Riding Safari in the Andes
Patagonia, Argentina
Welcome to Patagonia
Having captured the hearts of riding enthusiasts worldwide, this spectacular experience is a dream for any nature lover and avid horse rider.
What to expect:
Pure wilderness & adventure without crowds or distraction. Just you, your horse and nature.
Incredible landscapes, from crystal-clear lakes to rugged mountain trails.
Authentic gaucho experience; ride, camp, and live like Patagonian cowboys.
A true digital detox; disconnect from the world to fully immerse yourself in the journey.
Meet the Host
Born into one of Argentina’s most prestigious polo families, Cruz has been riding horses since as long as he can remember.
A remarkable polo player, he finds his greatest joy in escaping to the breathtaking wilderness of Patagonia or the vast plains of La Pampa where he can fully relax and unwind in the most spectacular settings.
The Experience
6 Nights
5 Nights in the Patagonian wilderness
1 Night in an hotel in Bariloche
Min 6 people - Max 8 people per group
Dates: December & January
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Horseback Riding
Tour of Bariloche
Fishing
Swimming in the wild lakes
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Day 1
You will be picked up either at the hotel in Bariloche in the morning or in the airport by Cruz’s cousin, spending the day at his farm on the lake with lunch, while enjoying a swim with the refreshing lake water.
There will be transportation back to the hotel later in the evening.
Dinner?Day 2
Pick up from the hotel to head to a different farm for the start of the riding safari. You will be riding from 12 – 4 on the first day.
Sleeping at the camp
Meals? How is the accommodation situation i the camp?
Day 3
Another day for an exquisite ride with 5 to 6 hours on a horse.
Sleeping at the camp
Meals?Day 4
Another day for an exquisite ride with 5 to 6 hours on a horse.
Sleeping at the camp
Sleeping under the stars ?
Day 5
Sleeping the camp (tent, no shower)
Day 6
Transportation back to Bariloche with dinner in a traditional Patagonian restaurant.
Sleep in Hotel in Bariloche (optional) as could take a flight back to Buenos Aires this day.
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Cruz’s farm is located in Bariloche, Argentina
How to get there:
Flight to Buenos Aires and then take a connection to Bariloche.
A car will pick you up at the airport and drive you to the hotel, before taking you for the day expedition.
You can either take a flight the evening before or you can take a morning flight from Buenos Aires if you wish to spend some extra time in the capital.
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Cost per person with your own bedroom: £3,500
Included:
Accommodation for 1 night in a luxury Hotel in Bariloche.
Tents for 4 nights in the wilderness
Breakfast, Lunch, Appetizer & Dinner.
All excursions explained within the itinerary, equipment and guides.
Alcoholic beverages (wine, whisky, beer).
Professional guides.
All ground transfers according to itinerary.
Horseriding equipment (saddle, saddlebag, bridle, and
headcollar).
Not Included:
Flights to and from Buenos Aires
Flights to and from Bariloche
Tips
Hotel in Buenos Aires
Any experience in Buenos Aires (we have a lot of recommendations and can help with this if required)
THE HORSES
THE CRIOLLOS
Descended from the horses brought by Spanish conquistadors, the Criollo has evolved into a symbol of endurance, resilience and beauty.
Whether crossing rivers, trudging through mud, or navigating snowy landscapes, the Criollo’s unmatched stamina allows us to experience nature in its purest form.
THE SADDLES
Prepare to get comfy..!
These traditional saddles, topped with soft sheepskin, feel like cozy armchairs—and trust us, they’ll be your best friend for the week!
THE REGION
NEUQUÉN PROVINCE
Neuquén Province is in western Argentina and offers a variary of landscapes including striking mountains, clear lakes, and vast forests at the foot of the Andes.
The province's rich biodiversity includes Andean condors, red deer, wild boar, pumas, and horses.
THE LANIN ESTATE
The Lanin Estate, which is where we will spend the week is located at the foot of the Andes and renowed for its stunning valley and river.
Situated on the edge of Lanín National Park, the estate offers access to the Lanin Volcano, majestic mountains ancient araucaria forests.
ACCOMMODATION
The lodge, known as "La Casa Grande," is perched at the top of a hill, offering a breathtaking view of the Rahue Valley and its surroundings. Casa Grande can accommodate up to 12 guests in six rooms, each with a private bathroom. For larger, exclusive groups, it can host up to 19 guests with shared bathrooms.
The lodge features a spacious living room with a fireplace, a dining room, and a playroom. It is fully equipped and staffed by our dedicated team, including a chef who specializes in preparing traditional Patagonian dishes. Additional amenities include telephone service, internet access, and laundry service.
GLAMPING OPTION
For those seeking an immersive nature experience, we offer exclusive glamping along the banks of the Malalco River in the Rahue Valley. The glamping site features six tents, each with two beds, accommodating up to 12 guests.
The site is equipped with two shared full bathrooms, complete with hot showers, and a communal area with a fireplace where guests gather for breakfast and dinner. Typically, lunch and tea are enjoyed outside the glamping site as part of the activities organized by Malalco Experience.
ITINERARY
6 DAYS
Day 1: Arrival & Lake Farm Retreat
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bariloche or directly from the airport.
You’ll be welcomed by Cruz’s cousin, who will take you to his private farm, a secluded paradise overlooking a lake and surrounded by the Andes Mountains.
Relax and unwind at the farm’s private lakefront, where the refreshing glacial waters offer the perfect swim.
Enjoy a traditional Patagonian lunch, featuring asado (Argentine BBQ), freshly baked bread, and local wines and if you feel adventurous, go kayaking and explore the lake after lunch!
In the evening, stroll around the charming streets of the Alpine town, Bariloche. You will have dinner at a top local restaurant serving regional specialties like trout and lamb stew.
Last night in an hotel (and civilization) before the adventure ahead…!
Day 2: Into the Wild – The Riding Safari Begins
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to a remote Patagonian estancia (ranch)—your gateway into the untamed wilderness. Here, you’ll meet your Argentine Criollo horse, a strong and steady breed perfectly suited for Patagonia’s terrain.
Riding Schedule: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Begin your journey across the rolling hills and river valleys, taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes. You’ll ride through lush lenga forests, wide-open pampas, and hidden trails used by gauchos for centuries.
Arrive at your first camp in the late afternoon, where your tents will be set up near a river or within a sheltered valley.
Campfire dinner: Expect hearty Patagonian meals—perhaps grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and traditional mate tea under the open sky. No electricity, no signal—just nature.
Stargaze by the fire, with stories from the local gauchos who will guide you through the journey..
Day 3: Riding deeper into Patagonia
Wake up to the sound of nature awakening, horses grazing, birds calling, and the crisp morning air filling your lungs. After a campfire breakfast, you’ll saddle up for a full day on horseback.
Riding Schedule: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
You will ride for about 5-6 hours , weaving through rugged mountains, glacial rivers, and remote estancias with a midday picnic stop for a well deserved lunch with packed gourmet sandwiches, fruit, and warm drinks.
After a day, you will arrive to a new camp this time in a valley surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Whilst you are settled and horses taken care of, a dinner cooked over an open fire will be served, possibly featuring local lamb slow-roasted on a spit.
Fall asleep under the vast Patagonian sky, with the Milky Way glowing above you…
Day 4: Remote Wilderness & Sleeping Under the Stars
This day is dedicated to pure riding bliss, taking you deeper into the heart of Patagonia.
Riding Schedule: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
You will ride for about 5-6 hours on horseback, with rivers to cross, rolling plains, and wildlife sightings (keep an eye out for guanacos, condors, and foxes!).
You will stop for a midday break in a secluded meadow, where you’ll enjoy freshly baked empanadas and strong Argentine coffee.
Tonight, you’ll sleep under the stars, away from any artificial lights..
A once-in-a-lifetime experience!
So cozy up in your sleeping bag by the fire and listen to the whispers of the wind and distant calls of wild animals…
Simply magical.
Day 5: The Final Stretch – One Last Ride
By now, you’ll feel like a true Patagonian gaucho. The bond with your horse will be second nature, and the rhythm of the ride will feel effortless.
Riding Schedule: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Morning ride through final stretches of pristine wilderness, where you might encounter wild herds of horses. Stop for a rustic camp lunch, savoring the last moments in the backcountry.
Arrive for a final night at camp (tent accommodation, no showers—just true adventure) and gather around the campfire for a farewell celebration, reflecting on the week’s journey…
Day 6: Back to Civilization & A Patagonian Feast
In the morning, say goodbye to your horse and the gauchos before being transported back to Bariloche.
Evening in Bariloche:
Enjoy yoru last traditional Patagonian dinner at a renowned local restaurant—expect roasted lamb, fine Argentine wines, and homemade desserts.
Return to BA:
Option to stay overnight in a Bariloche hotel or take an evening flight back to Buenos Aires.