This point-to-point ride is exciting, fast-paced and gives you a glimpse into the lives of wealthy cattle ranchers. You will stay at four different Estancias (= ranches) each with its own distinctive character. The vast plains are perfect for those people who like long gallops, with more than thirty kilometers (18 miles) of high-tempo riding each day.
From Buenos Aires you will take the luxurious night bus to Esquina where you will be met by your hosts. Following a tour of the Estancia, the horses are saddled ready for a test ride. Out in the wide-open spaces, you can forget your big-city problems and enjoy the riding and the natural setting. Back at the ranch, a candle-lit dinner awaits. The following days offer high-tempo riding with picnic stops along the way, and it is always exciting to arrive at each new ranch. One evening you can have a massage and on another cool down in the pool. Those who wish to can also go on a moonlight ride. Back ‘home’ again, you can choose between helping out on a cattle drive, or why not try polo? One thing is certain, this will be an unforgettable week.
Preliminary day-by-day program
This trail ride is exciting, fast-paced and gives you a glimpse into the lives of wealthy cattle ranchers. The vast plains are perfect for those people who like long gallops, with more than thirty kilometers (18 miles) of high-tempo riding each day.
Arrival Buenos Aires
At approximately 9.00 pm you will take the luxurious sleeper bus from Buenos Aires. You arrive in Esquina around 4.30am.
Day 1
You will be met in Esquina and driven to the Estancia. Once you have had a chance to rest, you will be served a hearty breakfast. Following breakfast, you will meet the horses and take them out on an introductory ride in the surrounding area. After lunch, there is more riding and you can even choose some cattle work on horseback.
Day 2
You ride out in the surrounding area and will be back for lunch. After that you can try playing polo at the nearby polo club followed by an informal polo match. Later, you will enjoy a candle-lit dinner and beautiful Argentinian wine.
Day 3
After breakfast, you will leave the Estancia, which is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Esquina, and ride to Estancia La Amistad. You will stop for a lunch of barbequed lamb and then continue on to the Estancia. Total riding time is about five hours. In the evening, your hosts will spoil you with a massage, good food and some much needed rest.
Day 4
Today you will experience a changing landscape compared to what you experienced the previous day. You will pass several Estancias and ride around the edge of Pucu Marsh. It is another long day in the saddle with a stop for picnic lunch. In the afternoon, you will arrive at Estancia Buena Vista where you will be welcomed with afternoon tea in the garden. You will see that the name of the Estancia suits it perfectly – Buena Vista (good view).
Riding time approx. 5 hours.
Day 5
You will leave Buena Vista early in the morning and ride to the Corrientes River. Lunch and some rest on the Corrientes River’s sandbanks. After lunch, you will ride along the Corrientes River. Subject to the water level, you will get the chance to cross the river. Arrival at Estancia La Pelada, where you will play the ring game ‘Carrera de Sortijas’ before taking time to have some tea and enjoy the fantastic views over the river. Free time. Dinner and overnight stay at La Pelada.
Riding time approx. 4 hours
Day 6
Today’s ride takes you back to the estancia where the trail stared. This is an intensive day with lots of galloping! It is the longest day of the program. 4 hours riding in the morning and after lunch with a siesta on a small Estancia in the peaceful surroundings, 4 more hours riding. There are great possibilities of watching capybara, alligators (yacares), rheas and a remarkable variety of birds.
Day 7
You will have a relaxed morning to rest after the week’s ride. You might like to take a walk, swim in the pool or maybe enjoy a last gallop in the now familiar landscape. Subject to your preferences for the day, you can ride to the wetlands and lagoons through forests and meadows. Swim with your horse. Get a tango lesson or if you would prefer, you can herd cattle, check fences etc… with your Gaucho, with whom you have probably become good friends. Later, it is time to get ready for the farewell dinner at the Estancia. Transfer to Esquina for your departure on the comfortable sleeper bus to Buenos Aires at 10.40 p.m. Arrive Bueonos Aires approx. 6.30 a.m.
Minimum 1 and maximum 10 riders. Your luggage will be transported by car to the different Estancias.
Note that the itinerary may change due to local circumstances beyond our control.
