At dawn, guests staying at Hotel Las Torres witness a spectacle like no other: hundreds of horses galloping back to the stables in a breathtaking herd. The warm colors of the sunrise, the crisp morning air and the rhythmic thunder of hooves create a scene straight out of a dream – one that only Patagonia can offer.
At Las Torres Patagonia, horses are at the heart of who we are. They not only offer our visitors a unique way to explore the Torres del Paine National Park – riding through its landscapes like the pioneers once did – but also play a key role in supporting our baqueanos (Patagonian cowboys) in their daily operations.
In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about our horses – from the unforgettable horseback tours you can enjoy with us, to the care and traditions that keep these noble animals thriving.
When you arrive at Las Torres Patagonia, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by a few colorful characters on horseback, wearing traditional berets and neck scarves, with a friendly nod as they pass. These are our baqueanos, cultural guardians of Patagonian traditions, expert riders and masters of these lands.
Our baqueanos and their horses are deeply connected. They know every trail by heart, reading the terrain through the horses’ movements. Some say they can feel changes in the earth without even looking down, simply by the way their horses walk.
They’ll guide you on every horseback tour, offering tips on how to ride and communicate with your horse using just the reins and your body, and helping you build confidence and skill in the saddle.
If you’re curious about their culture and way of life, we invite you to join our cultural excursion: the Baqueano Experience. You’ll discover their customs, listen to traditional chamamé music, learn about mate culture and see firsthand how we care for our horses – an essential part of every Patagonian adventure.
At Las Torres Patagonia, we offer a wide range of activities so you can explore the park your way – on foot, by van or on horseback. For those choosing to ride, we have options tailored to all levels of experience.
If you’re a beginner, start with our Ascencio Valley Ride – a peaceful route once traveled by early settlers and baqueanos that avoids busy hiking trails. This ride takes you through diverse landscapes, past unique rock formations and sweeping views of Mount Almirante Nieto.
Another great option is the Nordenskjöld Lake Ride, a half-day adventure heading west into the park. You’ll follow the trail towards the Cuernos Sector, then branch off to the lake shoreline, where unusual rock formations and vibrant natural surroundings make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
These beginner-friendly rides are gentle, with horses that follow the baqueano leader calmly and steadily. They require no advanced riding skills, making them perfect for first-timers eager to connect with Patagonia in a truly special way.
For more seasoned riders looking to elevate their Patagonian adventure, we offer a variety of unforgettable excursions.
One of our most iconic experiences is the Base Torres Viewpoint Ride. Although this trek is traditionally done on foot, we offer the unique opportunity to complete the first section, up to the Chileno Sector, on horseback. This lets you conserve your energy for the final stretch, which is completed on foot.
Along the way, you’ll ride through the legendary Los Vientos Pass, cross the Ascencio River and see the trail from a whole new perspective. Once you’ve reached the viewpoint and taken it all in, your loyal horse will be waiting at Chileno to take you back.
For the most experienced riders, the Encantado Valley Ride is our longest and most immersive horseback trip – a full-day adventure covering the opening stretch of the iconic O Circuit.
This 24-kilometer route takes you deep into Patagonia’s untouched landscapes, through the pampas, past Azul Lagoon and into the legendary Serón Sector and its Encantado Valley. It’s an incredible seven-hour ride, offering a deep connection with both horse and nature in one of the world’s most remote and beautiful places.
Before vehicles arrived in Patagonia, the only way to transport supplies was by animal. Carts helped to an extent, but their wooden wheels were no match for the rugged terrain.
The solution? Pack horses, or caballos pilcheros. Loads are balanced across the horse’s back using a strong mesh and fixed frame system. This allows the horses to carry food, equipment and even trash to and from remote areas like the Chileno Sector.
At Las Torres Patagonia, we proudly maintain this tradition. It allows us to sustainably supply and support areas deep within the park, helping preserve the land while honoring Patagonian heritage.
To avoid overworking the horses, our baqueanos rotate their use – separating the horses used for riding from those used for pack duties – and organize schedules that ensure each horse gets the rest and care it deserves.
With more than 160 horses, each with its own name and story, we see their health and well-being as a top priority.
All our horses receive regular veterinary check-ups, including dental exams to ensure their teeth wear evenly, preventing injuries from overgrown molars.
They also receive all the vaccinations required by Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) and undergo routine hoof care, including shoe replacement.
To maintain harmony between our horses and the natural environment, we’ve implemented a holistic grazing system. By rotating pastures, we prevent overgrazing and soil erosion. This system is certified by the Savory Institute and ensures a balanced relationship between the land and our animals, similar to how wild herds coexist with nature around the world.
These are just some of the ways you can experience our horses at Las Torres Patagonia. Our horseback tours are an exclusive offering for our guests, and a chance to explore Torres del Paine like the pioneers once did.
Are you ready to discover Patagonia like a baqueano?
Join us for an adventure you’ll be telling stories about for the rest of your life.