Traverse on Horseback in the Andes

5.0 (8)
2 days 1 night
Argentina
Photo Federico Z.
5.0
Federico Z.
Tour Provider
View Federico’s tours
Difficulty
Moderate
Comfort
Basic
Weight limit

Experience an incredible horseback journey through the stunning Mountains of Mendoza.

Our adventure takes us southwest to Tupungato town, where we'll navigate through the vineyard-laden landscapes of the Uco Valley. The grapevines extend up the mountain slopes, their lush greenery standing out against the snowy white peaks. 

Along the path, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the towering 'El Plata' mountains and the majestic Tupungato volcano. 

Covering approximately 140 km, our route eventually leads us to El Manzano Histórico, a quaint village nestled at the mountain's base and at the heart of the Natural Reserve that shares its name. As one of the area's primary tourist attractions, this will be our starting point for an unforgettable horseback riding experience.

$420
per tourist for 2 days
Departing from
Mendoza
Available dates
Date of travel
Number of individuals
Only in the Horse Tours Club
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Photo Federico Z.
Federico Z. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English
Federico is an outdoor lover with plenty of adventures in The Andes. Specialized in the tour logistics and organization of Expeditions and Treks in the Central Andes, Patagonia, Peru, Bolivia, and French Alps.

The tour guides you'll probably meet as well

Photo Thimothée
Thimothée
Born in 1982 in the south of France and son of a Canadian mother, married with an Argentinian from Mendoza and father of two kids, he came to Argentina with his family 5 years ago after being a firefighter emergency medical technician in Paris, France during 11 years (BSPP). Passionated by nature and horses, he found a new vocation guiding people in the Andes Mountains. Now he has become one of the best and expert local guides in Mendoza with much knowledge of our culture, traditions, and lover of good wine.

Tour highlights

Experience the night at glacial lake
Always with the snowy mountains in front, we will reach in the afternoon the glacial lake where we will spend the night under the stars in tents.
Have a chance to see the Tupungato volcano
The unique landscape of the Central Andes wilderness, an adventure you will never forget!
Discover unique Patagonian scenery at the Uco Valley
Have a ride through one of the most famous wine regions of Argentina.

Route details

Day 1
Farm – Refuge Dr. Scarabelli (Mula Muerta)

We saddled the horses in the morning to start our way to the mountains. We will pass through the Historical Manzano, where General San Martín (army liberator of South America of the Spanish king stopped when he returned from the Chilean battle). 

We continue to Gendarmerie (Refugio Alferez Portinari), where we have lunch and then continue to our first destination: Dr. Scarabelli (Real de the Dead Mule). On this route, we will see Mt Punta Negra with its 4000 meters above sea level, waterfalls, and the Andean massif. 

We will arrive at the old refuge where we will enjoy a traditional barbecue during dinner with excellent wines from the Uco Valley and spend the night in tents.

Day 2
Dr. Scarabelli – Portillo Argentino Manzano Historico
Difficulty
Moderate
Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity
Tour provider's comments

Ensuring the safety of tourists is our top priority. Here are the key safety rules, essential skills, and potential risks associated with the program:

Safety Rules:

  1. Follow Guide Instructions: Always listen to and follow the guidance of our professional guides. They are trained to handle emergencies and navigate the terrain safely.
  2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and eat regularly to maintain energy levels, especially at high altitudes.
  3. Wear Proper Gear: Bring and wear appropriate clothing, including trekking boots, waterproof jackets, and layers for cold weather. It's mandatory to carry long pants and a waterproof jacket, even in summer.
  4. Group Cohesion: Always stay with the group, especially in remote areas. Notify the guide if you need to slow down or take a break.
  5. Altitude Awareness: Be mindful of altitude sickness. If you experience headaches, dizziness, or nausea, inform your guide immediately.
  6. Respect Wildlife and Environment: Avoid disturbing the wildlife and stay on marked paths to protect the ecosystem and ensure safety.
  7. Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency signals or instructions provided at the beginning of the trek.

Essential Skills:

  1. Basic Fitness: Treks require a moderate level of fitness, particularly for hiking at high altitudes.
  2. Altitude Acclimatization: While no specific training is needed, understanding altitude and how your body reacts is important.
  3. Trekking Knowledge: Basic hiking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Guides will assist with the pace and technique.
  4. Footwear and Gear Handling: Proper use of trekking boots and understanding how to layer clothing for varying conditions.

Potential Risks:

  1. Altitude Sickness: As the trek goes above 3,000 meters, there is a risk of altitude sickness, especially if not properly acclimatized.
  2. Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in weather, such as rain, wind, or cold, can pose a risk. Carrying proper clothing and following forecasts minimizes this.
  3. Rugged Terrain: Slippery or rocky paths can lead to sprains or falls if not navigated carefully.
  4. Wildlife Encounters: While rare, encounters with wildlife or insects may occur, so staying alert and following safety protocols is crucial.
  5. Dehydration and Fatigue: At high altitudes, the body requires more hydration, and failure to drink enough water or eat can lead to fatigue or dizziness.
horse

Accommodation

Comfort
Basic
Tent
1 night
1 night
Tent

Night under the stars, fire and traditional bbq makes a perfect end of the first day testing exquisite Malbecs from Uco Valley. 

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place
Mendoza
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Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
  • the forecasts for this season
  • the statistics from previous years’ trips
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Tour conditions

Included

  • transfers by from the Mendoza city to Valle de Uco
  • high mountain tents to camp
  • specialized bilingual guides, experts baqueanos area, cooking services
  • horses in excellent condition and easy to drive
  • 12 kg of equipment per pax. loading by horses
  • dinner and all meals (included BBQ and drinks)
  • satellite phone (in case of contingencies)
  • detailed information of flora, fauna, and history of each place

Extras

  • personal equipment (clothes, sleeping bag, mattress)
  • extra expenses, drinks, farewell dinner
  • any costs resulting from the cancellation of the program before and during the trip

Group size

up to 3 tourists

Duration

2 days
1 night

It's important to know

Personal equipment you need for the tour

Upper body

• 1 Top underwear
• 1 Fleece jacket
• 1 Windproof jacket

Head

• Hat for the sun

Lower body

• 1 Trekking pant or jeans

Footwear

• 1 Pair of trekking shoes

Feet

• 1 Pairs of extra socks

Eyes

• 1 Pair of sunglasses

Others

• 1 Headlamp
• 1 Sleeping bag comfortable between -5C and  -10ºC

Backpack

• Small backpack 20 L

Personal

• Sunscreen and lip protection SPF 40
• Personal hygiene kit

Cancellation of booking

Reviews

5.0
Based on 8 reviews
  • A
    Adriana
    20 Mar, 2023
    about provider
    It was the best ever Aconcagua adventure we experienced. The team was well organized, extremely supportive, fun and trustworthy. Pablo was an amazing guide and Federico made everything to help us with all the arrangements from abroad. Thank you so much for the trip of a lifetime!
    20 Mar, 2023
  • AS
    Alexi Shaw
    15 Mar, 2023
    about provider
    We had the two days horse riding trip in Mendoza. Wonderful trip - our guide was excellent, multilingual leader, the gauchos were wonderful guys, the planning itself was extremely great! Breathtaking views and a superb experience. I will never forget our dinner in the clouds and this little adventure. Well worth the price.
    15 Mar, 2023
  • R
    Ryan
    5 Mar, 2023
    about provider
    We had an amazing horseback riding experience with Pablo. It was probably the best excursion we had during our trip. Views were spectacular and the gaucho lunch in the mountains was so unique. Highly recommend!
    5 Mar, 2023

Dates and Prices

  • Any dates on request during the season
    1 Sep, 2024 – 31 May, 2025
    Request to book
  • $420
    9 – 10 Sep, 2025 2 days 1 night
    Request to book
  • $550
    9 – 10 Oct, 2025 2 days 1 night
    Request to book
  • $550
    9 – 10 Nov, 2025 2 days 1 night
    Request to book
  • $550
    9 – 10 Dec, 2025 2 days 1 night
    Request to book

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