Horseback riding in Patagonia

El Calafate is a city where you will most likely stop if you are visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina or other surroundings such as El Chalten or other areas in the Los Glaciares National Park.

If you are wandering what to do for an afternoon or have an extra day, I strongly recommend to spend a day (or half-day) horseback riding in the Patagonian country side. There are plenty of Estancias (i.e. cattle ranches) in the area and the choice is very difficult. I went to Estancia Rio Mitre and decided for the shorter horseback riding tour as it was my very first time! My experience at this estancia simply exceed any expectations I had. If you are looking for a chill day with authentic Argentinian hospitality and food - do not look further. The estancia is located about 40km (40mn ride) from the city of El Calafate and the guide/owner will pick you up from your location.

The experience was absolutely gorgeous. I was on my own with the son of the owner of the estancia, who was pretty much my guide for the morning. We rode for about two hours in beautiful green plains and reached the Lago Argentino. The view there were simply beautiful; you could overlook the mountains in the distance and it was simply great to relax, unwind and reflect. This experience is definitely not thrill seeking or if you are looking for some hustle and bustle but it is perfect if for example, you came back from a hiking trip and need one day to rest but still want to see some sights or not waste your time whilst in the region.

After the ride, the owner (I believe the father) will have ready an outstanding meal. I am a big fan of ham and meat and I had just what I wanted: some beautiful aged ham with melon as an appetiser and a traditional Patagonian lamb al asador. The food was absolutely divine and you could have as much as your stomach needed. What I also really enjoyed was that it is a family operated business and not a mass tourism estancia that only looks at taking your money. At no point did I feel rushed, I was even told I could stay until the afternoon guest was finished and they could take me back to the city in the evening if I wanted to. They are genuine people that want you to remember your time in Argentina.

Please note, however, that they barely speak English and a good knowledge and understanding will heighten your experience as you will be able to talk more to them and have longer conversations.

The price for the 2-hour horseback riding with lunch and transport was ARS2,200 ($A77; 48 Eur), which in my opinion is really good value for money.