Horseback Riding Expedition from Argentina to Chile
Las Hornillas, Calingasta, San Juan Province / Argentina, and San Felipe Los Andes / Chile.
OVERVIEW
Amazing Horse Riding Tour Argentina / Chile
Get ready for an expedition that will take you through the greatness of the Andes and the epic history that surrounds them! In this adventure, you will follow in the footsteps of General Don José de San Martín, traversing the same route he took on his historic journey. From the towering mountain peaks to the deep valleys, you will immerse yourself in a journey full of natural beauty and historical significance.
Crossing the majestic Andes is more than just a simple trip; it’s an experience that awakens the adventurous and resilient spirit in every rider. Gazing upon the imposing snow-capped peaks, rivers, and valleys will remind you of the greatness of nature and the importance of perseverance.
As you journey through the Andes, you will face the challenges of weather and terrain, but you will also be rewarded with breathtaking views and the feeling of being immersed in a place where history intertwines with nature. Each step will bring you closer to understanding the magnitude of the epic lived by General San Martín, and each moment will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Saddle up, venture forth, and discover the greatness of the Andes as you immerse yourself in this exciting expedition full of history and wild nature!
Key information
Rider Weight Limit: 198 pounds / 90 kilograms.
Tack Type: Criollo saddle
Horse Breed: Mestizos
Highlights
Approximate daily riding time: 8 hours.
Ride to the col Espinacito pass over 4500 m and down to the Los Patos river.
Ride along the great slopes & valleys of the Andes mountain range, passing Patos Valley.
Venture and take up the highlands mountain summits of America.
9 nights accommodation.
Daily meals.
Skill level
Beginning, intermediate and advance.
8 days with instruction in English.
Organized by Trekking Travel
Trekking Travel Expeditions is a company of trekking and horseback riding holidays and expeditions in the Andes Mountain Range, Mendoza, Argentina.
The organizer also speaks: Spanish
10 days / 9 nights
From US$3,500
Select arrival date:
Monday December 9, 2024
Sunday January 5, 2025
Wednesday February 5, 2025
Tuesday December 9, 2025
Select your package:
1 person
Shared triple room
Shared tent – Double or triple occupancy
Accommodation
Throughout the program, you will be delighted with a variety of carefully chosen accommodations that guarantee a comfortable and memorable stay at every step of your adventure. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself completely in nature by staying at our exclusive campsites. Each lodging has been carefully selected to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Below, we provide a brief description of each one:
Ciudad de Mendoza
San Felipe
Campamentos Trekking Travel
Program
Trekking Travel invites you to explore a route that follows in the footsteps of General Don José de San Martín, a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your life and adventurous spirit. This expedition is not just a simple horseback ride; it is a transformative experience that marks a before and after in the life of any rider. Prepare to immerse yourself in a journey that combines the natural grandeur of the Andes with the historical richness of the region.
The program begins with a private vehicle transfer from the city of Mendoza to Manantiales in the province of San Juan, Argentina, the starting point of the horseback ride. Here, amidst the beauty of nature, you will prepare to ascend to the top of the Andes, where you will cross the border into Chile. Due to sanitary regulations, horses are not allowed to cross the border; therefore, we make an animal change at the international boundary to continue the journey on the Chilean side.
The descent towards the Los Patos Refuge in Chile will mark the end of the horseback journey. From there, you will be transferred by car to the town of San Felipe or Los Andes, where you will enjoy a farewell dinner while sharing the exciting stories of your journey.
Although nature may challenge your limits, at Trekking Travel, we take care to carefully plan every detail to provide you with a safe and memorable journey. Our logistical and organizational experience will allow you to fully enjoy this unique adventure.
At the end of the trip, you will return home with memories that will last a lifetime. From the majesty of the landscapes to the rich historical legacy, this horseback expedition is truly unforgettable, offering you the opportunity to experience the greatness of the Andes in its fullest splendor.
The highlights of this expedition are:
The majesty of the Andes.
The intrepid spirit of adventure.
The diversity of two countries and their unique cultures.
Due to its level of challenge, this experience is designed for experienced riders.
The Andes crossing spans 8 days of horseback riding, with a day of rest along the way to enjoy and relax amidst the Andean landscapes.
During this journey, you will ride for 6 to 8 hours each day and spend nights in tents, a rewarding challenge for adventure enthusiasts.
Of the total 9 nights of the program, seven will be spent in camps (set up by the logistical team of Trekking Travel), providing you with the opportunity to experience thrilling moments at sunset and sunrise, surrounded by the wild nature.
Itinerary
Day 1: Pre-day in Mendoza (750 meters)
Arrival at El Plumerillo Airport and transfer to a hotel in the city of Mendoza. In the afternoon, a representative from our company will visit your accommodation to check equipment, address any questions, and provide final recommendations. Rest of the day free.
Day 2: Mendoza (750 meters) – Hornillas – Manantiales (3,100 meters)
Transfer by vehicle from Mendoza to Manantiales Camp (approximately 350 km). Duration of the trip by car: 7 hours. Night in a tent.
You will start from the city of Mendoza by vehicle to the Uspallata Valley and later to Barreal. During the transfer, you will go through Potrerillos, Uspallata Valley, Pampa del Leoncito, and the town of Barreal, until arriving at Las Hornillas, a site located at the base of the Cordillera Frontal (Álvarez Condarco, province of San Juan). From Las Hornillas by 4×4 cars to Manantiales, you will wait for the arrieros with the horses, the mules, and all the necessary equipment for the expedition. At night, after a delicious dinner, spend the night in a tent and rest.
Distance Mendoza – Las Hornillas / Manantiales: 350 kilometers north of Mendoza approximately .
Duration of the trip by vehicle: 7 hours approximately.
Day 3: Manantiales (3,100 meters) – Los Hornitos (3,200 meters)
Wake up in Manantiales, where the ride begins. Crossing the Las Leñas river and night in Peñón Colorado (2 hours riding).
This will be the first day on horseback and in the middle of the Andes mountain range. You will arrive at El Peñón camp or Los Hornitos camp. Tonight, you will camp close to a stream, with a fertile plain and clear water. Dinner and overnight will be in the tent.
Distance: 9 kilometers
Riding time: 2 to 3 hours
Average speed: 3 kilometers per hour
Height gain: 974 meters
Day 4: Los Hornitos (3,200 meters) – Paso Espinacito (4,481 meters) – Vegas de Gallardo (3,050 meters)
Climb the Cuesta Espinacito, the highest point of the trip at 4500 meters. Camp in Vegas de Gallardo. Duration of the ride: 9 hours approx.
The fourth day begins the most intense day of the expedition. You will go up to where the Las Leñas River goes down. The road becomes increasingly rocky, crossing the same river several times. You will travel through the “Cordón del Espinacito”, passing a large mountain ridge, until reaching the pass at 4,500 meters. From this point, you will be able to delight in an astonishing panoramic view and contemplate the grandeur of Cerro Aconcagua and the entire mountain range that borders the frontier with Chile. You will descend from the Portezuelo and enter a valley. You will go through the Vegas of Yeso, through Vegas de Gallardo, and downstream, where you will arrive at the campsite.
Distance: 28 kilometers
Riding time: nine hours and 20 minutes
Average speed: 3 kilometers per hour
Height gain: 1,695 meters
Day 5: Vegas de Gallardo (3,050 meters) – Valle Hermoso (2,990 meters)
Horseback riding through the Valley of Los Patos. There will be a great view of Aconcagua. Camp in Valle Hermoso. Duration of the ride: 9 hours approx.
You will cross the Yeso hills and by following the path, you reach the imposing Valle de Los Patos. Passing by the Refugio de Gendarmería Nacional «Ingeniero Sardinas», you will continue your journey to the Valle Hermoso where you will set up camp and spend three nights. During the crossing, the highest mountain in America, Mount Aconcagua (6,962 meters) is present. You will also observe Cerro Alma Negra with a large glacier on its summit.
Distance: 22.18 kilometers
Riding time: 8 hours
Average speed: 4.1 kilometers per hour
Height gain: 266 meters
Day 6: Valle Hermoso (2,990 meters) – Rest day
The sixth day will be reserved for rest. You will walk to a neighboring camp where Chilean goatherds occasionally spend their summers with their goats (veranada) and make handmade cheeses. After lunch, you will go up the river to a sector where trout are often found. Following a small stream, you will reach a waterfall where you can bathe. Dinner will be chivito on the grill with salads. Night in a tent and rest.
Day 7: Valle Hermoso Arg. (2,990 meters) – International border Argentina / Chile (3,518 meters) – Camp El Ciénego Chile (2,700 meters)
Crossing the Cordillera de Los Andes, tour through the valleys of Aconcagua and Putaendo. This was the path made by General San Martín together with the army of Los Andes in 1817. This is where the border crossing between Argentina and Chile is. Tour participants will exchange Argentine horses for Chilean horses.
The cavalcade continues its march westward and you will arrive at the border with Chile (border of Argentina – Chile) where you observe a reminder of the Sanmartiniana epic and the milestone which indicates the border between both countries. You will arrive at the most desired point of the expedition, «cross the limit», and in the middle of the mountain range, Trekking Travel will offer and share an emotional picnic lunch.
At this point, it will be necessary to change horses. Due to phytosanitary restrictions, it’s not allowed to bring horses from other countries into Chile. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the Chilean “huasos” and arrieros who will accompany you as guides for the next 3 days.
We will continue our horseback journey alongside Laguna Escondida until we reach our next destination, the campsite known as El Ciénego. Along the way, we will stop at the carabineros post in Las Vegas del Ciénago to complete customs procedures and go through the border control with the Chilean authorities. Dinner and night in a tent.
Round trip: 21.06 kilometers
Riding time: six hours and 30 minutes
Average speed: 3.7 kilometers per hour
Height gain: 586 meters
Day 8: Vegas del Cienago (2600 meters) – La Colorada (3500 meters) – Los Maitenes (2200 meters)
Riding along the basins of the Pacific Ocean and the canyon of the Rocin River. Camp Los Maitenes.
After having breakfast, we continue the expedition following the course of the Rocín River. Leaving Lagunitas behind, we will cross this river twice and ascend a slope of 1000 meters to reach La Colorada Pass, located at 3500 meters above sea level. From there, you will enjoy a spectacular view of the Andes Mountains, the Coastal Range, and the central valleys of Chile. After a well-deserved rest, we will ride downstream along the Chalaco River, where you can appreciate the local vegetation, including small bushes typical of the high Andean region, such as the «cuerno de chivo,» thorny bushes, and the striking yareta. In the afternoon, we will arrive at the «Los Maitenes» campsite. Dinner, night in tents, and rest.
Round trip: 20.9 kilometers
Riding time: 6 hours
Positive gradient: 309 m
Negative slope: 1,164 m
Day 9 : Los Maitenes – Resguardo Los Patos (1,100 meters) – San Felipe
After breakfast, we start the last day on horseback of this incredible expedition. We will ride alongside the Rocín River, descending towards the Los Patos Reserve. Along the way, you will notice that the trees grow taller and the vegetation becomes denser after several days of journeying. We’ll enjoy a light lunch as we continue our ride. In Los Patos, the Chilean international police will review your documents and luggage. Finally, we’ll transfer by private vehicle to the Chilean town of Los Andes. We’ll spend the night in a hotel in San Felipe or Los Andes and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Round trip: 23.92 kilometers
Riding time: 5 hours 52 minutes
Positive slope: 184 m
Negative gradient: 802 m
Day 10: San Felipe – End of services
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, taking your time to reminisce about all the landscapes and experiences you’ve had during this trip. Here concludes our services. If you wish, we can arrange an additional transfer at an extra cost to Santiago de Chile or Mendoza (please inquire about availability and rates).
IMPORTANT: The itinerary may undergo changes due to various circumstances, while maintaining the duration of days and hours on horseback.
Geographical features
The geographical features of the trails are simply breathtaking. You will venture into the High Andes Mountain Range, where the most imposing peaks of the Central Andes rise. Here, you will find yourself surrounded by mountains that surpass 6,000 meters in height, such as Cerros Ramada (6,300 m), Mercedario (6,700 m), and Mesa (6,200 m), all adorned with majestic glaciers highlighting their slopes. However, the true star is the imposing Aconcagua peak.
Standing at almost 7,000 meters in height, Aconcagua rises as the supreme guardian of the Andes and will serve as the backdrop for your journey. During the thrilling horseback ride, you will ascend and descend through three mountain ranges: the challenging Espinacito Pass, at 4,400 meters high; the Border Range, at 3,500 meters; and La Colorada, also at 3,500 meters on the Chilean side.
Despite the sparse vegetation at these altitudes, you will witness a surprising diversity of birds inhabiting the wetlands along the way. The lush green meadows will add a touch of color to the landscape, while spotting herds of guanacos in the distance and majestic condors soaring nearby will not be uncommon.
Observing the native flora and fauna of the high mountains, along with the opportunity to gaze at the stars in the night sky of San Juan, will truly add a charming touch to your adventure.
Description of the saddle, bridle, and bit – Necesito información para poder armar el texto.
Education and training of the horses – Necesito información para poder armar el texto.
About Trekking Travel’s horses
The horse is one of the animals whose presence is most common in universal folklore. A friend and companion of humans since the most remote prehistory, its life is linked to theirs by the firmest bond, that of friendship. For our gauchos, the horse has been the most important means of transportation and work.
Breed: «mixed» and «criollo».
Age: between 7 and 17 years old.
Average height (at the withers): between 145 cm and 160 cm approx.
Maximum weight limit for our clients: 110 kg.
Pace: slow and moderate.
Hours traveled per day: between 4 and 8 hours (around 20 km).
Cordilleran horses are comfortable and docile. They withstand many hours of work without danger in severe conditions, being calm and strong. The character, independence, and rusticity of these horses contrast with limitless generosity. Their ability to adapt to the toughest conditions makes the «mixed» horse ideal for leisure and adventure riding.
The horses used for horseback riding are gentle and adapt to the rider, whether experienced or inexperienced. Their behavior depends on who rides them, according to the orders they receive. They have a very particular communication and contact; after a short time with them, the horse will know if it will be the one leading the march (slow, calm, and safe) or the dominant rider who orders and demands in different situations.
Your safety while riding
The horses we use are gentle and accustomed to mountainous terrain. Due to the unevenness of the trail, they can only walk at a leisurely pace. Each horse is unique, with a stable temperament, and is trained for equestrian activities.
During the expedition, you will always be under the supervision of a guide and at least one other member of the Trekking Travel team. At the start of the first day of horseback riding, the guide will instruct you on safety precautions and proper behavior to ensure the safety of both you and your horse in potentially risky situations.
Members of the Trekking Travel team always carry a satellite phone, emergency first aid kit, and have knowledge of first aid. However, it is worth noting that participants in any adventure tourism activity (including horseback riding or horseback routes) are active individuals and consequently prone to unexpected injuries. Medical facilities may not be readily available during part or all of the expedition, as it takes place in natural spaces distant from urban centers.
Location
Mendoza
Mendoza stands out as a significant hub in Argentina, being the country’s fourth largest urban area and a strategic point for MERCOSUR development and connection with Chile.
Situated next to the towering Andes mountains, it serves as a gateway to the Pacific Ocean, enjoying pleasant weather thanks to the mountain range’s protection. With its Oasis City appearance, Mendoza offers exceptional quality of life with its green spaces, tree-lined streets, and irrigation channels, including a 510-hectare park named after General San Martín.
The city is accessible by air through Francisco Gabrielli International Airport and by land via National Routes Nº 40 and 7, connecting it to the entire country and Chile.
With a vibrant cultural and artistic scene, including theaters, museums, and art galleries, as well as lively nightlife with pubs, dance venues, and entertainment, Mendoza is the perfect starting point to explore the province’s tourist attractions, such as the Wine Roads, mountains, rivers, hot springs, and natural reserves.
Internationally recognized as the 8th World Wine Capital and part of the World Wine Cities Network, Mendoza offers a unique wine experience, highlighting its iconic Malbec variety.
For all these reasons, the city of Mendoza invites visitors to reconnect with nature, history, and new friendships, providing an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Uspallata Valley
The Uspallata Valley, located between 1900 and 2500 meters above sea level and 100 kilometers from Mendoza, used to be just a transit area for travelers heading to Chile or Mendoza. However, today it offers a wide range of activities for adventure and leisure tourism enthusiasts, such as fishing, trekking, hiking, horseback riding, and photographic tours.
This extensive valley divides the foothills from the high mountains and is nestled in the Cordón del Plata, providing a spectacular backdrop for all these activities. Crossed by the Mendoza River and the San Alberto and Uspallata streams, its landscape enchants both passing travelers and tourists who choose it as a destination.
The village of Uspallata is truly charming, with wide streets and typical high mountain forestation, highlighted by beautiful tree-lined avenues along crystal-clear streams. It also offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, emphasizing the eternal whiteness of the Cordillera del Tigre.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Uspallata Valley has remarkable historical significance, being a key location in the San Martín campaign. Here, in January 1817, two of the six columns that were part of the liberation epic met: the one commanded by Juan Gregorio de Las Heras, which crossed into Chile through the Uspallata Pass; and that of General Don José de San Martín, who continued north to cross through the Los Patos Pass in San Juan.
Pampa del Leoncito
The Pampa del Leoncito, also known as Barreal Blanco, is located in the Calingasta department, in the southwest of the province of San Juan, Argentina. This vast plain, approximately 10 kilometers long by 3 kilometers wide, is situated about 20 kilometers from the town of Barreal and offers an impressive view of the imposing Andes Mountains.
Known for its nearly horizontal terrain and strong winds, the Pampa del Leoncito is an ideal place for practicing land sailing, an exciting sport where speeds of up to 120 km/h can be reached due to the force of the wind and the proximity to the ground.
The climate in the area is dry, with annual precipitation of around 100 mm, concentrated mainly in the summer. Despite its aridity, occasionally the Pampa del Leoncito is completely covered with water, a result of torrential rains and runoff from the Sierra del Tontal, on the eastern edge of the plain.
This place, described as «magical» by many travelers, offers a unique experience for those seeking adventure and contact with nature. Whether it’s to enjoy the spectacular sunrise or sunset, or to gaze at the starry sky in the tranquility of the night, the Pampa del Leoncito captivates with its beauty and serenity.
Barreal
Barreal is a picturesque town located in the Calingasta department, in the province of San Juan, Argentina. Surrounded by the imposing Andes Mountains, this charming village is known for its natural beauty and its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
Strategically located about 230 kilometers from San Juan and 220 from Mendoza, Barreal serves as a gateway to both nature and regional history. With the imposing Mercedario mountain as a backdrop and the winding Patos River accompanying it, this town seduces with its lush vegetation and pure air.
With unique hospitality and a rich history, Barreal captivates those who visit it with its rustic charm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether exploring its trails, participating in outdoor activities, or simply relaxing and enjoying the serenity of the surroundings, this town is a perfect choice for those seeking tranquility and adventure amidst spectacular landscapes.
Resguardo los Patos
Resguardo de los Patos, located just over 125 km from Santiago and about 25 kilometers from Putaendo in the Province of San Felipe, Chile, offers a captivating landscape and a rich history.
Along the route, bordered by the Putaendo River, one can appreciate breathtaking views of the valley. At the entrance of the trail are the historical ruins of Chalaco, witnesses to the past of ancient local communities. The path is wide, lightly trafficked, and surrounded by vegetation such as cacti and thorns.
Resguardo de los Patos is home to a diverse fauna, including condors, guanacos, foxes, and pumas, and offers special places for camping and taking a break during the journey.
The climate varies depending on the time of year, from the hot 40°C in January to the cooler temperatures of 19°C in June.
This place is a true gem for nature and history enthusiasts amidst an impressive mountainous environment.
San Felipe
San Felipe de Aconcagua, better known as San Felipe, is a city located in the Valparaíso Region in the Central Zone of Chile. The commune is the capital of the province of San Felipe de Aconcagua and was founded on August 3rd, 1740. With a population close to 75,000 inhabitants, San Felipe offers an impressive view to the east, with the majestic Andes Mountains on the horizon. The Aconcagua River winds through the valley, flowing from the mountains to its mouth in the Pacific Ocean. The neighboring city of Los Andes is about 17 kilometers away.
The climate of San Felipe and its surroundings is typically temperate, with a dry and hot summer characterized by high solar radiation, followed by a rainy, cloudy, and cold winter. The average annual temperature is approximately 15°C.
The economy of San Felipe is mainly based on the tertiary sector, with a strong presence of services from both the public and private sectors. This boom is reflected in the significant increase in educational institutions, such as schools and universities, as well as in the establishment of businesses, banks, supermarkets, and department stores.
Immersing oneself in the historic center is like embarking on a journey through time. The cobblestone streets and colonial houses with wrought iron balconies transport us to past eras, revealing the different stages that the city has gone through. Each corner tells its own story, from the first settlements to the events that marked milestones in San Felipe’s history.
The connection between the past and the present becomes palpable as one ventures into the historical heart of the city. Local businesses, housed in centuries-old buildings, bring a vibrant modernity to this historic journey. Coffee bars, boutiques, and craft shops intertwine with classical architecture, creating a charming atmosphere where each corner tells a different story. The Plaza de Armas, the majestic Cathedral, the Historical Museum, and the Municipal Market are just some of the main attractions worth visiting.
Food
The menu for our expeditions is varied and perfectly designed to transport supplies on muleback.
Breakfasts and snacks vary from «mate», homemade bread and toast on the coals, sweetened condensed milk and fruit jam, tea, coffee, milk, sweet and savory biscuits.
Lunches are light as we need to continue riding afterward. We prepare sandwiches with cold cuts and cheese, «milanesa», assortments of salami, ham, and other cold cuts, tuna or mackerel fish, olives, homemade bread, mayonnaise, fruits, and juice as a beverage.
Dinners are plentiful and tasty: «asado» or «grilled chicken», «stewed meat», pasta with tomato sauce, spring rice, etc., plus lettuce and tomato salads, homemade bread, vegetable soups, seasonal fruits, wines from Mendoza, and juice.
For breakfast and dinner at restaurants, it depends on each establishment’s menu, but we ensure that options cater to specific requirements.
If you have a special diet (celiac, diabetes, food allergies, vegetarians, etc.), please inform Trekking Travel when making the reservation so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
The following meals are included:
Breakfast
Lunch
Snack
Dinner
Collations
The following drinks are included:
Water
Juice
Coffee
Tea
Milk
Mate
Wine (at dinners).
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
Vegetarian
Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
Other dietary requirements on request
If you have special dietary requirements it’s a good idea to communicate it to the organizer when making a reservation.
What’s included:
Transfer Airport / City of Mendoza.
9 nights accommodation.
8 days of horse riding sessions with instruction (including a rest day).
Tame horses with mounts.
All meals and drinks during the development of the horseback program.
Professional instructor guide (“baquianos” and “arrieros” permanently).
Complete camping team (tents, kitchen utensils, crockery, etc.).
First aid kit.
Saddlebags.
Satellite telephony for emergencies (does not include private calls).
Personal accident insurance.
Transportation of personal equipment on mules (up to 10 kilograms per person).
Transfer from Mendoza to the starting point of the ride (Manantiales – San Juan).
Transfer from the end of the ride to San Felipe – Chile.
What’s not included:
Sleeping bag.
Personal equipment (clothing, etc.).
Meals not stipulated in the program.
Drinks in restaurants.
Personal expenses such as telephone calls, tips, laundry, etc.
Any cost derived from the abandonment of the program ahead of time.
Rescue expenses.
Medical or air evacuation expenses.
Insurance or medical assistance.
How to get there
Recommended Airports:
MDZ – Gov. Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (El Plumerillo).
8 km
Transfer included
Arrival by airplane
Arrival by Plane Please arrange your flight to arrive at Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (MDZ). Flights must be booked separately. Arrival and departure dates depend on the chosen program’s start and end dates. You must book your flights yourself and choose the airline that you believe is best for you. If you need advice or any recommendations, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Cancellation Policy
A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
The rest of the payment should be paid on arrival.