When it comes to horse riding, Latin America is a paradise for equine enthusiasts. From the vast grasslands of Argentina to the wetlands of Brazil, there are countless breathtaking destinations waiting to be explored on horseback. If you’re a horse lover looking for your next adventure, here are seven incredible places in Latin America that should be at the top of your list.
Argentina – Las Pampas
Argentina has a long history of horse riding, and none more so than the vast grasslands and steppes of Las Pampas. There are two distinct possibilities here. The first is to join gauchos, traditional cowboys, to round cattle that graze on the open plains. They ride on Argentine Criollos, a selective bred robust horse. By night bed down at comfortable estancias, enjoying hearty home cooked cuisine, washed down by some of the finest Malbecs. The second is polo, of which the Argentines are champions. Unlike Europe, polo is a sport for the masses and this region offers the opportunity to hone your skills.
Argentine horse-whisperer video
Look at a sample Argentine tour
Brazil – Pantanal
The Pantanal is the largest wetland in the Americas, spanning an area the size of Wales. It also is one of the greatest wildlife spotting regions in the world. These flooded plains are a haven for colourful macaws, parrots, storks whilst caiman alligators lurk. There are good chances to see jaguars that roam the riverbanks. Due to the terrain horses play an essential role in daily life here. Although some exploration can is by foot or 4×4, horses allow access to some of the remote parts of the wetlands. On some trips the horses may swim across deep stretches with you hanging on.
Look at a sample Brazil holiday
Chile – Lake District & Atacama
There are few places that match the beauty Chilean Lake District. Bubbling rivers and clear lakes punctuate the fertile valleys, meadows and forests. These are fed by turquoise glacial meltwaters. As you ride there is a backdrop of snow-covered volcanoes in the distance. Could there be anywhere more scenic for a horse ride? Hardy Criollo horses are well suited to the hilly terrain. After a tiring days’ ride, take a therapeutic soak in the hot thermal springs. To the north, the Atacama provides an opportunity to ride in a lunar landscape.
Look at a sample tour of Chile
Costa Rica – Arenal & Nicoya
The mighty Arenal Volcano towers over the town of La Fortuna. It’s possible to horse ride around the volcano’s base through primary forests and cattle ranches. From this unique perspective you can appreciate the volcano’s size. Another excellent ride nearby takes you to La Fortuna Waterfall. Along the way, riders can spot plenty of wildlife including monkeys, coatis, peccaries and exotic birds like toucans. If horse riding along a beach is more your dream, there are plenty of Pacific beaches to choose from. The Nicoya Peninsula has the gold coloured Conchal beach, Jacó and Tamarindo in the north. Further south are less crowded Nosara, Manzanillo and Sámara. Manuel Antonio is a popular Pacific destination.
Look at sample tours of Costa Rica here
Ecuador – Andean cordillera
Horse riding has played an important role in rural Ecuador since the Spanish arrived in the 16th century. The plains and pastoral valleys of the Andean cordillera are well suited for exploration on horse-back. Centuries old haciendas, past estates of Spanish colonists, still breed horses. These make perfect stop-off points for longer rides. No other mode of transport offers the same access to Ecuador’s spectacular scenery. Riders will gain an insight into the Andean local way of life. Pass farmers working the fields like their pre-Incan ancestors, or children herding llamas.
Look at our sample tours of Ecuador here
Peru – Trujillo
The Peruvian Paso is a breed descending from royal horses brought by the Spanish. Pasos are known for their gentle nature and smooth, comfortable ride. The breed is so highly regarded by the Peruvian government it declared them a National Cultural Heritage. To see these horses at their finest, visit the competition of Paso Horses in the northern city of Trujillo. You will also have the opportunity to ride them if you wish. The nearby adobe World Heritage city of Chan-Chan is unmissable.
Look at our sample tours to Peru here.
Uruguay – Wetlands & coast
Uruguay’s small size make it easy to get around. Its cattle-raising traditions mean horse riding is second nature to rural life. Gauchos are highly regarded in Uruguay, and the perfect companions to show you the countryside. Ride their Criollo horses where you can learn the art of cattle herding. On horseback you can explore the interior wetlands, a wildlife haven with hundreds of species of birds. Uruguay’s diverse landscapes of forests, rivers, lagoons, and sifting sand dunes mean rides are never dull. The estancias and wineries are the most hospitable places to stay. Boutique hotels are springing up for the trend setters.
You can visit any of these places with Select Latin America.