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Horseback riding tours
Rides in Argentina
Intro to Argentina
Buenos Aires Cordoba/Mendoza Corrientes Northern Patagonia Salta Southern Patagonia
Extensions:
Fitzroy Trek
Brazil
Chile
Ecuador
Peru
Uruguay
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Estancia at Sierra Chicas
Cordoba/Mendoza
Argentina
This is an 6,000-acre working cattle farm that has remained in the same Anglo-Argentine family for four generations. The Estancia is very secluded on the top of the "Sierras Chicas". At an altitude of 3,000 feet, it is nestled between the pampas and the Andes in the heart of the beautiful region of Cordoba. It is steeped in family history and locally there is much evidence of the pioneering work of the Jesuits who first organized farming in the area before they were forced to leave in the 1760's. The family provides short and long riding breaks for those who want to experience first hand the majesty and rural tradition of Argentina. The Estancia sets a standard of professionalism in accommodation, food, guiding and equine care above the normal standard of Argentina, combining care for the client with unrivalled personal attention to detail. The estancia also provides a unique experience for those who would like to combine the pleasures of estancia life with distance riding. If you have a love for the wild and enjoy the thrill of arriving by horse, this adventure allows you to experience Argentine wildlife, scenery and culture at close quarters while not abandoning creature comforts provided by good accommodation, the best tack and fabulous horses. This is a place for people who appreciate fine horses and know how to ride. However, there are horses for every ability, and beginners are welcome.
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Rates and Dates for 2009 | 2010
Rates include:
Accommodation; full board including drink; daily riding, guides and equipment; all other
activities whilst on the estancia
| A | 2009 | 7 day ranch stay, AP | 7d / 6n | $2160 |
| Single supplement (requested) | $648 |
| Daily rate | $360 |
| Daily rate Single (if requested) | $468 |
| B | 2009 | 8 day ranch stay, AP SPECIAL OFFER | 8d / 7n | $1740 |
| Single - no extra charge | $0 |
| Daily rate | $290 |
Instructor/Group Leader stays free (sharing a room) with a minimum of 7 paying participants. "Polo classes" ,"local wine tasting evening" and a "Gaucho music/poetry evening" are included
One person travels FREE with 6 or more paying riders!
Rates Note:
Informal polo is normally played once a week on the estancia, at no additional cost. With
notice, professional tuition/extra polo sessions are usually available at an extra charge.
Single supplement waived if willing to share
Transfer Option:
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2009
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Transfer from Cordoba is included
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Any time except May. Shorter stays are possible with a minimum of 3 nights (5 nights during holidays - Easter, Christmas, New Year)
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Rates do not include:
Travel and medical insurance; visas; personal phone calls; discretionary gratuities
There is no set itinerary for the horseback rides. The following are some examples of day rides and activities. The exact schedule will be determined as a group upon arrival:
Guests are met at the airport and taken up to the estancia (one hour). There is an introduction to the horses and gauchos, followed by an introductory horseback ride to a high view point.
· A half or full day of horseback riding on the estate following streams through valleys to the “top of the world” with stunning views of the Punilla valley and the Sierras Grandes beyond.
· Riders on horseback may have the opportunity to spend the morning helping the gauchos work cattle. The amount and type of cattle work will depend on the season: rounding up, herding, branding, etc. Lunch can be back at the estancia or a picnic in the hills or by a stream.
· Enjoy a full day's horseback ride to explore Candongas 16th century church. Return to Los Potreros past the “Estancita” and the Dominican church. This can also be a half-day horseback ride to the Dominican church with a visit to the local single teacher school.
· Spend the day visiting the Cañada de los Condores and swim under the waterfall. Picnic by the crystal clear stream.
. A visit to Cañada del Molle and Potrero de Niz, and see more of the family history in the area.
. Picnic by a clear stream. Sip the ice cool white torrontes wine while the stakes are sizzling on the fire and a gaucho is fishing a trout out of the river for dinner.
. Ride on horseback towards the quebrachitos past the bellstone rock. See the spectacular view of Cordoba City from high above, and the pampas beyond.
· Ride on horseback to the far end of the estancia Chiviquin. Enjoy an "asado" or a picnic lunch. There is a chance to climb to the water divide and have breath-taking views of the Sierras Grandes, Carlos Paz and the lush valley of Punilla.
· An overnight stay at Chiche and Menta's farm is very popular as is an overnight camping stay at Plomo's Estancia under the Pan de Azucar.
. Take a polo lesson. Understanding some of the rules will make for greater enjoyment of viewing the game if not making you a high goal player!
Subject to change
Meeting:
Potreros
Airport:
Cordoba
Transfer:
Cordoba airport
Distance:
25 miles
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Tack:
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South American
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Horses:
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Criollos, Paso Peruanos, polo ponies and some crossbreeds
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Pace:
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Moderate, trots and canters
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(2
to
5
out of 5) Novice to Advanced
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Age:
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Min
12
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
185 lb
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Horses
The horses, all bred on the estancia, have exceptionally soft mouths, are well mannered and in excellent condition, they are responsive and sure-footed, and most are either "Criollos" or "Paso Peruanos" with some crossbreeds. These horses differ in that here they are used constantly on the farm, moving cattle over the terrain makes them sure footed and willing animals. The estancia is currently actively breeding Paso Peruanos, a unique horse that has 5 gaits or paces (instead of 4) which provides an extremely comfortable, smooth riding experience that is not quickly forgotten.
Children
Children under 15 years are not permitted on trail rides, unless they are experienced and competent riders, and the party they are traveling with have reserved the ride exclusively.
Riding
You can expect to ride for between 4 - 6 hours per day, usually with a longer ride in the morning and a shorter ride in the afternoon, or day picnic rides. Rides are split according to ability, and often we will have several rides going out. The maximum number of guests per ride is 6 (plus 2 guides) but more normally it would be 4 or so.
We usually play an informal game of polo at least once a week on the estancia for those that would like to learn/take part. After a traditional lunchtime ‘asado’, Sunday afternoons are usually free for guests to relax and to enable horses to take a well-earned rest.
Hard hats
We strongly recommend that you wear a hard hat for riding, and it is obligatory for playing polo. We have a limited number available at the estancia, but you may prefer to bring your own to ensure the correct fit and comfort.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passports Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in chart. The minimum passport validity is equivalent to the time granted by the immigration authorities. Visas Not required. more
The Cordoba region or Argentina is known for its good weather and healthy climate; "siempre de temporada" always in season, is the old slogan. The climate can vary but is generally sunny and dry. The rainy season is in the summer months, whilst the winter is short and dry with crisp nights, made cosy by log burning fires The sun is strong all year round, so hats and good sun protection are recommended..
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Climate Centigrade
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Avg High Temp.
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31
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29
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27.5
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25
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20
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17
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17
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19
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22
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22
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27.5
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30
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Avg Low Temp.
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16
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15.5
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14
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11
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7.5
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5
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4.5
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6
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7.5
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11
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13
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15.5
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Avg Precip. mm
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134
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109
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116
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50
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23
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13
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15
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13
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38
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74
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107
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The estancia is situated at 1100 metres and therefore weather can sometimes be unpredictable - there is always the possibility of a wet, windy or cold day, and so pack accordingly! In addition, the sun is very strong, so hats and good sun protection are recommended all year round.
Hard hat - a limited supply of hard hats are available on the estancia but for comfort, fit and to ensure compliance with safety regulations in your own country we recommend you bring your own.
Towels for the room and swimming pool are provided.
The estancia generates its own electricity and supports responsible tourism. Therefore, the use of electrical items such as hairdryers and irons may be limited, and are not provided by the estancia.
It is possible to do laundry- cold wash only and no ironing (we create our own electricity and so it is very precious to us!). There is no fixed charge – we just ask that guests reflect the washing in their gratuity.
| … this list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Comfortable riding jean or Jodhpurs |
| Long riding boots or short boots and half chaps (a limited supply of half-chaps are available from the estancia) |
| Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
| A good windproof/waterproof |
| Gaiters (provided). |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Layers on top, including a warm fleece |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pajama |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Closed toe walking boots/shoes if you wish to explore the estancia on foot |
| Swimsuit |
| Sleeping bag (for the optional overnight trail ride – a limited supply are available from the estancia) |
| Small towel and small bar of soap |
| Small torch |
| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect repellent |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for the emergency) |
| Personal insurance details |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Binoculars |
| Camera + batteries or charger + film or card |
| Belt pack |
| Address book and pen (for postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| High factor Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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| Name |  |  |  |  |  |  | Date |
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catherine jan mcammond
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12/30/2008
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susan shecket
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12/5/2008
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shirley dijulio
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12/2/2008
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lisa berizzi
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3/15/2007
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..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations:
Accommodation on the farm is simple, traditional and very comfortable providing you with all creature comforts. All rooms are individual and tastefully furnished in keeping with the history and style of the estancia, and have their own private bathroom. Antiques and books abound, and crisp winter nights are warmed by wood-burning stoves and open log fires.
Meals:
Meals are European in style, varied and delicious with plenty of excursions into local favorites. The dishes are supplemented by the estancias own organically grown vegetables, fruit and free-range eggs. The excellent chef can cater for a range of special dietary requirements, and there are Estancia Los Potreros ‘own label’ Argentine wines to accompany the meals. Your stay is personally hosted by the Begg family who are always pleased to share their knowledge and tales of the estancia and the local area.
Dietary requirements:
We can cater for a wide range of dietary requirements, providing we have notice in advance. Please advise Hidden Trails of any special requirements that you may have.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
Horses
The horses, all bred on the estancia, have exceptionally soft mouths, are well mannered and in excellent condition, they are responsive and sure-footed, and most are either "Criollos" or "Paso Peruanos" with some crossbreeds. These horses differ in that here they are used constantly on the farm, moving cattle over the terrain makes them sure footed and willing animals. The estancia is currently actively breeding Paso Peruanos, a unique horse that has 5 gaits or paces (instead of 4) which provides an extremely comfortable, smooth riding experience that is not quickly forgotten.
Children
Children under 15 years are not permitted on trail rides, unless they are experienced and competent riders, and the party they are traveling with have reserved the ride exclusively.
Riding
You can expect to ride for between 4 - 6 hours per day, usually with a longer ride in the morning and a shorter ride in the afternoon, or day picnic rides. Rides are split according to ability, and often we will have several rides going out. The maximum number of guests per ride is 6 (plus 2 guides) but more normally it would be 4 or so.
We usually play an informal game of polo at least once a week on the estancia for those that would like to learn/take part. After a traditional lunchtime ‘asado’, Sunday afternoons are usually free for guests to relax and to enable horses to take a well-earned rest.
Hard hats
We strongly recommend that you wear a hard hat for riding, and it is obligatory for playing polo. We have a limited number available at the estancia, but you may prefer to bring your own to ensure the correct fit and comfort.
|
Tack:
|
|
South American
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Criollos, Paso Peruanos, polo ponies and some crossbreeds
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate, trots and canters
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(2
to
5
out of 5) Novice to Advanced
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
12
|
Max
70
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185 lb
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
3 riders
|
Max
12 riders
|
|
Horses
The horses, all bred on the estancia, have exceptionally soft mouths, are well mannered and in excellent condition, they are responsive and sure-footed, and most are either "Criollos" or "Paso Peruanos" with some crossbreeds. These horses differ in that here they are used constantly on the farm, moving cattle over the terrain makes them sure footed and willing animals. The estancia is currently actively breeding Paso Peruanos, a unique horse that has 5 gaits or paces (instead of 4) which provides an extremely comfortable, smooth riding experience that is not quickly forgotten.
Children
Children under 15 years are not permitted on trail rides, unless they are experienced and competent riders, and the party they are traveling with have reserved the ride exclusively.
Riding
You can expect to ride for between 4 - 6 hours per day, usually with a longer ride in the morning and a shorter ride in the afternoon, or day picnic rides. Rides are split according to ability, and often we will have several rides going out. The maximum number of guests per ride is 6 (plus 2 guides) but more normally it would be 4 or so.
We usually play an informal game of polo at least once a week on the estancia for those that would like to learn/take part. After a traditional lunchtime ‘asado’, Sunday afternoons are usually free for guests to relax and to enable horses to take a well-earned rest.
Hard hats
We strongly recommend that you wear a hard hat for riding, and it is obligatory for playing polo. We have a limited number available at the estancia, but you may prefer to bring your own to ensure the correct fit and comfort.
Passports
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in chart. The minimum passport validity is equivalent to the time granted by the immigration authorities.
Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for either business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days (extensions for a further 90 days are possible for some nationals; contact the consulate for details). \
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.
Visa Note
Argentine minors traveling to or from Argentina, if unaccompanied by their parents or traveling with a single parent, must carry their parents’ or legal guardian’s authorisation to travel, which must be certified by an Argentine Consul if issued abroad. Fines will be levied if passengers do not comply with immigration requirements and passengers will be deported.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Estancia at Sierra Chicas
Tour Code: IT-ARRT11
7 days /
6 nights
~$2,160.00
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates |
Dates
Accomodation
Local Events
Tack:
South American
Horses:
Criollos, Paso Peruanos, polo ponies a...
Pace:
Moderate, trots and canters
Walk, Trot, Canter, Gallop,
Airport:
Cordoba
Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Travel Stories
Travel Stories
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