On our Hooves Around Argentina trip in December 2024, we had a week full of sun, great food, fantastic horses, and guests from all over the world. It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m excited to exclusively share a glimpse of the ride through my photo library.
This blog is written by Stine Andersen. Check out her Instagram here.
We kicked off the week by riding through the expansive Pampa. The vast flatlands stretched out beneath us, and in the distance, we could see the mountains we would be climbing over the next few days.
On our way to the first lunch stop, we crossed rivers so clear, they looked like mirrors. The water is meltwater from a nearby volcano, making it incredibly refreshing to splash through.
At our lunch stop, guests had the perfect opportunity to cool off in the river while waiting for the meal. It was a hot day, so everyone took a dip, and some even dared to jump off the rock into the icy waters. After a hearty homemade meal, the shaded area was ideal for a relaxing siesta.
On our way to the first camp of the night we had some dark clouds hanging around us. The wind was just what we needed on this hot day. Both horses and riders were very excited for the coming week.
This ride brought together a mix of riders, from beginners to experienced. The beginners had spent time taking lessons leading up to the week. Even as an experienced rider, it’s hard to prepare yourself for the challenges of riding in Argentina’s varied terrain.
Most people don’t expect gourmet meals when camping, but we have a personal chef who makes sure no one starts or ends the day hungry. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast or a filling dinner, we’re always well-fed!
Cece and Muneca take a moment to admire the stunning view of the volcano and the river below. The Argentine landscape is incredibly diverse, with dramatic changes in scenery after every hill.
I had the pleasure of riding Colorada, one of the new horses at the ranch. She’s a gentle and responsive mare, and after a few more rides in the mountains, she’ll be an ideal horse for our guests—if I don’t get too attached, that is!
Taco time! No horseback ride is complete without a well-earned lunch. After a morning of riding, we took a quick break for some delicious tacos to fuel up for an afternoon of swimming in the river.
Stacey, one of our guests, added a bit of charm to each stop by decorating Pasuco after every break. It was a lovely personal touch that Pasuco definitely appreciated too!
Throughout the ride, we had access to refreshing water at every stop. If you don’t mind a little chill, the ice-cold mountain water is the perfect way to cool down.
You can’t visit Argentina without indulging in empanadas. We had them one afternoon as part of a delicious lunch!
On our way up the mountain, we took a short break to allow the horses to rest and the guests to soak in the breathtaking views. I could’ve stayed at this place forever.
On top of the mountain the scenery is very different. Here we have the view of the Chilean cordillera. This is my favorite viewpoint of the week!
In just a few minutes, we transitioned from dry, dusty trails to lush green valleys. It is a dramatic change in scenery, and the horses were happy to take a quick snack break before we continued.
After a day of riding, there’s nothing like enjoying a glass of wine while waiting for dinner. The relaxed atmosphere and good conversation make it one of the best parts of the day.
On our ride back to the ranch, we encountered some “traffic”—gauchos moving their goats into the mountains for the summer. It’s always a fascinating sight to see the traditional way of life in action.
There are no limits to the meals on the ride! You get a hot meal twice a day, and before you ask, no you do not have to bring snacks!
One of the highlights of the trip was helping the gauchos herd cattle back to their field. We got to experience firsthand what it’s like to work alongside these skilled horsemen.
We even had the chance to herd sheep back to their field for the night.
The gauchos are always up for getting a photo or two taken. All you have to do is ask!
This was our last Hooves Around Argentina trip of 2024, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to share it with. Guests came from all over the world, and together, we made unforgettable memories in the stunning Argentine wilderness.
