Ampascachi · Mendoza, Argentina
Retracing San Martin's Andes crossing on smooth-gaited Peruvian Paso horses
A nine-day, eight-night crossing of the Andes on horseback, from Mendoza in Argentina over the mountains to Chile, retracing the historic route of General San Martin via the Portillo Medio pass at 4,030 m. You ride Ampascachi's smooth-gaited Peruvian Paso horses on the Argentine side and hardy Chilean Criollos on the descent, with six full riding days, nights in mountain camps and refuges, and campfire evenings with regional food and wine. A demanding high-altitude expedition for fit, confident riders.
A demanding high-altitude expedition for fit, confident riders. You spend around six hours a day in the saddle across six riding days, at altitude and on steep mountain ground, so you should be secure at all paces and used to long days out. It is not for beginners.
You ride Ampascachi's smooth-gaited Peruvian Paso horses on the Argentine side; on the Chilean side, hardy Chilean Criollo horses take over for the descent.
Each day climbs deeper into the mountains, riding for around six hours through dry valleys and up towards the high passes, with nights in mountain camps and refuges. There is a rest day in the heights, and evenings bring campfires, stories and regional food and wine after the ride. Ampascachi handle all the logistics and support behind the scenes.
Mountain camps and simple refuges along the route, set up and supported by the team.
All meals are included: artisanal Argentine cuisine and selected wines after each day's ride.
Best months: January and February
The crossing runs in the Southern Hemisphere summer, January and February, when the high passes are open.
Nearest airport: Mendoza (MDZ) to start, reached via Buenos Aires; the ride finishes towards Santiago de Chile (SCL)
Transfers: The route runs from Mendoza over to Chile; Ampascachi arrange transfers and logistics
Fly into Mendoza to start and out of Santiago de Chile, or as the operator advises.
