Equestrian Adventure Through Argentine Ranches - 12 Days of Carnivorous Delights and Wild Freedom
Discover the Ultimate Destination for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Get ready to don your cowboy boots and embark on a spectacular 12-day odyssey in Argentina, where the plains meet the steak, and each sunset is paired with a world-class wine. Saddle up and roam the vast expanses of the Pampas, where historic ranches blend with juicy barbecues ready to conquer your palate. Here, adventure isn't limited to stargazing, but to living under the infinite canopy of the Argentine sky. Whether you're seeking the adrenaline of local rodeos or simply wish to savor the best beef cuts in the world, this journey is as flavorful as it is thrilling. Meet the gauchos, those legendary riders, and learn the art of Argentine barbecue, a rite as sacred here as tango. So, sharpen your knives and your sense of adventure - Argentina awaits, ready to offer you the best of its traditions and gastronomy. 🌅🍷🎠🥩
Top 10 Activities
1. Knightly Ride through the Pampas
Ride like a true gaucho through the endless landscapes of the Pampas.
2. Parrillada Workshop
Discover the secrets of a good asado with Argentine barbecue masters.
3. Rodeo and Dance Night
Attend a rodeo show followed by fiery folk dances.
4. Discovery of Gaucho Traditions
Dive into the history and customs of argentine cowboys.
5. Wine Tasting in Mendoza
Explore vineyards and taste the refined wines of the region.
6. Pampas Wildlife Photo Safari
Capture the region's iconic wildlife in its natural habitat.
7. Excursion to the Glacier National Park
Admire the incredible glacial landscapes of Argentina, off the beaten path.
8. Night in a Traditional Estancia
Live like a local on a typical large farm.
9. Stargazing in the Pampas
Enjoy clear skies for an exceptional astronomy experience.
10. Tango Experience in Buenos Aires
End your trip by vibrating to the sensual rhythm of tango.
Beginning of the Ranch Exploration in the pampas (Day 1 to Day 2)
immersing yourself in the very essence of Argentine culture begins with a breathtaking entrance into the vast Pampas. Your first steps in this journey will be marked by a warm welcome in one of the region's traditional estancias, where time seems to follow a rhythm dictated by the sun and herds. The first two days will be dedicated to acclimating to this exceptional way of life, following in the footsteps of the valiant gauchos. Immerse yourself in local traditions by participating in daily activities, from horse care to the art of preparing a memorable asado. And, of course, indulge in a personalized tasting of the best cuts of meat accompanied by a local Malbec to die for. 🍕🍷
Activities
Gaucho Role Initiation
Description : Step into the boots of a gaucho for a day with a full initiation. Catch a horse, put on your hat, and learn the ropes with expert gauchos. A mix of adrenaline, dust, and a bit of sweat that will leave you breathless , ready to count sheep... literally!
Price : 50 €
Address : Estancia Santa María, Pampas
Horseback Riding and Wide Open Spaces
Description : Saddle up for a horseback ride through the endless and bucolic landscapes of the Pampas. Take a breath of fresh air and as many photos as your phone can store without breaking the nature vibe! A moment of communion with your steed and your new cowboy hat.
Price : 75 €
Address : Rancho Los Palomares, Pampas
Cooking Workshop: Master the Asado
Description : learn how to prepare Argentina's signature dish: the asado. Grab the meat, sprinkle it with salt, and listen to it sing over the hot coals. A convivial sharing moment where your stomach will thank you with tango steps. Beware, high risk of barbecue addiction.
Price : 40 €
Address : Parillada de la Pampas, Pampas
Restaurants
Parrilla Los gauchos
Description : An essential culinary experience for meat lovers. Specializing in local beef steaks, this restaurant offers an authentic ambiance with typical ranch decor. Your taste buds will shout "olé!" with every bite.
Price : 20-50 € per person
Address : 789 Meat Boulevard, Pampas
La Casa del Asado
Description : Renowned for its spectacular parilladas, this house of asado is the perfect place to enjoy a hearty meal. When the meat melts in your mouth and the wine flows freely, you'll know you've arrived home.
Price : 15-35 € per person
Address : 456 Cowboy Street, Pampas
El Bife Magnifico
Description : For hardcore carnivores, this restaurant offers cuts of meat that defy understanding of tenderness. Each plate is a tribute to Argentine tradition, served with a smile and a glass of red.
Price : 30-60 € per person
Address : 123 Avenue of the Pampas, Pampas
Accommodations
Estancia El Silencio
Description : Experience an immersive stay in this estancia where tranquility reigns supreme. Rustic and cozy rooms offering a total escape, with breathtaking views of the Pampas landscapes. Count the stars to fall asleep.
Price : 100-200 € per night
Address : 456 Avenue of Quietude, Pampas
rancho relaxo
Description : Ideal for those who prefer discreet luxury. with its small modern touches in the heart of the ranch, you enjoy comfort while savoring an authentic ambiance. And the jacuzzi with a view of the sunset? Dreamy.
Price : 150-300 € per night
Address : 789 Route of Stars, Pampas
Gîte La Pampas
Description : For budget adventurers, this lodge offers all the essentials with a touch of conviviality. Enjoy the common areas to share your day's stories with other travelers.
Price : 50-100 € per night
Address : 123 Path of Adventurers, Pampas
After these two immersive days in the world of Argentine ranches, you will feel revitalized and connected to the land and local traditions. ✨🇦🇷
Adventure in the Vintage Lands of Mendoza (Day 3 to Day 4)
leaving the Pampas plains to reach the majestic mountains of Mendoza, prepare for a change of scenery as spectacular as the landscapes themselves. Known for its exquisite vineyards and stunning views of the Andes, the Mendoza region is a paradise for wine lovers and outdoor adventurers. The next days will be devoted to winding through the vineyards , exploring traditional wine cellars, and climbing the peaks for a breathtaking view of the endless horizon. Between sensory tastings and invigorating hikes, these two days will be a true festival of taste and discovery. 🍇🏔️
activities
Wine Tasting in the Uco valley
description : stroll through the lush vineyards of the famous Uco Valley. Learn more about local winemaking and savor some iconic varietals like Malbec, all guided by passionate sommeliers. A sensory journey where each sip tells a story.
Price : 60 €
Address : Bodega El Paraiso, Wine Route, Mendoza
Hiking in the Aconcagua Provincial Park
Description : Embark on an exhilarating hike in the Aconcagua Park , with breathtaking panoramas of the highest peak of the Andes. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a casual hiker, you'll find a challenge to your measure.
Price : free
Address : Aconcagua Provincial Park, Mendoza
Cooking with a Local Chef: Empanadas and Wines
Description : Join a culinary workshop where you'll learn to make delicious empanadas accompanied by local wines. a local chef will share their secrets and passion for Argentine cuisine, offering you an experience as enriching as it is savory.
Price : 50 €
Address : Escuela de Cocina, Mendoza
Restaurants
le Cellier des Andes
Description : Nestled in the heart of a vineyard, this restaurant offers refined cuisine combining fresh local produce and award-winning wines. The elegant atmosphere and view of the vines make it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.
Price : 40-70 € per person
Address : Winemaking Route, Mendoza
Mesón del Malbec
Description : Famous for its tasting menus accompanied by regional Malbecs, this restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary experience. The dishes are served with a touch of modernity in a rustic chic setting.
Price : 50-90 € per person
Address : Avenida de la Cata, Mendoza
La Cantina de las Viñas
Description : Enjoy a friendly and relaxed atmosphere while savoring typical dishes of the region, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Ideal for a lunch break after a morning of wine tasting.
Price : 20-40 € per person
Address : 456 Vineyard Route, Mendoza
Accommodations
Casa de Campo Vine Resort
Description : This resort offers discreet luxury in an enchanting setting amidst the vines. Relax in the infinity pool with views of the mountains, or enjoy spa treatments after a day of exploration.
Price : 200-400 € per night
Address : 789 Wine Path, Mendoza
Boutique Hotel Villa Salentein
Description : Charm and comfort meet in this boutique hotel located in the heart of the vineyards. With its tastefully decorated rooms and personalized service, it offers an ideal retreat for discerning wine lovers.
Price : 150-300 € per night
Address : 123 Tasting Route, Mendoza
Auberge des Sommeliers
Description : Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, this hostel offers simple and friendly accommodation. Meet other wine enthusiasts over a glass in the lively common areas.
Price : 30-80 € per night
Address : 456 Sommeliers Boulevard, Mendoza
After these two days of vinous pleasures and alpine activities, you'll leave with intoxicating memories and a well-filled tasting notebook. 🍷🗻
Discovery of Patagonia's Mysteries (Day 5 to Day 6)
fly towards the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, where nature reigns as the absolute master. For two days, you will be transported to a world where glaciers meet virgin forests and sparkling lakes reflect the grandeur of the Andes. This Patagonian journey promises an unforgettable adventure, between awe-inspiring hikes and boat excursions among the icebergs. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the wild Argentine nature, far from the hustle and bustle of cities, where each panorama is a canvas worthy of an impressionist master. 🏞️❄️
Activities
Hike on the Perito Moreno Glacier
Description : Walk on the famous perito Moreno Glacier, a unique experience that will make you feel like you're walking on another planet. Equip yourself with crampons and explore the glacial formations in a dance of icy blues and whites.
Price : 100 €
Address : Los Glaciares National Park, patagonia
Cruise on Lake Argentino
Description : Embark on an unforgettable cruise on Lake Argentino, where you'll navigate among floating icebergs and approach the towering walls of the Upsala Glacier. A breathtaking spectacle that awakens the explorer's soul in each of us.
Price : 75 €
Address : Puerto Bandera Dock, Patagonia
Wildlife Watching at Laguna Nimez Reserve
Description : Discover the exceptional biodiversity of patagonia during a visit to Laguna Nimez. Armed with binoculars, observe flamingos and native ducks in their natural habitat. An unforgettable encounter with nature.
Price : Free
Address : Laguna Nimez Reserve, Patagonia
Restaurants
The Glacier Table
Description : Enjoy refined cuisine inspired by the surrounding nature. This restaurant offers dishes made with local products in a warm setting with views of the snow-capped mountains. A gourmet stop after a day of adventures.
Price : 30-60 € per person
Address : 789 Glacier Route, Patagonia
Bistro Los Andes
Description : A charming bistro where you can taste Patagonian specialties such as cordero al palo (spit-roasted lamb) accompanied by seasonal vegetables. The rustic and friendly atmosphere will make you feel at home.
Price : 25-50 € per person
Address : 456 Avenida de Patagonia, Patagonia
El Rincon del Explorador
description : For a relaxed break, this cafe-restaurant offers simple and tasty dishes, perfect for recharging before heading back to adventure. Special mention for their thick hot chocolate, ideal after a chilly walk.
Price : 15-35 € per person
Address : 123 Traveler's Route, Patagonia
Accommodations
Lodge of Frozen Peaks
Description : Wake up to a breathtaking view of the mountains from this cozy lodge with bay windows to fully enjoy the scenery. An ideal choice for a peaceful and restful stay in the heart of Patagonia.
Price : 250-500 € per night
Address : 789 Adventurers' Path, Patagonia
Refuge of the Glaciers
Description : A charming refuge ideal for nature and hiking enthusiasts. Offering modern amenities in a rustic setting, it's the perfect place to share your adventure stories around a fireplace.
Price : 100-200 € per night
Address : 456 Summit Route, Patagonia
Hosteria del Viento
Description : Perfect for budget travelers, this hosteria offers simple but comfortable rooms with views of the snowy peaks. A good option for those wishing to enjoy Patagonia without breaking the bank.
Price : 80-150 € per night
Address : 123 Patagonian Boulevard, Patagonia
These days spent in Patagonia will leave you with indelible memories of raw nature and real adventures. 🏔️🌲
Cultural and Natural Escape to Salta (Day 7 to Day 8)
Welcome to Salta, the pearl of northwestern Argentina, where cultural fusion harmoniously blends with spectacular landscapes. These days in Salta will allow you to savor a fascinating blend of colonial traditions, folk music, and outdoor adventures. Discover the cobbled streets of this historic city, admire its baroque churches, and feel the echo of the Andes in the local folklore. Then , be drawn by the natural splendors of Quebrada de Humahuaca and Valles Calchaquíes, with their surprising geological formations and enchanting atmosphere. These two days in Salta promise to be as rich in emotions as in cultural discoveries. 🎨⛰️
Activities
visit to the Salta Cathedral
Description : Explore one of Argentina's most beautiful cathedrals with its baroque architecture and rich ornaments. A must-see for history and art enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to climb the bell tower for a magnificent view of the city.
Price : Free
Address : Plaza 9 de Julio , Salta
Excursion to Quebrada de Humahuaca
Description : Embark on a day trip to this stunning valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire its vibrant colors and stunning rock formations, and discover the small villages and artisan markets nestled in the mountains.
Price : 70 €
Address : Provincial Route 9, Jujuy
Wine Tasting in Cafayate
Description : Discover the unique varietals and legendary wines of the region during a visit to the vineyards in Cafayate. Enjoy a tasting of the famous Torrontés, with mountain landscapes as a backdrop and a guided tour by wine experts.
Price : 50 €
Address : Bodega El Esteco, Cafayate
Restaurants
El Patio Colonial
Description : This restaurant offers local specialties served in a historic setting with a picturesque courtyard. Enjoy an evening under the starry sky while savoring the authentic flavors of northern Argentina.
price : 15-35 € per person
Address : 789 Antique Street, Salta
La Taberna Andina
Description : a must-visit place to taste traditional dishes with a modern twist. The chef invites you to discover the fusion of local ingredients in creative and flavorful dishes.
Price : 20-40 € per person
Address : 456 Path of Flavors, Salta
Café Folkórico
Description : Enjoy the warm ambiance and notes of folk music while savoring homemade empanadas. This cafe is also famous for its artisanal pastries and local infusions.
Price : 10-25 € per person
Address : 123 Music Plaza, Salta
Accommodations
Colonial Hotel of Salta
Description : this charming hotel offers a warm welcome and modern comfort in a historic building. Ideally located, it is perfect for exploring the bustling streets and cultural sites of Salta.
Price : 80-150 € per night
Address : 789 Heritage Avenue, Salta
Hostal Los Arcos
Description : For travelers seeking a friendly atmosphere and good deals, this hostel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price with a great view of the city and surrounding mountains.
Price : 40-90 € per night
Address : 456 Path of Mountains, Salta
Pension de la Estrella
Description : a family-run establishment offering an intimate atmosphere and personalized services. Enjoy a homemade breakfast before heading out to explore the surrounding wonders.
Price : 70-130 € per night
address : 123 Moon Route, Salta
Salta offers you a fascinating cultural break in the middle of your adventure, bathed in music and mountains 🏛️🎶
Authentic Stay at the Heart of Cordoba's Ranches (Day 9 to Day 10)
Leaving Salta for Cordoba, you journey to a sanctuary of gaucho culture and rolling landscapes. Cordoba offers another facet of Argentina, with its wide expanses of ranches where rural traditions blend with colonial history. These days, diving into the heart of gaucho life becomes a reality, with experiences ranging from cattle raising to tasting the most generous local dishes. Take this time to immerse yourself in the art of simplicity, with breathtaking views of the rolling hills and an atmosphere full of tranquility and authenticity. 🐄🏇
Activities
Gaucho Day: Hat and Lasso
Description : Transform into a real gaucho for the day! From lasso lessons to herd driving, experience an immersive adventure in the fascinating world of Argentine horsemen. It's a genuine return to basics in a warm ambiance.
Price : 80 €
Address : Estancia El Chárcol, Cordoba
Horseback Ride in the Hills
Description : Saddle up for a horse ride in the magnificent landscapes of the Sierras de Cordoba. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, this ride offers panoramic views and a deep connection with the surrounding nature.
Price : 60 €
Address : Rancho Los Altos, Cordoba
Gauchesque Cooking Workshop
Description : Learn to cook like a true Argentine with a traditional cooking workshop. Prepare typical dishes with fresh local products and discover the art of asado Cordoba style. A culinary and friendly experience not to be missed.
Price : 45 €
Address : estancia Cooking School, Cordoba
Restaurants
Asador Los gauchos
Description : This family-run restaurant offers typical gaucho cuisine with succulent grills served in a rustic setting. Dive into an authentic ambiance where hospitality is key and every meal is a celebration of tradition.
Price : 25-50 € per person
Address : 123 Hilladors Road, cordoba
El Fogón de la Sierra
Description : Savor perfectly cooked meat dishes in this restaurant nestled in the heart of the mountains. The warm setting and generous dishes make it a top choice for a friendly evening around good tables.
Price : 30-60 € per person
Address : 789 Avenue of Flavors, Cordoba
Café Criollo
Description : Enjoy a moment of relaxation in this charming cafe offering traditional dishes accompanied by local wines. Ideal for a leisurely lunch or a gourmet break after a busy morning.
Price : 10-30 € per person
Address : 456 Vineyard Boulevard, Cordoba
Accommodations
Estancia Buena Vista
Description : Offering superb views of the surrounding hills, this estancia combines elegance and comfort. Relax in a peaceful setting and enjoy the proximity to rural activities for an enchanting stay.
Price : 150-250 € per night
Address : 789 beautiful view Path, Cordoba
Finca El Retiro
Description : This finca offers an authentic stay experience with comfortable accommodations and direct access to nature. Share a moment with passionate owners and explore the secrets of the surroundings.
Price : 100-180 € per night
Address : 456 Retirees' Alley, Cordoba
Auberge de la Siesta
description : Perfect for budget travelers, this hostel offers simple but comfortable rooms with a friendly atmosphere. An ideal base for exploring the region without breaking the bank.
Price : 50-100 € per night
Address : 123 Nap Street, Cordoba
After these days spent in Cordoba, you will have tasted the authenticity and warmth of Argentine rural traditions. 🏞️🐎
Practical Information
Climate: Argentina presents varied climates depending on the regions: from the humid climate of Buenos Aires to the coolness of Patagonia, with cold winters and hot summers. The Pampas and Mendoza enjoy a temperate climate ideal for outdoor activities.
transport: Argentina has frequent domestic flights connecting its major cities. Long-distance buses, although a bit long, are comfortable and an economical option to travel from one region to another.
When to go?: From September to November (spring) and from March to May (autumn) are the best times to visit Argentina, thus avoiding the hot summer period which can make some outdoor activities less enjoyable.
Budget: Prices vary by region, but generally, a medium budget allows you to enjoy Argentina well. Local accommodations, meals, and activities are often affordable.
Practical tips:
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to facilitate interactions with locals.
- Argentine food is delicious, don't miss out on trying the famous asado and local wines.
- Be prepared for climatic variations and pack clothes suited to each region visited.
- Respect local customs and be polite when visiting cultural and natural sites.
- Tips are expected in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill.
This practical information will help you prepare for your trip to Argentina and fully enjoy your adventure through this country with stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
Ultimately, Argentina offers you a symphony of experiences: from adventures on the ranches to culinary delights, passing through the natural magic of its varied landscapes. These 12 days will leave you with indelible memories, and you'll leave with a new appreciation of wildlife and human encounters. Until next time, keep dreaming and plan your return to this fascinating world where every day is a new adventure. Viva Argentina! 🇦🇷✨