Mendoza Horseback Riding Tour With Traditional Argentine Asado

Mendoza, Argentina, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and world-class vineyards. Now, visitors can experience the region’s captivating landscapes in an immersive way – by embarking on a full-day horseback riding tour through the breathtaking Uco Valley. This adventure not only showcases the area’s dramatic mountain vistas but also introduces travelers to the traditional Argentine ‘asado’ barbecue, a culinary tradition that celebrates the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. From the thrilling ride to the authentic dining experience, this tour promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and cultural exploration that will leave you eager to uncover more of what Mendoza has to offer.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day horseback riding tour in Mendoza’s Uco Valley, featuring a 3.5-hour trail ride and panoramic views up to 9,185 feet (2,800 meters).
• Personalized small-group experience with hotel pickup, traditional Argentine breakfast, and a concluding authentic ‘asado’ barbecue.
• Opportunities to spot wildlife and witness the region’s impressive geological formations along the way.
• Suitable for moderately fit participants, with caution advised for those with back problems or pregnant travelers due to the mountainous terrain.
• Combines outdoor adventure with immersion in Argentine culinary and cultural traditions, including the iconic ‘mate’ tea.

Tour Overview and Details

This full-day horseback riding tour from Mendoza, Argentina takes participants on a 3.5-hour trail ride through the stunning Uco Valley and Cordón del Plata mountain range, reaching an elevation of 9,185 feet (2,800 meters).

The small group is limited to 12 people for a personalized experience, and includes hotel pickup, breakfast, and lunch.

With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 14 reviews, the tour highlights the stunning natural landscapes of the region.

Guests can expect a traditional Argentine breakfast and a full Creole ‘asado’ barbecue during the excursion, led by a professional bilingual guide.

Itinerary and Experience

The morning begins with pickup in Mendoza, followed by a 45-minute drive to Villa Potrerillos. Upon arrival, the group visits Quebrada del Condor and the Mirador de la Hoyada, a panoramic viewpoint. A traditional Argentine breakfast is served approximately two hours into the trip. Throughout the ride, participants can enjoy ‘mate’ tea. Finally, a full Creole ‘asado’ barbecue awaits them upon return to the ranch.

Itinerary	Time
Pickup in Mendoza	Morning
Drive to Villa Potrerillos	45 minutes
Visit Quebrada del Condor and Mirador de la Hoyada	–
Traditional Argentine Breakfast	2 hours into the trip
Enjoy ‘mate’ tea during the ride	–
Full Creole ‘asado’ barbecue upon return	–

Inclusions and Logistics

Round trip transportation and a professional bilingual guide are included in the tour.

The horseback riding lasts for 3-4 hours, ensuring ample time to explore the stunning Uco Valley and Cordón del Plata mountain range. Gratuities, however, aren’t included.

Pickup is available only from hotels in Mendoza city area and Chacras de Coria, so guests staying in Airbnbs need to coordinate their transportation.

The tour departs at 8:30 am, so participants should be ready for an early start.

It’s important to note that confirmation is required at the time of booking, and passport details are needed for all participants.

Additional Requirements

Confirmation is required at the time of booking, and passport details are needed for all participants.

This Mendoza horseback riding tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant individuals. A moderate physical fitness level is required, as the high elevation and rugged terrain can be challenging.

Riders should dress warmly, as the chilly Andes climate can be quite cold, even during the summer months. Participants must be prepared for the altitude and ready to navigate the steep, winding trails through the stunning Cordón del Plata mountain range.

This small-group experience give you a personalized and immersive adventure in Argentina’s breathtaking backcountry.

Customer Feedback and Impressions

Reviewers have left a mix of opinions on the Mendoza horseback riding tour.

While some praised the excellent guides, amazing food, and breathtaking views, others felt the horseback riding experience didn’t meet their expectations, particularly regarding the challenges posed by the high-elevation Andes terrain.

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

1. Excellent hospitality and memorable experiences.
2. Concerns that the tour may not be suitable for beginners due to the elevation and terrain difficulties.
3. Appreciation for the traditional Argentine "asado" barbecue and "mate" tea.
4. Recommendations to set realistic expectations, especially for those unfamiliar with riding in mountainous environments.

Exploring the Uco Valley

The Uco Valley, nestled within the majestic Cordón del Plata mountain range, serves as the breathtaking backdrop for the horseback riding tour. Towering peaks, rolling meadows, and winding trails await adventurous riders as they journey through this stunning landscape. The tour highlights include:

Highlight	Description
Quebrada del Condor	A dramatic gorge carved by the forces of nature
Mirador de la Hoyada	A panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the Andes
Elevation Gain	Reaching an impressive height of 9,185 feet (2,800 meters)
Traditional Asado	A delectable Argentinian barbecue feast upon return to the ranch

The Uco Valley’s natural beauty and rich cultural experiences promise an unforgettable day in the saddle for all who embark on this captivating horseback riding adventure.

Panoramic Mountain Viewpoints

Typically, the tour begins with a visit to the Quebrada del Condor, a dramatic gorge carved by the powerful forces of nature.

From this panoramic viewpoint at Mirador de la Hoyada, guests can marvel at the rugged beauty of the Cordón del Plata mountain range. The towering peaks rise to an impressive elevation of 9,185 feet (2,800 meters), offering a breathtaking backdrop for this outdoor adventure.

The tour provides the following highlights:

1. Sweeping vistas of the Uco Valley’s stunning landscapes.
2. Opportunities to spot condors and other wildlife soaring above the dramatic cliffs.
3. A chance to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the Andes mountains.
4. Unique perspectives of the region’s remarkable geological formations.

Authentic Argentine Cuisine

As guests return from their exhilarating ride through the Andes, they’re treated to a traditional Argentine ‘asado’ barbecue.

This iconic meal features an array of grilled meats, including chorizo sausages, tender beef ribs, and juicy skirt steak. The meats are expertly prepared over an open fire, imparting a smoky, flavorful char.

Accompanying the grilled offerings are savory chimichurri sauce, fresh salads, and crusty bread. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing mate tea, a beloved South American herbal infusion.

This authentic culinary experience showcases the rich gastronomic heritage of Argentina, providing a delicious conclusion to the day’s adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Horse to the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own horses to this tour. The tour provides the horses for the group, and using the tour’s horses is required for safety and logistics reasons. Bringing your own horse is not an option.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Within 24 hours, a 50% cancellation fee applies. Guests should contact the tour provider directly to cancel or modify their booking.

Is There an Option to Extend the Horseback Riding Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t appear to offer an option to extend the horseback riding duration. The standard itinerary includes 3-4 hours of riding, and there’s no mention of the ability to customize the experience with additional riding time.

Can I Request a Specific Breed of Horse for the Tour?

You can request a specific breed of horse, but the tour operator may not be able to accommodate all requests. They aim to provide suitable horses for the terrain and skill level of participants, so your request will be considered if feasible.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Requirement for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have a specific age limit, but it’s recommended for participants aged 10 and above. Children younger than 10 may struggle with the physical demands of the 3-4 hour horseback ride in the high elevation terrain.

Recap

This Mendoza horseback riding tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Uco Valley. From the thrilling 3.5-hour ride to the panoramic viewpoints and the authentic Argentine asado, this experience blends adventure, culture, and cuisine for an unforgettable day. Whether you’re a seasoned horseback rider or a first-time adventurer, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.