01 Oct 2026 / Horse Riding Holidays in Argentina: The Ultimate Guide
For the equestrian traveller, Argentina is the ultimate horse riding holiday destination. We would love for you to discover that with us here at Estancia Don Joaquín – our working cattle ranch in Corrientes.
From the vast open landscapes of grasslands and wetlands, to the impressive Criollo horses that are handled by the legendary gauchos, Argentina offers something for every kind of rider. Whether you are interested in a relaxed, comfortable getaway or a faster-paced adventure, we encourage everyone to think about Argentina as their next place to visit.
A horse riding holiday in Argentina is far more than just getting in the saddle, it is shaped by the countries’ incredible history, horse culture, cuisine and hospitality. In this journal we have put together the ultimate guide on what to expect from your horse riding holiday in Argentina, and how Estancia Don Joaquín embodies the best of it all.
Riding in Argentina
Working with and handling horses is deeply woven into the fabric of rural Argentine life. At estancias (large working ranches in the Argentinian countryside) horses are not simply used for tourism; they remain an important part of everyday work. This authenticity is what makes our estancia so unique.
Depending on where you travel to in Argentina, experiences can range from relaxed trail rides and learning traditional Argentine riding techniques to spending several hours in the saddle each day on a multi-day adventure. That is what makes riding with us at Estancia Don Joaquín so special; no matter your ability, we cater your riding holiday around you.
If you wish, you can ride for just a few hours a day, as you gently learn the ways of the Criollo riding style. Accompanied by our skilled gauchos, you can meander through the wetlands and soak up the sights and sounds of the abundant Argentine wildlife. Or, if the call of the wild and thrill of adventure runs in your veins, you can join us on our extraordinary Gaucho Trail Ride – discovering a landscape you never would have imagined before your Argentine riding holiday.
If wildlife safaris, swimming with our horses and cantering sandy tracks with our gauchos sounds like something you’d enjoy then we would love to show you the true authentic, Argentine riding experience here at Estancia Don Joaquín.
The Criollo Horse
At the heart of Argentine riding culture is the Criollo, a horse renowned for its strength, stamina, reliability and resilience. The Criollo breed descends from the horses brought to South America in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistadors, from which today’s horses adapted remarkably to the Argentine terrain. Their sturdy conformation and obliging natures has led to them being the fantastic companion of the Argentine gauchos.
At Estancia Don Joaquín, you will ride in the Criollo riding style. We have a herd of over 150 horses, which means we can match you to the best horses that suit your level of riding and what you look for in a trail partner. We believe that one thing more special than experiencing the iconic Criollo breed, is truly connecting with the horse you ride on your holiday to Argentina.
Gaucho Culture
Discovering the legendary gauchos and their way of life is an unmissable part of coming on a riding holiday in Argentina. The gauchos are far more than horsemen and cattle drivers, they are a symbol of Argentinian heritage. Emerging as a result of the integration of the Spanish settlers and indigenous peoples, their remarkable mastery of the horse became a recognisable culture by the 1600s. Throughout history they have played a significant role in shaping the country’s history and culture.
Many of our gauchos have been at Estancia Don Joaquín for years, they live and breathe the way of the horses, know our land like no other and work together with the rest of the estancia as a family. If you choose Estancia Don Joaquín for your Argentina horse riding holiday, gauchos accompany you on each ride. Two of whom speak English and can answer questions, share their lifestyle and tell you about their ways, style and traditions in and out of the saddle.
Corrientes: Where to Visit
Argentina offers magnificent landscapes from the very South in Patagonia to the North. Corrientes, in the North East, is particularly special. The province combines open grasslands, wetlands, lagoons, rivers and subtropical landscapes. The area around Esquina is especially associated with rural tourism and traditional gaucho culture.
At Estancia Don Joaquín, we are lucky to be in the heart of the Corrientes countryside. From the moment you take your seat in the sheepskin saddle, the landscape we love so dearly, and the amazing array of wildlife that calls it home, becomes yours to explore.
Estancia Don Joaquín – Horse Riding in Argentina
Life on the estancia is rhythmic and relaxed, revolving around both the comfort of the guests and the working life of the ranch. From the delicious spread put on at breakfast, to morning and afternoon rides and everything that comes in between, a riding holiday at Estancia Don Joaquín is a carefully tailored experience that is effortless and authentic.
Not only will you be immersed in the gaucho culture, but your hosts Angie, Diego and Josefina will ensure you also leave enriched by the rural Argentinian lifestyle in the way of cooking classes, wine tastings, gaucho traditions and much more.
What to Pack
Packing for a riding holiday in Argentina depends on where you are going and at what time of year. For longer trail rides, check the specific equipment requirements with your estancia before travelling. You can read our Estancia Don Joaquín’s Essential packing list to find out about specific things you should pack for your holiday here!
However, some of the fundamentals that we recommend you bring include:
- Comfortable riding trousers or breeches
- Riding boots or sturdy closed-toe footwear
- Long-sleeved, light weight shirts
- A lightweight waterproof jacket
- Sun hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Swimwear
- A riding helmet if you prefer to use your own
The Best Time to Travel to Argentina
The best time for a riding holiday in Argentina depends on the region and the type of experience you are looking for. As Argentina is in the Southern hemisphere, the seasons here are opposite to those in Europe and North America: spring runs from the end of September to end of December, summer from December to the end of March, autumn from the end of March to the end of June, and winter from June to the end of September.
For Corrientes, we suggest that spring and autumn are the best seasons to join us at the estancia, as it is not too hot and conditions are often comfortable for riding. However, Summer can be warm, it is when we are most likely to be able to swim with the horses and when we find ourselves spending the most time by the pool.
Winter generally brings cooler temperatures, but our estancia rooms are cosy and there is always a roaring fire to return to. We believe there is no bad season at Estancia Don Joaquín, and we always recommend checking local conditions wherever you travel to in Argentina.
What Kind of Riding Experience Can You Expect?
Across Argentina the Gaucho way is both similar and different. Whilst every estancia will have their preferred way of training horses, the Criollo style of riding prevails. Here at the estancia we ride in a traditional way, holding the reins in one hand and sitting deeply in the saddle. You can read our journal article on the Criollo style of riding here.
In terms of length of time spent in the saddle and the pace at which you go, it depends on a variety of factors. This variety is one of the greatest joys of a riding holiday in Argentina.
Like with the horses, at Estancia Don Joaquín we suit the pace to your personal wants and needs. For riders who wish to enjoy the scenery at a gentle pace and build their confidence steadily, we can explore at a walk, with a gaucho on hand to help you develop your technique. For the experienced riders and adrenaline seekers, it is our pleasure to take you on faster paced rides or longer adventures, such as on the Gaucho Trail.
A Riding Holiday Like No Other
Wherever you go for your riding holiday in Argentina, you are bound to have an unforgettable experience.
We warmly extend an invitation for you to enjoy that experience here at Estancia Don Joaquín. We see sharing our lifestyle and our horses as a privilege and we welcome every guest to enjoy it with us and become part of our estancia family.