Riding at Estancia Huechahue (Patagonia)

From www.EquestrianAdventurer.com:

Helping to herd sheep

Riding in Argentina - Estancia Huechahue

This horseback riding adventure is based at Estancia Huechahue ("way-cha-way") in northern Patagonia, Argentina. The estancia is a 15,000 acre ranch owned by Jane Williams and co-managed by Yvonne Corbett. Lodging at the estancia consists of cottage with private sleeping quarters and shared living rooms, all meals taking place at the main ranch house.

The pace and length of all rides are determined by the preferences of the guests, with no more than six guests participating in each ride and always accompanied by Argentinean guides known as gauchos. Everyone rides Criollos, a hardy breed native to Argentina that is known for its sure-footedness and intelligence. Guests are matched to two different horses and alternate between riding one or the other.

Mark and host's daughter navigate a river.

Patagonia's naturally beautiful landscape provides many opportunities for diverse riding, ranging from grassy hills, wide open plains and rocky, mountainous areas. Rides generally take place over three or four hours in the morning and again in the late afternoon when the temperature falls. The horses neck-rein in the Western fashion and traditional gaucho tack is used on the rides, consisting of a wooden tree covered in sheepskin. These saddles are very comfortable for long rides, though they take some getting used to if riders are used to the traditional English style of horseback riding.

When not riding, guests at Estancia Huechahue may explore ancient caverns, hike dormant volcanoes, dine at the ranch house or the bordering town of San Martin de Los Andes, or fish in a nearby national park.

Riding across the plains

For more information on this riding adventure and how to experience it for yourself, please visit EquestrianAdventurer.

Surveying the beautiful scenery

The estancia's horses