Central and South America > Argentina

A Ride at the End of the World

Embark on a horseback expedition to the remote corner of Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire) in Argentina — one of the last, truly untouched places on the planet and a must-see destination for adventurous equestrian travellers. The native Criollo horse is the only way to reach these wild lands at ‘el Fin del Mundo’, or ‘the end of the world’, a place where shipwrecks from throughout the ages lie alongside the skeletons of whales and sea lions on secluded beaches. Riding along the region’s rugged coastline, guests have a rare chance to disconnect from civilisation while enjoying breathtaking views. Following in the footsteps of the pioneering explorers of Patagonia, riders will also discover the exceptional wildlife that inhabits this region, including condors, herds of guanacos, majestic wild horses and seals. For those seeking a memorable and once-in-a lifetime trip, this ride is for you!
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Pack Trip
12 days (8 riding)
From £3,065

Itinerary

Highlights

- Explore one of the last untouched areas on the planet, enjoying stunning landscapes and riding along its endless, wild beaches, following in the footsteps of explorers and scientists.
- Spot all kinds of wildlife, from condors and herds of guanacos, to wild horses and seals.
- Experience the agility and resilience of the Criollo horse
- Escape from civilisation: unplug and reconnect with nature in a place far away from the stresses of modern life
- Enjoy stories around the campfire every night and sleep in shelters under the stars
- Discover old shipwrecks and the remains of shelters abandoned after the golden age of the native Indians
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  • Day 1 1: ARRIVAL IN USHUAIA - No riding

    Fly to Buenos Aires and then to Ushaia. Flights are not included but can be arranged upon request. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be picked up by a representative from the local team and transferred to your accommodation (a 15 minute drive). Please ensure that you arrive in Ushuaia by 12 noon / midday.

    In the afternoon or early evening, you will meet the rest of the group and your guides for an initial briefing. The team will explain what to expect during the expedition, as well as answering your questions, checking equipment and providing saddlebags to be used during the ride.
    Dinner is to your own account that evening.

    Overnight in shared accommodation. Please note: accommodation is shared between 4 and 6 people with one bathroom and one kitchen. Single rooms, if requested, are subject to availability. Please see 'dates and prices'.

  • Day 2 2: USHUAIA - ESTANCIA MARÍA LUISA - PUESTO LA CHAIRA - 5-7 hours riding

    Today you will be transferred from Ushuaia by car (230 kilometers) to the starting point of the ride: Estancia Maria Luisa -- a typical Patagonian ranch for breeding cattle. Enroute, you will pass some of the most iconic landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, such as Garibaldi Pass and Lake Fagnano. The end of the road marks the end of the civilized world and the beginning of your wild adventure. Here you will meet the horses and one will be assigned to you for the duration of the trip.

    You’ll then enjoy your first ride – heading through rolling hills of lush green grass and up to Irigoyen River, which can only be crossed during low tide and is world famous for trout. You will then ride down a long stretch of beach, until you reach the first overnight stop ‘Puesta La Chaira’, which is part of the old ‘Estancia Policarpo’. This is the last shelter inhabited by gauchos that you’ll see on the trail.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 3 3: PUESTO LA CHAIRA - PUESTO RIO BUENO - 5-7 hours riding

    After breakfast you will begin your ride to the next shelter ‘Puesto Rio Bueno’, a trail which generally follows the beaches and can only be crossed at low tide. Along the way, all traces of civilization slowly start to disappear and you’ll begin to experience the wilder side of Tierra del Fuego.

    You’ll see shipwrecks such as the “Barca” - an old wooden boat buried by centuries of sand. There are also abandoned shelters, many of which have been built with the remains of ships, as well as wildlife such as curious foxes, guanacos, majestic condors, beavers and various species of birds (with a little luck, you may see some marine mammals). Here the traces of the native Haush Indians can also be found. After passing the river Leticia, you will reach your next shelter.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 4 4: PUESTO RÍO BUENO - ESTANCIA POLICARPO - 5-7 hours riding

    Today you will cross two rivers ‘Rio Bueno’ and ‘Rio Policarpo’ and you’ll finish the ride at the remains of the ‘Estancia Policarpo’, which has been declared a National Historical Monument. Travelling conditions are similar to the previous day with the addition of several peatlands where the horses will demonstrate their excellent ability to find the safest way through.

    There is a high chance you will encounter many wild animals, including herds of wild horses, colonies of sea lions and possibly even some solitary penguins. Today you will also visit the most famous of all shipwrecks in the Mitre Peninsula, the British clipper ‘Duchess of Albany’, before finally reaching your destination Caleta Falsa bay. The centre of the bay used to be the heart of Estancia Policarpo, founded in the beginning of the 20th century by pioneer Francisco Bilbao, but which has been abandoned since the 1960s.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 5 5: ESTANCIA POLICARPO – BAHÍA THETIS - 5-7 hours riding

    After leaving Caleta Falsa bay, you will pass by several beaches. At Laguna Centenario you can enjoy a unique spectacle: the varied species of birds of Tierra del Fuego in all their glory. This may include cormorants, southern crested caracaras as well as the two emperors of the sky: black-browed albatross and Andean condors. You may also pass by colonies of sea lions (and their pups, depending on the season). Afterwards you will drift away from the coastline and will ride further inland through the Fueguino peatland. Weather permitting, you may be able to see Staten Island, whose lighthouse was the inspiration behind Jules Verne’s book “The Lighthouse at the End of the World.” The peatland becomes even more boggy here, and you will need to dismount on occasion and cross some sections by foot.

    Finally, you’ll arrive at Bahia Thetis, passing by an abandoned factory which was once used to remove the skin and fat from the sea lions previously hunted in the Atlantic Ocean. Close by you’ll see what was once a rescue shelter for survivors of the many shipwrecks that are now sprawled along the shores of the Mitre Peninsula.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 6 6: BAHÍA THETIS - No riding, 7-hour hike

    Today you will enjoy some time at the furthest point of our ride. You can choose either to relax and have some down time, or to join a hike to Cape San Diego Lighthouse at the tip of Tierra del Fuego, which is a 7-hour roundtrip, mostly through peatland (good trekking shoes are required). If you choose to hike, you’ll follow the coastline and then cross the channel leading to the inner bay. There is a chance to see guanacos close by. Slowly you’ll approach the eastern end of Tierra del Fuego - Cape San Diego. There you can enjoy an exceptional 360-degree view of the South Atlantic Ocean, Strait of Le Maire, Staten Island and the entrance to the Beagle Channel. Here you can even explore the old lighthouse, and you may even get to a small sea lion colony.

    After lunch, you’ll make your way back to the horses, continuing to enjoy the iconic Patagonian landscape with the many trees shaped by the wind.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 7 7: BAHÍA THETIS - No riding

    Today is a chance for you to relax and recharge before the journey back. You can also take this opportunity simply to soak up the magic of the land, enjoying short walks around the area, observing wildlife and looking for traces of the Indians who inhabited the area many years ago. For some, it’s a chance to sit back and enjoy a glass of wine at the camp site while soaking up the mesmerizing surroundings.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 8 8: BAHÍA THETIS - ESTANCIA POLICARPO - 5-7 hours riding

    The return journey starts today, and you will follow the same trail back from Bahía Thetis to Estancia Policarpo. Once again, the Criollo horses will demonstrate their incredible strength and ability to navigate the best way through the peatland.

    From the cliffs, you can enjoy an extraordinary spectacle of light and colour with a beautiful view of the sub-Antarctic forest, the Andes and the South Atlantic Ocean. Halfway, you will have lunch and then continue on towards the Policarpo shelter.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 9 9: ESTANCIA POLICARPO – PUESTO RIO BUENO - 5-7 hours riding

    After preparing the horses, you will leave Caleta Falsa bay, cross peatland once again and eventually reach the coastline next to Rio Policarpo (the widest and most challenging river during our expedition). On the other side of Rio Policarpo, lie the longest beaches of your journey (Donata and Policarpo Bay) where you can enjoy some wonderful long canters. With a little luck, it’s possible you’ll also encounter large groups of wild horses today.

    You’ll take a break near the old “Duchess of Albany” shipwreck, where you can have a snack and take pictures. Before heading onto the beaches once again, you may see herds of wild cattle passing by on the grassy cliffs. Since there is less luggage on the way home, the ride can be at a slightly faster pace, with more trots and canters.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 10 10: PUESTO RÍO BUENO - PUESTO LA CHAIRA - 5-7 hours riding

    In the morning you will have some time to walk around the Rio Bueno shelter and listen to stories about the legendary “puesteros” who once inhabited the land and worked with the cattle there. Afterwards, you’ll join the horses and ride across the Leticia River, climbing to the top of the cliff on the other side. From here you’ll have panoramic views of the entire region including the trail that you’ve ridden. On your way to La Chaira, you can enjoy more canters along the magnificent beaches as well as some relaxing breaks.

    That evening, there’ll be a hearty farewell meal, during which the group can share stories and reflect on your time together during the expedition.

    Overnight at the shelter.

  • Day 11 11: PUESTO LA CHAIRA - ESTANCIA MARÍA LUISA – USHUAIA - 5-7 hours riding

    Today you’ll bid a final farewell to the gauchos of the Mitre Peninsula, as you leave behind the wildest and most remote region of Tierra del Fuego. You’ll cross Río Irigoyen and return to civilization, ending the ride at Estancia Maria Luisa.

    After dismounting for the last time, you’ll say goodbye to the beautiful and brave horses, before heading back to your accommodation in Ushuaia. You may arrive in Ushaia late at night, so please do not book a late evening (today, day 11) or early morning flight (tomorrow, day 12). Dinner is to your own account this evening.

    Overnight in shared accommodation.

  • Day 12 12: USHUAIA - HOME - No riding

    Today you’ll be transferred to Ushuaia airport for your flight home.

Dates & prices

Price details

- Flights or transportation to your destination (international/domestic) are not included, but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.

- Rates are per person based on a group of 4 - 10 international riders, plus guides.

- There is no single supplement on this ride and you must be willing to share.

- Transfers to and from Ushuaia airport are included.

- It is possible to stay an extra day in Ushuaia and do a penguin tour. Please contact us for details and rates.

- Rider weight limit: 100 kg / 220 lbs / 15.7 st.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.

Price includes

Support Team

1 English-speaking horse guide

Logistics

1 horse equipped with saddle and bridle per rider
Pack horses for all the equipment and luggage

Inland transport

Airport transfers and all tour-related transfers

Accommodation

2 nights in shared accommodation in Ushuaia
9 nights sleeping in basic shelter accommodation (shared)

Meals

Full board from lunch on Day 2, to lunch on Day 11

Additional equipment

Saddle bags
First aid kit
Satellite communication in case of emergency

Price doesn't include

Meals

Beverages and personal extras

Transport

International flights

Extras

Tips to the local team

Insurance

Visas
Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    18/11/2025 29/11/2025 £3,065 €3,709 $3,800
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    		Book now
    07/12/2025 18/12/2025 £3,065 €3,709 $3,800
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Equestrian info

Horses

The horses are Argentinean Criollos, world-renowned for their hardiness. The horses are bred in Tierra del Fuego and used to all types of terrain. Their average height is 1.55 m.

Guide & local team

Your guides Adolfo and Laura are experienced riders and guides with good knowledge of the local area.

Lead guide Adolfo completed his first expedition to the Mitre Peninsula when he was 18 and now has more than 30 years of experience working and riding in the area. Laura has the important role of managing the complicated ride logistics and also doing much of the cooking. There will be at least 2 guides on every ride.

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

This ride is for intermediate and experienced riders. You must be comfortable in all three gaits across varied terrain and able to mount/dismount your horse unassisted.

Maximum rider weight limit: 100 kg / 220 lbs / 15.7 st.

Pace

There is about 5-6 hours of riding per day, with an average distance per day of around 30 km. The first part of the trip (days 2 – 5) will be a little slower due to the pack horses, however, it is important that the group sticks together and that all riders keep up with the pace set by the guide, as the daily schedule is dictated by the Atlantic tide. Riders should be prepared to do long and regular trots. On the way home, when there is less luggage, riding is a little faster, with regular trots and some beach canters.

Tacking ability and participation

You will be asked to help with the grooming, tacking and untacking of your horse, but help and guidance will be on hand.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

Riders are requested to be physically fit and in good health. The terrain of the route is varied but dominated by long flat beaches. The riding is not overly technical but there are sections of peatland (turba) where it is often necessary to dismount and walk on foot. Riders should be prepared to mount/dismount as needed, maybe a few times per day. You may also need to ride along cliff edges, so if you have vertigo, this ride may not be suitable for you.
You should be prepared for extremely changeable and unpredictable weather conditions, and to pack plenty of warm clothes.

You also need to remember that you are a long way from civilisation. The trail is completely isolated and out of reach by the conventional emergency services. In case of an emergency, the team has a satellite phone. Please ensure that rescue by helicopter is covered by your insurance (and bear in mind that a helicopter will only fly during the day and when the weather is safe enough to do so).

All medical conditions, allergies and other specific requirements should be disclosed before booking. You should bring any personal medications in sufficient quantity for the duration of the trip, since you will not be able to buy them during the ride.

Previous experience of trail riding is highly recommended. Riders who do not ride regularly are requested to get riding fit before they join this horseback holiday.

Equestrian equipment

You will ride in “Cangalla” saddles, which are typically used by Argentinean gauchos. These saddles are covered with sheep skins for extra comfort and are designed for long distance riding.

You will be given saddle bags to carry small items on the ride (10L + 10L) in addition to one larger bag (carried by pack horses).

Please bring your own riding helmet to ensure a correct fit. Helmets, chaps and boots are not available to rent.

Travel info

Comfort

You will sleep in very basic shelter accommodation during the ride, either in bunk beds or on the floor (please note, shelters are shared between male and female). Clients are requested to bring their own sleeping bags.

Sanitary facilities vary between shelters - some have a toilet and/or a shower, but you should be prepared for camping conditions and to wash with rainwater that's been collected for you.

For nights before and after the expedition you will stay at a hostel in Ushuaia, in shared accommodation.

Please note there is no electricity and no signal throughout the ride. You may bring a solar charger/powerbank, if you wish.

Meals

Meals are simple but tasty and plentiful, with many fresh and local products. For evening meals, guests can expect dishes such as empanadas, rice, vegetables, meat, fish, Milanese and pasta. Lunches are usually picnics. Local wine is provided with evening meals.

WATER
There is potable water at each shelter. You can bring water purification tablets such as Micropur for the water if you are worried.

Vegetarian diets can be accommodated – please let us know at the time of booking. Vegan, coeliac, gluten-free and other special diets are more difficult, please check with your travel advisor.

Climate

Weather conditions vary and are unpredictable. It has been said that “one can experience all four seasons in one day here in Patagonia”: snowfall, rain, strong sun or wind.

The climate can also change in a surprisingly short period of time. Riders must be prepared for the most extreme weather conditions (waterproofs and gloves are a must!) In general, the weather is cold and windy, with average temperatures ranging from 2 to 12 °C (35-54 °F), but due to the wind cooling factor, the perceived temperature can be significantly lower.

In short, you can expect cool days and cold nights. During the austral summer, daylight hours are exceptionally long (15 – 17 hours).

Tips

Tips are welcome but not expected. You should tip what you feel the service is worth and what you feel comfortable with. We would recommend c. USD 10 per day, which can be given to your guide to share amongst the whole team.

Packing list

PACKING LIST

Warm and waterproof outdoor clothing is crucial for your comfort during the expedition. It is important for you to stay warm and dry. Layers of clothing are key, and also convenient due to changing weather conditions.
Please avoid taking too many unnecessary items as there is limited space for luggage. Each client will be provided with bags for their belongings, these include: saddle bags (maximum weight 10L + 10L) and one big bag (maximum weight 35L) – your sleeping bag should fit inside.

Head
- Riding helmet – please bring your own, helmets are not available to rent.
- A warm cap.
- Thermal neck-scarf (buff).
- Sunglasses.

Body
- Thermal underwear (tops and leggings, 2x sets). Note: Cotton is not recommended as it absorbs moisture and takes time to dry.
- Lightweight, waterproof trekking trousers.
- Waterproof and wind-proof jacket with hood.
- Lightweight warm tops/jackets (for example, a softshell fleece) .
- A jacket for camping (oilskin jacket/coat is a good idea).
- Please don’t bring plastic ponchos due to the windy conditions.

Hands and feet:
- Two pairs of riding/hiking shoes. Waterproof leather boots or trekking shoes. Please note that footwear should be comfortable for both riding and walking.
- Lightweight trainers (for the evenings).
- At least 5 pairs of socks, in case your shoes/feet get wet during river crossings.
- At least two pairs of gloves, preferably waterproof.

Nightwear and sleeping gear:
- Sleeping bag with a comfort rating of at least minus 10c.
- Thermarest pad or similar insulating mattress.
- We also suggest adding a liner, such as silk or fleece for extra warmth.
- Pyjamas.

Equipment:
- Headlamp.
- Cosmetics – including sunblock, wet-wipes and toilet paper, personal medications (including a list of any allergies).
- Nylon or waterproof bags to secure your personal items (35L maximum).
- Small thermos (0.5L – 1L) or water flask for personal use.
- Camera with spare batteries.
- Powerbank.
- Microfiber or quick drying towel.
- Eye-mask.
- Ear-plugs.
- Portable / foldable backpack (5L approx. to take when hiking).
- Paper copy of id card/passport.
- Cash.

Sustainable tourism

  1. Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
  2. Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
  3. Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
  4. Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
  5. Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
  6. Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.

For more information please see this page.

Did you know?

Did you know?

The Mitre Peninsula is located on the southeast tip of Tierra del Fuego (or 'Land of Fire' in English). In 2022, it was declared a protected area for its archaeological and natural value. It is said to encompass an important carbon sink, through its range of peatlands and ocean kelp forests.