Life in Patagonia still revolves around the horse. Just like the early settlers, locals get around the backcountry on horseback, and horses remain an important part of work on the ranches. You can learn firsthand the ways of the Argentine gaucho and explore the Patagonia steppe in a more natural manner, going where no vehicle should go. Companies offer horseback excursions in all seasons, including winter, around BahÃa Redonda on Lago Argentino, to Cuevas del Walicho, down to the estancias and even to the Chilean border.
Getting There
Some of the ranches that open their gates to riders are Alice and Nibepo Aike (see "Down on the Farm"). Horse center and riding school El Arriago also operates excursions (Avenida del Libertador 4315, Tel.: 49-3278, E-mail: cabalgataenpatagonia@cotecal.com.ar / info@cabalgataenpatagonia.com, URL: www.cabalgataenpatagonia.com). Excursions to the border are done by Cabalgatas del Glaciear (Tel.: 02902-49-8447, E-mail: info@cabalgatasdelglaciar.com, URL: www.cabalgatasdelglaciar.com).
Location:
El Calafate, Argentina
Horseback Riding
Travel Tips: Helmets are provided. You will have to sign a waiver form. Also let the stable know your comfort level with horses.
Price Description: ENTRY: From $30
Relative price: Budget
Travel Skills: None
Head into Parque Nacional Los Glaciares to boat to and trek Glaciar Perito Moreno and the other glaciers, fish at Lago Roca. Go out to the estancias to enjoy an asado del palo and go horseback riding. Explore the ancient history of the region, at Cuevas del Waliche and Bosque Petrificado la Leona. In town, visit the museums or birdwatch at Reserva Laguna NÃmez.
Upon re-declaring her independence at age 29, Lorraine Caputo packed her trusty Rocinante (so her knapsack's called) and began...
El Calafate Activities | Popular El Calafate Destinations | El Calafate Hotels | Other El Calafate pages |
Enter your username and password here in order to log into the website: