Discover the Andes on horseback with a local guide.
This full-day adventure takes you through remote mountain trails in the Cordón del Plata, where you’ll ride alongside a gaucho, explore breathtaking landscapes, and learn about traditional mountain life. Enjoy a fire-grilled Argentine barbecue with wine, and connect with local culture in a way only a true insider can offer.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Pick-up at your accommodation
- We’ll pick you up directly at your accommodation in Mendoza city or Luján de Cuyo. Look for a white SUV — comfortable and easy to recognize — and we’ll be on our way to start the day.
Scenic stop at Potrerillos Dam
On the way to the ranch, we’ll stop at the stunning Potrerillos Dam — a reservoir of turquoise meltwater surrounded by mountains. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air, and take scenic photos before heading into the Andes.
Welcome to Don Daniel Ranch
Upon arrival at the ranch, you’ll be welcomed with warm sopaipillas — a traditional fried pastry — and a hot infusion to start the day. While you relax and take in the mountain views, Daniel, your local gaucho host, prepares the horses for the ride ahead.
Horseback Riding & Mountain Barbecue
Begin a 3-hour horseback ride through the Andes — crossing streams, valleys, and open mountain trails. After about 90 minutes, we’ll stop in the heart of the wilderness to enjoy a traditional Argentine barbecue, prepared over an open fire. Surrounded by silence and nature, you’ll share wine, grilled meats, and homemade appetizers, just like gauchos have done for generations.
Return to Mendoza
After enjoying the horseback ride and a memorable mountain meal, we’ll head back to the vehicle for the return journey. You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in Mendoza city — ending the day full of nature, flavors, and stories from the Andes.
Ending Point
Your accommodation in Mendoza city or Luján de Cuyo.
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
• 5-hour experience in the Andes, including 3 hours of guided horseback riding (split into two 1.5-hour segments)
• One horse per rider, with calm and well-trained mountain horses
• Bilingual private guide (English/Spanish), specialized in local culture and terrain
• Personalized attention in small groups
• Welcome snack: homemade sopaipilla (Andean fried dough) and hot infusion
• Full lunch: traditional appetizers, Argentine barbecue (asado), local wine, fresh bread, and dessert
• Saddle bags for personal belongings during the ride
• Round-trip private transportation from Mendoza city in a comfortable vehicle
• Gasoline and tolls included
• Personal accident insurance
• Personal items (clothing, sunscreen, etc.)
• Pick-up beyond 15 km from Mendoza city (can be arranged with extra cost)
• Any service not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary or description
This experience is all-inclusive — you won’t need to bring any extra cash for the day.
• The Andes can be cold and windy — dressing in layers and bringing a warm jacket is essential.
• This is a cultural and authentic experience, not a luxury tour.
• The horseback ride lasts several hours — participants should be in good health and comfortable spending time outdoors.
• This tour is not recommended for people with reduced mobility or severe back/knee problems.
• Please inform us in advance of any food allergies or dietary restrictions — we are happy to adapt the menu.
• We ride calm, well-trained horses — no prior horseback experience is required.
• Minimum age to participate is 10 years old.
I’m generally available year-round, depending on previous bookings. Feel free to reach out to check my availability — I’ll do my best to accommodate your plans!
Hi! I’m Vanina — a certified mountain guide based in Mendoza, Argentina. For the past 8 years, I’ve been guiding travelers from all over the world through the incredible trails of the Andes.
If you’re looking for a local expert to help you discover the best hiking spots in Mendoza, I’d love to guide you. Whether you’re up for a full-day adventure or a multi-day trek, I focus on creating safe, authentic and personalized experiences in nature.
All of my tours are designed to go beyond the typical tourist path, offering real contact with the landscapes, culture, and spirit of the Andes. I’m passionate about helping people connect with the mountains in a meaningful way — at their own pace, and according to their goals.
Let’s plan your next mountain adventure in Mendoza!
$595/ per group