Reasons to ride

  • Embrace the gaucho lifestyle and gain a true understanding of the local customs and traditions
  • Cover longer distances on horseback than you would just hiking; Aysén is vast and has so many hidden jewels, so horse riding is a wonderful way of discovering more in a short timeframe
  • Go off the beaten track and stay in remote lodges and camps, discovering glaciers descending from the mountains, turquoise glacial lakes and rivers flowing through forested valleys

Ways to go horse riding

Riding to the Avellano Valley

The Torres del Avellano are the most stunning granite towers that tower above huge glacial amphitheatres and celestial blue glacial lakes. Feel like an explorer as you discover this area not far from the Cerro Castillo National Park on horseback accompanied by local gauchos. You will camp out and use the gaucho's hut as a shelter to cook and eat your dinner and breakfast and warm your hands on the fire. 

Spend 3, 4 or 6 days horse riding in this area often referred to as the Torres del Paine of Aysen.

Riding in the valley on day one, Avellano, Aysén, Patagonia, Chile

Riding in the valley on day one

Day rides from a lodge base

If you're keen to explore on horseback without committing to a multi-day trip, you might prefer to take a full-day or half-day horse riding excursion from the comfort of a traditional lodge.

Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing from different daily excursions - ride one day, trek the next - or just relax at the lodge.

A Chilean gaucho sits on his horse in Aysen

A Chilean gaucho in Aysen

Questions about Horse riding in Aysen

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Horse riding in Aysen FAQs

  • How much time do I need?

    Anything from half a day to two weeks depending on what type of ride you prefer, where you want to stay, and how long you want in the saddle.
  • How much riding experience should I have?

    There are several trips that are suited to novices, and lodge-based rides are ideal if you want to learn and build up confidence without committing to a multi-day ride. Generally, the multi-day rides are aimed at intermediate to experienced riders who regularly horse ride at home. If you are planning to join a longer trip of three or more days then you should definitely be comfortable with 2-7 hours in the saddle per day. 

  • What gear do I need to bring?

    You do not need to bring anything of your own - all tack and equipment will be provided for you. The tack usually comprises of metal or wood-framed saddles covered in layered felt, sheepskin and leather. Rope, raw hide and leather form the bridles, girths, straps etc. Most of the horses are ridden in simple snaffles. Halters are worn throughout the ride with rope tied around the horses neck to tie up at lunch stops and rest stops etc. You will be provided with chaps and a helmet for comfort and safety.

  • How well trained are the horses?

    The horses taken out on these trips have been incredibly well trained and are well looked after by their owners. They are therefore safe and reliable for riders of all abilities.

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