Why go horse riding in Torres del Paine

  • Ride through pampas and forests to glaciers and mountains, experiencing the parts of Torres del Paine that hikers never reach
  • Take a short ride for half a day from a lodge or ranch for a taste of Patagonian life in the saddle
  • Test your riding skills and stamina to striking out into the wilderness for a remote multi-day horse trek
  • Experience the park through the eyes of gauchos whose families have been working on this land for over a century
  • Enjoy authentic Patagonian hospitality at a working estancia, where the views stretch for miles and the decor evokes their frontier past

Horse riding options in Torres del Paine

Short horse rides in Torres del Paine

Get a taste of gaucho culture by spending one or two days in the saddle, exploring Torres del Paine's ever-changing landscapes.

Some shorter horse riding trips take you to some of the more remote landmarks such as Glacier Dickson, while others journey between working estancias, still owned by the families who have lived here for generations.

Alternatively, you can even leave the park on horseback and spend a couple of days travelling south along the Serrano River towards Puerto Natales and on to your next adventure.

Wild camping is offered for those who want to sleep beneath the stars, while other trips offer luxury lodges and hotels between rides.

Horse riding in Torres del Paine

Day riding in Torres del Paine

Long horse rides in Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine offers plenty of opportunities for more experienced riders who really want to get deep into the park. Whether you're looking for fast-paced technical riding, a chance to trek across the park with your gaucho guides, or just to spend days exploring the wilderness, there is a multi-day riding itinerary to suit you.

Consider whether you are happy to camp out under the stars or want the luxury of a bed and hot shower every day, and whether you would like to visit some of the many working estancias in the park. Either way, you're guaranteed some spectacular riding by day and tales of old Patagonia around the fireplace by night.

Horse Riding in Torres del Paine

Riding to Glacier Grey

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Lisette says

For me, time in the saddle in Torres del Paine is about freedom. I love the gentle pace of exploring on horseback, passing through nature without disturbing it, and spending time with gauchos learning about their traditions.

Lisette Nunez Ogalde Patagonia Team Leader

Day rides from luxury lodges

Many of Torres del Paine’s luxury lodges include riding excursions as part of their all-inclusive packages. These are ideal if you just want a taste of life in the saddle but still want to return to a luxurious private room in the evening.

Excursions are arranged the night before, offering you complete freedom over how you want to experience the park, and allowing you to factor in the weather or if you’d just prefer to relax after a long day hiking.

Horse riding from lodges is suitable for all levels of experience with horses, and are easily interspersed with other optional activities including day hikes, fly-fishing or bird watching.

Horse Riding in Torres del Paine

Riding beneath the Cuernos

Horse riding from an estancia

Torres del Paine has several working estancias, or traditional ranches, that make brilliant bases for a day or two of horse riding.

The experience here varies from rustic farmstay to stylishly comfortable. Estancias offer one of the best opportunities to learn about Patagonia’s history and culture. The estancias are all situated in remote corners of the park, allowing you the freedom to explore off the beaten track.

You’ll ride with gauchos who were practically born in the saddle, heading out on your horse for a truly immersive experience. The rhythm of life is different here – they’re the perfect places to switch off from the bustle of the modern world.

Estancia Cerro Guido and the Towers at Paine

Estancia Cerro Guido

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Swoop says

Combine horse riding with hiking, kayaking or fishing to see the many different faces of the national park. Ask us about the best way to weave in some time on horseback with the rest of your Torres del Paine adventure.

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What our travellers think of horse riding in Torres del Paine

My most memorable moment was riding horses through the whole national park & galloping through herds of guanacos. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Olivia Hakan - USA

Review:

Horse riding in Torres del Paine: FAQs

  • When should I go?

    Most Torres del Paine horse riding trips run through November to April. However there are some wonderful opportunities for winter rides in Torres del Paine as well.

  • How long are the horse riding trips?

    The rides vary in length from a half day to over a week, depending on what type of ride you prefer, where you want to stay, and how long you want in the saddle. 

  • Do I need to be an experienced horse rider?

    Horse rides are available for all levels of experience, including beginners. 

    There are plenty of trips that are suited to novice, with hotel or estancia based rides being ideal if you want to learn and build up confidence without committing to a multi-day ride.

    Generally, the multi-day trips are aimed at intermediate to experienced riders who regularly e ride at home. If you are planning to join a longer trip of three or more days then you should ensure that you'll be comfortable with up to seven hours in the saddle every day. The pace of your ride will always be adjusted by your guide to suit you and the other riders.

  • Do I need to bring my own riding gear?

    You do not need to bring anything of your own. All tack and equipment will be provided for you, including a riding helmet. You will be provided with chaps for comfort and safety.

    The horse 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. 

Explore more of Torres del Paine

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World class hiking and trekking awaits in Torres del Paine National Park. From the iconic W Trek to the park’s most hidden corners, each valley, peak and pass is a treasure.

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