Only for experienced and physically fit hikers. Requires specific skills and equipment
You should be an experienced rider with at least five years of regular riding experience. You need to feel at ease navigating diverse terrains at various speeds.
Tack: The saddles used are called "cangallas," which are traditional gaucho saddles specific to this region. They are crafted for riding up and down mountains, ensuring the rider maintains balance and comfort during long hours in the saddle. Most of these saddles are handmade by gauchos using animal leather and sheepskin.
Horses: all Chilean Criollo. They roam freely year-round across vast expanses of pampas and grazing land. While they may be small in size, they are fit and strong, perfectly suited to the terrain you will encounter.
These Criollo horses descend from Spanish stock brought to South America by conquistadors, allowing them to adapt to the continent's challenging environments. They possess specialized musculature that enables them to sprint over short distances while having the endurance needed for remote mountainous regions. Their double coat provides excellent protection against rain; it is long and insulating in winter to guard against the cold, and short and shiny in summer, ensuring comfort in warmer weather. They are remarkably sure-footed on the rocky paths of the national park.
Health: A good level of physical fitness is important for this ride, as there may be sections that require hiking. Overall good health is also necessary since you will be visiting remote areas with limited access to medical facilities. Generally, altitude does not pose a problem for visitors to Patagonia, as the elevation remains relatively low (below 3000m).
