8-Day Crossing of the Andes on Horseback

Have you ever envisioned yourself traversing the Andes on horseback? Join us for an 8-day journey that takes you deep into the magnificent Andes mountain range!

Activity Overview

Day 1: San Juan - Barreal

Are you prepared to embark on 8 days of mesmerizing adventure in the Andes? We will convene at Alvear Norte 161, where an introductory session awaits. From there, we'll board an off-roading vehicle to head toward Barreal. After approximately three hours on the road, we will arrive at the hotel, where you'll receive a detailed briefing on the adventures that lie ahead, along with essential gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.

We’ll also share valuable insights on how to adjust to the altitude of 1,700 m (5,577 ft) and recount the historical journey of the Army of the Andes from 1817, which aimed to liberate Chile from Spanish rule.

Then, the evening is yours to explore local dining options, allowing you to rest before the activities of the following day.

Day 2: Barreal - Peñón Colorado or Los Hornitos

After breakfast, we will drive for three hours to Manantiales, marking the beginning of our true adventure. Here, we’ll prepare the horses and mules for our journey.

The ride commences in a picturesque valley filled with pastures and hills, spanning 6 km (4 mi). Moving at a steady pace, we will take regular breaks, including a picnic lunch to allow the animals to rest and hydrate.

Continuing on, we’ll reach a campsite in Peñón Colorado or Los Hornitos, guided by weather conditions and the group's speed.

As darkness envelops the landscape, we’ll come together for dinner, and if the skies are clear, we’ll settle into our shared tents under a beautiful starry night.

Day 3: Peñón Colorado or Los Hornitos - El Espinacito - Vega de Gallardo

Prepare yourself for one of the most challenging days of our Andean crossing. We’ll begin with an early breakfast for energy before tackling the 15 km (9 mi) route to the Espinacito Pass, reaching an impressive altitude of 4,500 m (14,763 ft).

A lunch break will see us continuing through serene, snow-capped hills over another 15 km (9 mi). As we descend, we will arrive at the camp at Vega de Gallardo, situated nearly 3,000 m (9,842 ft) above sea level.

We’ll wrap up the day with a hearty meal followed by a chance to rest up for the next leg of our journey.

Day 4: Vega de Gallardo - Valle de Los Patos - Río del Valle Hermoso

After breakfast, we will set out on horseback toward the Valle de Los Patos, a strategic location for the Army of the Andes during their campaign.

We’ll cover a distance of 10 km (6 mi) over rocky trails and high-altitude meadows. When hunger calls, we’ll pause for a nourishing lunch. Reenergized, we’ll mount our horses once again, rewarded along this segment by breathtaking vistas that stretch far and wide.

After approximately another 10 km (6 mi), we’ll arrive at the campsite beside the river in Valle Hermoso, situated at 2,990 m (9,809 ft). The day will end in this tranquil setting, perfect for dinner and relaxation.

Day 5: Río del Valle Hermoso - Border marker - Valle Hermoso

Following a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a 10 km (6 mi) route to reach a prominent border marker between Argentina and Chile. Crossing this historical point will evoke the spirit of the Liberation Army that traversed these rugged terrains long ago.

This breathtaking yet arid landscape feels untouched by time. We will take a moment to replenish our horses and ourselves with lunch before continuing on to the camp in the heart of Valle Hermoso, after another 10 km (6.2 mi).

Upon arrival, we’ll set up camp, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.

Day 6: Valle Hermoso - Vega del Cura or Rancho de Lata

The day begins with breakfast before we embark on a 15 km (9 mi) descent through rivers and streams, navigating fords along the way.

After a brief lunch break and rest period, we’ll continue our route to either Vega del Cura or Rancho de Lata, influenced by the weather and our group pace. In this section, you'll notice a gradual change as the dense vegetation begins to thin.

Our day will conclude with a delicious dinner at camp, with preparations for tomorrow’s adventures.

Day 7: Vega del Cura or Rancho de Lata - Paso de La Honda - Barreal

On this final day of riding, we will start with breakfast before heading toward the Paso de La Honda, soaring to 4,350 m (14,271 ft) above sea level.

This ascent is steep, and every breath taken here feels invigorating. In a span of 5 km (3.1 mi), our journey will reward us with magnificent views of the Andean peaks as we begin the final descent.

Post-lunch, we will journey on to Manantiales, covering another 15 km (9 mi). There, we’ll bid farewell to our beloved horses and take an off-roading vehicle back to Barreal, arriving around 8 pm. Once in town, you may check in at your hotel.

We will gather for a farewell dinner (not included), reflecting on the memories forged during this expedition.

Day 8: Barreal - San Juan

After breakfast, we’ll prepare for our return trip at 10 am to San Juan, Argentina. Expect to reach our original meeting point around 1 pm after another three-hour drive.

At that moment, we’ll say our goodbyes, enriched with unforgettable experiences from this remarkable Andes crossing.

Lodging

Your stay for this tour spans seven nights in the following accommodations:

• Five nights in full board within shared tents accommodating up to five people.
• Two nights of hotel accommodations with breakfast in quadruple rooms with shared bathrooms at Complejo Río Los Patos (3*) or equivalent.

Culinary Offerings

During your journey, anticipate the following meals:

• Breakfast: freshly baked semita bread, black coffee, coffee with milk, mate, and tea accompanied by regional pastries.
• Lunch: chicken sandwiches, breaded beef or pork cutlet, savory pies, assorted cold cuts with fruit, and dessert, complemented by fresh stream water.
• Dinner: grilled meats, pasta with sauces and cheese, hearty lentil stew, rice, traditional Andean locro, and fruits for dessert, paired with fresh stream water.
• Afternoon refreshments: mate, black coffee, coffee with milk, homemade bread, and regional delicacies.

Vegetarian alternatives will also be available.

Potential Itinerary Changes

The sequence of activities may be adjusted based on weather conditions.

Evacuation Insurance Requirement

Please be aware that it is mandatory to acquire evacuation insurance for this adventure. During the booking process, details on how to obtain this insurance will be provided in your voucher.