemade Argentinean barbecue, regional wines, cheeses, and salami.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, tents, transportation, and insurance included, making planning easier.
• Physical Readiness Needed: Moderate fitness required due to altitude and rugged terrain.

Exploring the Two-Day Horseback Ride in the Andes

Imagine riding through a landscape that feels like a postcard—rugged ravines, lush valleys, and clear mountain streams—while the peaks of the Cordón del Plata mountain range loom in the background. This tour takes you deep into the Valle del Sol, an area covering over 700 hectares, which we found to be a perfect playground for horseback exploration.

The Itinerary: Day 1 – Into the Heart of the Andes

Your adventure begins with a pickup in Mendoza around 10:30 am. From there, you’ll head into the mountains with a small group, guided by experienced bilingual hosts who are passionate about sharing their land. The initial ride is an introduction to the terrain, where you’ll get accustomed to your horse and learn a bit about gaucho traditions along the way.

As you ascend, the scenery becomes more dramatic. You’ll encounter streams fed by the snow-capped peaks, and if luck’s on your side, you might spot local wildlife like Guanacos—relatives of the llamas—or even soaring Condors overhead. We loved the way guides shared insights about the native flora and fauna, making the landscape come alive.

Around noon, the group usually stops at a scenic spot for a home-cooked Argentine barbecue. The quality of the food was a highlight—salami, cheese, fresh bread, and grilled meats prepared on-site. These meals aren’t just fuel but part of the culture, tasting authentic regional flavors. With Mendoza wines flowing, it’s quite a feast amid nature.

In the afternoon, the ride continues, heading toward the base camp where you’ll set up tents for the night. The camping gear is provided, and the setting is simple but comfortable enough to enjoy the starry sky of the Cordón del Plata. We found the experience of sleeping under vast, unspoiled stars a profound highlight, and the quietness of the mountains is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.

Day 2 – Higher and Deeper into the Mountains

Waking up at nearly 3,000 meters, you’re greeted with fresh mountain air and an awe-inspiring sunrise. After a hearty breakfast, the ride resumes, taking you into ravines and springs of crystal-clear water. The guides expertly lead you through this rugged terrain, stopping at viewpoints that seem to stretch endlessly.

The highlight of Day 2 is reaching almost 4,000 meters elevation, where the views are staggering. Riding through narrow ravines and over gentle slopes, it’s a physical and visual adventure. The guides are attentive to safety, making sure everyone’s comfortable while keeping the group small—usually capped at 12—to ensure personalized attention.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

Guests consistently praise the guides, like Lucas, Daniel, Joaquín, and Fernando, for their warmth, knowledge, and passion. One reviewer described their experience as “a truly breathtaking adventure,” emphasizing how the guides made the entire trip smooth and engaging. Their familiarity with the land added depth to the ride, transforming it from a mere excursion into a genuine cultural encounter.

Food and Drink: A Regional Feast

Meals at the camp are a standout feature. The homemade asado, local cheeses, salami, and Mendoza wines aren’t just sustenance—they’re a window into regional life. This focus on local flavors elevates the entire experience, making it more than just a ride; it’s a taste of what it means to be a gaucho in the Andes.

Camping and Comfort

While camping isn’t luxurious, it’s authentic and comfortable enough for most travelers. The tents are included, and you should bring your personal gear, such as sleeping bags and warm clothes, especially for the high-altitude overnight stay. The quiet and star-studded sky make up for the rustic accommodations, and many travelers find this overnight in the mountains deeply rewarding.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Transportation from Mendoza is included, making logistics straightforward. The tour starts at 10:30 am, giving you time to prepare and arrive comfortably. The tour’s group size is limited to around 12 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

The tour is priced at $600, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the included meals, camping gear, transportation, insurance, and professional guides, it offers good value for an all-in, immersive adventure. It’s important to note that personal camping equipment isn’t included, so bring your sleeping bag and warm clothes.

The physical requirement is moderate—riders should be comfortable with horseback riding and able to handle altitude. The guides are attentive, and the terrain is manageable for most experienced riders, but some may find the altitude or the ruggedness tiring.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour’s success heavily depends on good weather. If conditions are poor, it may be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellation is free if you notify at least 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who seek more than just sightseeing. If you’re interested in authentic cultural experiences, love nature and wildlife, and don’t mind a bit of rustic camping, you’ll find this tour deeply rewarding. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate physical activity, especially at high altitudes. Reviewers mention the guides’ knowledge and the quality of the food as highlights, so if those aspects matter to you, this is a winner.

Final Thoughts

This two-day horseback ride in the Andes is a rare chance to connect with Mendoza’s wild beauty, gaucho traditions, and starry skies. Its combination of stunning landscapes, authentic cuisine, and personal guides makes it a memorable journey for those craving adventure and culture. While it’s not suited for travelers seeking luxury or a relaxed pace, it’s perfect for active, curious explorers eager for a genuine mountain experience.

If you’re after an authentic gaucho adventure—complete with high-altitude riding, campfire stories, and incredible views—this tour offers good value and an experience you won’t forget.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation from Mendoza, all meals (including Argentine barbecue, cheeses, salami, and wine), camping equipment (tents), personal accident insurance, and a bilingual professional guide.

What should I bring?
You’ll need to bring personal camping gear such as a sleeping bag, insulator, warm clothes, and personal items. The tour provides tents, but personal comfort items aren’t included.

How physically fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable riding horses and prepared for high-altitude conditions, as the tour reaches nearly 4,000 meters.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see native animals like Guanacos and Condors, which are common in the region and add a special touch to the ride.

What is the altitude like?
You’ll camp at nearly 3,000 meters and ride up to almost 4,000 meters, so altitude sickness is a consideration. Proper acclimatization and hydration are advised.

Are meals truly homemade?
Yes, all meals are prepared on-site with regional ingredients, focusing on authentic Argentinean cuisine that highlights local flavors.

Is this a good tour for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the moderate physical requirements and high-altitude environment suggest it’s best suited for teenagers or adults comfortable with riding and outdoor camping.

How is the weather?
The weather can vary; clear days are common, but mountain conditions can change rapidly. The tour is dependent on good weather, so plan accordingly.

In sum, this horseback adventure provides a rich tapestry of natural beauty, local culture, and outdoor challenge. Perfect for those looking to step off the beaten path and truly experience the Andes, it’s a memorable way to connect with Mendoza’s rugged soul.