Best Horseback Riding in San Antonio de Areco

Finding the right place to ride depends on your experience level. Many visitors prefer a guided day trip from Buenos Aires. Others stay overnight to soak in the silence of the countryside. These selections offer a mix of history, nature, and authentic gaucho hospitality.

• Best Overall: Estancia El Ombu de Areco
• Best for History: Estancia La Porteña
• Best for Nature: Areco River Park
• Best for Families: Estancia La Cinacina

1. Estancia El Ombu de Areco: Type: Traditional Estancia Why go: It is one of the most iconic best estancias near San Antonio de Areco. You ride through 300 hectares of lush grazing land. Best for: First-time visitors and photographers. Where: Rural area, 15 minutes from town center. Time: 2–4 hours (part of a full-day program). Cost: Typical full-day rates are $150–$200 USD. Getting there: Private shuttle or taxi from Areco town. Tip: Book at least two weeks ahead for weekends.
2. Estancia La Porteña: Type: Historic Sight Why go: This was the home of famed writer Ricardo Güiraldes. It offers a sophisticated atmosphere with deep cultural roots. Best for: Literary fans and history buffs. Where: 7km from the city center. Time: 3 hours. Cost: High-end range ($180+ including lunch). Getting there: Short taxi ride from the main plaza. Tip: Ask about the history of the main house during your visit.
3. Areco River Park (Costanera): Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: This is a more casual way to experience horseback riding in San Antonio de Areco. Local guides often wait near the river with horses. Best for: Budget travelers and spontaneous riders. Where: Along the Rio Areco banks. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Mid-range ($20–$40 USD). Getting there: Easily walkable from the town center. Tip: This is the best choice for a quick sunset ride.
4. Estancia La Bamba de Areco: Type: Luxury Experience Why go: It is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. The horses are exceptionally well-trained and the service is world-class. Best for: Honeymooners and luxury travelers. Where: Deep Pampas countryside. Time: Half-day or full-day. Cost: Premium ($300+ for day guests). Getting there: Private transfer recommended. Tip: Dress in smart-casual attire for the gourmet lunch.
5. Ricardo Güiraldes Gaucho Museum Grounds: Type: Museum/Park Why go: After visiting the Gaucho Museum, you can often find short riding demonstrations. It provides context to the horse's role in local history. Best for: Families with small children. Where: Just across the Old Bridge (Puente Viejo). Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Walk across the bridge from town. Tip: Visit the museum first to understand gaucho gear.
6. Estancia Los Dos Hermanos: Type: Riding-focused Estancia Why go: They specialize specifically in equestrian tourism. The rides are longer and go deeper into the wilder Pampas terrain. Best for: Experienced riders. Where: 20km outside the city. Time: 4–6 hours. Cost: Moderate ($100–$140). Getting there: Car rental or pre-arranged estancia pickup. Tip: Wear long trousers to avoid calf chafing from the saddle.
7. Estancia El Bracho: Type: Authentic Local Farm Why go: It offers a more rugged and less touristy feel. You spend time with working gauchos who manage cattle daily. Best for: Anyone seeking an unpolished, real-life experience. Where: Suburbs of San Antonio de Areco. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Local taxi or remise. Tip: Bring cash as small farms may not take cards.
8. Duggan Village Trails: Type: Day Trip Why go: This small village is one of the top attractions near San Antonio de Areco. The trails here are quiet and pass through sleepy rural settlements. Best for: Peace and quiet away from the main town. Where: 20 minutes north of Areco. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Local bus or taxi. Tip: Stop at a local bakery in Duggan for snacks.
9. Estancia La Cinacina: Type: Experience/Leisure Why go: It is located right at the edge of the town. You don't need a long transfer to reach the horses. Best for: People short on time. Where: Walking distance from the town outskirts. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Short walk or 2-minute taxi. Tip: Great for a morning ride before visiting traditional pulperias.
10. Vagues Rural Station: Type: Day Trip/Sight Why go: Ride your horse along the old abandoned train tracks. The scenery is nostalgic and very flat, typical of the region. Best for: Instagram lovers and landscape fans. Where: Vagues village, 6km away. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bicycle or taxi from Areco. Tip: Check the weather; the tracks get muddy after rain.

Preparing for Horseback Riding in San Antonio de Areco

Planning your ride requires some basic preparation. The Argentine sun can be quite intense in the summer months. Always wear a hat and high-factor sunscreen. Most estancias provide the necessary gear, including traditional sheepskin saddles. For safety, many places offer beginner horseback riding tours with gentle horses.

The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn. September through November offers mild temperatures and green fields. March to May brings beautiful golden hues to the trees. Avoid the peak of summer if you dislike high humidity. Winter rides are crisp but very refreshing under the blue sky.

You should also consider your clothing carefully. Jeans or thick leggings are better than shorts. Closed-toe shoes or boots are mandatory for safety. Most guides speak basic English, but learning a few Spanish horse commands is helpful. Always check the official San Antonio de Areco Turismo site for local updates.

What Does Horseback Riding in San Antonio de Areco Cost?

Understanding horseback riding costs helps you budget your trip. Prices vary based on the level of luxury and duration. A simple one-hour ride near the river might cost $25 USD. In contrast, a full day at a luxury estancia can exceed $200 USD. These premium packages usually include a traditional asado (barbecue) lunch.

Group tours are generally more affordable than private experiences. If you travel with a family, ask for group discounts. Many estancias include the ride as part of a "dia de campo" (country day). This covers snacks, wine, horse riding, and sometimes a folk dance show. It is often better value than booking a ride alone.

Remember that tipping is common for gaucho guides. A small gesture of 10% is appreciated if the service was good. Prices may fluctuate in 2026 due to economic changes in Argentina. Always confirm the final price in USD or local pesos before you set out. Official national info is available via the national tourism board.