Horse Riding at Ranquilco

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Horse Riding Adventures

About our Horses

Our horses are mostly Argentine Criollos. Over the years we have had an Arabian stallion and a Criollo stallion as well as some polo (thoroughbred) bloodlines on the ranch. The horses are generally very hardy mountain horses, fun, easy to ride and dependable as good working partners. The Arabians amongst them are known to be a little more spirited and agile, for those that are looking for more of a challenging ride.

A Horse for Every Rider
We have a horse to match every level of rider, including children and first time riders, to the horses that are in great shape and ready for the more intermediate and advanced riders. We even have recently trained horses needing very experienced riders able to guide these youngsters to the next level of their training. We can match your ability to the right horse to make your stay a very memorable, fun experience.

A Way of Life at Ranquilco

Ranquilco offers many opportunities for horse enjoyment on 100,000 acres reaching all the way to the High Andes with Chile on our Western border. Pack trips are available into the breathtaking mountains where condor cruise in the rarified air, and trout cavort on the many streams and lakes.

These are magical lands for the horse enthusiast who desires to further his or her interest in all things equestrian in a place where horsemanship is a way of life.

We hope to provide riders with a unique vacation as well as a learning experience.

Join the gauchos

We offer a natural exposure to the gaucho way of life at Ranquilco. Guests can ride either with a gaucho guide, or by them selves once cleared. Our horses are Criollo with some fine Arabian blood mixed in. Our herd is known for their beauty, eager willingness, and sure-footed reliability.

In addition, our guests are invited to participate in our cattle drives form the winter camp in the desert to the summer lands in the mountains. Joining the gauchos and the dogs for these multi-day trips is a unique experience of true life on horseback.

The main cattle movements occur in November, January, March, and April. In January we have our branding party - a three day event in the high country of gathering, roping, branding and partying with up to 50 gauchos.

Options from October-May

- All day rides
- 3-4 day pack trip into the Andes
- Cattle drives (overnight and day long to sales)
- Morning round up
- Lessons for beginning riders

Every one will be provided with their own rig.
We have an assortment of traditional gaucho saddles, polo saddles, and a few jumping saddles to choose from. Your saddle and tack will ultimately be decided on by which horse you end up riding most often, as correct saddle fit is very important.

Horse Familiarization Course
Learn basic horsemanship skills.

Reserve your horse riding adventure at Ranquilco
Choose your dates and we can arrange your horse riding vacation based on your skills and the type of riding you want to experience.

Wilderness Horsemanship & Life Skills in the Cordillera, led by T.A. Carrithers. Register now for courses in January and February 2009!