6-Day Andes Crossing From Mendoza to Chile by Horse

Traversing the majestic Andes on horseback is a thrilling way to experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Argentina and Chile. This 6-day adventure from Mendoza to Santiago promises an unforgettable journey, as trekkers climb to altitudes of 6,000 meters, relax in mineral water baths, and enjoy local gaucho traditions. With personalized service and small group sizes, adventurers can expect a seamless and memorable expedition through the heart of the Andes. What awaits those who embark on this crossing is a true test of endurance and a profound appreciation for the natural wonders that span the border between these two captivating countries.

Key Points

• This 6-day horseback adventure crosses the Andes mountains from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile, reaching altitudes up to 6,000 meters.
• The itinerary includes horseback riding, camping, wildlife spotting, and culture with local stories and gaucho activities.
• The tour starts with a gear check and group gathering in Mendoza, followed by a major 8-hour climb to Portillo Argentino (4,380 meters).
• Participants can enjoy an active rest day with options for short hikes or learning gaucho skills before crossing into Chile via the Piuquenes pass (4,030 meters).
• The tour concludes with a transfer from Cajon del Maipo to Santiago, allowing time to explore the capital city’s attractions.

Overview of the Tour

This 7-day horseback adventure takes travelers on a remarkable journey from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile, traversing the breathtaking Andes mountains.

Reaching altitudes up to 6,000 meters, the tour offers an immersive experience with horseback riding, camping, and wildlife spotting.

Accommodating small groups, the tour provides personalized service and excellent value for money, making it family-friendly and romantic for couples.

Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy stunning mountain views, local stories, and traditional gaucho activities, creating an unforgettable adventure across the Andes.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary is packed with highlights, beginning with the arrival in Mendoza where travelers check their equipment and gather as a group before driving to the renowned Manzano Histórico wine region.

On day two, the group climbs the 4,380-meter Portillo Argentino, riding for 8 hours before settling in at the Refugio Real de la Cruz for local stories and songs.

The third day offers a chance to rest or learn gaucho skills. Next, they ride to Caletón, possibly enjoying a mineral water bath before camping under the stars.

Arrival and Preparation

Travelers arrive in Mendoza, the starting point of the Andes Crossing by Horse adventure. They meet their group and tour guides for an equipment check and group meeting.

The tour starts with a drive to the Manzano Histórico, a popular wine region in Mendoza. Guests have the option to arrive a day early and enjoy an extra night’s stay in Mendoza before the expedition begins.

This allows them to rest and ensure they’ve all the necessary gear and apparel for the challenging terrain and high altitudes they’ll encounter in the Andes.

The tour is meticulously planned to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Crossing the Argentinian Andes

On the second day, the group embarks on their first major climb, tackling the Portillo Argentino at an impressive elevation of 4,380 meters. The ride lasts 8 hours, testing the riders’ endurance. That night, they overnight at Refugio Real de la Cruz, where they enjoy local stories and songs around the campfire.

Day	Elevation	Duration	Activities
2	4,380 m	8 hours	Climb Portillo Argentino, overnight at Refugio Real de la Cruz
3	–	–	Active rest day, short hike or gaucho skills demonstration
4	–	–	Ride to Caleón, potential mineral water bath, campfire under stars
5	4,030 m	–	Cross into Chile at Piuquenes step, change horses, drive to Cajón del Maipo

Rest and Relaxation

Midway through the challenging trek, travelers enjoy a well-deserved respite on the third day. This active rest day provides a chance to recharge before the final stretch.

Participants can choose to go on a short hike or partake in a demonstration of traditional gaucho skills. These activities allow them to appreciate the local culture and lifestyle while giving their bodies a break from the rigors of horseback riding.

The day also includes time for relaxation, whether it’s enjoying the scenic surroundings or indulging in a soak in a mineral water bath. This pause in the itinerary ensures travelers are refreshed and ready to tackle the remaining days of the Andes crossing.

Entering Chile

The fifth day marks the transition into Chile, as the group crosses the Piuquenes pass (4,030 m) from Argentina. This high-altitude border crossing requires changing horses to ensure fresh mounts.

After the crossing, the ride continues down into the Cajón del Maipo region, where the group will stay in cozy cabins for the night. The farewell dinner provides a chance to reflect on the incredible journey and the stunning landscapes witnessed throughout the Andes.

With the adventure now in Chile, the travelers can look forward to the final leg of their horseback odyssey, before transferring to Santiago on the last day.

Reaching Santiago

After the farewell dinner in the Cajón del Maipo region, the group transfers to Santiago on the final day of the adventure.

The transfer to Chile’s vibrant capital takes about an hour. Once in Santiago, travelers have the option to return to Mendoza or explore the city independently.

Santiago offers a dynamic mix of modern architecture, cultural attractions, and bustling markets. Participants can visit landmarks like the Palacio de la Moneda, Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral, or the lively Mercado Central.

With the horseback adventure now complete, the tour concludes, leaving participants with memories of their journey across the stunning Andes mountains.

Essential Recommendations

Arriving prepared is key to a successful Andes crossing by horse. It’s recommended to arrive a day early to check your equipment and get acclimatized.

Proper clothing is essential – pack polypropylene underwear, fleece, windproof jackets, trekking pants, gloves, hat, and thick socks.

The tour provides travel insurance covering rescue, hospitalization, and medical costs, but travelers should review their coverage.

With small group sizes, the tour offers personalized service. Clients praise the professional guides, excellent organization, and breathtaking landscapes.

Families and couples alike will find the adventure both thrilling and value-packed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Horse for the Tour?

No, bringing one’s own horse is not allowed for this tour. The tour provides the horses, and participants are expected to ride the horses supplied by the tour company for the duration of the 7-day horseback adventure.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for this horseback riding tour. The tour is family-friendly and suitable for participants of all ages, as long as they’re comfortable with horseback riding and the physical demands of the high-altitude trek.

What Emergency Medical Facilities Are Available During the Trek?

There are emergency medical supplies carried on the trek, and the guides are trained in first aid. Plus, the tour includes travel insurance covering rescue, hospitalization, and medical costs in case of emergencies during the adventure.

Can I Extend My Stay in Either Mendoza or Santiago?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in either Mendoza or Santiago. The tour package includes one night in each city, but additional nights can be booked for an extra fee through the tour company.

Is There an Option to Do Just a Portion of the Crossing?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility. Travelers can choose to do just a portion of the Andes crossing by horse. This allows them to experience the highlights of the route without completing the full 7-day itinerary.

Recap

This breathtaking 6-day Andes crossing from Mendoza, Argentina to Chile is a one-of-a-kind adventure. Traversing stunning mountain trails and reaching high altitudes, riders will be treated to personalized service and small group experiences. Highlights include climbing Portillo Argentino, relaxing in mineral water baths, and immersing in local gaucho traditions. Concluding the journey with a transfer to Santiago, travelers will leave with unforgettable memories of the majestic Andes.