"ANDEAN CORDILLERA" ... PATAGONIA, CHILE/ARGENTINA

Location: situated between Parque National Altos Del Lircay and Reserva Nacional Los Bellotos southeast of Talca.

History: Experience the same odyssey the Spanish Conquistadors carried out five centuries ago and follow the Arrieros men who have run cattle herds over the Andes and acquired the routes from their forefathers. 

Ride: After arrival and transfers to San Alfonso we meet the horses, load the mules and ride out from La Panamavida. The landscape flora and fauna remains unchanged, inhabited by condors, puma and guanacos. Crossing the Andean Cordillera from Chile to Argentina, elevations rise from 3,300 - 13,331 feet. This is reputed to be one of the most spectacular horse-riding experiences in the world. At Paso Piuqienes (13,331 feet) the trail heads south for 10 days with a gentle descent into the Palomar Valley. Through Torrecillas Canyon, gigantic wind carved castles of pink stone tower reminding us of Petra. At Las Overas herds of guanacos proliferate before reaching the stunning waters of Laguna del Diamante. We ride along the Alvarado Canyon and re-cross the Andes at Volcan Maipo (11,264 feet) into Chile.

14 days/13 nights. Accommodation: cabin & tents. Group size: 9-14 Cost $2,550 private charters only. Departures usually January-March