Andes Crossing

10 Daysย  |ย  From ยฃpp

Argentina ( Best airport: Mendoza)

Dreaming of a great expedition on horseback?

This adventurous expedition on horseback crosses the famous Andes from Argentina to Chile. Follow the route taken by the Army of the Andes during the expedition to liberate Argentina, Chile and Peru from the control of the Spanish crown. This horse trek is a real expedition on horseback, with bivouacs in one of the most remote regions of the world, accessible only on horseback. You will cross the snow-capped peaks of the continent’s highest mountains, clear rivers and valleys of unspoilt nature. This is a completely self-supporting trek, with a new camp site almost every evening, surrounded by exceptional panoramas. A challenge for all riders, this expedition begins in Argentina and ends in Chile, following the traditional route across the Andes.

 

 

The Riding

During your expedition you will ride through the mountains of Patagonia.

Vegetation is sparse, but in the marshes and wetlands you can see a wide variety of birds. The lush green pastures brighten up the landscape, and in the distance you can spot herds of guanacos and curious condors.

Level of Riding and Fitness

This adventurous ride requires an advanced level of horsemanship. Although the pace is mainly at a walk, the terrain is steep and some of the paths are narrow. You must be able to ride for long hours, between 5 and 7 hours a day, and be able to get on and off your horse unaided. A certain level of fitness, stamina and tenacity is also required for the 7 nights camping in the middle of Patagonia. All your belongings for the 7 days in the mountains will be transported by mule, and facilities are basic.

Maximum rider weight: 90 kg.

Guides and Group Size

You’ll be accompanied by certified Argentinian guides, bilingual in English and Spanish, whose knowledge of the mountains knows no bounds, having crossed the Andes many times. You will also be joined by Argentine gauchos, known as gauchos baquianos, local guides and regional cowboys, for part of the ride.
Maximum 12 riders per group.

The Horses

You’ll be riding two different horses during your trek, as it’s not possible to cross the border into Chile with Argentinian horses. On the Argentinian side, you’ll be riding Peruvian horses known as Paso Peruvian, which are known for their gentle movements and have a fast, comfortable, lateral, four-stroke fourth gait. Once you have crossed the border into Chile, you will ride traditional horses from the Chilean countryside, known as Chilean Criollos.

Tack and Riding Equipment

You will ride in a very comfortable traditional mountain saddle, with a goatskin seat placed over the saddle for extra comfort.

Andes
Andes

Accommodation and Dining

The first and last nights will be spent in a hotel, in a room with a private bathroom. The hotel of your first night in Mendoza, Argentina has a swimming pool and a sauna.

During the hike, you will spend your 7 nights in a tent (2 people per tent, private tent possible with supplement). All camping equipment, such as sleeping bags, mattresses, etc. is provided. The campsite includes a large tent for dinner, with tables, folding chairs, lamps, gas stove, everything you need to cook a good dinner.

In the campsite, there is no shower, however, there will be water available to wash. The gaucho guides have a policy of leaving no trace in order to preserve the purity of the environment. The campsite is completely set up and taken down every evening and morning.

Get a free Andes Crossing mini-brochure in PDF format.

Itinerary

Andes Crossing

10 days / 9 nights / 6 riding
ยฃpp

Single occupancy ยฃ270

Departure with 2-3 riders may be possible at an additional cost.

2 riders – ยฃ760ย  per person

3 riders – ยฃ345 per person

Airport arrivals/departures and transport.

The nearest airport for arrival is Mendoza airport in Argentina. The nearest airport for departure is Santiago airport in Chile.

Please plan your flight to arrive before 7pm on the first day of your holiday. Please try to book return flights after 11am on the last day.

Price Includes
  • Airport transfers from Plumerillo de Mendoza airport to Mendoza
  • 2 nuits in a hotel
  • 7 nights camping
  • 5 to 8 hours of riding over 6 days
Price Excludes
  • Flights
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Tips