Horse Riding Holidays in Chile

Most tours (including horse trekking in Patagonia and the Andes) are suited for intermediate riders — confident at trot and canter. Shorter, more comfortable programs (Laguna Holiday, Huerquehue Holiday, Villarrica Holiday) often work well for basic+ riders or even beginners with some riding experience. Let us know your level — we’ll match you with the perfect itinerary.

It’s helpful to prepare, especially for multi-day rides (5–8 hours in the saddle, elevation changes, and mountain trails). On comfort-focused tours, the pace is easier. We recommend training 1–2 months ahead: walking, squats, and riding if possible. Suitable for active travelers aged 18–65+.

Mainly local Chilean Criollo horses and crossbreds — tough, calm, and perfectly suited to mountains, rivers, and long days in the saddle. They’re handled by experienced Chilean arrieros (cowboys), along with bilingual guides. Horses are carefully matched to your skill level and weight.

Helmet use is not common in Chile, and many providers do not supply them. If you usually ride with a helmet, we recommend bringing your own and confirming availability directly with the tour provider. Most tours include essential riding equipment such as half chaps (leg protectors), traditional corbatera saddles, bridles, and saddle ponchos for rain. Camping gear (tents, mats, and sleeping bags) is often included on multi-day rides — please check the exact inclusions with your chosen operator.

Basics: SPF 40 sunscreen, UV sunglasses (a must!), a wide-brim hat, flashlight or headlamp, water bottle, scarf or buff for dust, swimsuit and towel (hot springs!), waterproof jacket and pants, jeans or trekking pants, high-ankle trekking boots, and fleece layers or multiple clothing layers.

For high-altitude tours (Crossing the Andes): Gore-Tex outerwear, a down jacket, thermal underwear, glacier glasses, a sleeping bag rated to −20°C / −4°F, and wet wipes.

Always check your specific tour description for the exact packing list.

Absolutely — solo travelers are common! Groups are usually mixed and international, with 4–10 participants. Private tours are also available; just ask your tour provider.

It depends on the program. Shorter, easier tours (e.g., Laguna Holiday, Huerquehue) are usually suitable for children from 12 years old with some riding experience. Longer Andes crossings or more challenging Patagonia rides are typically for teens 16+ or adults only. Please let us know your child’s age — we’ll confirm the best options with the tour provider.

Included: all riding days, experienced guides and arrieros, horses and tack, accommodations (camping, lodges, eco-hotels), meals, program transfers, and access to hot springs on most tours.
Not included: flights, travel insurance, alcohol, and tips.

The season runs from December to April (Southern Hemisphere summer). Peak months are January to March, with warm days (59–86°F / 15–30°C), cooler nights, and generally less rain and wind in Patagonia.

Yes — travel insurance covering active adventures and horseback riding is strongly recommended.

Policies vary by tour and provider:

Most common: full refund if canceled more than 35 days before the start, 50% refund if canceled 16–34 days out, and no refund if canceled within 15 days.

Some programs: free date change up to 31 days before the tour, with a possible cancellation fee.

High-altitude tours: may have stricter rules (e.g., 10% non-refundable deposit plus tiered cancellation fees).

Always check your specific tour description or confirm with the tour provider for the exact policy.

Drop us a message via the website form, email, or WhatsApp — we’ll provide current dates, prices, and availability.