General Info

Visit a family owned Argentina estancia is in northern Patagonia in the foothills of the Andes mountains close to the Argentina / Chile border. The Argentina Patagonia Estancia & Progressive Trek offers several different options, allowing you to experience Patagonia with a ride across the Andes, an estancia based trip, or a short pack trip combined with an estancia stay. Ride into the heart of the high Andes and enjoy the dramatic scenery of Lanin National Park. Traverse beech forests and bamboo thickets and ride the tops of the ridges where there are breath-taking views.  Always magnificent, the snow-capped volcano "Lanin" dominates the entire area. The Argentina Patagonia Estancia & Progressive Trek takes care to only walk and ride along routes they have chosen for soil stability.

This estancia has been run by four generations of the Wood family that have worked on the 15,000 acres of Patagonian Steppe, a peaceful oasis of green surrounded by the orchards planted by the family. There is an awareness throughout the region of the fragile environment in which they live. Many guests find the self-sufficiency of the estancia fascinating, from the water driven turbine, to the home grown produce. 

For those who want to combine riding horse with other non-riding activities, staying at the ranch on a base trip allows you to try many activities and provides a way to sample typical Patagonian life at an estancia. Hike, horse ride, see the Indian burial caves one day or go rafting on the River Alumine another. Go down to the river to fish or swim before a BBQ dinner on the bank. Bird watch, paint, or read and relax. You can also try your luck at fishing and hunting. There is a hot-tub, a sauna, a plunge pool, and for the energetic, a tennis court near the house.
 

Packing

Packing Tips for Argentina Estancia Vacation and Horse Treks Across the Andes

Estancia Riding

In the summer months the weather at the Argentina estancia is generally hot and dry during the day with a maximum temperature between 70 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.  Being at a high elevation, the temperture always cools down at night. It rarely rains - however it is necessary to be prepared with adequate raingear.

The best way to dress is in layers - a T-shirt, shirt, pullover (or fleece which is light and dries quickly), and a jacket to give protection against wind and rain.
Trousers should be comfortable for riding - jodhpurs, jeans etc 
Footwear for riding. The ranch can provide half-chaps.
Swimwear. 
Protection against the sun, which is very strong. Sun block, lip balm and if you do not intend wearing a hard hat, a hat with a wide brim (also good if it happens to rain).

Dress is always casual. There is a laundry service at Huechahue. It costs around $20 USD a bag.

Horse Pack Trips

The pack trips are very strenuous for the horses and packing space is limited. All the camping gear including sleeping bags, tents and food are carried on the pack horses. Each guest is provided with a set of saddle bags for their personal possessions - change of clothes, toiletries, camera etc. Jackets and pullovers can be tied to the back of the saddle.

It is suggested that you pack :
A change of clothes in case you get wet.
A light pair of shoes, e.g. plimsolls - for when you want to take your boots off.
A set of thermal underwear - a light way of carrying extra warmth, hopefully unnecessary.
Waterproof trousers and top.
Swimwear.
Wash bag.
Travel towel
A small torch.

Good quality sleeping bags and ponchos (which are both warm and waterproof) are provided

Fishing Gear

4 - 5 weight rods with floating line. Chest waders. A selection of flies suitable for fishing in Montana works well - woolly worm, woolly bugger, pancora, matuka, adams, hare's ear, prince nymphs etc. On pack trips it is best to take a smuggler type rod - it is very difficult to transport long rods through dense forests without damaging them. There are some rods available for borrowing. 


Across the Andes Riding Vacation

As mentioned above, the weather in Argentina is generally hot and dry during the day and cools down at night.  It rarely rains however it is necessary to be prepared with adequate raingear. In Chile you will ride through a beautiful rainforest so consequently you must be prepared for getting wet. The best way to dress is in layers.

The horse pack trip across the Andes provides sleeping bags, thermorests and tents. There is one night when you will not be met by vehicle at the camp site. For this night all camping gear including sleeping bags, tents and food are carried on pack horses. There will be no thermorests this night but you will use your saddle and sheepskin as the gauchos do. Each guest is provided with a set of saddle bags for their personal possessions to include a change of clothes, toiletries, and camera. Jackets and pullovers can be tied to the back of the saddle. On all the other nights there will be a vehicle, however space in the vehicle is limited to one hand luggage size bag per person which will be provided. Please note that while the Argentine side is semi-desert, the Chilean side is rain-forest. The rest of your luggage will be transferred to Puente Basas to await your arrival, you will meet up with this on the border and have a chance to rearrange things. If you are returning to the estancia you may leave luggage at there.

Please see Equitrekking Travel’s General Packing List.

About the Horses

This Argentina estancia is home to about 80 horses and with 15,000 acres, where they live as 'wild' horses' as much as possible. The Argentina Patagonia Estancia & Progressive Trek's prize-winning Crillo stallion, a beautiful 'lobuno' color, can be seen taking care of his mares and foals in the fields. The horses are criollo crosses, part anglo-normando, of about 15.5 hh. They are bred and trained on the Estancia and are sure-footed and well behaved. When not being ridden they are out enjoying the freedom of the water meadows which makes for an exciting ride rounding them up!

There is a selection of horses that can accommodate all riding abilities and confidence levels. They are neck-reined and the riding is similar to western riding.

Tack
The saddles used are "montura de monte" which are similar to old English army saddles with a sheepskin on top. Following traditional gaucho methods, you will find only the stirrups have buckles on these saddles. The saddles are sinched using leatherhide, a custom not forgotten from the days when gauchos, like the American cowboy, would ride into the wilderness unable to replace a broken buckle. The gauchos continue to practice this and you will see them fully equipped with their lassos, gaucho knives, and boleros. When you set off into the mountains for your pack trips, your saddle becomes your bed and the sheepskin is a favorite when it is time to take an afternoon siesta in the shade.

Activities/Events

Various trips are available to add on to your vacation from a trip to San Martin, to a visit to Lanin National Park, or to explore one of the Indian reservations, ideally located for the 'Seven Lakes Route', a natural wonder of the world. Other activities are listed below:

Walking
There is plenty to explore on foot on the 15,000 acres. Climb to the top of ridges to watch the condors or set off hiking to see the Indian burial caves. Sample walks include a walk around the homestead visiting burrowing parrot nests, the dam, the corrales which takes about 2 hours. Walk to the top of the cliff where the condors roost for about a 4 hours hike. Walk to the top of Stony Hill which has a remarkable view over the estancia and for relatively little effort, about 2 hours. Walk to the Indian Burial caves, having lunch at the far end of the estancia and returning over the top of Chenque Hill, about 25kms or 6 hours or walk over the top to where the Alumine River enters the estancia, returning along the river, again about 25kms or 6 hours.

On the River
The estancia lies on the River Alumine, perfect for swimming, fishing, or even a BBQ on its banks. Take a stroll to the river in the evening or spend the day rafting. Junin de los Andes is famous for its fishing and the river contains good populations of wild brown and rainbow trout. No supplemental stocking of hatchery fish is done. One to three pound trout are common and there are reasonable numbers of three to five pounders. There is mostly wet, but some dry fly fishing. The fishing is on a catch and release basis. The season runs from mid-November to mid-April.

Birdwatching
For those bird watching enthusiasts amongst us, join the ornithologist on site to learn more about the birds often seen at Huechahue.

Golf
For those who love golf, a spectacular and challenging 18 hole (72 par) Jack Nichlaus course has recently opened at Chapelco, about a 45 minutes drive away.

Accommodations/Food

Argentina Estancia 
The Argentina estancia is a working cattle ranch in Argentine Patagonia. Four generations of the Wood family have worked on the 15,000 acres of Patagonian Steppe to produce a self-sufficient oasis and thriving cattle operation. The estancia breeds Hereford cattle and it is all extensive farming with natural grazing. No fertilizers or pesticides are used. Most of the food is produced on the estancia and all the meat is home reared! There is dairy cow for milk, chickens for eggs, and a large organic vegetable garden which is fertilized with horse manure from the corrales. There is extensive fruit and nut orchards and all surplus fruit is either dried in the sun, bottled or made into jam. There are also pigs who eat all the organic waste.

The ranch remains almost entirely self sufficient. Each generation has introduced new sustainable technologies, not only because of their love of the land but also because they had no choice! The water (both for irriagation and in the house) is gravity fed from natural springs and means that it generates electricity with a water driven turbine. Over the years large numbers of trees have been planted. This on-going program now provides enough firewood for all our heating and hot water and also makes carbon neutral regarding the use of fossil fuels.

There is a laundry service at Huechahue. It costs around $20 USD a bag.

Accomodations/ Food
There are three guest lodges just a stroll across the lawn from the main farmhouse. There are eight twin/double rooms, all with bathrooms. There are communal sitting room areas in each cabin.

While staying at the estancia, meals are usually served in the dinning room of the main house and guests gather for drinks in front of the fire in the living room. Alternatively use of the 'quincho' is made, the function room, with an open fire pit perfect for 'asados' and dancing if the occasion arises!

When you are not eating "asados" (bbq's) or picnics by the river, meals are served in the dining room of the main house. Lunch and dinner are large meals in Argentina. Ham and bacon from our pigs are cured in the smoke-house, eggs come from the chicken run, milk and home made yogurt from the dairy cow and of course you will enjoy local beef, venison, and wild boar. With the large orchards, fruit is in abundance and all the preserves, bottle fruit, even the apple juice are homemade! There is a large vegetable garden and bread is freshly baked on a daily basis!

Argentine wines are finally achieving international recognition and  local wines from the province are served. The beers and spirits are good too ensuring that there is always a siesta!

Various dietary requirements can be catered to but please give prior notice of your needs by informing our Preferred Equitrekking Travel Agent.

The Ideal Traveler

All abilities are welcome at the estancia and with over 50 horses to chose from, you will be sure to find something you will enjoy. If riding at this estancia is going to be one of your first experiences on horseback, fear not. The western style of riding is arguably easier for beginners and our Argentina Patagonia Estancia & Progressive Trek is very keen to make sure your first experience on a horse is a positive and enjoyable one! Working with cattle is a great way to learn, you will be so busy concentrating on the job in hand that the 'riding' part becomes second nature. While there are sometimes groups of mixed abilities, everyone is looked after and the facility sometimes sends more helpers, so routes can be adapted and the pace is appropriate to each level.

For those with more experience, riding in the area is varied, challenging, and great fun! On the estancia rides, all abilities are catered to, however some rides offered are tailored rides specifically to certain abilities. Please bear in mind following guidance in relation to specific rides:

Across the Andes:
Riders should be experienced and physically fit. Days in the saddle are long and the riding challenging.

Estancia Based Rides:
Riders should be an intermediate level as there are long canters on this ride and plenty of opportunities for fast riding. For those who want to take it easy, it is possible to take incorporate 'rest days'. You can also bring non-riding companions, there is plenty for them to do while you are riding and then they can meet you every evening.

Estancia Rides with Pack Trips:
The terrain in the mountains usually dictates a slow pace and beginners should not have a problem, however guests should be aware that the days are still relatively long (up to 6 hours in the saddle).

Across the Andes to Chile

This riding holiday is only suitable for experienced riders who are fit enough to canter for extended periods and spend long hours in the saddle. There are 5 to 8 hours riding a day.

Dates & Rates 2012
Jan 16-25, 2012
Feb 1-10, 2012
Feb 21- March 1, 2012

10 days/ 9 nights
$4,928 USD* per person
($4804 USD* if you wish to finish at Puente Basas on the morning of Day 9).

* Prices are subject to change based on currency conversions. The price includes all accommodation, food and beverages. There is a single supplement of 20%. However this only applies if you are not prepared to share with another appropriate single guest. The rate does not include travel or medical insurance (guests should ensure that they have adequate insurance), or gratuities (about 7 to 10% is suggested as a fair rate) On this trip, once we have left the estancia, we provide non-meat options within the meals but we do not have a specific vegetarian menu.

If your time is limited, it is possible to just ride the Argentine side of this itinerary. Equitrekking Travel's Preferred Provider of Travel Services can help you plan these elements of your vacation. If you choose to end the trip in Chile, transfers from Puente Basas to Temuco in Chile can be arranged for $135 per transfer and to Pucan for $31 per transfer.

Included:
The price includes all accommodation, food and beverages. While on the pack trip across the Andes, sleeping bags, thermorests and tents are provided. There is one night when you will not be met by the vehicle at the camp site. For this night all camping gear including sleeping bags, tents and food are carried on pack horses. There will be no thermorests this night but you will use your saddle and sheepskin as the gauchos do. Each guest is provided with a set of saddle bags for their personal possessions which should include a change of clothes, toiletries, and camera. Jackets and pullovers can be tied to the back of the saddle. On all the other nights there will be a vehicle, however space in the vehicle is limited to one hand luggage size bag per person which we provide. The rest of your luggage will be transferred to Puente Basas to await your arrival on the border where you will have a chance to rearrange things. If you are returning to the estancia you may leave luggage there The price includes all accommodation, food and beverages.

Transfers between the estancia and San Martin de los Andes are included. On arrival and departure days, you will be provided with Bariloche transfers. These will be timed to be at Bariloche airport for a 2:00pm flight departures or 2:00pm arrivals. Transfers can be arranged at other times by asking Equitrekking Travel's Preferred Provider of Travel Services for rates and help planning your vacation.

Please see our packing information tab for additional suggestiongs on what to bring.

Riding Ability:
Intermediate to Advanced, this trip is only suitable for experienced riders who are fit enough to canter for extended periods and spend long hours in the saddle.

Description:
This is a wild and rugged ride across one of the world's largest mountain chains dividing two countries which may speak the same language but couldn't be more different. An Adventure on Horseback from Argentina to Chile, where you will join up with Loth and Pamela Kutler, whose families were amongst the first European settlers in Currarehue. They run pack trips in Chile and always welcome the arrival of this trip to their country with a smile and a beautiful lunch.

On this spectacular 10 day crossing you will set out from the Argentinean estancia, together with your sure footed steeds and (often) bulging saddlebags, where you will cross the vast mountain chain of the Andes and finish in Panqui Hot Springs, near Pucon in Chile. Lanin volcano provides a perfect plot point on the horizon, rising larger each day as you travel towards Chile through Argentina's dramatically changing scenery, eventually crossing the border which lies at its base. You ride from the wide open plains of Argentine Patagonia into the mountains, forests, and volcanoes of the Chilean Lake District, through ancient larch, beech, and monkey-puzzle forests while learning about the area from your guide.

Itinerary:
This is a challenging ride and therefore it is essential that all riders are physically fit. The first day is at least 7 hours in the saddle with a considerable amount of cantering. You must be capable of this to come on this ride.

Day 1 : On arrival there will be a late lunch followed by an afternoon ride. A chance to familiarize yourself with the horses and the tack.

Day 2 : A full day's ride on the estancia with an "asado" lunch. Follow the stream through its basalt canyons, riding as fast as you want across the water-meadows sending the plovers and ibis screeching, before returning over the top of Chenque Hill, where the Andes rise up behind you and the vastness of Patagonia stretches out before you.

Day 3 to Day 6 : Set out from the estancia for Chile. The next 8 days will be spent crossing from the wide open spaces of Argentine Patagonia over the Andes to the thickly forested steep slopes of Chilean Patagonia. From the estancia you will ride for 4 days up into the Andes through the Andean Steppes, you will ford rivers, pass through Indian reservations, ride over ridges from where you think you can see the Atlantic and through magnificent rocky gorges, you will gallop across water meadows and race along sandy tracks. Nights will be spent camping by streams and rivers under the spectacular stars of the Southern hemisphere.

Day 7 : At lunchtime, at the base of Lanin Volcano in a forest of Monkey puzzle trees you will reach the Argentine / Chilean border, where our Chilean partners will be waiting for you. After immigration and customs formalities you will wave goodbye to Argentina and the horse that has carried you to here and you will start down the western slopes of the Andes on your Chilean mount.

Day 8 : Continue riding down through the magnificent Southern beech forests, with spectacular views of lakes and volcanoes. The western slopes of the Andes are much steeper, the terrain very different. Reaching the final campsite at picturesque Puente Barras.

Day 9 : Transfer back to the estancia by road (about 3 hours). After a late lunch there will be a ride on the estancia. By now you will have heard of many places and you will be able to choose what you would like to see most.

Day 10 : A farewell ride before transferring to the airport.

* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion. 

Argentina Estancia Based Vacation

Dates & Rates

During October and April we have daily rides based on the Estancia. The Condors are particularly spectacular during these months and there are more interesting, varied and fun horse and cattle work to be done than in the summer.

January 1 to April 2012
8 days/ 7 nights $2978 USD* per person double occupancy

There is a 25% single supplement; however anyone willing to share a room does not have to pay the supplement. 

* Prices are subject to change based on currency conversions. We can cater to vegetarians with special diets, but please inquire at the time of booking.

Included:
The rate includes all accommodation, food, beverages (including wine, beer and spirits), transport and activities from meeting guests at Chapelco Airport, San Martin de los Andes to returning them to the airport after their stay. We can arrange transfers to and from Bariloche, please ask for the current rates. Access to all the fishing on the Estancia is included in this rate. The cost of a professional fishing guide is approx. $265 USD* per person per day sharing a guide between 2 fishermen or $350 USD* for a single fisherman. This can include floating and wading.

Please contact us. Dates available between October and April. A minimum stay of three days is required for this trip. 

Riding Ability:
Beginner to Advanced

Description:
During October through April daily rides are available based at the Argentina Estancia. Here you horse ride through dense beech forests and bamboo thickets. From the tops of the ridges there are breath-taking views. The big sky races, tracing shadow patterns over the valleys where there are tumbling streams and undiscovered lakes. Always magnificent, the snow-capped volcano "Lanin" dominates the entire area. Ride through forests of the only indigenous Monkey Puzzle trees in the world and across lunar landscapes of black volcanic ash, a legacy of the volcanic region.

Itinerary:
While the programs depend very much on the guests, below is a sample of a week ride at the Estancia.

Day 1: On arrival there will be a late lunch followed by an afternoon ride. A chance to familiarize yourself with the horses and tack.

Day 2: A full days ride on the Argentina estancia with an "asado" lunch. Follow the stream through its basalt canyons, riding as fast as you want across the water-meadows sending the plovers and ibis screeching, before returning over the top of Chenque Hill, where the Andes rise up behind you and the vastness of Patagonia stretches out before you.

Day 3: A day spent working cattle with the gauchos. Lunch with the gauchos is strips of beef ribs threaded onto a stick and cooked over the open fire. A siesta in the shade and a chance to separate the cows on horseback or try your hand with a lasso.

Day 4: A full days ride on the estancia property to visit the Indian burial caves. The caves were formed when the glaciers carved the valley opening an entrance to the lava flow tunnels formed during previous eras of volcanic activity. The Tehuelche Indians laid out their dead, surrounded by their weapons and always somewhere where they could see their enemies coming. They decorated the walls with designs. The remains have disappeared, but the petroglyphs and the view are still there.

Day 5: A morning's ride to see the estancia's stallion with the mares and new foals, and a chance to herd horses. After a late lunch there will be an evening ride to the cliffs where the condors and eagles roost. While having a cocktail as the sun goes down, the condors return, they soar above and below before settling for the night.

Day 6: A days ride through the neighbouring Indian reservation. The saddle rugs and saddle bags are woven by some of the Indian women and the skins from the cows that are butchered and are worked into rawhide and then bridles and halters by the men.  You will visit to see what progress is being made and to share a "mate," a special type of tea, on your way through.

Day 7: A full days ride to a different part of the Estancia. There are 15,000 acres in all so there is still plenty left to explore. Lunch will be on the river. On the way home a chance to see guanaco, deer, wild boar and “peludos” which are the baby armadillo.

Day 8: A farewell horseback ride before transferring to the airport

* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion

Estancia Base with Horse Pack Trip

Dates & Rates

January 1 to April 2012
9 days/ 8 nights $3403 USD* per person double occupancy

If you would like to do a pack trip please just ask. Please note that if there is still a lot of snow in November the pack trips might be 2 day / 1 night camping.

There is a 25% single supplement; however anyone willing to share a room does not have to pay the supplement.

* Prices are subject to change based on currency conversions. We can accommodate vegetarians with special diets, but please inquire at the time of booking.

We can help you plan your vacation. Pack trips are between three and five days long. Please note that although the dates of arrival and departure at the estancia are flexible the dates of the pack trips are fixed and listed above. Please note that if there is still a lot of snow in November the pack trips might be 2 day / 1 night camping. You are required to have at least one day's riding on the estancia before leaving on a trek to ensure that you are happy with your horse, comfortable in your saddle, and that the planned trek is one that you will enjoy. Allow a minimum of a 5 night stay in order to incorporate a pack trip. While on pack trips, you stay in two-man tents and good quality clean down sleeping bags are provided. The camp staff arrange all the setting up of camp, cooking and care of the horses. The pack trips are very strenuous for the horses and packing space is limited.

Included:
The rate includes all accommodations, food, beverages (including wine, beer and spirits), transport, and activities from meeting guests at Chapelco Airport, San Martin de los Andes to returning them to the airport after their stay. Transfers can be arranged to and from Bariloche. All the camping gear including sleeping bags, tents and food are carried on the pack horses. Each guest is provided with a set of saddle bags for their personal possessions that should include change of clothes, toiletries, and camera. Jackets and pullovers can be tied to the back of the saddle. Good quality sleeping bags and ponchos (which are both warm and waterproof) are provided.

Access to all the fishing on the Estancia is included in this rate. The cost of a professional fishing guide is $265 per person per day sharing a guide between 2 fishermen or $350 for a single fisherman. This can include floating and wading.

Riding Ability:
Beginner to Advanced

Description:
During November to March, daily rides are available based at the Estancia with add-on pack trips. The Condors are particularly spectacular during these months and there are more interesting, varied and fun horse and cattle work to be done than in the summer. This is an example of a riding holiday at the estancia that includes a pack trip into the heart of the high Andes and the dramatic scenery of Lanin National Park. Here you ride through dense beech forests and bamboo thickets. From the tops of the ridges there are breath-taking views. The big sky races, tracing shadow patterns over the valleys where there are tumbling streams and undiscovered lakes. Always magnificent, the snow-capped volcano "Lanin" dominates the entire area. Ride through forests of the only indigenous Monkey Puzzle trees in the world and across lunar landscapes of black volcanic ash, a legacy of the volcanic region. A sample itinerary is listed below.

9 day/ 8 night Itinerary:
While the programs depend very much on the guests, below is a sample of a 9 day riding holiday that including a 3 day (2 nights camping) pack trip.

Day 1: You are met you at Chapelco airport, San Martin de los Andes and driven you to the estancia (approx. 40 mins). After lunch there is an afternoon ride and a chance to familiarize yourself with the horses and tack.

Days 2 - 5: Day rides based on daily departure from the estancia. While riding across barren rolling hills, through narrow rocky gorges, and galloping across water meadows, you will visit Indian burial caves, see petroglyphs, work cattle and herd horses with the gauchos. Have lunch on "asados" by the river, surprise guanacos, deer, armadillos. You will climb to the tops of the mesas where the mighty Andes rise up behind you and the vastness of Patagonia stretches out before you, while eagles and condors float high above.

Days 6 - 8: A 3 day pack trip in the Andes mountains. The exact itinerary will depend on the time of year and weather or snow conditions. You may depart from the estancia itself or you may go into the mountains by vehicle. You will ride through the spectacular scenery of the southern Andes with its snow capped volcanoes, crystal clear lakes and pristine forests. Nights on route are spent camping in carefully chosen, picturesque camp sites by a lake shore or at a stream's edge, with coffee brewed over the fire  and a chance for a refreshing swim before a good dinner and evening spent relaxing around the campfire. At the end of the 3 days, return transport will be waiting to bring you back to the estancia for baths, dinner and good beds!

Day 9: A farewell ride on the estancia before transferring to the airport.

* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion

Estancia to Estancia Trek

Dates & Rates
9 day / 8 nights $4,534 USD*
7 day/ 6 nights $3,398 USD*

The 7 day/ 6 night ride starts on a Sunday, which means that it is possible to leave work on a Friday and arrive at Bariloche in time for the transfer and at the end, finish the ride on Saturday and be back at work for Monday from most parts of the world! So it can be done with a week’s vacation.

* Prices subject to changes based on currency conversions. The price includes all accommodation and meals and transfers to and San Martin de los Andes. It also includes a transfer from Bariloche on Day 1, timed to meet flights arriving up until 14.30 and a transfer to Bariloche on Day 9 timed to arrive in time for departures leaving at 16.00 onwards. It does not include insurance (essential), telephone calls, gratuities or massages and saunas at Cerro de los Pinos or tips. For tips $20 USD per night per client is suggesed. There is a 25% single supplement. For anyone prepared to share there is no single supplement. Vegetarians with special menus can be accommodated, but please advise us in advance.

We need a minimum of 4 to run this ride and there is a maximum of 9. We can organize the ride for 2 with a 25% supplement and for 3 with a 15% supplement.

Background
Junin and San Martin de los Andes were difficult to get to even by Patagonian standards – to the west were the high Andes and to the east a large desert. The first European arrived in 1883, peace was made with the Indians in 1903 and the first settlers arrived in the early 1900’s. They were well-educated, well traveled and worldly in their outlook – pioneers and adventurers who came from Europe looking for space to create new homes and enterprises for their families.

We visit 3 estancias where today some of their children, grand children and great grand children live protected by the trees their ancestor planted. All are living, working estancias, the herds of sheep have been replaced with herds of Hereford cattle and now they are all beginning to take guests on their family estates; which are a tribute to the success of those pioneers who came to create homes for their families.

Despite these gentle words – remember that in many ways this is still the Last Frontier – the riding is fast, the distances long, the rivers are large, the views are vast and days can be as adventurous as they were in the early 1900’s – but at the end of the day a hot bath will be waiting and the accommodation will be really comfortable.

7 day Itinerary

Day 1 : You will be meet at Chapelco airport, San Martin de los Andes and driven to the estancia (approx. 30 mins). After lunch there will be an afternoon ride. A chance to familiarize yourself with the horses and tack and the way we ride. Night at the estancia.

Day 2 : A full days ride on the estancia with an "asado" lunch. Follow a stream through its basalt canyons, riding as fast as you want across the water-meadows sending the plovers and ibis screeching, before returning over the top of Chenque Hill, where the Andes rise up behind you and the vastness of Patagonia stretches out before you. Night at the estancia.

Day 3: After breakfast we set out for Estancia Cerro de los Pinos, the house is 30 km away, but the riding is fast. We cross the ridge on the Mendana Estancia in front of Lanin Volcano before dropping down and crossing the Chimehuin River. The settlement is close to the river, enclosed by pines. Night at Cerro de los Pinos.

Day 4 : This morning we leave Cerro de los Pinos and ride on to Estancia Collon Co, another 30 km ride. We cross to the Quilquihue river and will be met with a large “asado” lunch as we enter the estancia. After lunch we ride up the valleys through herds of red deer, guanaco and rhea to the settlement on the Collon Co stream. Arriving in time for dinner.

Day 5 : It’s too far to return to the estancia in a day, so we will head for the town of Junin de los Andes and the original hosteria El Chimehuin. A long morning arriving in time for a late lunch on the lawn, giving the chance for exploring the town before dinner at probably the most renowned restaurant in Patagonia “Buamscha’s” . The Buamschas came to Junin at the same time as those pioneers came to their estancias, since then it has been a meeting place for fishermen, hunters and locals. It is known throughout the Argentine for it’s trout, venison and beef.

Day 6 : Our last day’s riding as we make our way back to Huechahue, this time we cross the River Chimehuin just outside Junin de los Andes and climb back up Mendana ridge, before racing along the ridge, huge views on either side. Possibly the longest day of all but the horses will be keen to get home. Night at Huechahue.

Day 7 : A farewell ride on Huechahue before transferring to the airport.
 
* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion

9 day Itinerary
Day 1 : You will be meet at Chapelco airport, San Martin de los Andes and driven to the estancia (approx. 30 mins). After lunch there will be an afternoon ride. A chance to familiarize yourself with the horses and tack and the way we ride. Night at the estancia.

Day 2 : A full days ride on Estancia Huechahue with an "asado" lunch. Follow the Huechahue stream through its basalt canyons, riding as fast as you want across the water-meadows sending the plovers and ibis screeching, before returning over the top of Chenque Hill, where the Andes rise up behind you and the vastness of Patagonia stretches out before you. Night at the main estancia.

Day 3: After breakfast we set out for Estancia Cerro de los Pinos, the house is 20 km away, but the riding is fast. We cross the ridge on the Mendana Estancia in front of Lanin Volcano before dropping down and crossing the Chimehuin River. The settlement is close to the river, enclosed by pines. Night at Cerro de los Pinos.

Day 4 : Giving our horses a well earned rest we will try the horses at Cerro de los Pinos. Our hosts will take us to see the 50,000 acre estancia where besides huge numbers of red deer, there are large herds of Guanaco and many South American Rhea. Lunch will be an “asado” out on the estancia. Night at Cerro de los Pinos.

Day 5 : Time to leave Cerro de los Pinos and ride on to Estancia Collon Co. Another 20 km ride across to the Quilquihue river and racing up the valleys to the settlement on the Collon Co stream to get there in time for dinner.

Day 6 : A day exploring Estancia Collon Co – a vast area of water meadows and rolling hills running right up to the Andes mountains. Their gauchos will be keen to show us their Hereford cattle. Night at Estancia Collon Co.

Day 7 : It’s too far to return to the estancia in a day, so we will head for the town of Junin de los Andes and the Hosteria Quillalahue. A long morning arriving in time for a late lunch thus giving the chance for exploring the town before dinner at “Fat Buamscha’s” . The Buamschas came to Junin at the same time as those pioneers came to their estancias, since then it has been a meeting place for fishermen, hunters and locals. It is known throughout the Argentine for it’s trout, venison and beef.

Day 8 : Our last day’s riding as we make our way back to the estancia, this time we cross the River Chimehuin just outside Junin de los Andes and climb back up Mendana ridge, before racing along the ridge, huge views on either side. Possibly the longest day of all but the horses will be keen to get home. Night at the estancia.

Day 9 : A farewell ride at the ranch before transferring to the airport.

* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion.

Related Travel Articles

Traveler Reviews

Lunches were always lazy affairs on the trek. The gauchos went on ahead to light the fire for the asado, ribs of beef or lamb skewered on to bamboo stakes and barbecued slowly over the charcoal. We'd munch on the juicy ribs, accompanied by salad and followed by bottled fruit from the estancia, washed down with cold beers, or mugs of Argentine wine from the flagons that bumped along on top of the sturdy packhorses.
--Alison Criado-Perez for The Independent

Galloping alongside the cows, keeping them in line with shouts and lassos, I couldn’t help but feel like I had missed my calling as a gaucha. I also felt like I earned my last lunch: a traditional asado of BBQ ribs and sausage, served with thick slices of homemade bread and eaten with a knife only.
- Lauryn Axelrod for GoNomad.com

The horse still plays a vital role in Argentine country life; the nation has one of the world’s great equestrian traditions. The self-sufficient estancia at the foothills of the Andes enables guests to see how gauchos actually live and to ride with them, providing an unusual chance to understand this powerful culture. The ranch is a base for pack trips high into the Andes.
-- #10 in the National Geographic book The 10 Best of Everything

For the next two hours we ride up through a series of giant plateaus. The highest feels as though it's the top of the world, partly because of the view of the perfectly white, perfectly triangular peak of Lanin volcano, one of the highest peaks in the Andes, about 70 miles distant, and partly because the wind is utterly insistent on relieving me of my big leather cowboy hat... Wonderful though the trek is, it's not the highlight of my trip. That prize goes to the day, back down on the estancia, we have to bring 350 head of cattle in from another of the farm's gigantic pastures so they can be sprayed for red fly. For me, nothing could touch the feeling I had when, after a couple of hours encouraging whatever cows I could find through the remote section of landscape I'd been assigned, I crested a rise to see cattle from all over the area pouring into the valley ahead of me in one giant dusty brown confluence, the toy figures of my fellow riders behind them, hollering and waving them on.
-- James Flint for The Observer

Reading List

In Patagonia (Penguin Classics) by Bruce Chatwin

In Patagonia is Bruce Chatwin's exquisite account of his journey through "the uttermost part of the earth," that stretch of land at the southern tip of South America, where bandits were once made welcome and Charles Darwin formed part of his "survival of the fittest" theory. Chatwin's evocative descriptions, notes on the odd history of the region, and enchanting anecdotes make In Patagonia an exhilarating look at a place that still retains the exotic mystery of a far-off, unseen land. An instant classic upon publication in 1977, In Patagonia remains a masterwork of literature.

Trekking in the Patagonian Andes (Walking) by Carolyn Mccarthy

This vast, varied region is home to some of the world's great treks, with trails that take you through pristine forests to the rims of glaciers, under granite monoliths and over rickety suspension bridges, well beyond the crowds. Our expert author has chosen the best of Patagonia's trekking, from the luxuriant rainforests of the Lakes District to the spectacular wildernesses of Tierra del Fuego. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a first-timer, you're sure to find the ultimate trekking experience here.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at Amazon.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities.



Equitrekking DVD's featuring Emmy winning PBS episodes, available in the Shop section of Equitrekking.com 

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman with Emmy Award-winning Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on PBS. 

Season One: Vermont, the Carolinas, Georgia Coast, Wyoming, Colorado and Spain.

Season Two: Iceland, Coastal Ireland, Hawaii's Big Island, Irish Countryside, Maui, Virginia Hunt Country and California Wine Country.

Season Three: Arizona, Belize, Costa Rica, Kentucky, Quebec, Texas and Utah.

Season Four: Southern Spain, Alaska, Central Turkey, Quebec City and Beyond, Scotland and Wales.

    

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.