Full Day Ride at the Foot of the Andes

Nestled at the base of the majestic Andes Mountains in Mendoza, Argentina, this full-day horseback riding adventure offers a captivating blend of natural splendor and culture. Rated 5.0 by participants, the small-group tour provides personalized experiences tailored to each rider’s skill level, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Beyond the stunning scenery, the day includes authentic Argentinian cuisine, including a traditional barbecue lunch, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or a first-time rider, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression, inviting you to further discover the rich tapestry of the Argentine countryside.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Mendoza.

Key Points

• Enjoy the stunning Mendoza landscapes, including the majestic Andes mountain range, on a full-day horseback riding experience.
• Enjoy an authentic Argentinian culinary journey, with a traditional barbecue lunch, freshly baked empanadas, and other local delicacies.
• Explore the diverse terrain, from rolling foothills to lush meadows and arid desert landscapes, accompanied by knowledgeable guides.
• Personalized experiences tailored to individual skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride for beginners and experienced riders alike.
• Discover local wildlife, such as guanacos and rheas, and gain insights into the culture and traditions of the Argentine countryside.

Overview of the Experience

This full-day horseback riding experience at the foot of the Andes in Mendoza, Argentina, offers guests the opportunity to explore the region’s stunning landscapes on horseback.

With an overall 5.0 rating from 64 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this small-group tour is capped at 12 people, making it ideal for beginners. Guests can enjoy personalized experiences as horses are matched to their experience level.

The itinerary includes pickup from Mendoza or Valle de Uco, a scenic 2-hour drive to the ranch, Argentinian breakfast, traditional barbecue lunch, and snacks.

Private transportation and personal helmets are provided, ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The full-day experience begins with pickup from any location around Mendoza city or Valle de Uco at 8:00 am, followed by a scenic 2-hour drive to the ranch. Upon arrival, guests are treated to an Argentinian breakfast, traditional barbecue lunch, and snacks throughout the day. Private transportation is provided, and personal helmets are available for all riders.

Inclusions	Details
Pickup and Transportation	Pickup from Mendoza or Valle de Uco, 2-hour scenic drive to the ranch, private transportation
Meals	Argentinian breakfast, traditional barbecue lunch, and snacks
Equipment	Personal helmets available for all riders
Group Size	Small-group tour capped at 12 people
Duration	Full-day experience

Highlights of the Ride

Guests can expect to explore the stunning landscapes of Mendoza on horseback, seeing the region’s natural beauty at the foot of the Andes.

Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to interact with local wildlife and ranch animals, encountering a variety of flora and fauna.

Complementing the scenic vistas, the experience includes authentic Argentinian meals prepared from fresh, local produce. Guests can savor a traditional barbecue lunch, as well as a hearty Argentinian breakfast and snacks throughout the day.

The relaxed pace of the tour allows for a personalized experience, with no strict schedule, enabling participants to fully enjoy the culture and landscape of this stunning region.

Guest Testimonials

Guests’ praise for the hospitable hosts and exceptional meals, particularly the asado (barbecue), underscores the positive experiences shared during the full-day horseback riding adventure.

Many reviewers highlighted the breathtaking scenery and well-cared-for horses, creating an immersive and authentic connection with the Mendoza landscape.

The welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to share meals with the guides were also noted as highlights, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

While a few guests mentioned issues with booking and communication, the overall quality of the experience was emphasized, cementing the tour’s reputation as a must-do activity for those seeking to explore the Argentine countryside on horseback.

Accessibility and Recommendations

Notably, the experience is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. However, the tour is suitable for all skill levels, making it a great way to experience the Argentine landscape and culture.

To provide more guidance, here are some key recommendations:

Consideration	Insight
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Group Size	Small-group tour capped at 12 people for a more personalized experience.
Attire	Comfortable, closed-toe shoes recommended for riding.
Age Suitability	Suitable for adults and children, with horses matched to experience level.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The horseback riding experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the tour. Travelers can easily modify or cancel their bookings if their plans change, providing them with added flexibility.

The booking process is straightforward:

• Guests can reserve their spot online or by contacting the tour operator directly.

• Payment is required at the time of booking to secure the reservation.

• For those who need to make changes, the team is responsive and accommodating.

• The free cancellation policy ensures that travelers aren’t penalized for unforeseen circumstances.

This level of convenience and customer-centric approach makes booking the full-day ride a stress-free experience, allowing guests to focus on the adventure that awaits them at the foot of the Andes.

Scenic Landscapes of Mendoza

Riders are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the Andes mountain range as they traverse the diverse landscapes of Mendoza on horseback.

The experience takes them through rolling foothills, lush meadows, and arid desert terrain, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Along the way, they’ll encounter local wildlife like guanacos and rheas, as well as have the opportunity to interact with the ranch’s animals.

The relaxed pace of the ride allows guests to fully enjoy the serene surroundings, taking in the majestic vistas and capturing unforgettable memories.

With no strict schedule, the tour provides a personalized experience tailored to each rider’s interests and comfort level.

Authentic Argentinian Cuisine

Complementing the stunning scenery, riders can expect to savor authentic Argentinian cuisine throughout the day’s experience. Freshly prepared meals showcase the region’s high-quality local produce, featuring a traditional asado (barbecue) lunch as the culinary highlight.

The menu includes:

• Argentinian breakfast spread with freshly baked empanadas, yerba mate tea, and seasonal fruit

• Hearty asado of grilled meats, sausages, and vegetables, accompanied by chimichurri sauce and homemade bread

• Locally sourced snacks and refreshments to fuel the horseback riding adventure

• Sweet treats like alfajores (shortbread cookies) and dulce de leche for a post-ride indulgence

These authentic flavors perfectly complement the immersive cultural experience of exploring Mendoza’s landscapes on horseback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Horse for the Ride?

Unfortunately, guests are not able to bring their own horses for this experience. The tour provides well-trained horses matched to each rider’s skill level. This ensures a safe and enjoyable ride for all participants.

How Much Time Is Spent Riding Versus Other Activities?

The full-day horseback riding experience allocates approximately 3-4 hours for riding through the scenic landscapes, with the remaining time spent on other activities like enjoying Argentinian meals, interacting with local wildlife, and experiencing the ranch’s relaxed atmosphere.

Is There a Weight Limit for Riders?

There is typically a weight limit of around 250 pounds for horseback riding experiences. This ensures the safety and comfort of both the rider and the horse. Many tour operators will require participants to provide their weight prior to booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Certain Interests?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows guests to customize the itinerary to focus on their interests, such as wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, or specific landscapes. This helps ensure a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Ride for an Additional Fee?

Yes, the tour operator typically offers the option to extend the horseback riding experience for an additional fee. Guests can inquire about adding extra riding time or exploring the surrounding area in more depth.

Recap

This full-day horseback riding tour in Mendoza, Argentina, offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the breathtaking Andes backdrop while immersing oneself in the region’s authentic cuisine and local wildlife.

With personalized attention and a range of skill levels accommodated, it’s a perfect way for adventurers to explore the Argentine countryside in a relaxed and intimate setting.

Stunning scenery, delectable dining, and a 5.0 rating from previous participants make this tour a must-do for any visitor to Mendoza.