Horse Riding In Patagonia

It now turns out that the native Tehuelche people of Patagonia were galloping across the plains of Patagonia on horseback long before the first historical records of horses in the area. A new study published in Science in December 2023, co-written by William Taylor, an archaeologist at the University of Colorado says “it’s safe to assume horse riding was part of the package in Patagonia, just as it was on the Great Plains [USA]. By 1741, British accounts noted that the Tehuelche were masterful riders”

We offer the opportunity to relive the lives of these horsemen as you ride out with their descendants, the baqueanos. These modern-day horsemen have preserved many ancestral customs blending indigenous traditions with gaucho culture. They continue to navigate the rugged Patagonian landscape with mastery and expertise, using knowledge passed down through generations. Baqueanos still employ traditional methods of animal herding, storytelling and crafting such as weaving and leatherwork reflecting the rich heritage of the Tehuelche. Their deep connection to the land and time-honoured practices offers a living link to the region’s history and provides a unique cultural insight to those who ride out with them.

The horses you will ride are Criollos and Criollo crosses. Descendants of the Spanish Barb and Arab, the Criollo is a sturdy, sure-footed and willing ride. Generally fairly small by European standards at between 14.2 and 15.0 hands, they are strong nonetheless.

After riding from Argentina to Washington in the 1930s, A F Tschiffely wrote:

“I have been able to prove that the Criollo horse is worthy of the reputation he has always held among the few that really know him, namely that of being second to none for continuous hard work under any conditions” (A F Tschiffely, Tschiffely’s Ride).

We are able to provide horses suitable for both experienced riders and those who are more rusty. The pace of the ride is adjusted by the guide to suit the majority of riders but as we always travel with more than one horseman, there is flexibility within the group and riders soon find their own pace for the trip. Riders are not responsible for grooming or tack. Horses are checked constantly for injury and/or lameness or tiredness. When necessary (and where it is practical/possible) horses will be changed. Depending on the length of your trip, most of you will experience at least one horse change during the course of your riding days. However, you will now be paired with the same horse throughout much of our new Glacier and Estancia Rides as we are able to move the horses from place to place by truck.

Riders on the scheduled group trips need to be experienced. As a general rule, you should be able to control a horse on open ground at the canter and be used to riding in open spaces. You should also be fairly fit and comfortable with long days in the saddle. Most riding days consist of between 25 – 40 kilometres on varied terrain.

On multi-activity trips, taster rides, custom and family departures we can accept riders of a lesser standard.

Riders can choose from a scheduled group horse riding tour (see departure dates on the respective trip page where applicable) or we can arrange any of our itineraries as a custom or private trip for a minimum of two riders, subject to availability. This is a good option for those of you unsure of your experience or for families travelling with children. Solo riders are welcome on our group rides and there is generally no single supplement payable if you are prepared to share with another rider of the same gender.

Prepare to ride your socks off on one of our exciting Patagonia riding adventures with our most popular rides outlined below