Things to consider

  • Experience: how much riding have you done in the past?
  • Fitness: are you looking for day rides or a multi-day horse trek?
  • Accommodation: would you prefer a comfortable hotel, a rustic estancia, or perhaps some camping?
  • Horses: is there a certain type of horse that you wish to ride?
  • Landscape: where would you like to ride - across the steppe, into the Andes?
  • Culture & history: would you like to experience traditional gaucho life?

Guide to pony trekking in Patagonia

Multi-day rides

Get deeper into the less visited corners of Patagonia, see a wider range of scenery and terrain from the fjords to the steppe, and get a more authentic feel for traditional gaucho life.

Multi-day rides typically range from 3 to 14 days, catering to wide-ranging levels of ability. If you're interested in a multi-day ride, we recommend being comfortable with 2-7 hours in the saddle each day. 

Huechahue horse river

Estancia based rides

Estancias are traditional Patagonian ranches, focused around livestock farming or horse rearing. More rustic and remote than luxury lodges, estancias are places to immerse yourself in Patagonian history and culture. Some are even still 'working' estancias where you'll see families at work as they have been for generations. 

Horse riding has always been a central focus of estancia life, and most still offer rides. These are usually day excursions, but some offer multi-day rides as well. There are usually opportunities for all levels of ability. Our top choices are Estancia Huechahue, Estancia El Condor and Nibepo Aike. 

Horses at the stables, Estancia Cristina, Patagonia

Horses at the stables, Estancia Cristina

Day rides from a comfortable base

If the rustic and remote nature of an estancia is not for you, or you're keen to do lots of activities including horse riding, then base yourself from one of the luxury lodges and hotels that offer day rides as part of their excursion menu.

Luxury lodges which offer activities can be found not only in some of the more well known national parks such as Torres del Paine, but also in remote locations dotted across Patagonia. Each property has its own unique qualities, so ask us about which would fit your best. Our top picks are Mari Mari and Tierra Patagonia

Horseback Riding in Patagonia
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What our customers think of Horseback Riding in Patagonia

Horseback Riding in Patagonia trips scored 4.5/5 from 121 reviews

The best part of our month long holiday. Our guide was brilliant, he knew so much about the local geography and wildlife as well as the history of the area. The food was fantastic, the best we have had all holiday and the scenery and unique places we got to see on the horses was incredible. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Rory Booth - UK

The scale and remoteness are difficult to express and comprehend. Yet the hikes and horseback rides allow you to completely immerse in it, getting close to wildlife and feeling the powerful natural forces at work. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2020

Lars Houmann - United States Of America

Riding to hidden glaciers was amazing, to be out in the mountains and elements, and completely disconnect from my phone and everyday life. Our gaucho was amazing and we had delicious food the whole time! It was a really great experience and a rare opportunity to be somewhere so wild. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2020

Anousha Fluck - Canada

Our guides were fantastic. We would not only do this again but feel that after experiencing 4 different week-long riding adventures, this was not only our favorite but the horses were also the best we have had! Read the full review

Travelled: December 2019

Douglas Crowe - United States Of America

The horse trekking was the highlight of our trip! Landscape was rugged and wild, the locals open and very friendly. I'll tell my friends and family that it was a trip of a lifetime! Read the full review

Travelled: February 2019

Anna Jansen - Netherlands

The guide was friendly and knowledgble, the experience authentic as we stayed in ‘refugios’ that are still being used today, and the scenery was stunning (on the days it didn’t rain ;) ). The food was good, and we felt very welcome at the estancia. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2019

Sterre Lodders - Netherlands

Patagonia was full of the most gorgeous landscapes, wildness, and authentic people. We had adventures, ate amazing foods, and made friends that we still keep in touch with. It was truly the trip of a lifetime. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2018

Betsy Wack - United States Of America

Everything about this ride was fantastic - beyond what we had even hoped it could be. The horses are extremely capable - fit, well-trained, happy, and matched to their riders. Our guide, Franco, was a delight. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the area, the flora and fauna, and the horses. He is a true horseman, always keeping the well-being of the horses in mind and knowing each horse in detail. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2018

Betsy Wack - United States Of America

The glacier experience was very good and Estancia Christina was superb. The service people, guides and other guests - perfect. I loved the estancia and would return. The horseback ride was just right and the hike back from the glacier was the best geology experience I've ever had.

Travelled: October 2017

Melinda - Washington, USA

We really enjoyed Estancia Mercedes and the wonderful family who took us into their home. We are now friends with them.

Travelled: September 2017

Esther - Australia

I have a lot of experience with horses but was astonished by the sure-footedness of the criollo horses. They took us over wildly steep, boggy, and rocky terrain without hesitating, and I was never nervous.

Travelled: February 2017

Bailey - Tennessee

Review:

FAQs on Horse Riding

  • When should I go?

    Most trips run through the main summer season, November to April. However there are some wonderful (although less diverse) opportunities for winter rides in Torres del Paine as well.

  • How long do I need?

    Anything from half a day to two weeks depending on what type of ride you prefer, where you want to stay, and how long you want in the saddle!

  • Do I need to be experienced?

    There are plenty of trips that are suited to novices. Hotel or estancia based rides are ideal if you want to learn and build up confidence without committing to a multi-day ride.

    Generally, the multi-day rides are aimed at intermediate to experienced riders who regularly horse ride at home. If you are planning to join a longer trip of three or more days then you should be comfortable with 2-7 hours in the saddle. The pace of your ride will always be adjusted by your guide to suit you and the other riders.

  • What gear will I need?

    You do not need to bring anything of your own - all tack and equipment will be provided for you. The tack usually comprises of metal or wood-framed saddles covered in layered felt, sheepskin and leather. Rope, raw hide and leather form the bridles, girths, straps etc.

    Most of the horses are ridden in simple snaffles. Halters are worn throughout the ride with rope tied around the horses neck to tie up at lunch stops and rest stops etc. You will be provided with chaps and a helmet for comfort and safety.

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Swoop says

The most iconic views are to be found in Torres del Paine, whereas Aysen and the Chilean Lakes offer the raw beauty of the Patagonian Andes and the Argentine Steppe, and their estancias provide the most authentic gaucho experience.

Best regions for horse riding in Patagonia

Horse riding in Aysén

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