6-Day Andes Crossing From Mendoza to Chile by Horse

The Andes Crossing from Mendoza to Chile by horse is an exhilarating adventure that takes travelers on a journey through some of South America’s most breathtaking landscapes. Over the course of six days, you will traverse rugged terrain, reaching dizzying altitudes as they enjoy the heart of the Andes. With comfortable accommodations, hearty meals, and expert guides, this small-group experience promises an unforgettable exploration of the region’s natural wonders and local culture. For those seeking a unique and thrilling way to experience the magnificent Andes, this crossing may just be the perfect adventure.

Good To Know

• A 6-day small-group horseback adventure from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile, reaching high altitudes with stunning mountain views.
• Includes transportation, meals, accommodation, camping gear, and professional bilingual guides for an immersive cultural and natural experience.
• Provides opportunities to spot wildlife like condors and guanacos, and experience the region’s natural beauty.
• Accommodations include comfortable mountain tents and one-night hotel stays in Mendoza and Santiago.
• Prioritizes traveler safety with essential gear, satellite phone, and first-aid support, catering to various dietary needs.

Overview of the Tour

The Andes Crossing by Horse tour is a 7-day small-group horseback adventure that traverses the majestic Andes mountains from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile.

Reaching altitudes up to 6,000 meters, the tour follows the Andes, offering stunning mountain views and opportunities to spot wildlife like condors and guanacos.

Included are transport, meals, accommodation, camping gear, and the services of professional bilingual guides and expert local gauchos.

Travelers can look forward to an immersive experience in the Andes, with activities like wildlife spotting and stunning vistas along the way.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The tour includes transfers in Mendoza and Santiago, as well as one-night hotel accommodations in both Mendoza and Cajón del Maipo, Chile. Meals are also included, with 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners, including a welcome dinner. The tour provides a dining tent setup, mountain tents, riding horses, saddles, and pack horse support, along with a professional bilingual guide and expert local gauchos (arrieros). Additional inclusions are a satellite phone and first aid kit.

Inclusions	Details
Accommodations	1 night in Mendoza, 1 night in Cajón del Maipo
Meals	5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
Equipment	Dining tent, mountain tents, horses, saddles, pack animals
Guide Support	Bilingual guide, local gauchos
Safety Items	Satellite phone, first aid kit

Accommodations and Meals

As the tour begins, participants enjoy one night of hotel accommodations in Mendoza, Argentina to prepare for the horseback journey ahead.

After crossing the Andes, the group spends one night in Cajón del Maipo, Chile.

Throughout the 7-day tour, a dining tent is provided for meals. In total, the package includes 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners, including a welcome dinner.

Hearty, mountain-style meals are served, catering to various dietary needs upon request.

Comfortable mountain tents are also supplied, allowing adventurers to camp under the stars while surrounded by the stunning Andes scenery.

Horses and Guides

Sturdy, well-trained riding horses and the expertise of professional bilingual guides and local gauchos (arrieros) are essential components of the Andes Crossing experience.

The horses are carefully selected to navigate the rugged terrain safely. Guests are paired with horses suited to their riding ability, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey.

The guides’ deep knowledge of the region and horsemanship skills provide valuable insights and support throughout the trek. Local arrieros lend their generations-old expertise in handling pack animals and assisting with camp setup.

Together, the horses and guide team work seamlessly to deliver an unforgettable adventure across the majestic Andes mountains.

Health and Safety Considerations

Ensuring traveler safety is a top priority for the Andes Crossing by Horse tour. Participants must be in good health, as the high-altitude trek isn’t recommended for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant travelers.

A health questionnaire must be completed prior to the tour, and the minimum age is 18 with a valid passport required. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but vegetarian options are available upon request.

Proper gear is essential, including trekking boots, warm layers, and sun protection. With satellite phone and first-aid kit support, the expert guides and local gauchos ensure a safe and enjoyable experience crossing the Andes by horse.

Packing List

Proper gear and equipment are essential for the Andes Crossing by Horse tour. Participants should pack long-sleeved shirts, fleece, windproof jackets, and trekking pants to stay warm and protected.

Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with gaiters are a must for the rugged terrain. Don’t forget glacier glasses, a headlamp, hiking poles, and a sleeping bag.

A large backpack, camera, batteries, water bottles, sunscreen, and lip balm will also come in handy. The tour provides a dining tent and mountain tents, but travelers should bring their own personal hygiene and first-aid kits.

With the right preparation, adventurers can fully enjoy the stunning Andes landscape.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Andes Crossing by Horse tour carries a starting price of $1,780.00, with a lowest price guarantee. Customers have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 3 days in advance without incurring any fees.

This policy provides peace of mind, allowing travelers to book with confidence. The tour offers several appealing features:

• Free cancellation up to 3 days prior
• 5-star reviews across popular platforms
• Inclusive of meals, accommodations, and support staff
• Stunning mountain scenery and wildlife encounters

With these considerations, the Andes Crossing by Horse tour presents an exceptional value proposition for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in the Andes.

Customer Reviews

Consistently, the Andes Crossing by Horse tour has earned rave reviews from satisfied customers across popular platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor. With a perfect 5-star rating, the tour has impressed adventurers who’ve braved the challenging yet breathtaking journey.

User	Location	Rating
Amelia S.	United States	★★★★★
Thomas W.	United Kingdom	★★★★★
Mei L.	China	★★★★★

Customers praise the tour’s expert guides, well-cared-for horses, and stunning Andean vistas. They highlight the unique culture and overall exceptional experience. The overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore the tour’s outstanding value and adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Horse for the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own horse for this tour. The tour provider includes the use of their strong, experienced riding horses as part of the package. Bringing your own horse is not allowed or accommodated on this 7-day small-group horseback adventure.

Are There Any Luggage Weight Restrictions?

Yes, there are luggage weight restrictions for this horseback riding tour. Travelers are advised to pack lightly, as each person is limited to a large backpack weighing no more than 12 kilograms (26 pounds).

How Much Experience Is Required for This Horseback Tour?

This Andes horseback tour is suitable for riders with some prior experience. While beginners may participate, a minimum level of horseriding skills is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure across the challenging mountain terrain.

Can I Extend the Tour to Spend More Time in Chile?

Yes, travelers can extend the tour to spend more time in Chile. The tour company offers custom itineraries and can arrange additional days and activities in Santiago or other parts of Chile per the traveler’s request.

Is There an Option to Book Private Transportation to Mendoza?

The tour provider offers private airport transfers to and from Mendoza, allowing travelers the convenience of arranging their own transportation for the start and end of the horseback riding adventure.

The Sum Up

The 6-day Andes Crossing from Mendoza to Chile by horse offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning landscapes. Traverse rugged terrains, spot unique wildlife, and learn about the local culture while riding well-trained horses. With comfortable accommodations, hearty meals, and expert guides, this small-group journey provides an unparalleled experience in the heart of the iconic Andes mountain range.