Andes Crossing from Argentina to Chile

Begin the day with a breakfast and the preparation of our horses as we gear up for the journey ahead.

Today's itinerary involves ascending the "Portillo Argentino," reaching an altitude of 4380 meters. Approximately two hours of riding uphill will lead us to this point, where a breathtaking panorama of the Andes and the Chilean border awaits as a gratifying reward. Following this ascent, we'll continue on for around 5 hours, mostly on a downhill trail, until we reach the Tunuyan River valley. Here lies the "Refugio Real de la Cruz," a mountain shelter under the supervision of the Argentine Army, typically utilized by adventurers, porters, and mountaineers. Our overnight stay will take place here, accompanied by a revitalizing dinner.

Throughout the evening, you might have the chance to partake in songs and tales alongside the muleteers and fellow travelers you encounter at the refuge. Anticipate that this will be the lengthiest day of horseback riding, encompassing approximately 8 hours of riding time.

On the third day, you'll experience a day of active relaxation. You'll have the flexibility to choose between staying close to the shelter for a leisurely day or embarking on a brief hike, guided by your knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the native plant and animal life.

Following lunch, you can anticipate a display of the skilled cowboy abilities of the gauchos, featuring techniques involving the 'lazo' and 'boleadoras'.

Dinner and overnight at “Refugio Real de la Cruz”.

Following breakfast, we'll make the necessary preparations for our horses and mules as we get ready to undertake the crossing of the Tunuyán river. Our journey proceeds, offering a splendid vantage point of the impressive Mount Tupungato, soaring to 6800 meters. From there, we'll trace the path along the enchanting Palomares stream, following the river upstream, until we reach our ultimate campsite within Argentinean borders: The Caletón.

If weather conditions permit, there's a chance to indulge in a soothing bath and a rejuvenating "beauty treatment" in a stream with mineral-rich waters. This evening presents an ideal opportunity to slumber by the campfire while gazing at the starlit sky.

Rest, night in tents.

We set out towards the Argentinean-Chilean Border on this day, which adds another thrilling dimension to our expedition. Our route takes us to the Piuquenes pass, situated at an elevation of 4030 meters, marking the dividing line between Argentina and Chile.

In adherence to customs regulations, our horses won't be able to traverse the national boundary, and so we will change horses at the international boundary. New Chilean horses and Chilean muleteers guides will lead us down to the El Plomo river in Chilean territory.

Once the river crossing is accomplished, private vehicles will be ready to meet us. Our journey continues with a drive to the Cajón del Maipo, leading to the San Gabriel region where the Embalse del Yeso (Yeso Reservoir) awaits. At this point, we will fulfill customs formalities at the Police office.

Our accommodation for the night will be within a complex of cabins, followed by a farewell dinner hosted at a local restaurant.