Argentina - Inca Trails Expedition

Overview

horse riding holiday Argentina Inca Trails

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Argentina is a land of horses and this equestrian trip explores the vast beauty of the varied landscapes while spending time with the local Calchaqui Indians. Cross the Andes Mountains of Northwest Argentina on horseback, the way it was done in Colonial times, (but keeping a few comforts from the 21st Century).
Follow ancient Incan trails on this unforgettable equestrian trip that takes riders to places only accessible on horseback. Experience tropical forests with crystal clear streams in the Lerma Valley, the Calchaquí desert with its multicolored mountains, and to the Cafayate Creek with its wind eroded hills. These horseback trail rides have been designed to show the breath-taking contrast in the landscapes divided by the Dead Lion (Puma) Mountain Range.
Ride up to 3,000m (9,000 feet) where the forest changes to high altitude grassland, home of the Andean condor. Camp under the night skies and enjoy the timeless spirit of nature while making new friends. Along the trail, horseback riders have the chance to experience and absorb the local culture that is still alive high up in the mountains.
The horses are the core of this equestrian trip and is suitable for horseback riders who are fit and capable at walk, trot and canter. Novices and less confident riders can be accommodated with prior arrangement.
This is either a 9 day / 8 night adventure with 6 full riding days or a 12 day / 11 night adventure with 9 full riding days.

Reviews

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from ES of Mannville on 13/04/2025

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Ride Summary

What was your overall impression of the holiday

Overall impression

Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments

Fantastic variety floral and fauna with varied geological views. A knowledgeable guide to answer questions or at least booklet covering main topics necessary to appreciate Argentinas uniqueness.

Horses and Tack

Additional Comments

Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?

Please give more details to explain your response:

Was there anything you should have known and were not told? YES

Please give more details to explain your response:

Weather extremes not mentioned

What could we do to improve this ride?

How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?

Please explain why you scored it as you did:

Some moderate riding challenges. Nothing I haven’t ridden before.

Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?

YES

Please give more details to explain your response:

May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?

YES

Any other comments:

Will add photos if I can find a place to do so

Unicorn comments: We are pleased you enjoyed the riding and will see what can be done to share more knowledge of the local flora and geology, with riders.

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Sample Itinerary

8 day sample itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Salta any time before 4pm to meet the transfer. Visit the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology), with its exhibits showing items found at an Inca human sacrifice site on top of the Llullaillaco volcano (6730m - 18000ft). It holds the best preserved mummies worldwide. Check in at boutique hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner with the guide.

Day 2
After breakfast, the riders are driven to the stables to meet the horses. The drive follows the Cuesta del Obispo with breath-taking views and the Cardones National Park and a chance to spot guanacos (Andean camelidae). On reaching Piedra del Molino (3348 meters high) riders will meet the horses and gauchos. Lunch at the corral before starting the ride. The trail reaches Peñas Blancas (2760 meters high) before sunset and the group spends the night in comfortable, but basic cabins. On the way there are herds of wild donkeys that were originally set free by the Spanish Conquistadors.

Day 3
After breakfast the ride follows the lifeline that this valley has formed for centuries. On the way there are small houses and remains of ancient settlements. The ride heads west to the very steep Chilo slopes which divide the two valleys. The view is magnificent. Stop for lunch at a dry river bed (which is also a great spot for cantering). On the way, stop to see the ancient paintings left by local Indians centuries ago. Visit Isonza, a working ranch still practicing ancient methods and Leuca Burgos to sample the local goats cheese. The practices employed in the region have changed little since Incan times.

Day 4
Today's ride heads south past Yaslaguala and its numerous giant cacti. After lunch, ride to the village of Amblayo (2400m) to spend the night. On the way the group rides through archaeological areas where one can see pieces of painted pottery scattered around. Riders must agree not to remove anything from the area. Amblayo has only 150 inhabitants and is renowned for its goat cheese. The absence of cars makes a visit to this area special.

Day 5
After breakfast there is time to enjoy a picturesque town. Visit its ancient chapel with its 17th century paintings that were brought from Peru. After lunch the ride heads to the foothills of the Sierra Pelada though multi-coloured hills that are unique to the region. There is also a chance to canter in the Río Salado. Dinner tonight is a traditional goat barbecue.

Day 6
Today is a day of contrasts Riding east, the route crosses the Dead Lion range. The desert gradually gives way to high altitude grasslands; the land of the condor. On reaching 3000m there is the chance of seeing some. The descent is through the dense forest of the Lerma Valley. At sunset, arrive at El Churqui mountain camp (1960 meters high) where the group will be awaited with a homemade meal. The night is spent inside a cabin sleeping on the floor in sleeping bags. Toilet available and cold running water.

Day 7
After breakfast, leave for La Viña along the Las Pircas river bed. These trails have been used for centuries and are still the only means of communication among locals. On reaching La Viña the minibus will be waiting for the two hour drive back to Salta city. Check in at boutique hotel and share a farewell dinner.

Day 8
Transfer to Salta Airport for the flight to Buenos Aires in time to connect with your flight home.

11 day sample itinerary
Day 1
Arrive to Salta to join transfer Visit the MAAM (Museum of High Altitude Archaeology) (closed Mondays), with its exhibit of items found at an Inca human sacrifice site on top of the Llullaillaco volcano (6730m - 18000ft). It holds the best preserved mummies worldwide. Check in at the boutique hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner with the guide.

Day 2
After breakfast, the riders are driven to the stables to meet the horses. The drive follows the Cuesta del Obispo with breath-taking views and the Cardones National Park and a chance to spot guanacos (Andean camelidae). On reaching Piedra del Molino (3348 meters high) riders will meet the horses and gauchos. Lunch at the corral before starting the ride. The trail reaches Peñas Blancas (2760 meters high) before sunset and the group spends the night in comfortable, but basic cabins. On the way there are herds of wild donkeys that were set free by the Spanish Conquistadors.

Day 3
After breakfast the ride follows the lifeline that his valley has formed for centuries. On the way there are small houses and remains of ancient settlements. The ride heads west to the very steep Chilo slopes which divide the two valleys. The view is magnificent. Stop for lunch at a dry river bed (which is also a great spot for cantering). On the way, stop to see the ancient paintings left by local Indians centuries ago. Visit Isonza, a working ranch still practicing ancient methods and Leuca Burgos to sample the local goats cheese. The practices employed in the region have changed little since Incan times. Night at Peñas Blancas (or similar)

Day 4
Todays ride takes the group West until reaching the very steep Chilo slopes which divide two valleys. Enjoy the magnificent view magnificent before riding down the Chilo slopes. A truly unique experience. Lunch before starting the ride uphill on the way back to Peñas Blancas to overnight.

Day 5
Today's ride heads south past Yaslaguala and its numerous giant cacti. After lunch, ride to the village of Amblayo 2400m) to spend the night. On the way the group rides through archaeological areas where one can see pieces of painted pottery scattered around. Riders must agree not to remove anything from the area. Amblayo has only 150 inhabitants and is renowned for its goat cheese. The absence of cars makes a visit to this area special.

Day 6
After breakfast there is time to enjoy a picturesque town. Visit its ancient chapel with its 17th century paintings that were brought from Peru. After lunch the ride heads to the foothills of the Sierra Pelada though multi-coloured hills that are unique to the region. There is also a chance to canter in the Río Salado. Dinner tonight is a traditional goat barbecue

Day 7
Today is a day of contrasts. Riding east, the route crosses the Dead Lion range. The desert gradually gives way to high altitude grasslands; the land of the condor. On reaching 3000m there is the chance of seeing some. The descent is through the dense forest of the Lerma Valley. At sunset, arrive at El Churqui mountain camp (1960 meters high) where the group will be awaited with a homemade meal. The night is spent inside a cabin sleeping on the floor in sleeping bags. Toilet available and cold running water.

Day 8
Riding west the route crosses the Dead Lion range again, but now through narrow trails of the Enchanted valley until reaching Ayuso (2500m). This is the small mud-brick home of a local family and has panoramic views of the Calchaquí Valley, and where the group put up tents for the next two nights. Toilet available and cold running water.

Day 9
As the past two days have been spent crossing high mountains, today the ride heads around the Cerro Bola (Ball mountain) to canter along the dry river beds of the Salado river and have lunch down the shade of the ancient algarrobo trees. It is only necessary to bring the essentials for the day as the group will ride back to the camp at Ayuso to spend the night.

Day 10
Leave Ayuso riding through narrow creeks and south into the Calchaquí Valleys towards the next stop at Rastrojitos (1900m). This is the area named the Cafayate Creek which has rock formations that similar to the Grand Canyon, and are an attraction of the region. At Rastrojitos mountain shelter riders set up camp up the tents for the night. Before enjoying a traditional meal of goat meat cooked slowly in a mud oven. No bathrooms available. After lunch the ride starts downhill towards the Las Conchas River. Some parts of the trail are slow as it is quite steep in places and offers one of the best views in Salta. Las Conchas river is the end point of the ride. Say farewell to the horses at Puente Morales (1300m) before transferring back to Salta city to check in at a boutique hotel before a farewell dinner with your riding companions.

Day 11
Transfer to Salta Airport for the flight to Buenos Aires in time to connect with your flight home.

Transfers
A small group supplement is applied if the total number of bookings (including yours) is under 6 riders. Please see 'detailed prices' for supplement prices. These are fully refundable before departure once more people confirm.

Tango show with dinner and tango lesson: approximately $120 per person.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Horses & Riding

Fit and responsive horses all in good condition, from 15hh to 15.3hh. Horses are ridden in the traditional style, which is similar to Western riding with neck reining and long stirrups. Instruction is given on first day for those not familiar with this style, it is very easy to learn and quite addictive. Terrain varies from mountainous to desert and the speed of the ride reflects the terrain and is mostly at a walk on the slopes of the Andes. There are plenty of opportunities for those who like to canter or even have a good gallop on the more open bits of terrain.

Daisy the horse

Rider requirements

This ride is suitable for riders who are able to walk, trot and canter on a good horse. There is usually about 5 or 6 hours in the saddle each day, so a good level of riding fitness is recommended.

Due to the length of riding days this ride is not recommended for children under the age of 10 and there is a weight limit of 95kg/15 stone. There is no need to walk next to your horse and assistance can be given when mounting and dismounting.

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 209 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Accommodation

8 day itinerary: 5 nights in mountain cabins (shared 'dorm-style' rooms with up to 6 bunkbeds in each room, showers available on some nights but hot water cannot be guaranteed), 2 nights boutique hotel in Salta. Please be aware that there is no heating in the cabins.

11 day itinerary: 8 nights camping or in mountain cabins (shared 'dorm-style' rooms with up to 6 beds in each room. Some locations do not have beds and guests sleep on the floor with sleeping bags. Showers available on some nights but hot water cannot by guaranteed), 2 nights boutique hotel in Salta. Please be aware that on some nights there are no bathroom facilities, and there is no heating in the cabins.

Breakfasts consist of a choice of hot drink, toast and preserves. When available eggs and fresh fruit will also be offered.

Lunches: these are usually in the form of a picnic with bread, salads and cheese.

Dinners: traditional homely dishes with a complimentary glass of wine.

Simple room

Inca Trails al fresco

Fresh pies

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Travel Info & Map

Documents - Visa and Consulate Info

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures and requirements while travelling. Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. When visiting Argentina your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/argentina In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Argentina.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/argentina

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Climate Summary

Throughout Argentina, January is the warmest month and June and July are the coldest. North of the Río Negro, the winter months (May–August) are the driest periods of the year. Due to location, climate is regarded as tropical, average temperatures ranging, in the capital, from 21.5°C/71°F in summer, to 10°C/50°F in winter. Rainfall is more frequent near the mountainous regions, due to the advection of humid air causing more precipitation in summer, and dry winters. This tropical region features high temperatures and abundant rainfall in the second half of the year and a dry season in the first half of the year.
Summer High 86°F - Low 50°F
Winter High 70°F - Low 32°F

Climate Chart

Health

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel to some parts of the country.

Health authorities have classified Argentina as having a risk of Zika virus transmission.

Dengue fever can occur throughout the year. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Argentina and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

Health (ride specific)

Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended. Remember it is easy to burn at high altitudes even in weather which is not sunny.

Electricity

In Argentina the supply voltage is 220V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 220V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Mobile, WiFi and charging

In Salta and Buenos Aires you are likely to be able to stock up on camera or phone necessities. If you want to bring a GoPro please be advised that you will have to have permission from all other guests and guides that they are willing to be filmed.

Packing List

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries, casual clothes, and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:

ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards (some locations can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
Riding boots designed for riding and walking
Riding gloves
Chaps
At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches
Long sleeved shirts
Lightweight waterproof
Water bottle
Mobile phone
Sleeping bag

Ride specific:
For the cold weather it is better to carry along a few thin warm clothes (t-shirts, undershirts, etc) than only one thick garment. Polar sweaters do well both in summer and winter

Provided by the host:
Saddlebags

Dates & Pricing

Programmes

There are set departure dates you can join. Tailor-made departures can also be arranged all year round. Depending on which programme is chosen, there is a choice of either 8 days / 7 nights / 6 riding days (excluding Buenos Aires activities) or 11 days / 10 nights / 9 riding days

Departure Dates

2025: 8 Day Programme: 18 Mar; 25 Apr; 31 May; 3 Aug; 25 Sep; 9 Nov
11 Day Programme: 27 Mar; 10 Jun; 12 Aug; 14 Oct; 18 Nov

Pricing

No single supplement is charged if the rider is willing to share with someone of the same sex, and a sharer can be found.

No of days/nights		Riding days	Product item description	£
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	per person sharing	1,689
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 2-3	315
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 4-5	189
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	single supplement for hotels and individual tents	149
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	per person sharing	2,015
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 2-3	369
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 4-5	219
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	single supplement for hotels and individual tent	149

No of days/nights		Riding days	Product item description	€
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	per person sharing	2,005
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 2-3	375
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 4-5	225
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	single supplement for hotels and individual tents	175
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	per person sharing	2,399
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 2-3	445
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 4-5	259
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	single supplement for hotels and individual tent	175

No of days/nights		Riding days	Product item description	US $
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	per person sharing	2,345
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 2-3	439
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 4-5	259
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	single supplement for hotels and individual tents	195
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	per person sharing	2,805
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 2-3	515
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 4-5	305
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	single supplement for hotels and individual tent	195

No of days/nights		Riding days	Product item description	SEK
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	per person sharing	22,289
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 2-3	4,159
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	supplement for group of 4-5	2,479
2025 - 8 day programme	8d/7n	6	single supplement for hotels and individual tents	1,879
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	per person sharing	26,649
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 2-3	4,905
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	supplement for group of 4-5	2,875
2025 - 11 day programme	11d/10n	9	single supplement for hotels and individual tent	1,879

Other

Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):

Salta Airport (SLA)

Transfer:

2025: Included from Salta Airport

Flight Guide:

2025: London to Buenos Aires return from £1400 pp. (season dependent)
2025: Buenos Aires to Salta flight return from £55 pp (season dependent)

Trip Length:

8 days / 7 nights / 6 riding days
11 days / 10 nights / 9 riding days

Departure Dates:

2025: 8 Day Programme: 18 Mar; 25 Apr; 31 May; 3 Aug; 25 Sep; 9 Nov

11 Day Programme: 27 Mar; 10 Jun; 12 Aug; 14 Oct; 18 Nov

Features:

Riding ability: Walk, trot and canter on a good horse.

Ride time per day: 4 - 6 hours

Group size: 4 - 8. Ride may be confirmed for less than 6 at a supplement, see Prices and Dates tab.

Weight limit: 209 lb/95 kg

Includes:

8 day itinerary: 5 nights in mountain cabins, 2 nights in Salta hotel based on shared 'dorm-style' rooms, all meals and beverages during the ride and others as indicated in town, Salta city, 6 days guided riding and all required equipment for the horse riding.
11 day itinerary: 8 nights camping/mountain cabins, 2 nights in Salta hotel based on shared 'dorm-style' rooms, all meals and beverages during the ride and others as indicated in town, Salta city airport transfers, 9 days guided riding and all required equipment for the horse riding.