Horse Riding Holidays, Argentina
Argentina is a nation with a strong history of horses. Horseback riding has played an important part in the history and folklore of this country and continues to be important to the economy. A lively interest is maintained in the nation's history particularly as symbolised by the gaucho. The gaucho stands as one of the best known cultural symbols of Argentina. The first gauchos were 'mestizos', mixed Spanish and native American stock, and today the tough free riding horsemen of the pampas are very much in evidence. It is said that when a gaucho is without his horse, he is without his legs.The diversity of the land ranges from wild remote areas in Southern Patagonia to the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires in the North. South of that are the rolling, fertile pampas which are rich in agriculture and sheep and cattle grazing which support most of the population. Next southward is Patagonia, a region of cool arid steppes with some wooded and fertile sections. The pampas of Argentina are perfect for horseriding and are home to extensive wildlife which you will be able to see from the back of your horse. Most estancias, with their magnificent haciendas and verandahs, still continue today as working farms and the gauchos ride with the herds of prize beef cattle and the polo ponies.
The Argentine Criollo is the result of selective breeding of the feral horses of the pampas and was bred by the gauchos, so this robust horse is today a great source of pride in Argentina. The Criollo is mainly a working cattle horse but is also used for pleasure as it is easy to handle, agile and quite fast. The best polo ponies are bred from Criollo thoroughbred crosses. Polo in Argentina is not just a sport for the rich but is as popular as golf and tennis in Europe. When you ride in Argentina you will get the opportunity to have polo lessons, ride with cattle or just enjoy this wonderful diverse countryside on horseback.
This is a country where Europeans and North Americans can feel at ease and can travel safely. An interest in soccer and some nimble foot skills may be all you need to feel like a local!
See our horse riding holidays in Argentina below.
Rides
Estancia Corrientes, Argentina
This welcoming estancia is the ideal base for a horse riding holiday in Argentina. Your hosts are passionate about both their country and their horses and the overwhelming feeling from guests is that they are made to feel like part of the family. The Argentine countryside gives way to wonderful riding opportunities and you are welcome to explore the scenery on horseback, work the cattle, try your hand at polo and to live the life of these true countrymen.
Estancia Huechahue, Argentina
Estancia Huechahue, situated in Argentine Patagonia, is an adventurous destination for the keen horse rider and nature enthusiast. This working cattle ranch is set in 15,000 acres of Patagonian Steppe and offers a rugged setting for a traditional Argentinian riding holiday. Horses and cattle roam freely across the land and the gauchos work the animals in keeping with their long time customs. The estancia offers comfortable accommodation within the guest lodges and is also virtually self-sufficient in terms of food.
Estancia Los Potreros, Argentina
Estancia Los Potreros is a renowned riding holiday destination, set in the Cordoba hills in the middle of Argentina. It lies off the beaten track in the heart of this beautiful region and dates from 1574 when it bred mules to be used in the silver mines of Peru. It has been owned by the same Anglo Argentine family for four generations and nowadays is an idyllic getaway for riders and those who enjoy being close to nature.
Current special offers:
To celebrate their 10 year anniversary, Los Potreros are offering a 10% discount on estancia based stays for March and April 2012 (5 night stay or longer). Stays must be confirmed before the end of February.