The main house offers accommodation in cozy, beautifully decorated rooms with either double or twin beds. Each room has a private bathroom and is cleaned daily. Guests also have access to a shared lounge area overlooking the lake, where you can relax in peace or enjoy the warmth of the fireplace. Estancia El Cóndor runs on solar energy, which provides enough power to charge cameras and phones, as well as lighting and WiFi access in the rooms.
During the night spent in tents, we will sleep on comfortable mattresses, and each guest will be provided with a sleeping bag. On that day, we recommend bringing portable power banks to charge your devices.

Day 1 – Arrival and Welcome at the Estancia

In the morning, our drivers will collect you from the airport in El Calafate. We’ll begin with a scenic drive covering approximately 120 km of paved road, offering expansive views of Patagonia’s dramatic landscapes. From there, the adventure deepens as we transition up to about 150 km of dirt roads, heading off the beaten path in 4×4 vehicles toward the remote Estancia – an experience as memorable as the destination itself.
Along the way, each guest will receive snacks, water, and a thermoses with coffee or tea to stay refreshed during the journey.
We expect to arrive at the Estancia around 3–4 PM, where your hosts and guides will be waiting to greet you with a traditional picada – a welcome spread of local cheeses, meats, and Argentine wine.
Once you’ve settled into your cozy private room with an ensuite bathroom, you’ll have some time to unwind or wander the breathtaking surroundings. The Estancia is perched on the shores of Lake San Martín, Argentina’s largest and one of the
deepest lakes in the world – its shimmering blue waters are nothing short of magical. As evening sets in, we’ll come together around 7 PM for a classic Patagonian feast: cordero al asador, lamb slow-roasted over an open flame for hours, served with local sides and plenty of good wine.

Day 2 – First Ride and a Trip to Laguna Corazón

At dawn, the gauchos round up the horses into the corral – you’ll hear the thunder of hooves from the breakfast table, and can run out to watch this daily ritual. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off around 11 AM for our first day in the saddle, heading to the serene Laguna Corazón. We’ll enjoy lunch by the lagoon, and if the weather is kind, you can take a refreshing swim surrounded by untouched nature. The round trip will take about 5 hours, offering incredible views of Lake San Martín and the colorful rainbow mountains. We’ll return to the Estancia around 5 PM, enjoy dinner, and rest before the next days of adventure.

Day 3 – Into the Wild: Overnight Camp at Río Grande

Today we begin a two-day journey without returning to the Estancia. We’ll spend the night at a beautifully scenic campsite, nestled between the Río Grande and a forested peninsula that stretches into the lake. Pack only the essentials in your saddlebags – tents, mattresses, and sleeping bags will be waiting for you at camp. After breakfast at the Estancia, we’ll mount up and ride out. It’s a full day in the saddle, crossing rivers and following the lake’s shoreline until we reach La Nana, a remote mountain hut near the Chilean border. We’ll stop here for lunch – and, weather permitting, take a dip in the lake. Later, we’ll continue on to our camp. In the evening, we’ll gather around the fire and enjoy a meal cooked in a traditional disco, a cast-iron pan used for open-fire cooking.

Day 4 – Return to the Estancia and Free Afternoon

After a simple breakfast at the camp, we’ll saddle up once again and return to the Estancia via a different scenic route. We expect to arrive around 3 PM, where lunch will be served. The rest of the day is free to relax, or – for those who still have energy – we recommend a short hike around the Estancia or a quiet walk down to the lake. Dinner will be served in the evening at the Estancia.

Day 5 – Ride to La Condorera and Sunset on the shore of the lake

After an early breakfast, we’ll set off toward La Condorera, one of the most spectacular viewpoints of the entire trip. High in the hills, this spot offers panoramic views of the entire Lake San Martín – a perfect place for lunch with a view. The ride will take around 5–6 hours in total. After returning to the Estancia and resting briefly, we’ll head out once more – this time for a short sunset ride to a nearby beach. With golden light reflecting off the water, this is your chance to take incredible photos and videos with your horse.

Day 6 – Ride to Estancia La Maipú and Farewell Dinner

Our final day of riding takes us to Estancia La Maipú. After breakfast, we’ll head out across wide-open terrain and smooth trails – ideal for cantering and truly feeling the freedom of Patagonia beneath you. This is a scenic, joyful ride through wide valleys and open skies. In the afternoon, we’ll return to our home Estancia for a wellearned rest. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner – a time to celebrate the adventure we’ve shared and the bonds formed along the way.

Day 7 – Departure

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your horses, guides, and this unforgettable corner of the world. Around 11 AM, our drivers will arrive to take you back to El Calafate. You’ll receive water and snacks for the journey, as you leave Patagonia behind – but take its spirit with you.

Note:

Although the riding season takes place during the summer, you’ll be in the mountains, where the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly. It’s wise to pack accordingly: a warm jacket, a raincoat, gloves, sunglasses, riding boots, a linen shirt, a cozy sweater, and a warm hat. A full list of recommended items will be sent to you via email.
Please keep in mind that some domestic flights have a luggage limit of 15 kg per person. If you’d like to embrace the local style for your ride, we can suggest some great spots in Buenos Aires or El Calafate to shop for ponchos and traditional gaucho attire, such as boinas (berets), bombachas (riding trousers), and alpargatas (espadrilles) staples of a gaucho’s outfit.
Helmets are not provided, so if you plan to wear one, please remember to bring your own.

You’ll be riding sure-footed, hardy Argentine Criollo horses, occasionally mixed with Quarter Horse or Percheron bloodlines for added strength and agility.
These horses are responsive and well-trained, guided with neck reining, making them ideal companions for the rugged Patagonian terrain. We use traditional Argentine ‘recado’ saddles, which resemble Western saddles but are layered with soft
sheepskins for comfort and paired with rawhide bridles in the classic gaucho style. While there are occasional stretches suited to a fast canter, the majority of the ride involves steady ascents through the mountains. Riders should feel at ease at all gaits, as confidence and balance are key in this terrain.
Although the pace is generally unhurried, the dramatic climbs, sweeping views, and high-altitude paths bring a different kind of thrill – one that comes not from speed, but from the sheer grandeur of the
landscape.

• 11 January 2026 – 17 January 2026: Saddles available
• 19 January 2026 – 25 January 2026: Saddles available
• 03 February 2026 – 09 February 2026: Saddles available
• 12 February 2026 – 18 February 2026: Saddles available

Malwina Wachulec – She’s a passionate horseback riding instructor whose journey with horses began in childhood. Although she gained valuable experience in Poland, it was in Argentina where she truly found her place a land where horses are not just companions but an inseparable part of the earth and the landscape itself, deep in the heart of boundless Patagonia. Malwina loves nature and wide-open spaces that teach humility and freedom. On every expedition, she shares not only her knowledge and riding skills but also cares for participants with the warmth and attentiveness of a mother. Traveling with her is more than just learning to ride; it’s a unique, familylike experience filled with support and safety.

Willy Yeatts – An exceptional rider and experienced guide with a lifelong connection to horses. His deep knowledge of horsemanship and natural confidence in the saddle inspire trust and admiration. A man of many talents, not only does he handle horses with mastery, but he also brings laughter and warmth to every moment with his sharp sense of humor. His cooking skills are legendary on the trail, and sharing a meal prepared by him over the campfire is a true Patagonian experience. A genuine gaucho at heart, deeply rooted in the traditions of the land, and as everyone who meets him will agree – simply a tipazo (an allaround great guy).

Patagonia is known for its unpredictable weather. Temperatures can range from a scorching 30°C during the day to below freezing at night, and strong winds often make it feel even colder. Be ready for anything: sunny afternoons under an intense sun, chilly evenings requiring thermal layers, and occasional rain or gusty winds. It’s not unusual to experience all four seasons in a single day.

The local currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS), though accessing it can sometimes be tricky. Banks in Argentina often impose strict limits on daily ATM withdrawals, so we recommend bringing US dollars in cash to exchange upon arrival in Buenos Aires. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the city. If you find yourself needing local currency during your stay, Western Union is a convenient alternative to ATMs, offering better exchange rates and higher withdrawal limits.

Time Zone: GMT -4

At the main house, all meals are crafted by local Argentinian chefs, staying true to traditional flavors and methods. Meat is typically the star of the menu, with asado Argentina’s famous barbecue – grilled over an open fire pit right in front of the kitchen.
Every meal is complemented by generous servings of vegetables, many of which come straight from our own greenhouse. Make sure to leave room for dessert here, turning it down is almost unthinkable. Dulce de leche, a beloved Argentine treat, is not to be missed. While Argentina is known for its love of meat, we are more than happy to accommodate vegetarians and special dietary requirements.

• Shared accommodation in comfortable rooms
• Transfer from El Calafate to Estancia El Cóndor and return transfer to the airport in Calafate
• Full board (please let us know if you are vegetarian or have any food allergies)
• Alcohol – wine and beer (let us know if you prefer other types of alcohol)
• Care and guidance from three qualified and experienced guides
• All horse riding activities included

• Flights tickets
• Personal expenses
• Insurance
• Visa if applicable

The estancia is located on Lake San Martín in the province of Santa Cruz. This lake, situated on the border between Chile and Argentina, is the deepest in South America and the fourth deepest in the world. The area is truly remote, with a surface of approximately 40,000 m² – offering a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature. To get here, you’ll need to fly to Buenos Aires and then take a domestic flight with Aerolíneas Argentinas, JetSMART or Fly Bondi to El Calafate, where we will pick you up in off-road vehicles and travel together to the estancia.
We encourage you to consider arriving in Buenos Aires a day or two early. This dynamic and captivating city offers
plenty to discover, whether before your journey to Patagonia or as a way to unwind afterwards.
For accommodation, Palermo or Recoleta are an excellent choice. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its
charming boutique hotels, buzzing café culture, eclectic nightlife, and great shopping.

50% prepayment upon reservation, 50% balance payment 30 days before departure. Cancelation is not refundable if done later than 30 days before departure. If cancelled earlier than 60 days the deposit payment can be used for another trip.