Mendoza has a horse culture older than its wine culture, and a cabalgata, a horseback outing, is one of the most memorable ways to feel the landscape. Rides leave from ranches in the foothills and river valleys around the city, following dirt trails past scrub, cacti, vineyards and dry riverbeds, with the Andes filling the western skyline. Our listing is a horseback ride in the mountains of Mendoza followed by a roast, an asado, cooked over wood and served with salads and wine. Guides match horses to riders and keep a walking pace for beginners, with the option of trotting for those with experience. Sunset rides are especially popular, because the light on the cordillera is golden and the heat of the day has passed. Other operators offer vineyard rides and longer mountain rides.
The experience in detail: rides usually start with a briefing, helmets or hats and a short lesson in the saddle, then the guide leads a single file along the trail. The terrain is mostly dry and open, so you can see a long way, and you may meet cattle, goats or birds of prey on the route. Stops for photos are frequent, and the pace is set by the slowest rider. Back at the ranch, the asado is the reward: beef, sausages and sometimes empanadas, served family style with local Malbec.
Choosing a ride: short rides of one to two hours suit beginners and children, while half-day rides reach higher ground and take in more scenery. Check the minimum age and weight limits, since horses are matched to riders and some ranches cap body weight. If you want a vineyard ride, look for one that finishes at a winery lunch; if you want mountain scenery, choose a foothill ranch with a view of the peaks. Private rides give more flexibility, and small groups keep the horses calm.
Practical points: wear long trousers and closed shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and a light jacket for the evening cool. Tell the guide honestly about your experience, because they will assign a horse accordingly. Bring cash for tips, which are customary. Weather can cancel rides in strong wind or storms, and some ranches close in the coldest months, so confirm for your date. The ride is gentle but uses muscles you may not usually use, so expect to feel it the next day.
What to expect
The experience
A guided ride on foothill trails with a briefing and a horse matched to your experience, followed by a traditional asado.
Best time
Late afternoon for golden light and cooler air; spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons.
How long
Three to five hours including the ride and the meal.
Tips
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, bring sun protection and a light layer, and tell the guide your real experience level.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a hands-on taste of Argentine culture and landscape beyond the wineries.
- Families
- Many ranches welcome older children and beginners; check the minimum age, weight limits and whether there is a gentler short ride.
- Couples
- A sunset ride followed by an asado under the stars is one of the most romantic outings in the region.
- Pair with
- A wine tasting earlier in the day, or a thermal soak at Cacheuta to soothe the muscles.
- Time needed
- Half a day, including transfers.
Good questions
Do I need riding experience?+
No, most rides are designed for beginners and move at a walking pace. Guides match horses to riders, and more experienced riders can ask for a faster route.
What is an asado?+
It is the Argentine barbecue, with beef, sausage and other cuts grilled slowly over wood or coals. It is usually served with salads, bread and wine.
What should I wear?+
Long trousers and closed shoes with a small heel are best, with a hat and sunscreen. Add a light jacket for evening rides, because the temperature drops after sunset.
Is horse riding suitable for children?+
Many ranches welcome children from a certain age, usually on a lead rein. Ask about minimum ages and weight limits when you book.
Can I ride through vineyards?+
Yes, several operators run vineyard rides in Luján de Cuyo and Maipú that finish with a winery lunch. Mountain rides in the foothills give more dramatic views.
