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Horse Riding in Latin America

Article by Jo - Travel Consultant in our Cusco office

I have been horse riding all over Latin America from a 3 day horse riding adventure in Ecuador to a 3 hour hair-raising trip in the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.  Whatever your preference, if you like horse riding or even if you have never done it and are a complete novice, Latin America is a great place to try it!

First things first, safety; Latin America is known for many things but an emphasis on health and safety are not necessarily words you would associate with the region.  There are many reputable horse riding establishments throughout Latin America although be prepared that having a helmet provided is rare here and often considered a very odd request!  Secondly expect western style riding; a relaxed, one handed style with excellent responsive horses and crazy gaucho style guides. Thirdly, the horses!  They are often quite small here; trail horses are common which are very light on their feet and exceptionally well trained.  This does vary from country to country with trail horses being more common in Ecuador and Peru for example. Horses here may also not have the appearance that you are used to; often thinner and most don´t like carrots!! Lastly, the language for you, your guide and the horse!  Be prepared that sometimes guides here won´t speak English very well but you should always receive basic instructions and at least hand pointing to show you how it should be done.

horse riding in Chile horse riding in Ecuador

The best places I have been riding in Latin America are:

Argentina – There are hundreds of ‘éstancias’ or ranches in Argentina and lots of horse riding opportunities.  Probably the best place I have ever been riding is Sayta estancia in Salta, where Enrique the host and owner makes sure you will have an experience there you will never forget! Bariloche has some beautiful horse trekking too, just wrap up warm!!

Ecuador – I spent 3 days horse riding in Ecuador from a base around 1 hour from Quito. The trip was a great package of accommodation, food and a wide range of horses that met my riding ability.  I have also been horse riding in Baños but the horses are not so well looked after, which is an important point to consider before booking any ride.

Chile – La Herradura in San Pedro de Atacama has some great and very well looked after horses for all abilities, as well as stunning scenery with treks through the Valley of the Moon. 

Wherever you chose to go, I think that horse riding in Latin America is a great way to see the scenery and fantastic geography that the continent has to offer.  Make sure you book through a reputable company who look after their horses and you! Let us know if you would like advise and booking through Escaped to Latin America.