Endurance ride across Patagonia from the Pacific to the Atlantic

A unique and challenging 900km ride right across the continent, sleeping under canvas, run by Jane Williams of Estancia Huechahue. This 3 week, fast paced endurance ride from the Pacific to the Atlantic is a once in a lifetime experience. The terrain is very varied: you ride through temperate rain forest, swim rivers, canter across deserts and pass through remote areas that very few people visit. Horses are local Criollo crosses, part Anglo-Normando, of about 15 hands, broken to the neck reining method. Saddles are also local style, with plenty of sheepskins on top.

Southern Lake District

Day 1: Met at Puerto Montt airport and driven to Andes Lodge on Seno de Reloncavi, a Pacific fjord. On arrival meet the Chilean horses and baqueanos.

Days 2-3: Ride along the beautiful Puelo Valley along side the Rio Puelo. After crossing the border into Argentina, take a boat across Lago Puelo and meet the Argentine horses and gauchos. During the first few days in Chile the tricky terrain and uneven ground dictates the speed which will be slow and steady, mostly walking. However, once over the Andes the going becomes easier and the pace picks up.

Patagonia

Days 4-20: Ride across Argentina through ever changing scenery in almost a straight line, passing through the remote towns of El Maiten, Gastre, Gan Gan and Telsen, finally arriving in Puerto Madryn on the Atlantic coast. Ride an average of 40-50km per day (approx 8 hours) at a fast pace across arid Patagonian steppe, following valleys and gorges and dirt tracks. There will be two back up vehicles to transport all the camping and cooking equipment and tents, chemical toilets and water for a shower will be set up on arrival at camp each evening - along with a gourmet dinner that will be eaten under the stars! Twelve nights will be spent camping and simple hotels will be used in Llanado Grande, El maiten, Gastre, Gan Gan and Telsen. On arrival at the Atlantic coast gallop along the beach amongst sea lions and penquins.

Valdés Peninsula

Day 21: Driven to Trelew airport for onward connections.

To enquire about this itinerary, or one like it, please email us at info@lastfrontiers.com, and one of our specialists will get back to you within 48 hours.

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