The Northern Argentina Ride
ARGENTINA | 10 DAYS, 9 NIGHTS | FROM FR. 1808.- ($2250)
Salta remains an undeserved insider tip among international travelers. Anyone who has experienced the region immediately understands why it is considered one of South America's most spectacular landscapes. In northwestern Argentina, a world unfolds of seemingly endless Andean valleys, vibrant canyons, high-altitude deserts, lush vineyards, and remote mountain villages where time seems to slow down. Here, emerald-green valleys alternate with glowing red rock formations, lonely tracks wind through untouched nature, and above it all stretches a sky that explodes into a thousand stars at night. Salta combines unspoiled beauty and contrasts like almost no other region in Argentina – wild, authentic, and full of magic.
And right here, in one of Argentina's most pristine regions, you embark on your Argentine horseback riding adventure. A nine-day trek awaits you, with eight intense days in the saddle, far removed from everyday life, comfort zones, and cell phone reception. Carried by sure-footed Criollo horses, accompanied by an English-speaking guide and a local gaucho, we immerse ourselves in a world of vastness, silence, and untamed beauty. Day after day, the landscape transforms: fertile valleys, verdant mountain slopes, a wide, dry riverbed lined with ancient giant cacti. We cross a pass at almost 3,000 meters, follow old gaucho trails, and experience a diversity of scenery that makes it feel like waking up in a new country each day. We spend five nights in simple but comfortable tents and two in a basic cottage with a hot shower. Our logistics team sets up the camps, cares for the horses, and cooks daily over an open fire using local ingredients – simple, authentic, and incredibly delicious. We spend the first and last nights at the ranch, where we arrive, meet the horses, and settle into the rhythm of this journey. This tour is designed for experienced, adventurous riders seeking genuine, authentic experiences – rugged, intense, and unforgettable. You should have a good head for heights and good balance. We mostly ride at a walk on this tour; the challenge comes from the terrain – the sure-footed Criollos will impress you, we promise!
Note from Joanna
A true adventure, offered exclusively by us. The ranch we partner with is Argentinian-run, and the passion with which the team conducts this tour is unique and beautiful. You can expect a truly authentic journey, a lovingly designed program, and absolutely unforgettable views across diverse landscapes.
Program
Day 1
Arrival (the earlier the better), introductory ride with your horse and briefing
Day 2
Ride through the Lerma Valley and into the first mountain valley. Night in a tent.
Day 3
Ride through a narrow, green mountain valley and over the first mountains. Night in a tent.
Day 4
Ride through a wide riverbed and past the first giant cacti. Night in a tent.
Day 5
Ride to the blue mountain and further along the river, more giant cacti and red mountains. Night in a tent.
Day 6
From the giant cacti, the trail climbs steeply; we cross the pass at just over 2800m and descend to Potrero de Diaz. Overnight stay in a holiday home.
Day 7
A day of rest for us and the horses, a short 2-3 hour ride in the area around Potrero de Diaz. Overnight stay in the holiday home.
Day 8
As our final challenge, we cross Cerro Bravo before descending into the valley. Overnight in a tent.
Day 9
A final, approximately four-hour ride brings us back to the ranch, where a delicious asado awaits us. Overnight at the ranch.
Day 10
Departure after breakfast.
Included in the price
All accommodations mentioned in the program
Your horse, English-speaking guide, accompaniment by a local gaucho
All meals, drinks, wine, beer
(Alcoholic drinks are limited, but there's enough ;-))
Transfers from Salta Airport or City
Not included in the price
Flight to Salta
Travel insurance (mandatory!)
Tips
(Recommendation: 15-20%, voluntary, if you enjoyed the tour)
Available Dates
17.-26. May 2026 (FULLY BOOKED)
16.-26. June 2026*
08.-18. July 2026**
09.-19. August 2026
09.-19. September 2026
10.-20. October 2026
10.-20. November 2026
More dates are possible on request, prices (per person) are as follows:
2 riders - $3750
3 riders - $2500
from 4 riders - $2250
*, **: special departures that can be combined with a gaucho parade or a local rodeo
Travel Advice for Argentina
Travel Documents
EU, EFTA and Swiss citizens require a passport that is generally valid for at least six months upon entry.
Visa
No visa is required for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Upon entry, travelers may be asked to present a return or onward ticket as well as proof of sufficient financial means.
Non-EU/EFTA citizens are advised to check the entry requirements applicable to them before booking or to contact us directly.
Further up-to-date information is available from the FDFA (Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs).
Health
Currently, no mandatory vaccinations are required. Standard and travel vaccinations (e.g., tetanus, hepatitis A) are recommended. For certain regions in northern Argentina, a yellow fever vaccination may be advisable.
Important: Upon entry, proof of valid travel or international health insurance must be presented. The insurance must cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. International airlines are instructed to check these documents before boarding. Passengers who cannot provide the required proof may be denied boarding.
(Status: January 2026, subject to change.)
The above travel information has been compiled with the greatest care; however, it remains your responsibility to inform yourself about the currently applicable regulations and to ensure before booking that you meet these requirements.
