On this tour you will ride into the impressive region around Mount Aconcagua. Here are the highest mountains of America, crowned by Mount Aconcagua with almost 7.000m. This is the Mecca of mountaineers. You yourself ride up to 3.000m, along narrow mountain paths, through untouched valleys and creeks. In this uninhabited, remote area, which is partly only accessible on horseback, large herds of guanacos (similar to llamas) live. In addition, the impressive Andes condor nests here. Only in the most remote areas like this one you have the unique chance to observe the animals in a completely relaxed way.

The region has also played an important historical role. In 1817 the Los Andes army passed through here. They moved from Argentina to Chile to liberate the country from the Spanish conquerors. Here you can imagine the gigantic effort the Fathers of Independence made in the name of freedom.

After sunset you will experience a magnificent starry sky here. In the mountain hotel with its peaceful atmosphere you can relax with a cup of coffee, tea or Argentinean mate together with your fellow riders. All this together creates the ideal back to feel and enjoy the timeless spirit of nature and wilderness.

The last day promises culinary delights: wine production and tasting as well as a delicious lunch. You will visit Luján de Cuyo, an area that is world famous for the production of some of the best Argentinean wines, including Malbec.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at the airport of Mendoza. Transfer to Uspallata (1,5h), a small town in the center of the Andes and near Mount Aconcagua. You will stay at the Uspallata Hotel. At the hotel you will feel like you are going back to the 1930s and 40s. First dinner together.

Day 2: After breakfast you will ride through this majestic mountain world for the first time. You will reach the Tiger Range. The mountain range is considered the backbone of the Andes. Your horses will carry you up to 3000m. From here you have a wonderful view of the Uspallata Valley. The camp and a dinner prepared over an open fire await you at Chacay.

Day 3: Today a 9-hour day awaits you. You will ride upriver at Ranchillos Creek to La Gloria (the Glory). You will spend the night in the camp near the witch cave (Cueva de la Bruja). The massive rock face in front of you is home to the nests of the condors. With a bit of luck you will be able to observe the birds up close.

Day 4: Ride downhill along the Durazno river back to Uspallata. The sandy riverbed may offer a welcome opportunity to gallop. It is an unforgettable experience to ride at full speed into the city. Would you like to try it? Dinner at the restaurant. You will spend the night back at the hotel.

Day 5: Today you will ride through the Bonilla Range past the Quebrada de Santa Helena and towards Agua de la Cueva (7 hours ride incl. lunch break on the way). This is the same path the Liberation Army used to ride from Argentina to Chile. Arrived in Agua de la Cueva, you will have a wonderful view of the majestic Aconcagua. With its almost 7.000m the highest mountain of America. This is where the army of that time made camp two centuries ago. On the way you will stop at the abandoned Rivadavia mine and explore its tunnels. You will camp at the mine and enjoy grilled food for dinner.

Day 6: On the last day you will ride through the Pampa de Canota (7 hours including lunch). The area is famous for its herds of guanacos and the Andean condor. At sunset you will reach Uspallata. If you feel like galloping into the city. Then it is time to say goodbye to the horses. Last dinner together and overnight in the hotel.

Day 7: Wines of Mendoza - today your palate will be spoilt: wine tasting and an excellent lunch. From Uspallata you leave early for Luján de Cuyo. Some of the best Argentinean wines are produced here. Every evening of your tour you will have tasted a different wine from this region. Your visit to Mendoza would not be complete without a visit to the famous Club Tapiz winery. During the private tour you will have the opportunity to taste the excellent wines directly from the oak barrels. Lunch at the winery. Transfer to Mendoza airport.

Accomodation
You will spend three nights in a comfortable mountain hotel in Upsallata and three nights in tent camps.

The food consists of hearty dishes with regional ingredients. Dinner is always a hot meal, picnic at noon.

Saddle & Tack: South American Recado saddles, very comfortable with sheepfur.

Experience: Slow riding pace, with opportunities for gallops. Due to challenging terrain with narrow mountain paths, at least 3 years of riding experience, also off-road. Daily 5-6 hours in the saddle.

Horses: Criollos and Paso Peruano Mix, used to the mountainous terrain.