PATAGONIA BY HORSEBACK – THE SECRET GLACIER TRAIL

Group Size: 8 (note: this trip can be personalized)

Riding Level: Intermediate, must be comfortable cantering

Time riding per day: 3-9h

Where: Esquel – Ride along the Border of Argentina and Chile

Terrain: Mountain-esque, Open Plains and Lakes, Forests. We will be going up a glacier trail for the last stretch!

8 Days – 7 Nights

Accommodation: Ranch Rooms (shared), Cabins (single), Tents (shared)

Cost: 4,850 EUR

When: December to April

Sometimes Hosted by Nadine Strittmatter 

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Arrival Upon your arrival at Esquel Airport following your flight from Buenos Aires, a van will be waiting to collect you to take you on a one-hour drive to a private but iconic Argentinian Ranch. Known for breeding Criollo horses, this stunning property is the perfect gateway to your Patagonian adventure. On our first day, you’ll witness a captivating demonstration of the unique skills Criollo horses are trained for — including cattle work, agility, and adapting to unusual sideway movements. 

Day 2 After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on our first riding day. A boat will ferry us across the Grande River, where our horses will be waiting. From there, we’ll enjoy a scenic four-hour ride to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the magnificent Amutui Quimey Lake. Here, we’ll pause for a picnic, soaking in the stunning landscape. After a relaxing break, we’ll ride back, where hot showers and a delicious meal await.

Day 3 Following breakfast and a leisurely morning, we’ll set out on a memorable ride to Baguilt Lake. A short half-hour drive will take us to the corral where our horses are ready. After a three-hour ride, we’ll arrive at the serene lake, perfect for a relaxing picnic. We’ll then ride back and return for our final night at this enchanting location.

Day 4 After three nights in our first location, we’ll continue our journey. A three-hour ride will take us through forests, vast pampas, and open vistas, leading us to our new home for the night. After a satisfying lunch and a restful siesta, we’ll set off on an afternoon ride featuring a long canter and picturesque views.

Day 5 Today, we’ll cover 25 miles as we travel from one iconic site to another. Our route takes us through rivers, mountains, and forests, presenting a challenging yet rewarding nine-hour ride. The day’s effort will be well worth it as we arrive at a remote, beautiful cabin nestled in the wilderness.

Day 6 After yesterday’s epic journey, we’ll enjoy a relaxing morning to rest and recharge. Following lunch, we’ll ride up into the mountains, reaching the milestone that marks the border with Chile. This day promises spectacular views of the Andes as we follow the frontier between Argentina and Chile. You’ll experience a thrilling sense of vertigo with absolutely no danger — adding an exciting twist to our adventure.

Day 7 We’ll start early, waking up surrounded by the pure beauty of nature, with birds singing and streams flowing nearby. After a full breakfast, we’ll ride deep into the wilderness, ascending toward the majestic Plomo Glacier. Here, we’ll enjoy an unforgettable picnic with one of the most awe-inspiring views you’ll ever witness — a place few have ever visited. In the afternoon, we’ll head to our fly camp, where we’ll spend the night in tents and savor a delicious supper around the campfire.

Day 8 After breakfast, we’ll ride for two hours back to our previous site, where a hot shower will be waiting. A truck will then transport you to the airport, concluding your remarkable Patagonian adventure with a three-hour drive.

Note: This itinerary may change depending on weather conditions. The Patagonian summer is usually friendly — but always full of surprises.

This trip, or other Argentine riding adventures, can be tailor-made for you and your private group.