From El Calafate: Estancia Horseback Riding and Boat Tour

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia with an exciting 11-hour excursion from El Calafate. This comprehensive tour combines a scenic boat trip across Lake Argentino, where you’ll marvel at the majestic icebergs and towering mountains, with a guided horseback ride through the picturesque Cristina Valley, led by a knowledgeable bilingual Gaucho. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot local wildlife and explore the Costumbrista Museum, offering a unique blend of adventure and cultural discovery. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking to learn about the natural beauty of this remarkable region, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In El Calafate.

Key Points

• This 11-hour excursion from El Calafate includes a panoramic sailing on Lake Argentino and a guided horseback ride through Cristina Valley.
• The tour provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, a visit to the Costumbrista Museum, and lunch near Lago Pearson.
• Participants must adhere to weight and age restrictions for safety and enjoyment, and liability waivers are required.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve a spot without immediate payment.
• Recommended items include comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and ample water, and the tour may be rescheduled due to strong winds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Estancia Horseback Riding and Boat Tour from El Calafate is an 11-hour excursion that costs from €314.37 per person.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve your spot without payment.

The activity includes a panoramic sailing on Lake Argentino, a guided horseback ride through Cristina Valley, and a visit to the Costumbrista Museum.

This comprehensive experience showcases the stunning landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.

While the tour is open to most participants, there are some weight and age restrictions in place to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Itinerary and Experience

Participants begin their 11-hour excursion with a hotel pickup in El Calafate, followed by a transfer to the Puerto Punta Bandera port.

At 9:00 AM, they embark on a panoramic sailing journey across Lake Argentino to the Upsala Channel. Upon disembarking at Estancia Cristina, guests enjoy a guided horseback ride through the Cristina Valley, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and cross rivers amidst stunning mountain views.

The experience also includes:

1. Visiting the Costumbrista Museum to learn about the Masters family and Patagonia’s history.
2. Birdwatching for species like the Common and Royal Goose, Black Necked Swan, Coscoroba Swan, and Spectacled Duck.
3. Lunch near Lago Pearson.
4. The return boat trip to El Calafate, arriving at around 5 PM.

Highlights and Activities

Panoramic views of icebergs, mountains, and the glacial valley captivate visitors throughout the excursion. Guests embark on a 4-hour horseback ride through the stunning scenery of Los Glaciares National Park, accompanied by a bilingual Gaucho guide. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of Patagonian birds, including Common and Royal Goose, Black Necked Swan, Coscoroba Swan, and Spectacled Duck. Lunch is served near the scenic Lago Pearson. The highlights of the tour are summarized in the table below:

Highlights	Details
Panoramic Sailing	Upsala Channel on Lake Argentino
Horseback Riding	4-hour guided tour in Cristina Valley
Wildlife Spotting	Diverse bird species
Costumbrista Museum	Learn about the Masters family and Patagonia’s history

Requirements and Restrictions

There are a few important requirements and restrictions for this excursion.

Participants mustn’t exceed a weight limit of 95 kg (209 lbs). The activity isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or those over 75.

Children aged 6 to 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

Plus, the following individuals should avoid this tour:

1. Those with a fear of heights or horses
2. People with medical conditions that could be exacerbated by physical activity
3. Visitors who can’t follow safety instructions
4. Guests unwilling to sign liability waivers

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Preparation and Recommendations

Travelers should prepare by bringing comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and ample water for the day’s activities.

The tour provides all necessary security equipment like helmets. However, visitors are responsible for covering the national park entrance fee, buying snacks during the sailing, and bringing any personal gear they might need.

It’s important to note that the tour may be rescheduled due to strong winds, and notification will be provided the day before by 5 PM.

With proper preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the panoramic views, horseback riding, and wildlife sightings that this Estancia Horseback Riding and Boat Tour from El Calafate offers.

Pickup and Transfer

Departing from their hotels in El Calafate, travelers are transferred to the Puerto Punta Bandera port to begin their Estancia Horseback Riding and Boat Tour.

The journey takes guests through the picturesque Patagonian landscape, offering a taste of the region’s natural beauty. The transfer sets the stage for a day filled with exciting activities, including:

1. A panoramic sailing on Lake Argentino to the Upsala Channel.
2. A guided horseback ride through the stunning Cristina Valley.
3. Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, such as geese, swans, and ducks.
4. A visit to the Costumbrista Museum to learn about the area’s history and culture.

Equipped with high-quality gear and led by knowledgeable guides, travelers embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Patagonia.

Panoramic Sailing

After the transfer, guests embark on a panoramic sailing on Lake Argentino towards the Upsala Channel.

The journey begins at 9:00 AM, providing a breathtaking opportunity to witness the stunning glacial landscapes. As the boat glides across the turquoise waters, guests can marvel at the towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and enchanting icebergs that dot the lake.

This serene cruise offers unparalleled views of the natural wonders that define Patagonia’s rugged beauty.

Throughout the sailing, guests can keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including the majestic Common and Royal Geese, Black Necked Swans, Coscoroba Swans, and Spectacled Ducks.

Guided Horseback Ride

Disembarking from the panoramic sailing, guests are led on a guided horseback ride through the Cristina Valley within Los Glaciares National Park.

Along the way, a bilingual Gaucho guide provides commentary, offering unique insights into the region’s history and wildlife.

The horseback ride presents opportunities to:

1. Traverse rivers and bridges, immersing riders in the natural landscape.
2. Spot diverse birdlife, including Common and Royal Geese, Black Necked and Coscoroba Swans, and Spectacled Ducks.
3. Enjoy breathtaking vistas of mountains and the glacial valley.
4. Learn about the Patagonian heritage at the Costumbrista Museum.

The 4-hour horseback adventure culminates with a return boat trip to El Calafate, capping off an unforgettable day of exploring the wonders of Argentinian Patagonia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour is suitable for both private and small group experiences, as it does not have any specified maximum group size.

Can I Bring My Own Horse for the Horseback Ride?

No, participants cannot bring their own horses for the horseback riding portion of the tour. The tour provides the horses and a bilingual Gaucho guide to lead the ride through the Cristina Valley in Los Glaciares National Park.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

The activity doesn’t offer any discounted packages, but it does provide a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot without payment and pay later.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Horseback Ride?

The tour allows guests to extend the duration of the horseback ride, but this will incur additional costs. Travelers can consult with the tour operator about options to customize the experience and pricing for a longer ride.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows for last-minute changes to travel plans without penalty.

Recap

This Patagonian excursion offers a unique blend of natural beauty and culture. Sailing across the majestic Lake Argentino, marveling at icebergs and mountains, then embarking on a guided horseback ride through the picturesque Cristina Valley, spotting wildlife, and visiting a local museum – it’s an experience that perfectly captures the essence of Patagonia. This tour provides a well-rounded adventure for those seeking to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and traditional way of life.

You can check if your dates are available here: