Horse Riding in Torres del Paine
Day rides or longer treks that explore the pampas with the gauchos, head up to glaciers or follow trails through the Cordillera Paine with its mile-high granite peaks.
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.
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
Chloe O'Keeffe says
Having not ridden a horse for 10 years, I was unsure at first. But no sooner had I clambered aboard, I felt perfectly safe and full of excitement! The horses are very well trained, and if you have the courage you can even have a go at an exhilarating gallop across the steppe - one of the highlights of my entire three-week trip!
Swoop Expert
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.
What our customers think of Horseback Riding in Patagonia
Horseback Riding in Patagonia trips scored 4.4/5 from 54 reviews
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FAQs on Horse Riding
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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.
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