Horse Crossing The Andes

192 hrs
From
2.261.000 ARS

This journey is truly unique, offering a chance to traverse one of humanity's most remarkable feats. We will follow the exact path taken by San Martín and O'Higgins in 1817, crossing the majestic Andes Mountains.

During this 7-day, 6-night adventure, we will explore breathtaking landscapes flanked by the tallest peaks in the Americas, Aconcagua and Mercedario. On our route, we'll witness vast herds of guanacos and spot majestic condors. As dusk falls, a spectacular array of stars will illuminate the southern hemisphere sky. The serenity of the camp, combined with the warmth of a bonfire, the strumming of guitars, and rounds of mate, creates the perfect ambiance to reflect on each day's experiences.

This excursion is perfect for nature and horseback riding enthusiasts eager to relive the historic crossing as experienced by the Army of the Andes.

Tour Description

Day 1

We will gather in Los Molles at 6 p.m. for the Entry process.

After this, the guides who will accompany you throughout this adventure will provide a comprehensive briefing about the route. We will then proceed with " Customs," which involves selecting all the essential items for the journey to be packed in the two saddlebags. Any remaining belongings will be securely stored at the Hostel.

This initial day is designed to be relaxed, allowing you to familiarize yourself with your fellow riders and guides. It's also crucial to acclimate to the altitude. We'll spend our first night at the Hostel, enjoying a delicious dinner.


Day 2

Early in the morning, following a hearty breakfast, we will depart by van to Las Leñas Chicas, where we will meet our travel companions: the horses.

Guides and baqueanos will carefully select the most suitable horse for each participant.

We will commence the ride, reaching the Portezuelo Ancho, where we'll have a cold lunch. We'll then continue riding until we arrive at the camp in Valle Hermoso.

Here, we will set up camp for our first night, preparing our "beds" with tarps, sleeping bags, and blankets. The guide assistant will prepare the campfire for cooking, and we will enjoy the night under the stars, accompanied by a stove, guitar, and the tranquility of the Andes.


Day 3

After breakfast, we will saddle up our horses and head west towards the Trujillo stream. We'll have a cold lunch here, and after some rest, we'll ride on to reach the Piedras Negras summer post. This is where we will spend our third night camping. The riding times are approximately 3 hours in the morning and about 2 hours in the afternoon.


Day 4

On the fourth day, after breakfast, we’ll prepare the mules and saddlebags to ascend to the border with Chile at Santa Elena pass, which is at 3,080 meters.

Upon returning to camp after lunch, we'll be treated to some delicious fried cakes for a snack. Our fourth dinner will take place under the vast, starry sky, with a total of approximately 7 hours of riding for the day.


Day 5

After breakfast, we will set out for the Yesera post of the middle Gr Turismo Aventura Base Camp. Following lunch, we will cross the Cobre River.

This final night, after dinner, we'll participate in a trick tournament.


Day 6

Following breakfast, we will undertake the final saddling of the horses and mules.

As we conclude our journey, we will head towards the Portezuelo Ancho, where a delightful lunch with fresh beer awaits, along with vehicles to transport us back to the Pehuenche Refuge in Los Molles. We plan to arrive between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. After some free time in the afternoon, we'll gather for a farewell dinner.


Day 7

We will conclude our adventure with a hearty breakfast before bidding farewell.


End of Service

What’s included?

What’s included:

• 2 nights of accommodation at Club Andino Pehuenche Hostel. • 4 nights/5 days of horseback riding with full board. • Food and drinks during the ride, activities. • Las Leñas Valley Field Access • Complete equipment for the ride: horses, saddles and pack mules. • Complete equipment for adventure activities. • Guides specialized in each of the activities. • Satellite communication in case of emergencies.

What’s NOT included:

• Air and/or bus to or from the meeting point in Los Molles. • Transfers from San Rafael or Mendoza airport to Los Molles, or vice versa. • Tips • Drinks or extras requested at the Hostel and/or its restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions

This adventure tourism excursion typically involves several days of horseback riding through the Andes Mountains, departing from Mendoza. The typical program includes an initial briefing, equipment fitting, and days of riding through valleys, gorges, and high mountain passes with panoramic Andean landscapes. The journey progresses at the horses' pace, with stops for hydration, photography, and a picnic lunch, followed by overnight stays in shelters, refuges, or campsites. On the final day, the return to the meeting point is made by land transportation. The exact itinerary, elevation changes, and distances may vary depending on weather, permits, the group's skill level, and the tour operator's logistics.

The horseback ride is of moderate to challenging difficulty due to the high mountain terrain. Advanced equestrian experience is not usually required: experienced local guides provide riding and safety instructions at the beginning and throughout the trek. Good physical condition, tolerance for extended periods outdoors, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions (wind, cold, UV radiation) are recommended. Altitude can affect performance; it is advisable to acclimatize in Mendoza 1–2 days prior to the ride. Age and weight restrictions may apply, and the ride is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with heart/respiratory conditions without medical clearance. The guides set the pace to prioritize safety and enjoyment of the Andean landscape.

This type of travel experience typically includes a bilingual guide and local experts, saddled horses, basic safety equipment (e.g., helmet), camp/shelter logistics, picnic meals, and treated water throughout the trek, as well as internal transfers to and from the start/finish of the route. It usually does not include flights, travel insurance, personal technical equipment (sleeping bag, flashlight, clothing), additional snacks, personal expenses, or tips. Some tours include transportation to/from Mendoza, but it's best to confirm this. Always check the "Includes/Does Not Include" section, insurance coverage, baggage policy, and whether equipment rentals are available to ensure a comfortable, safe, and well-planned horseback riding trip.

To optimize your experience on this adventure excursion in Mendoza, pack in layers: a thermal base layer, fleece, and waterproof/windproof jacket; technical pants, thermal socks, and trekking boots or riding boots. Add gloves, a buff, a hat, UV sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm. Essential items include: a 2L water bottle or hydration pack, a personal first-aid kit, medication prescribed by your doctor (including altitude sickness medication, if applicable), a headlamp, and a power bank. A sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures and a dry bag for clothing are recommended. Pack light and compactly. Check if panniers, helmets, and blankets are provided, and purchase travel insurance with mountain coverage.

The best time to cross the Andes on horseback is usually spring and summer in Mendoza, when there are more hours of daylight and better conditions; however, high-altitude weather is variable, with possible winds, cold temperatures, and intense sunlight. Book in advance due to limited availability and high demand during peak season. Prices vary depending on duration, services, and dates; inquire about promotions and group rates. Check the cancellation policy, rescheduling options due to bad weather, and accepted payment methods. Request written confirmation of the itinerary, including "Includes/Excludes" and insurance details. To guarantee availability, book online or through your trusted travel agency.

Questions

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Difficulty Level

Low

Type of Activity

Horseback Riding Sightseeing

Cost Level

Average

Cancellation Policy

48hs before the trip

Type of interest

ADVENTURE Culture and history Nature and Wildlife Mountains

Horse Crossing The Andes

192 hrs
From 2.261.000 ARS

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Horse Crossing The Andes