Central and South America > Chile

Torres del Paine expedition ride

Ride courageous Criollo horses on an adventurous trail ride across the incredibly scenic Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. You will experience a extraordinary variety of landscapes and take part in an authentic gaucho adventure. This riding holiday in Chile is an exceptional way to experience the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Patagonia in the saddle..
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Trail Riding
7 days / 5 riding -
From £0

From the horse’s mouth

  • Torres del Paine expedition ride
    January 2017 Sarah Eddy aged 63
    Life changing and amazing trip, perfectly organized The criollos never give up despite an occasional ragged look

Itinerary

Highlights

- Enjoy exhilarating riding on the pampas lands and across dramatic landscapes
- Ride with a Chilean gaucho, Osvaldo, born and raised in Puerto Natalas just outside of the Torres del Paine National Park.
- Discover the incredible beauty of Patagonia at the very bottom of South America : towering peaks, lakes, glaciers, forests and pampas.
- This itinerary also includes a hike and boat trip to Grey Glacier

Long itineraries are also possible on request - please contact us!
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  • Day 1 1 : HOME - PUERTO NATALES

    Fly to Puerto Natales in Chile – flights are not included but can be booked on request. Please note that this may be an overnight flight, please take care to land on the correct day. Make sure to arrive before midday so that you arrive with plenty of time to find your bearings and visit the farm on arrival. If you cannot find suitable flights to Puerto Natales, then it is also possible to fly into Punta Arenas and take a bus to Puerto Natales from here - the bus takes about 3 hours, so please take this into account.

    Transfer (approximately 2 hours) from Puerto Natales airport to Estancia La Cumbre, an extensively renovated establishment equipped with solar panels. Here, we arrive at the culmination of our journey, immersing ourselves in the rugged beauty of Patagonia. It is at this juncture that the true adventure begins, as we load our luggage in preparation for the forthcoming experiences. A warm and gracious welcome awaits, with a dinner prepared by a Chilean chef and complemented by some Chilean wines.

  • Day 2 2 : ESTANCIA LA CUMBRE - 6-9 hours riding

    Here, we will have our initial encounter with the horses. Osvaldo, your guide and gaucho, will assign a horse to each guest. The primary objective of the first day is to facilitate acclimatization, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. We will traverse through picturesque rolling hills adorned with lush green grass. Our destination will be an old Puesto, where we will relish our lunch boxes. Finally, we will return to the Estancia for dinner and spend the night there.

  • Day 3 3 : ESTANCIA LA CUMBRE - LAS CHINAS - 6-9 hours riding

    Once we've fueled up with a hearty breakfast, we'll embark on an epic journey to the awe-inspiring Tetas Las Chinas. As we venture forth, the signs of civilization will fade away, and the untamed essence of Sierra Baguales and Patagonia will reveal itself in all its glory. Get ready to witness a menagerie of fascinating fauna, from curious foxes to graceful guanacos, regal condors, bustling beavers, and a delightful array of bird species. And who knows, if the stars align, we might even catch a glimpse of those elusive pumas later in our expedition! The trail will lead us downhill, offering mesmerizing views of the renowned Torres del Paine on the horizon. The excitement won't end there, as we'll eventually arrive at our cozy Estancia, where we'll spend the night, sharing stories of our thrilling day amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia.

  • Day 4 4: SALTO LAS CHINAS - LAGUNA AZUL - 6-9 hours riding

    Get ready for an exhilarating full-day horseback ride to Laguna Azul, with a delightful lunchbox to keep us energized along the way. We might even catch some untamed wild horses! As the sun sets, we 'll treat ourselves to a true Patagonian delight: a mouthwatering asado de cordero, where succulent lamb will be barbecued to perfection over the fire for a whole four hours! We'll also get to savor the famous Patagonian drink called "Pisco sour" – it's an absolute must-try!

    Overnight tonight in cozy tents all set up for us in the camping area. Get ready for an unforgettable experience, surrounded by the beauty of nature under a starry Patagonian sky!

  • Day 5 5 : LAGUNA AZUL – TORRES DEL PAINE - 9 hours riding

    Today's the day we conquer the magnificent Torres del Paine National Park! Get ready for a thrilling 9-hour horse riding, covering about 50 kilometres of pure adventure. We 'll ride from Laguna Azul to Rio Serrano, soaking in the breathtaking sights along the way – think crystal-clear lagoons nestled amidst lush forests and majestic mountains, all topped off with views of glaciers! We 'll refuel with a lunchbox to keep us going strong. We'll continue to revel in the natural splendour of one of the most beautiful national parks in Patagonia! Once we bid farewell to our trusty steeds in a cozy paddock, we'll catch a ride to a refuge where we'll spend the next two nights. We'll embark on a 15-minute walk to reach a delightful dining spot.

  • Day 6 6 : RIO SERRANO – LAGO GREY – GREY GLACIER - 4 hours riding

    Today sees you ride from Rio Serrano to Lago Grey, a shorter ride before you have the opportunity to join a boat tour to Grey Glacier (3 hours) to admire the Glacier from the Southern Patagonia ice field. Please note there is a scenic 45 minute hike to get to the boat. Transfer back to the hotel for the last night of the trip.

  • Day 7 7: AIRPORT

    Transfer to the airport after breakfast. Please plan a flight departing in the afternoon – drop off will be around midday at the airport.

Dates & prices

Price details

No departure for this destination. Please contact our travel advisers for more information.
- 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 two riders sharing a twin or double tent/room during the ride.

- Groups are composed of a minimum of 4 riders and a maximum of 6 international riders, plus guides.

- Single supplements are not possible due to low room availability in this area and you must be prepared to share.

- Minimum age limit is 18 years old.

- Airport transfers are included from and to Puerto Natales. You should aim to arrive before midday (you may need to plan to spend a night in Santiago). On departure, you will be taken back in Puerto Natales around midday so should book an afternoon flight. If you cannot find suitable flights to Puerto Natales, then it is also possible to fly into Punta Arenas and take a bus to Puerto Natales from here - the bus takes about 3 hours, so please take this into account.

- Rider weight limit: 90 kilos, 14st1lbs.

- Longer or shorter itineraries are also possible, please contact us!
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 local horse guide
1 English speaking horse guide

Logistic

Same horse during the ride
1 support vehicle

Inland transports

Boat trip to Grey Glacier
All inland transfers described in the itinerary
Airport transfers at scheduled times

Accommodation

Accommodation on a sharing basis in Estancias, refuges or tents

Meals

Full board from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure except for meals in Punta Arenas on the rest day

Additional equipment

Saddle bags

Extra

Park fees

Price doesn't include

Meals

Meals outside the ride
Beverages and personal extras

Transports

International flights
Airport local fees. 30$ to be paid at the aiport when flying back

Extra

Tips to local team

Insurance

Cancellation and travel insurances are not included. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend to take out an insurance policy as soon as your travel is booked in case of cancellation.

Optional

Accommodation

Single room supplement
We are currently updating our dates and prices they will be online soon. If you want details of this holiday, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Equestrian info

Horses

The horses used are Criollo mix, the majority of them being between 14-15 hands. Criollo horses are medium sized but stocky and tough. These horses are energetic and keen, sure footed and well adjusted to the tough terrain and conditions. The traditional Chilean saddles consist of a basic frame upon which layers of sheepskin are placed for comfort.

You will ride the same horse throughout the trail

Guide & local team

Osvaldo was born and raised in Puerto Natales right outside of Torres del Paine National Park. He has gained over 20 years of experience working and trekking in and around the National Park. He is one of very few gauchos that know the trails and terrain of this area in Patagonia. Spending time abroad in Canada and Australia he worked with horses and learned English. He then decided to return to his beloved Patagonia where he established himself as a gaucho and an outdoorsmen, and now delights in sharing his true home with international guests.

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

This ride is open to intermediate and experienced riders. You should be able to ride at all paces over a variety of terrain and in open spaces. Previous experience of a multi-day trail ride is recommended.

Rider weight limit: 90kg /198 lbs / 14 stone 2 lbs

Pace

The pace is varied and includes long periods of walk when crossing mountain passes, but there are regular trots (sometimes fast) and numerous opportunities to canter and gallop across the pampas.

Tacking ability and participation

You are not expected to tack up your horse and this is all done for you by the team of baqueanos. If you wish to assist then you may do so. You may be asked to help untack at the end of the day.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

You need to be physically fit for the long hours in the saddle (c. 6 hours; some longer days) and potential treks on foot. You also need to be prepared for the unpredictable weather that Patagonia is famous for. You really can experience all four seasons in one day and the wind can be incredible. You also need to be open to a new style of riding and tack. There is a short hike to reach the boat tour.

Experience riding in open spaces is an advantage. Guests who do not ride regularly are requested to get fit prior to the ride. It is of particular importance to ensure you are comfortable and balanced when riding at speed across rough terrain and open spaces.
Visiting a new country offers the opportunity to meet other cultures with different mentalities, therefore it is important to accept these differences and respect the local way of life.
Clients should be made aware that the Torres del Paine National Park is roughly a 4-6 hour drive from the nearest trauma care facility in Punta Arenas (4 hours if they are situated in the Serrano area of the Park). There is a small hospital in Puerto Natales (3 hours) with a 24-hour medical assistance that can deal with minor injuries and illnesses. In the event of there being an accident or broken bone, clients would have to be taken out of the Park (probably by horse) to the nearest vehicle for the long drive out. There is one helicopter in the park for emergencies but it cannot fly in high winds. All our leaders carry first aid kits for dealing with minor injuries and incidents. Any client with a medical condition or using medication should discuss this with us prior to travel.

Equestrian equipment

You ride in traditional Chilean tack. The guides will likely have saddle bags and can carry small items for you (such as suncream), but you will need to carry your own camera in a bumbag or coat. You can tie extra layers/coats to the back of your saddle with leather straps.

The Chilean saddles are usually metal or wood-framed with layered felt, sheepskin and leather. The stirrups are cupped so the foot cannot pass.
Most of the horses are ridden in a snaffle.

Travel info

Comfort

You will sleep in Estancias, refuges or tents. Tents will be provided, however guests are requested to bring their own sleeping bag.

Meals

Meals are traditional and will include asado's (BBQ's) - most likely lamb. There may be fresh salmon, chicken or beef as well, together with plenty of fresh salads and vegetables.
Lunches are picnics and you make your own from foods provided at breakfast.

1 beer or soft drink is included at lunch, and wine in reasonable quantities at dinner.

Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice.


Climate

The climate is famously unpredictable! The rides only run during the spring/summer months and so the weather should be pleasant, but you really can experience all four seasons in one day. It is often windy and this can make it feel cold. Temperatures can reach 20c on a particularly fine day, or drop as low as 5 on a cold day. The strong winds do mean that the weather can change quickly, so if it's raining in the morning it could well be sunny by lunchtime.

Tips

Tips are welcomed and customary. You should give what you feel is appropriate and what you can afford. We recommend around $100-150 per person for the whole team.

Packing list

Head
- Helmets are mandatory and you should take your own to ensure a correct fit.
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana for protecting your neck and face from the sun and dust
- Warm hat

Upper body
- Thermals in case of cold weather
- Down jacket or warm coat for the cold evenings
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun
- T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Warm polar fleece or equivalent (plus a spare in case one gets wet)
- Waterproof jacket - rain can be difficult to predict and it's better to be prepared.

Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Waterproof over trousers
- Casual clothes for the evenings (jeans or walking trousers)
- Thermals in case of cold weather

Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps but you may wish to take long chaps. We don't recommend taking your favourite long leather boots in case they get damaged
- Lightweight shoes or trainers for the evenings
- Good walking boots (or hybrid walking/riding boots)
- Several pairs of warm socks
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun, wind or rain whilst riding

Nightwear
- Sleeping bag. You need at least a comfort factor down to minus 10° Celsius, or minus 15°C if you feel the cold.
- Sleeping bag liner - silk, cotton or fleece - adds an extra layer
- Pyjamas or tracksuits or thermals for sleeping in

Other useful items
- Swimsuit - for swimming/bathing in rivers
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Bumbag for carrying your camera and small items whilst riding
- Headtorch or small torch for moving around camp at night - bring spare batteries and bulbs
- Ear plugs (for light sleepers)
- Water bottle - 2 x 1 litre, or equivalent
- Wet wipes for when washing water isn't available

Medical kit
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent
- Any medication you regularly take
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Eye drops
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhoea medication
- Micropur or similar water purification tablets
- Re-hydration sachets
- Antiseptic wipes
- Handwash gel


Our Recommendations
- You should use a soft sided suitcase which can easily be transported - we recommend a large backpack or rucksack of c. 60-80 litres
- Backpacks cannot be worn whilst riding. We recommend a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (camera, sunscreen, lipbalm etc)
- We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!
- Please be aware that internal flights in Chile may have a lower luggage allowance than your international flight and you should pack according to the lowest limit.
- Carry a copy of your passport and insurance details with you.

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?

Torres del Paine national park is situated in southern Chilean Patagonia and borders Bernardo O'Higgins national park to the south and Los Glaciares national park to the north (which is in Argentina).

Pronounced Pie-nay, the word Paine means "blue" in native Tehuelche language. The Torres, or towers, refer to three distinctive granite peaks which rise out of the Paine massif (mountain range). They extend 2,500m above sea level and are flanked by the Cuernos del Paine (horns of Paine). The Paine massif, which is a spur of the Andes, dominates the park as it rises above the Patagonian steppe.

A large portion of the park is taken up by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and includes Grey Glacier, Dickson glacier and Tyndall glacier. There are also a number of lakes, including Grey Lake, Sarmiento Lake and Del Toro Lake. All are vividly coloured, mostly due to rock flour suspended in their waters.

Horse-riding trails in Torres del Paine are truly spectacular as you can venture deeper into the park than hikers and visit some of the less frequented sights.

Customer reviews

Customer reviews

All of our reviews are real, honest opinions from riders who have recently travelled with us. Upon their return, our riders will receive an email inviting them to share their experiences from their trip. Good or bad, each review will be published on our website, provided that they respect our editorial guidelines.
  • Sarah Eddy aged 63 Bromma 1 trip
    January 2017
    Life changing and amazing trip, perfectly organized The criollos never give up despite an occasional ragged look
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide