10 Active Bariloche Day Tours You Won't Want to Miss!

Looking for some fun and active Bariloche day tours? We've got you covered with this list of excursions including hiking, horse trekking, kayaking, fly fishing and more!

There are no shortage of things to do in San Carlos de Bariloche, however, I think this is a destination that really shines when you leave the city behind and venture out into nature.

Bariloche is surrounded by crystalline lakes, towering mountains, and lush forests - it is a nature lover's paradise! - and the best way to experience its raw, rugged beauty is by enjoying outdoor adventures.

Some of my favourite memories from Bariloche include horse trekking along the Andes foothills, tackling hiking trails in autumn with the mountainside painted all shades of red and orange, and gazing off at the snow-capped mountains while being the only kayaker on a lake.

There are all sorts of Bariloche day tours to enjoy; you can also raft the white waters of the Manso River, mountain bike to the hamlet of Colonia Suiza, or try to catch some rainbow trout on a fly fishing excursion!

Plus, the nice thing about Bariloche is that it's a destination that can be revisited time and time again as there are always different activities to enjoy with the changing seasons.

So with this in mind, we're sharing a few different Bariloche day trips you may want to consider ranging from light adventures to thrill-seeking activities.

My Top 3 Picks: Bariloche Day Tours

#1 Top Pick

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Horse Trekking

✅ Ride along the Andes foothills

✅ Traditional Argentine BBQ

✅ Open wine bar

#2 Pick

Hiking in the Andes

✅ Customizable hike

✅ Boxed lunch

✅ Includes hiking gear

#3 Pick

Fly Fishing

✅ Private tour

✅ Riverside lunch

✅ Fishing gear provided

Best Bariloche Day Tours

1. Horse Trekking and BBQ Lunch

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

One of our favourite types of tours to book when we travel in Argentina are horse trekking excursions. This is something we've done all over the country from the Sierras down to Patagonia and the experiences have ranged from one-day treks to overnight adventures.

During our most recent visit to Bariloche, we booked a horseback riding excursion and it proved to be a great way to explore the foothills of the Andes.

This particular tour kicks off at one of the oldest working ranches in the area and it includes a two-hour horse trek riding past lakes and forests before reaching the Patagonian steppe.

Over the course of the ride, you'll be led by gauchos and the horses are very tame, so it's an experience you can enjoy even as a beginner rider.

Afterwards, you return to the ranch for a 3-course meal featuring a traditional Argentine BBQ with free-flowing wine. This is a quintessential Argentine experience that you need to experience at least once during your visit!

"This was such an incredible excursion. If you’re contemplating booking this, just do it! The guides and hosts were all so incredible. The place itself was absolutely magical. The horses were all so sweet and calm. It was an amazing way to see the mountains and the landscape, paired with some delicious breakfast and authentic asado." -Madeline

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2. Hike in the Andes Mountains

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | ✅ Book it!

Bariloche is a lakeside city surrounded by mountains and that means plenty of hiking opportunities. Even after three trips to the city, I have yet to repeat a single hike because there are so many to choose from!

I think one of the best Bariloche day tours you can go on is this customizable full-day hiking trip in the Andes Mountains. What I like about this particular excursion is that it can be tailored to your interests and level of fitness.

This is also a private tour so it's just you and your party plus your local guide, which gives you even more flexibility.

This hiking tour includes snacks, beverages and a boxed lunch. Trekking poles and gaiters are provided if needed.

I've done a lot of independent hiking in Bariloche, but one of my favourite experiences was a guided hike up to Laguna Verde via Refugio Neumeyer. It's not a trek I would have chosen on my own, so I'm glad I joined a tour.

I did this hike in autumn together with my husband and the colours were simply spectacular! But you can enjoy Bariloche any time of year.

You can view some of the best Bariloche hikes on All Trails to get an idea of what's available. You can always request a particular hike if there's one you're keen to do.

Once you're back in town from your hike, you can always treat yourself to a cold beer at one of Bariloche's many craft breweries.

"Juan Carlo was an AMAZING guide - very knowledgeable about everything we saw, and eager to answer all our questions, not just about what we were seeing but about Patagonia and Argentine culture and politics. And mate!" -Harvey

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3. Explore the Seven Lakes Route

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!

The Seven Lakes Route is one of the more popular day tours you can do from Bariloche.

Known locally as La Ruta de los Siete Lagos, this 107-kilometre drive stretches between the towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura, with many tours departing from Bariloche.

The route crosses two national parks, Lanín National Park and Nahuel Huapi National Park, and offers beautiful scenery.

Along the way, you journey past snow-capped mountains, thick forests and, of course, the seven lakes that give this route its name.

This is a bus tour that stops at various scenic points along the way; you'll visit all the lakes, plus a waterfall, and have free time to explore the town of San Martin de los Andes.

If you want to do this trip at your own pace and you feel confident driving in Argentina, you can rent a car and do this day tour independently.

"What an amazing trip with views that will take your breath away. It was a long day but the bus was comfortable and the guide and driver were very kind and accommodating." -Melissa

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4. Kayak Lago Moreno

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!

We've gotten to do some kayaking during our trips to Bariloche and it's always a fun way to take in the sights and enjoy some time out in nature.

When it comes to kayaking in Bariloche, Lago Moreno is a popular spot. This is a glacial lake that's divided into two sections: Moreno East and Moreno West. What sets it apart is that its waters are much warmer than other lakes in the area and much calmer than neighbouring Lake Nahuel Huapi.

The nice thing about this tour is that you also get to drive part of Bariloche's Circuito Chico, a route that winds past mountains, lakes and scenic lookout points.

The tour kicks off from Arroyo Angostura and over the course of the day, you get to see sights like Cerro Lopez, Cerro Bella Vista, and Cerro Llao Llao which is home to the iconic Llao Llao Hotel.

You can book this Bariloche day tour as a morning or afternoon excursion.

"Excellent experience and the highlight of our Bariloche trip overall! The kayaking route is gorgeous, with seemingly new views around every corner, and no other tourists in sight. The guides are outstanding and great conversationalists… we could have spent all day with Andy! Finally, lots of bonus features on this one. The route to and from the journey also takes you around the Circuito Chico sightseeing route, so you get to enjoy that tour as well. In addition, we had local snacks and a yerba mate experience while resting at the halfway point of our kayak trip. Basically a bunch of the Bariloche highlights all rolled into one!" -Scott

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5. Raft the Manso River

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you're looking for some thrills during your visit to Bariloche, you can always go white water rafting!

On this particular adventure tour, you travel down Route 40 and then begin heading west towards the border with Chile.

You then reach a ranch on the shores of the Manso River for some coffee and a safety chat about what to expect over the course of the rafting journey.

Sections of the Manso River have names like Scream and Turn Left, the Slide, Deep Throat, Ecstasy, and Scrambled Egg so that's a little foreshadowing of what you'll encounter.

This rafting tour is a seasonal activity that runs from November to April. The physical requirement for this activity is moderate to high.

"We got picked up in Bariloche and had a rather long drive to a camp near the raft launch. When we arrived, they served us coffee, tea, and some breads while we waited for everyone to congregate. Then we got suited up and piled back into the vans to get to the launch point. At the river, we were divided up by language and put into rafts. Then we got a good rundown of how to paddle and sit in the boat. The ride was super fun and beautiful! There were even a few opportunities to jump off the raft and swim in some calmer parts of the river! Once the boating was done, we changed back into our clothes and drove back to the camp for lunch. I would recommend bringing a towel to help dry off before changing. You had to pay extra for lunch, but it was reasonably priced and pretty good. There was also the option to buy photos of your trip for an additional fee. After lunch we got back in the vans for the drive back to Bariloche." -Nicole

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6. Go Fly Fishing

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you've ever wanted to try fly fishing, Patagonia would be the place to do so!

When it comes to Bariloche day tours, this activity is a big ticket item but it's also a private tour and a customizable experience. You can even book multi-day fly fishing tours that combine riverside glamping and days spent on drift boats.

On this particular day excursion, you'll sail the waters of Nahuel Huapi Lake on a private charter boat. You'll spend the day on the water, where depending on your experience level, you'll either learn the basics of fly fishing or perfect your skills fishing for wild rainbow trout and brown trout.

Aside from spending the day fishing, you'll also enjoy a riverside lunch featuring Argentinean steak and Malbec wine - a match made in heaven!

The nice thing about this fly fishing tour is that all the gear is provided, so you don't have to bring all your gear if you don't want to.

You'll be provided with Orvis waders and boots, Orvis lines and reels, BVK temple fork rods, a dry bag, local flies and whatever else is needed.

This is also one of the highest rated tours in Bariloche with rave reviews, so you know you're in good hands.

We've had the opportunity to go fly fishing at some Patagonian estancias (Estancia Tecka is one of our favourites!) and even though we had zero experience we managed to have a really fun time! By our second day, we were already catching multiple rainbow trout.

"Don't tell anyone about Trout Bariloche's base camp fishing trip! My three friends and I floated on Rio Manso and waded in Rio Foyel and never saw another angler. In fact, the ONLY other person we saw was one of the Trout Bariloche guides in a raft doing some scouting on the Manso. Even when we floated the popular Rio Limay, we only saw two other drift boats. Meanwhile we caught lots of rainbows (I caught my personal best rainbow) and some browns while enjoying stunning scenery, some of the most beautiful river water we've ever seen, great food, and comfortable platform tents. The guides were not only helpful, they were excellent coaches, and tour guides. I do not hesitate to recommend Trout Bariloche and I would look forward to going back again. Thank you to Emanuel, Juanito, Lukas, Mendo, Tomas, and "Juan Cinco". -Tom

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7. Mountain Bike to Colonia Suiza

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-4 hours | ✅ Book it!

Another option for an active Bariloche day tour is to go mountain biking!

This particular tour kicks off in Lago Gutierrez and from there, you ride 18 kilometres to the hamlet of Colonia Suiza. You get to cycle part of Bariloche's famous Circuito Chico.

This is a nice way to soak in the natural scenery as the route weaves through the forest, across rivers, past lakes and waterfalls with plenty of stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.

This is considered an easy bike tour with an elevation gain of 100 meters. It takes about 3-4 hours to complete depending on the group's pace. You will travel along trails and roads with very little or no traffic.

"We took a bike ride from Gutiérrez to Colonia Suiza. Very fun! Great guides!! The bicycles are like new, 10." -A Tripadvisor Reviewer

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8. Tour the Circuito Chico

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Circuito Chico is perhaps the most popular half-day tour from Bariloche!

Located just west of the city, Circuito Chico is a picturesque 27-kilometre loop that winds past mountains, rivers and lakes with multiple panoramic lookouts along the way.

This is a trip that be done by joining a guided tour, or independently by renting a car, hiring some bikes or hopping on the local bus.

During this Circuito Chico tour, you'll make a stop at Cerro Campanario. This is a mountain that offers panoramic views of Bariloche and the surrounding lakes and mountain peaks.

Riding the chairlift to the top is an additional cost not included in the tour, however, it's worth going up as this is one of the main stops along the route. Also, the viewpoint from Cerro Campanario was voted by National Geographic as one of the top 10 panoramic views in the world.

The tour then continues towards the Llao Llao Peninsula where you can see the Llao Llao Hotel up on the hill and Parroquia San Eduardo, a hilltop chapel made of timber and stone that dates back to 1938.

Could you spend longer than 3 hours exploring Bariloche's Circuito Chico? Absolutely.

If you do this trip independently, you can take your time stopping at restaurants and breweries along the way and even tackle some of the side trails. However, if you're pressed for time and want to see Circuito Chico in half a day, this tour does exactly that.

"Classic tour of Barilloche. The highlight is a chairlift to the peak of one of the mountains surrounding the Argentina-Chilean lake district. The views are among the most spectacular anywhere in the world. A dozen lakes stretch out around the peak. They are deep blue, green, battleship grey depending on the distance and the cloud cover. Other lookout points follow. Overall, a short but excellent tour. The guides are very professional, very helpful, and very keen to explain the nature and history of what you are seeing. Highly recommended." -Thomas

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9. Visit Cerro Tronador and Black Glacier

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!

Another Bariloche tour that offers epic landscapes is the day trip to Cerro Tronador and the Black Glacier.

Cerro Tronador is the highest mountain in the area standing 3,478 meters above sea level and it also forms part of the natural boundary between Argentina and Chile. Its name translates to Thunder Mountain due to the loud thundering roar it produces when chunks of ice and snow break off.

Meanwhile, the Black Glacier, locally known as Ventisquero Negro, is one of fourteen glaciers found on Cerro Tronador. The glacier gets its name due to the sediments which give it a dark colour, setting it apart from other glaciers in Patagonia - like Perito Moreno in El Calafate - which are white and light blue.

This full-day excursion will take you down rugged roads and past forests, lakes, valleys and rivers, so it's a great way to soak in the natural beauty of northern Patagonia.

"This tour was incredible. The scenery speaks for itself, but even more I recommend this tour because the tour guide Martin was awesome. He gave loads of background information about the area, spoke fluent Spanish and English and translate every detail even though I was the only English speaking person. I highly recommend this tour." -Lena

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10. Explore the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island

⭐ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-7 hours | ✅ Book it!

Visiting the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island is another one of those classic day trips from Bariloche.

This boat tour departs from Puerto Pañuelo and you then begin sailing towards the Quetrihue Peninsula to visit the famous Arrayanes Forest. This forest is home to the arrayán tree and what's unique about the tree is that it always feels cool to the touch; this is because its bark is so thin that you can feel the sap flowing inside!

The trees in the Arrayanes Forest are around 300 years old, though you can also find a few specimens over 650 years old. There's an 800-metre boardwalk that winds its way through the forest and it takes about 30 minutes to complete.

After visiting the forest, you'll board the catamaran once more and sail towards Puerto Anchorena on Victoria Island or Isla Victoria. Once you reach the island, you'll have the opportunity to go on a guided hike or explore on your own.

We decided to hang out at the local beach with turquoise waters, Playa del Toro, and then we embarked on our own hike. If you do decide to explore solo, just make sure you're back at the dock on time for the journey back.

You can organize this trip independently (which is what we did) by making your own way to Puerto Pañuelo (we took the local bus) and then booking your catamaran ticket at the port. You can read all about our day trip to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest here.

Tip: you can also visit the Arrayanes Forest from Villa La Angostura. We did this as another day trip where we hopped on a boat tour to reach the forest and then hiked back to town via the peninsula.

"A nice experience. Plenty of time taking in the stunning views on the lakes, an enjoyable hike and some pleasant driving. No hesitation is recommending this to other." -Ainsley

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Choosing between these Bariloche day tours

As you can see, there is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing some Bariloche tours to enjoy during your visit.

If you're looking for some light adventure, you can go hiking, horse trekking or kayaking.

For something a bit more adventurous, you may want to go white water rafting or mountain biking.

You can even join guided bus tours to explore Circuito Chico, the Route of the Seven Lakes, or Cerro Tronador and the Black Glacier.

Whatever your travel style, there's something out there for you. Hopefully, this list has helped you narrow down the options.

Read More:

Bariloche 2-Day Travel Itinerary

5 Awesome Bariloche Walking Tours

Where to Stay in Bariloche for a Touch of Luxury

How to Get to Bariloche

Tren Patagonico: Bariloche to Viedma by Train

10 Glamping Spots Across Patagonia


10 Best Things to do in San Martin de Los Andes, Argentina

Are you looking for ideas of things to do in San Martin de Los Andes during your visit to Patagonia? Well, we've got you covered!

This mountain town sits on the edge of Lake Lácar and is surrounded by forested mountains in all directions, meaning it's a great place to enjoy outdoor activities - hiking, biking, kayaking, water rafting you name it!

San Martin de Los Andes is also the gateway to Lanín National Park, which is home to an extinct volcano, lakes galore, and an abundance of wildlife.

This is a popular stop on the itinerary for anyone travelling across Northern Patagonia for good reason, so we're going to show you what you can get up to.

Things to do in San Martin de Los Andes

Go on a Boat Trip of Lake Lácar

The main thing to do in San Martin de Los Andes is to go on a boat tour of Lake Lácar because that's how you'll hit up several of the attractions in the area.

Tours depart from the Lake Lácar waterfront in the west end of town and cruise across the 25-kilometre lake making multiple stops along the way.

This full-day boat tour of Lake Lacar includes stops in Quila Quina, Hua Hum and Santa Teresita Island, so you're seeing all the highlights!

Quila Quina Beach

The first stop on the boat tour is Quila Quina Beach. The boat is your best option for reaching this beach as the alternative is a very winding 18-kilometre drive on unpaved roads.

A lot of people like to pack a picnic, catch the earliest boat, and spend the day enjoying the beach before grabbing the last boat back to town.

Since we opted to do the complete boat tour, our time in Quila Quina was brief, but we had enough time to grab lunch by the pier and go on a short hike in the area before hopping back on the boat to continue the journey.

Chachin Waterfall

Next, we travelled westwards until we reached the end of Lake Lácar and crossed a very narrow and shallow opening that connects it to Lake Nonthue.

Here we disembarked and went on a hike through the Valdivian forest in search of the Chachin Waterfall.

The trail isn't very long; 2.1 kilometres round trip and it takes about 45 minutes to complete.

At the end, we were rewarded with a beautiful forest waterfall with an emerald pool at its base.

Hua Hum

After hiking back down from the waterfall, we got back on the boat and continued to Hua Hum.

Hua Hum is the Argentina-Chile border pass and it's the lowest pass over the mountain range at about 640 meters above sea level.

Since we weren't hiking across the border, we stopped at Hostería Hua Hum to enjoy an afternoon snack. They have an onsite tea house that serves all sorts of cakes and pastries.

We again had a bit of free time to enjoy a wander along the lake and soak in the scenery, before boarding the boat again for our final stop.

Santa Teresita Island

Our final stop was the Island of Santa Teresita, which is home to a small chapel by the same name.

This small wooden chapel is where the early pioneers used to come to celebrate their weddings.

It was a short hike from the pier through a forest of Arrayan trees - similar to Bosque de Arrayanes in Villa La Angostura though on a much smaller scale and with younger trees.

And that concluded our boat trip of Lake Lácar. As you can see, we covered a lot of attractions in one day!

These are places you can reach by car if you're willing to drive on some rather rugged roads, but the boat trip is so pleasant and it makes the sightseeing so easy, that I really would recommend this option above others.

Drive the Road of the Seven Lakes

San Martin de Los Andes is the starting or ending point of the Road of the Seven Lakes, depending on which way you drive it.

This 107-kilometre drive stretches between the towns of San Martin de Los Andes and Villa La Angostura and is considered one of the most scenic drives in all of Argentina.

The route crosses two national parks, Lanín National Park and Nahuel Huapi National Park. Plus, as the name suggests, it also goes past seven lakes which include: Lake Machónico, Lake Escondido, Lake Correntoso, Lake Espejo, Lake Lácar, Lake Falkner, and Lake Villarino.

But that's not all, along the drive there are panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, and mountains! So even though the distance isn't quite that long, it can turn into a full day activity of leisurely driving and making stops along the way.

The Road of the Seven Lakes is something that can be done independently if you feel comfortable renting a car in Argentina, or you can join a full-day tour that includes transportation and a local guide. We opted for the latter.

This particular tour departs from San Martin de Los Andes and brings you back at the end of the day.

Shop at the Artisanal Fair

San Martin de Los Andes is well known for its artisanal fair, Feria de los Artesanos, which takes place on the west side of Plaza San Martin.

This is a great place to stock up on some Patagonian souvenirs like a mate and bombilla (the gourd and metal straw used for drinking mate).

You can also buy knives used for cutting meat at an asado (traditional Argentine BBQ).

Plus, there are all sorts of leather goods, hand-knitted items, artisanal chocolates, honey and jams, and so much more.

The fair's hours of operation really vary throughout the year, but if you happen to visit in the summertime during high season, the artisanal fair takes place daily from 6:00 pm -11:00 pm.

Hike the Trails Around Town

One of the main things to do in San Martin de Los Andes is to hike the trails in and around town.

Because the town sits in a valley in between two mountain ranges, the hiking opportunities are endless.

Some of the easier hikes departing from the town include:

Mirador Arrayán: lake and town views from the south side, plus it leads to a tea house will tell you all about it in the food section! (2.6 kms, 30 mins)

Mirador Bandurrias: moderate hike offering views of Lake Lácar (4.0 kms, 1 h 30 mins)

You can view more trails in and around San Martin de Los Andes here.

Visit Lanín National Park

Lanín National Park is located 66 kilometres north of San Martin de Los Andes and it's a 1 hour and 12 minute drive.

It was founded in 1937 and is the third-largest national park in Argentina boasting Patagonian forests, Patagonian steppe, and the high Andes mountain range.

As for wildlife, Lanín National Park is home to pumas, foxes, condors, and monito del monte - the only native marsupial present in all of Argentina and Chile.

However, the park is perhaps best known for being home to the Lanín Volcano which rises 3,776 meters above sea level.

The cone-shaped volcano actually straddles the Argentine-Chilean border and therefore forms part of two national parks, Lanín in Argentina and Villarrica in Chile.

If you are not an avid hiker, you can visit the park as part of a day trip from San Martin de Los Andes.

This tour goes through Junin de los Andes, stops at Lago Huechulafquen which is an emerald glacial lake, visits Lanín Volcano from the southern base, takes you to the Mapuche community of Cañicul, and also tours Lago Paimun before returning to town.

If you are an avid hiker, you may want to check out some of the various hiking trails in Lanín National Park. Note that climbing the volcano is a multi-day route that does require some training!

Sample the Artisanal Chocolates

For anyone with a sweet tooth, another thing to do in San Martin de Los Andes is to sample the artisanal chocolates.

And you really won't have any trouble finding them because there are chocolate shops all along the main street, sometimes several per block and even across from each other.

A few to get you started include:

Pasta Negra Chocolates

The Old Village

Artesanales Familia Greco

Regionales Antulauquen

Mamusia

What kind of chocolate flavours can you expect to find?

There's milk chocolate, sea salt and caramel, coffee, almonds, walnuts, grated coconut, raisins and dried fruits, cashews, cocoa nibs and so much more!

These also make a great souvenir to take back home with you, so grab a few for family and friends.

Eating in San Martin de Los Andes

We sure worked up an appetite in between all the hiking and sightseeing, so we tried plenty of restaurants along the way.

Here are a few of the places we enjoyed:

Tío Paco

For a classic, hearty Argentine meal, we ate at Tío Paco.

Here we ordered the bife de chorizo a lo pobre, which is the 'Striploin steak poor style'. Now there is nothing poor or lean about this meal. You basically have a nice, big juicy steak topped with caramelized onions and a fried egg, plus a side of potatoes. Talk about a filling meal.

We also ordered the ravioli stuffed with ricotta served in a cream sauce with chicken, ham and walnuts. It was delicious!

We paired the meal with a bottle of Malbec wine - an Argentine staple a the dinner table.

And for dessert, we got cheesecake with forest berries and a cup of coffee. Did we need it? No. Did we enjoy it? Yes.

Zen Tea

If you've consumed your fill of parrilla, pizza and pasta and you're craving some lighter dishes and perhaps even healthier meals, Zen Tea is the place to go.

Don't let the name confuse you - this isn't a tea house!

Zen Tea offers a wide variety of health-conscious dishes, but what surprised me most was that everything was delicious, innovative and bursting with flavour.

Before our mains even came out, the restaurant served us complimentary breadsticks with a carrot dip, curry powder and sesame seeds. That was followed by a hot potato-ginger-onion soup served in shot glasses. Again, they fed us all of this before we even got our meal!

Next came the barley bowl with shrimp in a soy-based sauce with grilled zucchini and eggplant, plus shredded red cabbage on top. It was everything I had been missing.

We also tried their hot wrap with salmon, cream cheese and pumpkin, which came with a side of roasted potatoes.

Who knew eating at a healthy restaurant could be so tasty? But seriously, if you've been travelling in Argentina for a while and you're craving a change from the local diet, this is a nice place to consider.

Casa de Té Arrayan

Visiting the Arrayan Tea House is an experience in and of itself.

For starters, it's a nice walk up from town which offers various vantage points along the way. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with views of Lake Lácar and the town of San Martin de Los Andes below.

Here we enjoyed a three-tiered tea featuring sandwiches, scones, cakes, muffins, and more.

This is a place where you'll want to come hungry because the portions are quite generous.

If you can't finish it all, fret not because they will pack it up for you.

Helados Mamusia

Mamusia makes artisanal ice cream and chocolates, and while they have a shop in town, we got dessert from their food truck which parks by the lake's edge. The perfect place to enjoy a sweet treat.

We got a tub of ice cream to share and chose three different flavours: dulce de leche, Bailey's ice cream, and strawberry with chocolate (there were real chunks of strawberry in there!)

Staying in San Martin de Los Andes

When it comes to accommodations, San Martin de Los Andes offers a nice mix of cottages, self-catering apartments and lodges.

Here are a few to consider:

Del Sauco Apart & Spa - alpine-style accommodations overlooking the mountains featuring a heated pool

Cabañas del Lacar - lakeside apartments with a cosy log cabin feel in the centre of town

Cabañas Las Pampas - self-catering cottages with wood interiors offering 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms


10 Epic Ushuaia Tours at the End of the World!

What are the best tours in Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego? Well, have we got an epic, adventure-filled list for you!

Nestled at the southernmost tip of Argentina, Ushuaia is nicknamed the City at the End of the World and beckons adventurous travellers to its remote corners. This city is not just a gateway to Antarctica but also a portal to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth and some unmissable adventures!

Yes, getting to Ushuaia takes some effort but the rewards are high. From the pristine waters of the Beagle Channel to the rugged trails of the Fuegian Andes Mountains and the mystical wonders of the Vinciguerra Glacier, Ushuaia offers an array of epic tours that promise unparalleled experiences.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or simply a curious traveller, Ushuaia's tours are bound to etch memories that last a lifetime.

So without further ado, here are 10 handpicked Ushuaia tours for you to consider on your trip!

10 Epic Ushuaia Tours You Can't Miss!

1. Cruise the Beagle Channel

At the top of the list is a boat tour of the Beagle Channel!

The Beagle Channel is the strait in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago that links the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.

The channel is named after the British ship HMS Beagle, in which Charles Darwin explored the area between 1833 and 1834.

There are many ways to experience the Beagle Channel from sailing boats to catamarans to yachts! However, all outings focus on viewing wildlife and seeing the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.

The Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse is often mistaken as the 'Lighthouse at the End of the World'. However, that distinction belongs to the San Juan de Salvamento Lighthouse, which is located on the east coast of the rather remote Isla de los Estados and was made famous by Jules Verne’s novel The Lighthouse at the End of the World.

This particular Beagle Channel boat tour includes a stop in Isla Bridges, where passengers disembark and go on a mini trek to observe the local flora and fauna, and learn the history of the native Yámanas who once called this place home.

Book your Beagle Channel boat tour here.

2. Visit Estancia Harberton

Estancia Harberton is the southernmost estancia or ranch in the world, and that alone makes it a must-visit attraction in Tierra del Fuego!

Estancia Harberton is located about 85 kilometres from Ushuaia, with most of the journey being on a gravel road. It can be accessed by car or as part of guided tours that depart from Ushuaia.

The estancia was founded in 1886 by Reverend Thomas Bridges, an English missionary who worked with the indigenous Yámana people and who was also the author of the dictionary of the Yámana or Yaghan language.

The Argentine government granted him this land in appreciation of his services, and the estancia was named Harberton after the home of Bridges' wife, Mary, in Devon, England.

The original homestead and many of the surrounding buildings are still standing, built in a distinctive British architectural style but with adaptations suited to the harsh Fuegian climate.

The ranch covers about 50,000 acres, predominantly sheep-grazing land interspersed with patches of native forests and bordered by the Beagle Channel.

While it's still a working ranch, Estancia Harberton has expanded its operations to include tourism. Visitors can tour the historical buildings, explore the natural surroundings, and get a glimpse of life on a Patagonian ranch. The ranch also serves as a base for various excursions in the region, including boat trips on the Beagle Channel.

Within the estancia's grounds is the Acatushún Museum, which focuses on marine mammals and birds. It's particularly known for its collection of marine mammal skeletons.

Admittedly, this is one of the pricier Ushuaia tours you can book, but it does include a cruise on the Beagle Channel, you get to see Imperial Cormorants on Isla de los Pájaros, sea lions on Isla de los Lobos, and you disembark and walk among penguins on Martillo Island (something that other day tours cannot do).

Book your tour to Estancia Harberton.

3. Emerald Lagoon Trekking

The Emerald Lagoon, locally known as Laguna Esmeralda, is located approximately 20 kilometres northeast of Ushuaia, nestled in the valleys of the Fuegian Andes.

The Emerald Lagoon's standout feature is its intense green-turquoise colour, which contrasts starkly with the surrounding snow-capped mountains and dense green forests. The lagoon's colour is a result of the glacial and rainwater it receives.

The primary way to experience the lagoon is through a hiking trail that leads visitors to its shores. The trek spans roughly 9 kilometres in total and can take 3 to 4 hours round trip depending on the pace of the group, photo ops along the way, terrain conditions and weather.

The trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes including forests, peat bogs, and small streams, offering a rich and immersive natural experience. Along the way to the lagoon, hikers can witness a variety of local plant species, including lenga and coihue trees.

The area is also home to several species of birds and occasionally offers sightings of local wildlife such as foxes.

Being in Tierra del Fuego at the end of the world means the weather can be unpredictable even during the warmer months. It's not uncommon to experience shifts in weather, including rain and snow, during a single day's hike. For this reason, preparation and dressing in layers is key.

Once you reach the shores of Laguna Esmeralda, you get to enjoy a box lunch picnic and soak in the views before returning to Ushuaia.

Book your trek to the Emerald Lagoon here.

4. End of the World Train & National Park Visit

All aboard!

Another must-do tour in Ushuaia - especially for any train enthusiasts out there! - is to ride the Southern Fuegian Railway, better known as the End of the World Train.

This now famous Ushuaia train was originally built in the early 20th century to serve the Ushuaia prison, which housed some of Argentina's most hardened criminals.

The prisoners were responsible for constructing their own prison and had to use the railway to transport timber from the forests to the prison, where it was used for heating and building purposes.

Today the former prisoners' train is a popular tourist attraction. The route starts at the "End of the World" train station, travelling through the Pipo River Valley, the Macarena waterfall area, the Tree Cemetery, and ending in the Tierra del Fuego National Park. The entire journey is set against a backdrop of the pristine Fuegian forest, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant peat bogs.

What's nice about this particular tour is that it combines the End of the World train ride with a guided visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park.

You'll get to visit Bahía Ensenada Zaratiegui, which is the bay where you'll find the famed End of the World Post Office. Here you'll have the opportunity to send a postcard and get your passport stamped.

Next, you'll continue to Bahía Lapataia where you can find the End of the World sign, which symbolizes the end of the Pan-American Route which links Ushuaia with Alaska. Plus, you'll also get to see Laguna Verde and Lago Roca.

If you're pressed for time in Ushuaia or maybe you don't want to spend any time hiking in Tierra del Fuego National Park, this tour offers a great overview and takes you to the most important spots in the park.

Book your End of the World train and park visit here.

5. 4x4 Off-Road Adventure

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled day, then consider this 4x4 off-road tour!

This tour departs from Ushuaia and is a great opportunity to experience the ruggedness of Tierra del Fuego’s landscapes.

Over the course of the day, you’ll cross the southern Andes Mountain Range. You’ll see Lago Escondido, which means 'hidden lake' and is situated at the bottom of a deep valley. Plus, you’ll experience Lago Fagnano, the largest lake in Tierra del Fuego, which is shared by both Argentina and Chile and is known as Lago Cami on the Chilean side.

You’ll venture off-road and drive through rugged terrain, weave your way through the forest, tackle river crossings, and follow trails that hug the coastline.

Things will get muddy and a little bumpy, but it’ll be an adventure to remember.

But that’s not all, because this is Argentina, you’ll get to enjoy a traditional Fuegian asado or barbecue, paired with a bottle of Malbec - the national grape!

Book your Ushuaia Off-Road 4X4 Lakes Tour here.

6. Ushuaia Helicopter Tour

How does a scenic helicopter flight over the southernmost city in the world sound?

This is one of the most epic tours you can do in Ushuaia and hands down one that you won’t soon forget!

Ushuaia is surrounded by majestic landscapes. You have glaciers, islands, forests, bays, and mountains - after all, this is where the Andes Mountains end!

Maybe you got a sneak peek on your flight into the city, but if you want a complete aerial view, then you can’t go wrong with a Ushuaia helicopter tour.

And thankfully, there are 3 different options ranging in price and flight time:

Ushuaia Scenic Tour (7 min): This flight will give you an overview of Ushuaia, plus you’ll get to see Golondrina Bay, Susana Mount, Martial Glacier, the Museum of the Prison of Ushuaia, Ushuaia Port Harbour and Ushuaia Bay.

Emerald Lagoon (15 min): This flight will take you over Ushuaia, plus you’ll also get to see Olivia Mountain. From there, you’ll continue towards Cinco Hermanos Mount, the peatlands of the Carbajal Valley, Tierra Mayor Valley, the Emerald Lagoon, and you’ll end the tour over Ushuaia Bay.

Landing at the Andes (30 min): This tour has the longest flight time and you get to see quite a bit! You’ll fly over Ushuaia and continue east towards Olivia Mountain which stands 4,350 feet high. You'll get to see the peatlands of the Carbajal Valley and then reach the Emerald Lagoon. The helicopter will then land in a stop area, where you'll get to enjoy the imposing mountain views of the Andes Mountain Range. You’ll then toast this once-in-a-lifetime bucket list adventure with a glass of champagne atop the mountain.

Book your Ushuaia scenic helicopter flight here.

7. Vinciguerra Glacier Trek

If you didn’t get your fill of glaciers in El Calafate, then a trek to the Vinciguerra Glacier on the outskirts of Ushuaia is something to add to the list!

Vinciguerra Glacier is located approximately 20 kilometres northwest of Ushuaia amidst the Andes Mountains.

The primary way to experience this glacier is through a moderately challenging hike that takes visitors up to its base. The trek typically takes 4 to 6 hours round trip, depending on the weather conditions and the hiking pace.

Along the way, the trail to Vinciguerra Glacier passes through dense forests, peat bogs, and rocky terrains, offering a diverse landscape.

Positioned at the base of the Vinciguerra Glacier is the Tempanos Lagoon. This glacial lagoon is dotted with floating icebergs that have broken off from the glacier above creating a beautiful panorama for visitors.

While the Vinciguerra Glacier is accessible year-round, the optimal time for a visit is during the Southern Hemisphere's summer months, so from December to March. During this period, the weather is relatively milder, and the paths are less treacherous.

Note: this is a trek TO the glacier and not ON the glacier! You will NOT be wearing crampons and trekking on the glacier.

Book your trek to Vinciguerra Glacier here.

8. Trekking and Canoeing in Lapataia Bay

For a fun and active visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park, consider this Ushuaia tour that combines a day of trekking and canoeing.

During this tour, you'll go on a 7-kilometre hike through the Sub-antarctic forest dropping into the shores of the Beagle Channel. This hike is considered medium difficulty.

Upon completing the hike, you'll enjoy lunch on the shores of Lago Roca / Lago Acegami in a geodesic dome.

Afterwards, you'll be provided with rubber boots, waterproof pants, and life jackets before hopping aboard an inflatable canoe. You'll then paddle the Lapataia River until you reach Lapataia Bay, which should take about 1 hour.

Book your trek and canoe tour in Lapataia Bay here.

9. Double Decker Bus City Tour

The Ushuaia double-decker bus tour is a 1-hour sightseeing tour that does a loop around the city hitting up some of the major attractions along the way.

Picture a bright blue, old-fashioned double-decker bus that will transport you back in time as soon as you step aboard. Over the course of the tour, you’ll get to learn about Ushuaia’s history and hear fun anecdotes, with a bit of tango music in between. The commentary is done in Spanish and/or English depending on the group, plus they also have narrated audio in 7 languages.

The bus tour goes past landmarks like the old prison, the city port, and offers views of downtown Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel along the way.

The bus makes two stops during the tour, one at the Devil's Lagoon in the city's west end, and the other at the Ushuaia Aeroclub which offers panoramic views of downtown Ushuaia. The bus does not make any other stops, so the tour is geared at providing an overview of the city more than anything else.

Note: this is NOT a hop-on hop-off tour even if it is sometimes labelled as such. There will be a couple of brief stops along the way for photos, however, you can't get off of the bus and wait for the next one like on a traditional hop-on hop-off tour.

Book your Ushuaia Double Decker Bus Tour here.

10. Cerro Castor

If you're planning to visit Ushuaia in winter and enjoy skiing or snowboarding, then you can enjoy an action-packed day at Cerro Castor.

This ski lodge is located 26 kilometres from Ushuaia and is a popular winter day trip to hit the slopes.

Cerro Castor has the distinction of being the southernmost ski resort in the world. It is also the only ski centre in Argentina that has an ice rink at its base.

The views from Cerro Castor are unparalleled. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy impressive views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding forests of Tierra del Fuego.

Plus, beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can also enjoy a range of winter activities like snowshoeing, sled rides, and off-piste skiing.

If aprés-ski is more your thing, you'll be pleased to know there are 7 different restaurants sprinkled at the base of the mountain and up on the ski hills. These include:

Snow Bar

Ona House

Morada del Águila

Alpino Sports Bar

Restaurante 480

Terrazas del Castor

La Barra

Viejo Castor

All this to say, you won't go cold and you won't go hungry on the slopes of Cerro Castor.

Book your ski/snowboard pass for Cerro Castor.

Tips for enjoying your Ushuaia day tours

If you're visiting Ushuaia for just a few days during high season, be sure to book your excursions in advance, especially if you want to do a particular activity that's only offered a few times a week. You wouldn't want to come all this way for it to be fully booked.

Most of these Ushuaia tours are active and involve spending quite a bit of time outdoors, so dress accordingly. Waterproof hiking boots, waterproof hiking pants, and a waterproof jacket are always a good idea!

The weather outside Ushuaia can be cooler and windier, especially if you're heading out into the mountains, so dress in layers and pack a hat, scarf and pair of gloves in your day pack even if you don't think you'll need them.

Keep in mind that some of these tours include hotel pick-up from your accommodations in Ushuaia, while others require you to meet at a pre-designated spot. Always confirm this with your tour operator.

You can find more helpful travel advice for your trip to Ushuaia, Argentina here.


10+ Fun El Calafate Day Tours to Glaciers, Estancias and Caves!

Trying to decide which El Calafate day tours to book? We've compiled a list of some of the top-rated and most unique experiences in the area!

If you're planning to visit El Calafate, you'll likely end up booking some day tours. This destination is the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the world-renowned Perito Moreno Glacier, so there are lots of excursions that centre around this attraction.

One of our personal highlights was joining a full-day glacier boat tour through the park where we got to cruise the length of Lago Argentino and visit numerous glaciers! The natural beauty we saw on that cruise was unparalleled and it's an experience that we still rave about to this day.

However, more adventurous travellers might prefer more active El Calafate day tours like trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier, kayaking the milky waters of La Leona River, or even horseback riding at one of the many estancias.

Plus, you have other excursions that allow you to experience a completely different landscape - namely, the Patagonian steppe! These tours include visiting a petrified forest, caves with ancient paintings, and 4x4 expeditions that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.

All this to say that there is a huge variety of day tours from El Calafate, so there's bound to be something for every type of traveller out there!

So, if you need help narrowing down which El Calafate day tour to go on, we've got you covered with these top-rated picks!

My Top 3 Picks: El Calafate Day Tours

#1 Top Pick

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Glaciers Boat Cruise

✅ See numerous glaciers

✅ Disembark for a guided hike

✅ Gourmet lunchbox included

#2 Pick

Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trekking

✅ Walk on a glacier

✅ Small group tour

✅ Glowing reviews

#3 Pick

Estancia Nibepo Aike

✅ Visit a local estancia

✅ Horse trek

✅ Enjoy a traditional BBQ

Best El Calafate Day Tours

1. Glaciers Boat Cruise aboard Maria Turquesa

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!

First up, I want to start with my favourite El Calafate day tour and that's the boat tour to the glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park!

This tour is definitely a bit of a splurge and we were a bit hesitant to book it, but it turned out to be our favourite experience of the whole trip to El Calafate.

We booked the Glaciers Gourmet tour aboard Maria Turquesa and we went for the basic option, which includes a packed gourmet lunch box. However, if you're looking for an even more elevated experience, they have a premium tasting menu that takes place on the top private deck.

The morning of our tour, we were picked up from our accommodations in El Calafate and drove to Puerto Bandera, a private port where we boarded our vessel.

We then spent the day cruising the teal waters of Lago Argentino, the largest freshwater lake in Argentina, and along the way, we visited multiple glaciers!

We got to see Seco Glacier, Heim Glacier, Spegazzini Glacier, Upsala Glacier, and Bertacchi Glacier, before ending the day in front of the one and only Perito Moreno Glacier!

But it wasn't just about the glaciers. We also got to fish chunks of icebergs out of the lake to use the ice for our drinks. We went past glacial waterfalls cascading down mountains. We even disembarked at an old outpost and went on a guided hike at Puesto de Las Vacas. It was an epic day!

This is a full-day tour from El Calafate, but I can honestly say that we weren't bored for one second. Maybe it's because we lucked out with the weather (bright blue sunny skies!), but the ever-changing landscapes kept us entertained the entire day as we alternated between spending time out on the deck and simply admiring the beauty of the park from our seats.

So if you're only going to splurge on one tour in El Calafate, I would make it this one!

"Basically an all day adventure aboard a large tri-hull cruiser that covered most of Lago Argentina. The seating is quite comfortable and the windows are large. Access to the deck on two levels allows everyone space for viewing and photos. There is a photographer on board to provide professional photos of your experience. We paid to include a box lunch and beverage but you can bring your own or upgrade to the luxury lunch and beverages. The boat had a play area for small children. We visited all of the glaciers. Two of them calved while we were watching. We enjoyed great weather. A short hike is available to stretch your legs on land. We enjoyed the experience." -Jerry

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2. Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trekking

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

Another super popular day tour from El Calafate that tends to sell out in advance is the Perito Moreno Glacier mini trekking excursion. Again, this is another big-ticket item and I'll explain why.

For starters, you're going to be walking on a glacier! That means crevasses and seracs, which require a lot of skill to navigate. This is where a professional guide comes in.

For this activity, you set out in groups of 20 with 1 guide for every 10 participants. Crampons are provided as well as an explanation of how to use them and how to stay safe on the glacier.

You walk where your guide walks and you step where your guide steps. There is no deviating ever!

The tour itself includes transportation to and from El Calafate. Once you reach the national park, you're driven to Bajo las Sombras Pier, which is about 6 km from the balconies. Here, you embark on a 20-minute navigation across the Rico Arm towards the Perito Moreno Glacier.

You first trek along the shores of this glacial-fed lake, and then once you reach the actual glacier, you gear up for the big adventure.

It's possible to book this tour in person for slightly cheaper once you're already in El Calafate, however, as I've mentioned, this is one experience that sells out several days in advance, especially during high tourist season (December to March).

If you're going to be in El Calafate for a while, you can take your chances and try to book once you arrive, but if you only have a couple of days and you know you want to go on this tour, it's better to reserve ahead of time.

Note that Hielo y Aventura is the only operator that runs this Perito Moreno Glacier tour!

"This is by far one of the coolest things I've ever gotten to do. The entire time we just kept looking around us in awe of where we actually were. Definitely go do this. It's easy with the tour company taking care of everything and the route being kept very safe and clear. Crampons are not hard to walk with if you follow the instructions of your guide. I highly recommend crossing "trek on a glacier" off of your bucket list." -Leah

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3. Estancia Nibepo Aike

⭐ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: Full or half day | ✅ Book it!

Another popular day tour from El Calafate is to visit an estancia or a working ranch. This is one of our favourite experiences whenever we travel to Patagonia as it's a window to rural life and gaucho culture in Argentina.

Estancia Nibepo Aike is a great option because it's relatively accessible (just a 90-minute drive from El Calafate) and it's also located inside Los Glaciares National Park (its existence predates the park!) so that means you get some truly impeccable views of glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains.

When it comes to visiting Estancia Nibepo Aike on a day trip, you can opt for a full-day excursion or a half-day excursion. The main difference is the horseback riding component - a 3-hour horse ride for the full-day option, or a 1-hour ride for the half-day option. Alternatively, if you don't want to ride, you can enjoy a hike around the estancia.

We personally opted for the half-day excursion and we felt like it was plenty of time (you can read about our experience at Estancia Nibepo Aike here).

Upon our arrival, we were welcomed with warm beverages and a spread of cakes and baked goods.

We then went on a guided tour of the estancia where we explored the shores of Lago Argentino, climbed up to a viewpoint that offers beautiful panoramic views, and attended a sheep-shearing demonstration.

This was followed by a feast of a BBQ which featured various cuts of meat including chorizo, morcilla, lamb and salad accompanied by a bottle of red wine. For dessert, we had flan with dulce de leche.

After the meal, we still had a bit of free time to roam around the estancia, so we took lots of photos and befriended the estancia dogs.

There are lots of cool estancias in and around El Calafate, some of which are open to day visitors and some that welcome overnight guests, so that's another option to consider.

"Loved everything that was part of our trip - breathtaking views, farm life all around us, horse ride, sheep shearing shown to us, and a wonderful dinner offered! we told our friends and highly recommended them this activity in El Calafate. We might even return ourselves, on the next trip." -Irina

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4. Punta Walichu Archaeological Site

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Punta Walichu Archaeological Site is an easy half-day tour from El Calafate that doesn't involve travelling long distances. This is a fun activity if you're looking to fill a bit of free time with an easy excursion.

Here you’ll find several caves located at the foot of a cliff on the shores of Lago Argentino and inside those caves are ancient rock paintings which are believed to be over 4,000 years old!

The first inhabitants of these lands arrived during the Glacial Age and are believed to have been the predecessors of the Tehuelches.

The cave paintings at Punta Walichu depict images of outlined hands, hunting methods, and the animals that roamed the area.

This tour ends with either lunch or dinner served in one of the caves overlooking Lake Argentino. Quite the special setting, if you ask me!

The menu features a homemade soup for the entree, a lamb casserole with vegetables for the main (or sautéed vegetables if you're vegetarian), and chocolate mousse for dessert. As for drinks, guests can choose between wine, juice and mineral water.

"We decided on this half day tour and frankly were not sure what to expect We really enjoyed the information shared by our guide, the party we travelled with and the beautiful vistas of Lago Argentina as well as the history of the native peoples, their ancient writings and stories of their culture and lives. Finally the catered lunch set up in the cave environment with a view of the natural surroundings was amazing and delicious We UNEQUIVOCALLY recommend you take this journey You won’t be sorry!" -Grace

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5. Balconies of Calafate

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-4 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you're looking for another half-day tour from El Calafate, you may want to consider a 4×4 off-road adventure to explore the rugged and pristine landscapes of the Patagonian region.

Balcones de Calafate or the Balconies of Calafate is a panoramic lookout point behind the town of El Calafate. This destination can be reached by 4×4 and offers multiple vantage points where you can see the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino and the majestic peaks of the Andes Mountain Range.

Some tours go up to Cerro Frias while others go to Cerro Huyliche.

The off-road routes traverse areas with unique flora and fauna, so you have a good chance of observing the local wildlife, including guanacos, foxes, and various bird species.

"Ruben, our guide, made this adventure so enjoyable. He truly loves all his guests. We had a fun trip up the mountain with great views of El Calafate, Lago Argentino, and the snow-covered Andes. Then he made us a tasty lunch before heading back down the mountain to our hotel. We highly recommend this tour." -William

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6. La Leona Petrified Forest

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!

La Leona Petrified Forest offers a landscape that's completely different from the glaciers and turquoise lakes of El Calafate, so it's a fun option if you want to get a taste of the Patagonian steppe.

The first stop of the day is Hotel La Leona, a roadside rest stop and countryside guesthouse that unknowingly housed Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid for over a month before they fled Argentina for Chile!

You then embark on a guided hike through the lunar-like landscape of La Leona Petrified Forest.

This part of the tour takes you into a deep depression in the landscape where you can find petrified tree trunks that are around 70 million years old!

Some of these trees are up to 1.20 meters in diameter and they echo of a time when the climate in this part of the world was very different and supported a completely different type of vegetation!

Aside from the petrified trees, it is also possible to see fossilized dinosaur bones and unique rock formations.

The duration of the actual trek is 3 hours, though this also depends on the weather and the group's pace. A boxed picnic lunch is included on this day tour.

It's also important to note that this is a seasonal tour that operates from October to April.

"We were both happy we decided to go on this tour. The landscape is something else and the fact that I got to physically hold a piece of wood which was now stone still is one of my vivied memories of nearly three weeks in different parts of Argentina. The guides were informative and very friendly!" -Helene

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7. Kayaking La Leona River

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!

Kayaking La Leona River is a full-day tour from El Calafate and it's a nice option for travellers who want to spend an active day out on the Patagonian steppe!

This particular tour takes place in La Leona, an outpost located halfway between El Calafate and El Chaltén.

On this tour, you'll kayak the waters of La Leona River, which connects Lago Argentino to Lago Viedma. The waters are a beautiful light blue milky colour due to the glacial sediment from Viedma Glacier.

Wetsuits are provided and you're accompanied by a professional guide every step of the way.

But you won't spend the whole day on the water! After kayaking down La Leona River, you'll pull into the shore to embark on a guided hike to La Leona Petrified Forest, where you can see dinosaur fossils and walk among ancient petrified tree trunks that date back millions of years!

"Excellent guides - friendly and knowledgeable - they not only made the day fun but also kept everyone safe on the river. It felt such a privilege to kayak the La Leona river and walk the badlands without another soul in sight. It was our group and the guanacos! This trip will ensure you fall in love with Patagonia (if you hadn't already)!" -Carol

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8. Estancia Cristina

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ✅ Book it!

Another very famous estancia near El Calafate, albeit a bit more difficult to access, is Estancia Cristina. This estancia is located inside Los Glaciares National Park and the only way to reach it is by boat, which is an adventure in and of itself.

This remote ranch is steeped in history and dates back to 1914. It was founded by Joseph and Jessie Masters, a couple who came from the United Kingdom to start a new life in this corner of Patagonia.

What makes this estancia unique is that it's the only property that has a land-based lookout point to the Upsala Glacier.

This day tour begins with a 45-kilometer drive from El Calafate to Puerto Bandera. Here you'll board a vessel where you'll be welcomed with hot drinks and medialunas.

You'll then begin a 3-hour navigation across Lago Argentino cruising past icebergs and snow-capped mountains on your journey to the estancia.

Once you reach Estancia Cristina, you'll go on a guided tour of the property and then you'll have two options: an off-road 4x4 tour to Upsala Glacier or a hike to a pristine nearby waterfall. This El Calafate day trip ends with a traditional Argentine lunch at the estancia.

"Despite the high price tag, this day trip is worth the money. It is well organized; the service and amenities were excellent and the experiences are one of a kind. The first part of the day is a cruise near the Upsala glacier and navigating in close proximity to ice bergs floating in Lago Argentino. That is followed by one of the adventure tours at Estancia Cristina. We chose the 4x4 track to view the glaciers: amazing views, but be aware that it is about 90 minutes inside the vehicle. The lunch at the Estancia was a gourmet experience. The whole Estancia Cristina team made everything first class." -Michael

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9. El Chaltén

⭐ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!

While it is possible to visit El Chaltén on a day trip from El Calafate, the question you should ask yourself is: should you?

I think it really depends on the type of traveller you are and your goal for the visit!

The first thing you should know about El Chalten is that it's the National Trekking Capital of Argentina. This destination draws avid mountaineers and while hiking is the main draw, you can also enjoy rock climbing, kayaking, horse trekking and all sorts of other outdoor adventures.

As an avid hiker myself, I'm inclined to say that visiting El Chalten on a day trip from El Calafate is simply not worth it. The drive there takes around 3 hours, the most epic hikes merit a full day and should be started in the morning, plus it's the kind of town where it's worth lingering for a few days. But that only applies if you like hiking!

When does it make sense to visit El Chalten on a day trip from El Calafate? I would say it makes sense if you want to visit one more town, enjoy the scenery during the drive, and you're a less active traveller who is more of a walker than a hiker.

On the drive to El Chalten from El Calafate, you'll get to enjoy views of the Patagonian steppe, the milky waters of lakes and rivers fed by glacial runoff, you'll stop at the La Leona outpost that hid Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and you'll catch a glimpse of Mount Fitz Roy at the end of the highway as you approach the town.

Once you arrive in town, you'll have the opportunity to go on two very easy and light hikes accompanied by a guide. The first is Chorrillo del Salto where you can see a glacier-fed waterfall set amid the woodland.

The second is El Mirador De Los Condores, a lookout point that offers panoramic views of El Chalten where you can often see vultures flying overhead. This is an out-and-back 2.6-kilometre trail that takes 45 minutes to complete.

You then get free time in the town to eat lunch (which is included in this tour) and to walk around or browse for souvenirs. That's the day trip!

Now, I've done both of these light hikes and while they are nice, they pale in comparison to the scenery you can witness if you're willing to do the more challenging treks in El Chalten.

I would say, if your itinerary allows for it, it's worth spending at least 3 days in El Chalten. But I also understand that not everybody is a hiker, so it's a decision you need to make for yourself.

"Perfect day. Guide and driver were awesome. The hikes were very simple, but intensely beautiful. Lunch was actually one of the better meals I’ve had in Argentina. Definitely recommend." -Jackson

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10. Torres del Paine, Chile

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 14 hours | ✅ Book it!

Can you visit Torres del Paine National Park, Chile on a day trip from El Calafate, Argentina?

Technically, yes you can, and there are even day tours that will take you there, however, you have to be prepared for a very long day.

Having personally visited Torres del Paine, I think it merits at least a couple of days (more if you want to tackle some of the more popular hikes like the W Trek and the O Trek!), however, sometimes you're limited by your travel time.

If you only have one day to visit Torres del Paine and you know you won't be back in this remote corner of the globe any time soon, then do it.

So what can you expect from this El Calafate day tour to Torres del Paine National Park?

For starters, you need to be prepared for a very early start! The bus will begin picking up passengers at 06:30 a.m. and then drive to the Argentina-Chile border where everyone will have to go through immigration. Don't forget to bring your passport!

Once you've made it across the border, there will be a stop at an outpost called El Ovejero in Cerro Castillo. Here you'll have the opportunity to use the restrooms, have a quick coffee break, and pick up a souvenir or two if you so wish (I bought leg warmers and an alpaca sweater here!).

This is also your opportunity to exchange some money and get Chilean pesos to pay for the national park admission fee, or you can pay in USD if you have crisp bills without any rips, folds or stains.

Once you reach Torres del Paine National Park, you'll get to see a few of the highlights. These include landmarks like Laguna Amarga, the Paine Towers, Paine Waterfall, Nordenskjold Lake, the Pehoe Lake Lookout Point and more.

Most of the scenery will be admired from the bus as you drive through the national park, however, there will also be brief stops for photo ops ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, plus a 2-hour hike to Lake Pehoé and Lake Nordenskjöld.

Torres del Paine is home to all sorts of wildlife including lots of guanacos, foxes and condors, and if you're particularly lucky you might get to see pumas!

So yes, this tour involves a long day of travel, but the landscapes are breathtaking. The decision is yours!

"A long day, worth every minute. The guide Nicolas was very good. All day explaining in both Spanish and (good) English. He knows what he is talking about, very good explanations. No significant delay at the border and in case this would be so, no blamage on the organization. For the trip many experiences and photography depends on the weather. Fortunately we were very lucky. A wonderful trip." -George

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Final Thoughts on El Calafate Day Tours

As you've seen there is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing El Calafate day tours!

You have full-day and half-day tours, activities aimed at thrill-seekers and others geared towards travellers wanting light adventures.

Plus you have tours that explore the varied landscapes of El Calafate: glaciers, lakes, rivers, and the arid scenes of the Patagonian steppe.

We hope this list has offered a bit of inspiration and now the choice is yours!


11 Beautiful Estancias Near Buenos Aires for a Weekend Escape!

Searching for estancias near Buenos Aires? This list features 11 beautiful properties for a relaxing weekend escape!

One of my favourite ways to end a visit to Buenos Aires is by booking an estancia stay in the city outskirts. Buenos Aires is a thriving metropolis packed with activities - cafes, restaurants, museums and art galleries! However, it's nice to have the opportunity to unwind after an action-packed trip.

Most estancias near Buenos Aires are located in Buenos Aires Province, which encircles the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, and many of them are just a 1-2 hour drive away, making them fairly accessible to travellers.

My favourite aspect about estancia stays is slipping into the slow pace of life. You can watch the sunrise over the pampas, go horseback riding through the countryside, enjoy traditional Argentine meals, and all of this in a rustic yet luxurious setting.

Over the years, my husband and I have enjoyed many Buenos Aires estancias on both day trips and overnight stays. We've done even more estancia stays down in Patagonia and it has become our favourite way to travel.

So today, I've created a list of some of the best estancias near Buenos Aires for you to consider! The idea is to give you a bit of inspiration if you're looking to enjoy that estancia life for yourself. I've already experienced a handful of these and the others are still on the travel bucket list.

Beautiful Estancias Near Buenos Aires

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Estancia Villa Maria

Best estancia for Tudor-style architecture

Estancia Villa Maria is a Tudor-style estancia set in Cañuelas 56 kilometres south of Buenos Aires. It has consistently been ranked one of the top estancias in Argentina and South America!

The estancia sits on 74 hectares and was constructed as a summer villa by renowned architect Alejandro Bustillo, who is responsible for many iconic buildings across Argentina (including the Llao Llao Hotel in Bariloche).

Estancia Villa Maria offers 11 rooms and guests can choose between superior rooms, suites, family and master suites.

The estancia also has its own in-house restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional country recipes, outdoor barbecues and afternoon tea out in the gardens. They even offer cooking classes for guests who want to take some Argentine recipes like empanadas and alfajores back home!

Aside from the gourmet restaurant, guests can also enjoy a private lounge, bar and wine cellar.

There are lots of activities at Estancia Villa Maria for guests to keep busy including horseback rides, carriage rides, bicycles, a tennis court, an 18-hole golf course, football fields, plus a billiards room with board games.

Polo lessons can be arranged with a prior reservation and at an additional cost.

If you're looking for luxury estancias near Buenos Aires, this one fits the bill!

"The entire place was kind of magical - like being transported back in time. The staff were so helpful and accommodating (particularly given we speak little Spanish). It was more like being house guests at someone’s estate than being at a hotel. Very personalised." - Matthew from the UK
Review via Booking.com

Book your stay at Estancia Villa Maria.

Address: Avenida Pereda s/n, Máximo Paz, Ezeiza, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia La Candelaria

Best estancia for a French chateaux feel

Estancia La Candelaria is a 200-year-old French castle-style estancia set in Lobos 120 kilometres southwest of Buenos Aires.

While most estancias near Buenos Aires have a colonial look, this one will make you feel like you've been transported to France!

The estancia is divided into two sectors: the chateaux sector and the colonial sector.

The French-inspired chateaux sector offers 3 different types of rooms all decorated with period furniture: 6 Castle Classic rooms, 3 Castle Suites and 1 Castle Windmill.

Meanwhile, the colonial sector has more of a country feel. Here guests can choose between 10 Colonial Rooms and 2 Forest Bungalows. This sector is better suited for families or larger groups of friends.

Some of the daily activities guests can enjoy at Estancia La Candelaria include horse rides, bike rides, forest hikes, tennis courts, volleyball courts, and the outdoor swimming pool during the summer months.

Aside from this, the estancia also has different activities throughout the week like yoga, movie nights, empanada cooking classes, folklore shows and more.

There is a restaurant on the estancia grounds, 5º CHUKKER, where guests can try typical Argentine foods.

"Romantic, perfect and an absolute treasure in time. Thank you for keeping the history and the beauty of La Candelaria open with us to share. Highly recommend for those who want to get away and slow way down while enjoying a beautiful historical estancia! Special kudos to the chef - the food exceeded expectations and was the best food I had on my entire trip."
Review via TripAdvisor.

Book your stay at Estancia La Candelaria.

Address: Ruta Nacional 205 Km 114,5, Lobos, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia El Ombú de Areco

Best working estancia for traditional gaucho culture

El Ombú de Areco is a working estancia set in the outskirts of San Antonio de Areco, the town known as the cradle of gaucho culture.

This working ranch has over 300 hectares which are used for grazing cattle; they have 350 heads of Aberdeen Angus livestock. They also grow a variety of crops like soy, corn, wheat and oats depending on the time of year.

The estancia has 11 guest rooms including double, triple and quadruple rooms. They also have interconnecting rooms in case you’re visiting with a large family. The rooms have been lovingly renovated featuring vintage furniture and they each have their own private bathroom.

Estancia El Ombú de Areco offers full board which includes 4 meals a day: breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner. That means there's no reason to leave the estancia during your stay unless you want to explore the surrounding area.

Activities at the estancia include 2 daily horseback rides. Plus guests can also enjoy bike rides, long walks through the property, and the outdoor pool during the warmer months.

Estancia El Ombú de Areco is a very popular gaucho day trip from Buenos Aires where you can experience a day in the countryside and learn more about traditional gaucho culture. It includes horse riding, a traditional Argentine BBQ, live folk music and dancing, a horse whispering demonstration and more. It's a nice alternative if you want to experience estancia life for a day.

It's a beautiful property with extensive grounds to explore. Plus, this estancia's architecture is simply divine! We loved the friendly estancia dogs and found the staff to be super attentive.

You can check out this accommodations guide if you're specifically looking for estancias in San Antonio de Areco and other unique stays.

"We've previously stayed in estancias in the area, so were able to make a comparison. We found the owner and staff to be very welcoming and keen to accommodate our needs. The home cooked meals were tasty, especially the empanadas and cakes. The rooms were nicely decorated with light colours and were full of character. The horses appeared to be well cared for and, as experienced riders, we were taken on the most fabulous ride through the extensive grassland. My horse was amazingly responsive to the lightest touch. The dogs were a pleasure to have around too." - Claire from Australia
Review via Hotels.com

Book your stay at Estancia El Ombú de Areco.

Address: Ruta 31 Cuartel VI, Villa Lía, San Antorio de Areco, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia La Bandada

Best estancia for bird watching

Estancia La Bandada is located in San Miguel del Monte 122 kilometres from Buenos Aires.

The estancia offers accommodations in a 19th century colonial-style house that has been renovated yet retains its traditional charm. There is a maximum capacity of 14 guests so it offers a private and tranquil setting.

There are 3 types of rooms to choose from: one standard double room, two suites, and two two-bedroom apartments. The rooms are all named after different types of birds that can be spotted on the estancia grounds. These include herons, tijeretas, hummingbirds, horneros and cardinals.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities at Estancia La Bandada like horseback riding, bird watching, cooking classes, bike riding, evening guitar sessions and more.

They also offer 1-hour polo lessons for visitors who may be interested in learning more about this sport. You just need to be able to ride a horse and they can teach you the rest!

"This is a beautiful property inside and out. Large comfortable rooms, wonderful grounds exceptional service. The staff was extremely friendly and eager to please. Agustina was very professional - she took the time to explain all about the property. She showed us around the organic garden, the riding area and told us all about the animals that live there. She made sure meals prepared were to our liking. The ranch is beautifully decorated be it the living room and dining area or the bedroom - simply gorgeous." - Maria from Austria
Review via Booking.com

Book your stay at Estancia La Bandada.

Address: Ruta 41, km 120, San Miguel del Monte, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia Puesto Viejo

Best estancia for polo players and a giant labyrinth

Estancia Puesto Viejo is set on 220 hectares of land in Cañuelas 76 kilometres, or less than one hour, from Buenos Aires.

This particular estancia offers various types of accommodations to suit different budgets. They have a 10-bedroom hotel where all the rooms are named after the owner's favourite polo horses.

We stayed in the estancia hotel when we visited a few years back. The rooms were decorated with antique furniture including a beautiful wooden armoire, a footboard bench, and a chandelier.

Aside from the hotel, Estancia Puesto Viejo also offers a glamping option. There's a sector of the property where they have built wooden platforms that hold 21 geodomes. Guests can choose between double and triple domes. Just note that the geodomes won't give you access to the swimming pool.

One of the unique draws to this particular estancia is the giant labyrinth - an especially attractive proposition if you're visiting with kids! We had a hard time finding out way out of there!

In terms of activities, there are free bikes to explore the estancia grounds, you can sign up for a short horseback ride, or you can even book a polo lesson.

Also, we were very well fed for the duration of our stay with 4 meals per day: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner!

"Great place for relax and to be in touch with nature. If you are a horse fan there is no better place, no matter your age. 100 times better to connect to the airport than from central BsAs. The staff is great always ready to satisfy any need. Food is amazing!!! My only complaint is that I got used to be woken up by bird's songs in the morning and I don't know how I will manage now without…" - Ed
Review via Google Reviews

Book your stay at Estancia Puesto Viejo.

Address: Ruta Provincial 6, Km 83, Cañuelas, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia La Bamba de Areco

Best estancia for a historic connection

Estancia La Bamba de Areco is a highly acclaimed Relais & Chateaux property located just outside the gaucho town of San Antonio de Areco.

The estancia dates from 1830 making it one of the oldest Argentinian colonial-style estancias in the area. One of the original post houses on the property actually formed part of the Camino Real or Royal Road, an old trade route that connected Buenos Aires with Alto Perú (modern-day Bolivia).

La Bamba de Areco was one of the first estancias to welcome visitors back in the 1980s. It has since been renovated and offers 11 rooms and suites. The decor features dark wooden floors and antique furnishings.

"Our girls trip took us to La Bamba on our recent trip to Argentina. It was such a unique experience -- from the scenery to the horseback riding to the communal meals with people we otherwise would have never met! We definitely recommend this spot for a couple of nights to get out of Buenos Aires and enjoy a very slowed down (little wifi!), relaxing experience. Special shout out to Michaela, Segundo, Jo, and Eduardo for making our experience so special." - Melissa from New York
Review via TripAdvisor

Book your stay at La Bamba de Areco.

Address: Ruta 31 Km 7.5, San Antonio de Areco, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia La Madrugada

Best estancia for a luxurious and private stay

Another estancia to visit near Buenos Aires is La Madrugada. This is a rather exclusive property with only 3 suites that lead out to a garden, so it's the ideal place to book with a group of friends or family.

The estancia offers a rural experience with a touch of luxury. The main farmhouse has been renovated to add modern comforts, however, the place still manages to retain its traditional charm.

Meals at Estancia La Madrugada consist of a three-course menu and outdoor barbecues. Ingredients are sourced directly from the organic garden providing guests with a farm-to-table dining experience.

As far as activities go, Estancia La Madrugada offers horse riding, live guitar music by the campfire, and the opportunity to visit the nearby gaucho town of San Antonio de Areco - the town is only 5-kilometres away, so you can even cycle there using the free bikes they provide.

"My wife and I have been to La Madrugada twice now (one on August - winter, and once in the end of November - summer). Both times very different due to the season - but both incredible. This is a small estancia (max 3 bedrooms) so you really feel like you have the entire estancia (ranch) to yourself. All meals are included, food is great, nice wine selection. Entire staff is personalized and very accommodating! We have a 6 month old baby - and the entire staff could not be more helpful. In the winter they have a great space with a fire, very relaxing to play games or read. In the summer they have an enormous pool - plenty of space - beautiful setting. There is also the option to go horseback riding with a professional guide - again all personalized (riding offered at all levels). The estancia itself is an old traditional home that’s been renovated - keeping its old charm and decor but will all the needed modern amenities to stay comfortable (great shower, airconditioning, etc.) If you are looking for a place to relax out in the country side, quiet setting, personalized service - I could not recommend La Madrugada more." - Philip
Review via Google Reviews

Book your stay at Estancia La Madrugada.

Address: Camino del Yameo, San Antonio de Areco, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia La Sofia

Best estancia to play polo

Estancia La Sofia is a boutique hotel and polo ranch situated in Azcuénaga some 130 kilometres west of Buenos Aires.

La Sofía is a colonial-style ranch that offers six spacious en-suite rooms. Guests can choose from 2 Grand Suites, 2 Superior Suites, and 2 Standard Suites.

There are plenty of ways to keep busy at this estancia with lots of fun activities on offer. Guests can enjoy horseback riding through the pampas, birdwatching, the outdoor swimming pool, and cooking classes where you can learn to make empanadas, asado and mate.

Polo is a big part of life at this estancia. La Sofia Polo Club is part of the Argentine Polo Association and the club has two polo fields.

Whether you want to practice polo, learn to play, or find out more about a sport, the estancia can organize a special program for you. And if you don't feel comfortable on a horse, of course, you can watch a polo game!

"Our stay was absolutely magical. The place is so charming and feels like a friend’s country house. The chef is incredible and you feel as if you have stumbled upon a wonderful part of Argentinian life. The horses are great to ride for all levels and we (both occasional riders) really enjoyed the polo lesson too. I was skeptical about learning polo since I didn’t think it would be rewarding as a beginner but it was so so much fun. If you are there during a polo match that’s a lovely experience and the pool is great too. A really peaceful oasis, with roaring fires in the evening when it is cold, and Al fresco dining when it is sunny. The hotel only sleeps a small number of guests so is truly boutique and we loved getting to know the other guests as well. Would love to revisit if I am back in Argentina." - Flo
Review via Google Reviews

Book your stay at Estancia La Sofia.

Address: Cuartel VI, Azcuénaga, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia Don Manuel

Best estancia for polo lessons and clay pigeon shooting

Estancia Don Manuel started out as a polo school back in 1998 and today it has expanded to offer accommodations for guests looking to unwind and enjoy a taste of country life.

They offer a boutique experience that offers privacy and respects guests' desire for rest and relaxation. At full capacity, the estancia can hold a maximum of 36 overnight guests.

As far as gastronomy goes, Estancia Don Manuel focuses on homemade dishes with an artisanal touch. Portions are abundant and prepared by an internationally-trained chef.

The estancia has a football field, volleyball court, bicycles, a gym, and ample room to enjoy long walks and even do some bird watching. For rainy days or low-key afternoons, there's a clubhouse with board games, pool, table tennis, darts, foosball and more.

Guests can also book additional services like polo lessons, clay pigeon shooting, horseback riding, golfing, tango dancing lessons and more.

"We went for my birthday with a group of 10 people. The service was excellent, Emiliano and Juli made sure everything worked perfectly. Regarding the food, we brought the raw materials and the ranch staff took care of everything, allowing us to relax and enjoy the stay. Amelia was super attentive, she cooked very well for us and adapted to the dietary restrictions of some guests very easily. All the facilities were in very good condition, the beds were very comfortable and there was always someone making sure that the campfires had a fire to maintain the temperature of the common spaces. We were able to take a horse ride in the morning and in the afternoon Emiliano and Sergio took us to another area where they explained to us better how to handle the horse. It was a great experience! I recommend the stay to go with friends or family to spend a few days, the place is beautiful, the service is excellent and the prices are very reasonable." - Ariel
Review via Google Reviews

Book your stay at Estancia Don Manuel.

Address: Ruta 205 Km 59800, Cañuelas, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia Las Marias

Best estancia for a glamping experience

Estancia Las Marias falls into the glamping category offering some rather unique accommodations! Guests can choose between sleeping in a grain silo or a geodome. Rooms can be arranged to fit a queen-sized bed or two single beds.

This setup is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy a self-catered holiday. Breakfast is served daily, however, lunch and dinner are up to you! The accommodations come with an electric kettle, an electric oven and a small fridge - you'll want to plan for quick and easy meals, which leave more time for exploring.

On the premises, guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and sauna, visit the local farm animals (pigs, horses, goats and more!), and spend the evenings around the campfire.

"We had a great stay. I wanted to highlight the attention of Lucas and Ivan, very kind and respectful. In the place you are constantly surrounded by many animals. I also wanted to clarify that the breakfast is very complete, I am celiac and they had prepared a variety of options. The dome was properly equipped, with a stoker outside, which was illuminated for the night. Thank you so much! We had an excellent day." - Angie
Review via Google Reviews

Book your stay at Estancia Las Marias.

Address: Marcos Paz, Buenos Aires Province

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Estancia Don Pedro

Best estancia for families with children

Estancia Don Pedro sits in the locality of Solis 96 kilometres northwest of Buenos Aires.

Guests can choose from 4 different types of rooms: master suites, double suites, quadruple suites and quintuple suites.

This estancia offers complete room and board with 4 daily meals: breakfast, lunch, merienda and dinner. Dinner consists of a 3-course fixed menu.

Estancia Don Pedro has a relaxed and family-friendly environment. It's well suited for stays with children as they have farm animals guests can visit and ample room to play and roam.

Pets are welcome at this estancia though they must be on a leash and accompanied by their owners at all times. There are other dogs and farm animals at the estancia, not to mention guests and children, so that's something to be mindful of.

"Excellent place, attention and delicious food and super original menu. We also really liked the tranquility of the place and the fact that it was more exclusive than other estancias." - Agustina from Argentina
Review via Booking.com

Book your stay at Estancia Don Pedro.

Address: Ruta Nacional 8 Km 94, Solis, Buenos Aires Province

Travel tips for choosing an estancia near Buenos Aires

Book an estancia for the end of your trip. This is such a nice way to unwind after a busy itinerary in Buenos Aires. Two nights at an estancia is the perfect way to pamper yourself before hopping on a flight home. As a bonus, a lot of these Buenos Aires estancias are near Ezeiza International Airport.

Not all estancias are created equal. You'll hear this over and over again! We've done enough estancia stays across Argentina to attest to that. The estancia experience will vary from one establishment to the next. Some estancias only serve breakfast while others provide four meals per day. Certain estancias include activities while others charge an additional fee for things like horse riding or polo lessons. There are estancias geared towards couples and estancias better suited to accommodate families.

Choose an estancia based on your interests. Many Buenos Aires estancias have a focus, whether it be showcasing gaucho culture, horseback riding, or polo lessons. Meanwhile, if you venture further down to Patagonia, you can find estancias that specialize in fly fishing or game hunting. Estancias in Mendoza featuring wine tastings and vineyard visits. While estancias in Cordoba are a great introduction to gaucho culture in the sierras. So there's something out there for everyone.

You can find estancias all over Argentina. If you enjoy the estancia experience, seek them out on the rest of your travels across Argentina! You can find loads of estancias in Patagonia. One of our favourites is Estancia Tecka for fly fishing and unmatched service. Meanwhile, if you're visiting El Calafate, Estancia Nibepo Aike is a fun estancia for a taste of ranch life. You can also find loads of estancias in Córdoba up in the sierras, Mendoza and the Iberá Wetlands. Or try something different like glamping across Patagonia!

Book a Día de Campo to visit for the day. If an overnight stay at an estancia is not in your budget, you can consider visiting for the day. Many estancias near Buenos Aires offer a Día de Campo or 'countryside day' where you visit for the day, learn about gaucho culture and have an Argentine BBQ for lunch. This estancia day tour is one of the most popular day trips from Buenos Aires and it's also highly rated!