Argentina - Pampas, Gauchos, Polo and BA

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Day 1
Riders arrive in Buenos Aires in the morning, where they are greeted at the international airport before embarking on a scenic 1.5-2 hour drive to the lodge nestled in the Pampas. Upon arrival, a delicious Argentine lunch awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the surroundings. Afterward, with the guidance of the knowledgeable hosts, riders are introduced to the traditional Argentine tack and riding style. This introduction ensures they feel comfortable and confident before heading out for their first ride through the picturesque farmlands. The evening brings a warm and hearty Argentine welcome dinner, complete with an introduction to the country's world-renowned wines. Each night, riders will have the pleasure of sampling a different regional wine, including Argentina’s famous Malbecs, offering a true taste of the country’s rich heritage.

Day 2
A visit to Argentina would not be complete without experiencing the exhilarating sport of polo—a discipline deeply intertwined with the nation’s countryside and culture. Today is dedicated to immersing riders in this thrilling sport in a fun and accessible way, ensuring they can enjoy the experience at their own pace. Whether learning the basics, refining existing skills, or simply enjoying the spectacle, riders will have the chance to pick up valuable tips from expert hosts and local players. A relaxed lunch is served at the polo fields, allowing time to take in the vibrant atmosphere before continuing with the day’s activities. Dinner at the lodge rounds off an action-packed and exhilarating day.

Day 3
Today’s adventure takes riders to a stunning privately owned wildlife reserve along the Paraná River. This majestic river, whose name means "as big as the sea" in the local indigenous language, stretches 2,500 miles and stands as the second-largest river in South America after the Amazon. Riders traverse diverse landscapes teeming with native flora and fauna, taking in breath-taking views as they journey along the riverbanks. A leisurely picnic lunch is enjoyed on the shores of the Paraná, providing a moment to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of this mighty waterway. The day concludes with a return to the lodge for a well-earned dinner.

Day 4
Riders embark on a journey through the farmlands, following the historic old road to San Antonio de Areco. In days gone by, this path was the primary route into town, but with the construction of the modern highway, it has been largely forgotten—except by the gauchos who still traverse it. Along the way, riders make stops at a small rural school and the historic church at El Tatú (The Armadillo), allowing time to rest and soak in the history of these charming landmarks. A picnic lunch amidst the rolling Pampas enhances the sense of stepping back in time. As the sun sets, riders return to the lodge for a comforting and well-prepared dinner.

Day 5
After a hearty breakfast, riders set off for an enchanting 19th-century Estancia, where they will spend the night. Here, they have the unique opportunity to engage in traditional Argentine cattle work, an experience that offers insight into the daily life of a working Estancia. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are alternative activities to enjoy, including horse driving, live folk music performances, an introduction to “Doma India” (the art of Argentine horse whispering), as well as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The Estancia seamlessly blends cattle breeding with farming, providing a fascinating glimpse into rural Argentine life. A delicious lunch and dinner are served at the Estancia, ensuring riders are well-fuelled for their time in this historic and picturesque setting.

Day 6
The morning begins with a visit to the charming town of San Antonio de Areco, renowned for its rich gaucho heritage. Riders explore the town’s traditional silversmiths, where craftsmen preserve colonial-era skills, creating intricate pieces of silverwork. The town’s gaucho museum is another must-visit, offering fascinating insights into the history and culture of Argentina’s legendary horsemen. Lunch is enjoyed at an authentic gaucho restaurant, where the flavours of the Pampas take centre stage. After lunch, the group departs Areco and heads back to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival, riders check into their hotel and enjoy free time to explore the city at their leisure—whether shopping, visiting museums, or simply wandering the vibrant streets. For those looking to fully embrace the Argentine experience, an optional evening of tango awaits, featuring a dazzling dinner show and an opportunity to take a tango lesson. The night is spent in the comfort of a Buenos Aires hotel.

Day 7
After breakfast, riders embark on a guided city tour, uncovering some of Buenos Aires’ most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. The remainder of the day is left open for free time, allowing riders to soak in any final experiences before their journey home. In the afternoon, a transfer is arranged to Buenos Aires International Airport (EZE), where riders bid farewell to Argentina, departing on their evening flights with unforgettable memories of their adventure in the Pampas and beyond.

Non-rider and other activities:
There are plenty of other activities available in this beautiful area: carriage rides, fishing and golf within driving distance, swimming in the pool, bike riding and relaxing. Non-riders and children may be able join in with some gaucho activities from the ground such as feeding and branding the cattle and, depending on the time of year, helping with the harvesting and silo stacking.

Small group supplement
A small group supplement is applied if the total number of bookings (including yours) is less than 6 riders. This is fully refundable before departure if more people book the holiday.

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.

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.

The pampas consists of grassy lowlands, ideal for days in the saddle where you can run your horse all day long alongside the gauchos. There are plenty of opportunities for those who like to canter or even have a good gallop on the more open bits of terrain. The lodge has around 20 horses available for guests to ride.

As well as working with the gauchos and cattle, there are rides out across the pampas to local villages to enjoy the freedom of the area. There will also get a chance to try your hand at Polo, one of the most popular sports in Argentina.

This ride is suitable for riders who are able to walk, trot and canter on a good horse. There is usually about 4 to 6 hours in the saddle each full riding day, so a good level of riding fitness is recommended to make the most of this.

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.

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

Guests stay in a traditional lodge with comfortable twin bedrooms making this holiday a small and personal experience, much like a homestay with a boutique feel.

Each bedroom has a private bathroom, hair dryer and air conditioning. The dining room is in a separate building and the main building also houses a living room furnished with fascinating memorabilia - even a full-size carriage! Each room has a large open fire making the atmosphere warm and friendly, great for relaxing in after a day spent in the saddle. There is a TV/DVD room for guest use and the lodge has Wi-Fi.

Outside the main building is a variety of verandas for soaking up the sun, reading a good book or enjoying a pre-dinner drink. There is also a swimming pool with views across the farm and several friendly dogs who love nothing more than a scratch behind the ear.

The guests will spend one night in a guest house at a 19th Century Estancia, in comfortable twin bedrooms with private bathrooms. Here guests experience a working ranch lifestyle where the main activities are cattle breeding and farming.

On the last night in Buenos Aires accommodation is the Hotel Tribeca (or similar); an apartment hotel situated in the city centre and surrounded by cultural, financial, commercial and tourist landmarks. It has a gourmet restaurant, gym, sauna, sun deck on the roof, room service and complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note that if this hotel is not available at the time of booking, a similar hotel will be used.

The food available at the lodge is all fresh and home-cooked by your attentive hosts. A sample menu might consist of:

Breakfast - continental breakfast/scrambled eggs/orange juice/tea/coffee.

Lunch on the trail - barbecue or picnic style - chicken/roast beef/ham/cheese/sandwiches. Antipasti/salami/cheese etc. Fruit for dessert. Drinking water.

Dinner - local traditional meals such as barbecue/stew/empanadas with wine, soft drinks and water. Spirits available at extra charge.

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

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

The Pampas area has a climate which is pleasant for visits all year round. It is well outside the tropics and has an adequate rainfall of between 500 mm/20 in and 1,000 mm/40 in per year. Winters are mild and summers warm, with more rainfall during the summer months.

The region does not often experience extremes of heat or cold. Frost may occur in most winter months but is not prolonged or severe. The climate is generally healthy and pleasant. This is the most important agricultural region of Argentina and occasional drought is the main economic hazard.

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.

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.

It will be possible to recharge batteries/phones/cameras at the lodge, Estancia and the hotel. Wifi is usually available at all overnight locations on this programme and mobile phone reception is good throughout. 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.

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 are best
- Long sleeved shirts
- Lightweight waterproof
- Water bottle
- Mobile phone

Provided by the hosts:
Saddlebags

This is a based stay programme available on request throughout the year. The weekly programme is 7d / 6n / 5 riding days. Per night bookings are also available with a 3 night minimum stay.

2025: Departure dates on request all year round.

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Rough Guide to Argentina - 2nd Edition - Danny Aeberhard

On A Hoof And A Prayer: Around Argentina At A Gallop  - Polly Evans

Footprint Argentina Handbook - Christabelle Dilks

‘Gauchos and the Vanishing Frontier’ –Richard W Slatta,

‘The Drunken Forest’ and ‘The Whispering Land’ – Gerald Durrell,

‘Saddled With Darwin’- Toby Green

‘In Patagonia’ – Bruce Chatwin.

For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com 

Also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com

Characteristic animals of the Pampas include foxes, skunks, small herds of guanaco, viscachas, bush dogs and many bird species related to sparrows, hawks and waterfowl of the North American prairies.

There is no dangerous wildlife in the area.

Argentina is the second largest country in Latin America after Brazil (almost all the countries of Western Europe and Scandinavia could fit inside Argentina's land mass). The country is diverse and includes rain forest in the north, vast areas of fertile farming land in the centre, the Andean mountain range to the west and the desolate plains of Patagonia in the south, leading down to glaciers at the southern tip. Argentina has the world's southernmost city (Ushaia). Despite Argentina's recent economic woes, its pleasures - stunning natural wonders, an elegant capital and a passionate culture - are still as tempting as ever. Argentina has a distinctly European feel, Argentinians are much more European in temperament than their South American neighbours but their Latin spirit is still evident such as in their love of football and in the tempestuous dance of the Tango. Argentina is three hours behind GMT. Remember in the summer the UK is one hour ahead of GMT and daylight savings is not in use in Argentina. They use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram. The international dialling code is +54.