What is wonderful about riding holidays in Argentina is that you do not have to be an expert rider to enjoy some of the country’s stunning landscapes on horseback. Riding here takes place from traditional rural and family-run estancias which are still very much working ranches, and many of which have remained in the same family for many generations.
Even the gauchos themselves usually come from a long line of men who have ridden the range, tending to the cattle through the generations. As they raise and breed their own horses, they know their mounts inside out and will take the time to match you to the right horse, selecting quieter animals for beginners.
With beautiful lodgings, great, hearty, and fresh local food, and plenty of activities as well as the excellent riding, these ranches make a wonderful destination for active families. And of course, if you are a good rider, then there are plenty of opportunities for challenging terrain and a fast pace.
Learn some new skills such as lassoing or herding, perhaps heading out on a pack trip for a few nights where you will sleep under canvas with a delicious simple asado barbeque for dinner, washed down of course with some fine Malbec.
Spot condors and guanaco out on the plains of Patagonia, or Jabiru stork and capybara in the wetlands of Ibera, south of Iguazu Falls. And of course, you could try your hand at playing polo as many of the estancias raise their own expert teams, marrying their superior horsemanship skills with this exciting and fast paced sport at which the Argentine players consistently excel. Try a practice chukka or two yourself, and then watch the professionals at work during the Polo Open Championships in and around Buenos Aires and the Pampas in October.
Whatever your level of skill or experience, riding in Argentina is a fantastic experience for all. Whether you want riding or polo lessons at a rural ranch, or if you simply want to join in with a seasonal cattle round-up or a remote pack trip crossing through and over the Andes into Chile, the right place for you and your family will be available somewhere in Argentina.
