- 5 mins
Horseback riding in Patagonia is a world-class experience. Feel the horses' hooves pounding against the Patagonian earth, watch the sunset bathe the pampas in golden light, and explore the region like the old baqueano horsemen who roamed these lands following nature's rhythm.
This is an invitation for experienced riders who love horses and have already conquered other lands with their trusty steeds. If you want to put your riding skills to the test and see Patagonia through its own traditions, this is the excursion for you.
This blog will tell you everything you need to know about our Encantado Valley ride, a full-day excursion that lets you explore Torres del Paine National Park like few have seen it. A must-do for those who love horseback adventures.
Las Torres Patagonia and its special connection with horses
Before putting on our chaps and fastening the reins, let us tell you about the long-standing relationship Las Torres Patagonia has had with these noble animals. These creatures of unmatched strength and loyalty let us explore the region just like in the old days.
Las Torres Patagonia is a private reserve located in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, which allows us to offer exclusive services, such as horseback riding along the trails. Only Las Torres Patagonia offers you the chance to enjoy the park's untamed nature while exploring its landscapes on the back of a noble steed.
Thanks to this, we've been able to develop a beautiful relationship with these animals. It's part of a tradition that's kept alive by thousands of baqueanos, shepherds, and ranchers throughout the region.
The horses at Las Torres Patagonia also get special care. They graze on the Patagonian pampas following a certified holistic system, get regular dental check-ups, and have regular visits from a vet to ensure they get all the care they deserve.
An excursion to show off your riding skills
Although Hotel Las Torres offers equestrian experiences for guests with no prior experience, such as Lake Nordenskjöld and Ascencio Canyon, this activity requires knowledge of horse handling and the ability to control the animal if necessary.
Unlike other horseback rides offered at the hotel, this activity is a full day of horseback riding in Patagonia, where you can put your skills to the test.
If you have ridden on horseback in the countryside where you live, this can be an opportunity to show off your skills. Our advanced riding guides and an experienced baqueano will allow you to gain more experience and show you places you never thought you would visit on the back of this noble animal.
This excursion to the Encantado Valley is an experience like no other, a pilgrimage set to the rhythm of your horse's gallop.
What route does this excursion take?
The excursion explores the eastern side of Torres del Paine National Park, covering the beginning of the popular O Circuit, which is one of the most visited routes by hikers from around the world.
This day-long experience follows the ancient trails used by baqueanos throughout the last century, allowing them to skirt the Paine Massif and get up close to the hidden majesty of the region.
You and your horse will visit winding rivers and the foothills of Patagonia's most imposing peaks. The tour also includes a ride through lenga beech forests, where you can connect with nature and the wildlife that inhabits these places, take a break from the blazing Patagonian sun, and immerse yourself in a green fortress with dozens of birds to discover.
This tour also includes the valley along the Paine River, breathtaking views of Azul Lagoon and Mount Cerro Paine, and stunning views of the pampas stretching across the Serón Sector and the Encantado Valley.
Tips for getting the most out of your ride
As this is a full-day excursion that also involves a long ride on horseback, you should travel as light as possible, perhaps with just a small backpack to carry your water bottle or camera. The less you take with you, the better your experience will be, as it will allow you to move more freely on your horse.
It is also important to bring a jacket or coat so you can bundle up if temperatures drop. A windbreaker is the best choice for this trip, but remember that horses are sensitive animals and easily alarmed by loud noises and sudden movements. Always wear your jacket zipped up to prevent the wind from spooking them.
Although most of the journey will be on horseback, do not wear flat shoes or sandals. Low- or high-top hiking boots are a good option; we will be dismounting on more than one occasion to take in the scenery, have lunch, or make adjustments to our mounts.
If you want to take photos during the excursion, let your guides know, and they will stop the tour to allow you to do so. You can even ask the guide to take a photo of you to capture the moment and have a lasting reminder of how you conquered the Patagonian pampas on horseback.
A chance to try out a horse’s different gaits
This excursion will also allow you to try out the different speeds your horse can reach. Remember that this will always be determined by the guide in charge of the excursion. If the terrain and weather conditions allow it, he will check with the rest of the group to see if they are ready to gallop.
If the guide deems that conditions are suitable for galloping, remember to focus solely on your riding. Do not take photographs or videos, as this could interfere with the gallop and cause accidents. Keep both hands firmly on the reins and don't get carried away by the moment.
It is also important to take into account any changes to your mount. If, after galloping or trotting, you feel that the saddle has loosened because of this movement, notify your baqueano so that he can make the necessary adjustments.
Riding in the Enchanted Valley is a unique experience in Patagonia. It takes between 6 and 8 hours to complete the entire route, which covers about 24 kilometers of trail.
It is without a doubt an unmissable experience for riding enthusiasts. Furthermore, it's not every day that you get the chance to explore Patagonia at a horse's pace, with the wind caressing your face, the sun high in the sky setting the tone for the day, and the pampas unfolding like a vast world waiting to be explored.
