There is something about the countryside that makes even the most city-dwelling person take their foot off the accelerator to let themselves be enveloped by the immense sense of calm that is breathed in there. That is why for those who live in the urban jungle, the idea of riding a horse sounds like a fantasy film.
But the good news is that you don’t need to be born surrounded by nature to enjoy a royal carriage ride, as just two hours from the Obelisk there are some establishments dedicated to offering their services to both inexperienced and enthusiastic visitors. Continue reading and find out which one is made just for you.
Leaving the city without leaving comfort
If you are an demanding visitor, you probably won’t feel like embarking on an expedition; but the truth is that to enjoy this type of activity, because most stays offer horseback riding as a day trip, where you just get up, get on a private transfer, or drive for a while on the highway, by lunchtime you’ll already be breathing fresh air with a glass of Malbec in hand.
Once there, the horses offered for the initiation rides are animals selected for their temperament. They walk at a pace, obey the gaucho who guides them, and are not afraid of even a fly.
Overall, this experience is not a horseback riding class, but rather a relaxed walk through dirt roads, lakes, and meadows where the goal is to enjoy the experience without hassle. Additionally, you can enjoy the local good food, as well as spaces to rest between activities and receive personalized attention.
Where to ride without fear of falling
The Ombú of Areco, a story that is felt from the first step
About 119 kilometers from the city, in the town of San Antonio de Areco, you will find the Estancia El Ombú in Areco, one of the most compelling options for those who have never ridden a horse.
The property was built in 1880 by Lieutenant General Pablo Riccheri and was then acquired by the Boelcke family in 1934. And since 1993, with the help of Eva Boelcke, the place welcomes visitors, providing them with a space that blends colonial elegance with the unmistakable warmth of the countryside.
Currently, his sons Pablo and Diego run a property that covers 300 hectares dedicated to the breeding of cattle and agriculture; it also has more than 40 horses.
What seems more appealing to us here is that the experience adapts to the level of each rider. Similarly, the gauchos who accompany the tour know how to read the visitor, immediately noticing if you’re tense, so they assign you a calmer horse and also explain how to sit on the saddle. If you gain confidence, they will encourage you to try a gentle trot.
Meanwhile, the tour takes place through the fields of soybeans, corn and pastures, interspersed with stops to see the cattle and the rest of the farm, to end with a drink of mate under the shade of the trees.
The exact location of this stay is at Route 31 Quarta VI, San Antonio de Areco, and the contact phone number is 02326-492080. It is worth noting that they also offer carriage rides for those who do not like horseback riding.
Don Silvano, the classic stay that never fails
The Estancia Don Silvano It is located in the Chapel of the Lord, about 70 kilometers from the city on National Route 8, and holds the title of being the favorite of international tourists.
The main Victorian-style house was founded in the mid-20th century by Silvano, an Italian immigrant, and since then it has maintained the structure of the traditional estancia intact without feeling like a mere stucco decoration.
You can explore its 380 hectares on horseback, in carriages and even on tractors, and the best part is that the activities are organized in groups, with extremely gentle and docile horses, and no previous experience is required.
Then comes the time for lunch, during which you can enjoy a complete Creole barbecue, followed by a Creole skills show featuring a race of bracelets and even a demonstration of horsemanship.
The full-day tour, which usually includes transportation from one of the central hotels, usually costs around USD 230 per adult, although updated prices are required to be consulted directly.
La Bamba de Areco, luxury without pretensions
If you have a budget that allows you to obtain a more sophisticated experience, the Estancia La Bamba in Areco It is the right place to make you happy.
Located on Route 31 Km 7.5, just 20 minutes from San Antonio de Areco, this property has origins that date back to the 1830s, when it functioned as a post stop on the Camino Real. In fact, its oldest building (the Pulpería, from the 18th century), served as a shelter for horses and carriages.
Meanwhile, starting in 2009, the entrepreneur Jean-Francoise Decaux acquired this property and transformed it into a boutique hotel that opened its doors in 2011, and since 2016 it has been part of the Relais & Châteaux chain, which says a lot about the level of service.
The guided horseback rides through their fields reflect the same obsession with detail that is evident in both the cuisine and the accommodations, offering a selection of 100% criollo horses with a high level of gentleness and accustomed to novice riders.
The tour includes some stops to have mate and chat with the gauchos, who usually tell some good stories and experiences that liven up the time.
Villa María, the closest option
45 minutes from the center of Buenos Aires, on Avenida Pereda s/n, Máximo Paz is located. Estancia Villa María, a 56-hectare property that was built in 1927 by the architect Alejandro Bustillo in a distinctive Tudor-Norman style.
It currently operates as a 11-room boutique hotel and offers day trips from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. But that’s not all; it is surrounded by a park with more than 350 species of trees and plants, a private lake, and an 18-hole golf course.
The horse rides are part of the day-long package, which includes lunch, snacks, and access to other sports activities.
The price per adult is about $190,000 plus VAT (as of August 2026), with a 50% discount for children aged 4 to 12 years.
What to expect from your first horseback ride?
The first time you get on a horse, it’s normal to find everything high up.
The gauchos who work in the ranches usually start with a brief talk in which they show you how to take hold of the reins, how to ask the horse to stop, and how to sit down so you don't hurt yourself.
Then they help you get on, adjust the stirrups to your height, and the ride begins. The horse's step is a smooth motion that resembles that of a rocking chair, and after ten minutes you'll find it familiar.
As a rule, horseback riding for beginners does not involve galloping; the pace is slow, with stops to take photos, get water, or simply to admire the scenery.
In some of the tours, such as El Ombú, the guide explains what crops are growing on each side of the path, while in others, such as Don Silvano, the tour passes by a farm where you can see the animals up close.
The truth is that you won't end up sweating or having back pain, but you will feel a peculiar mix of relaxation and a sense of alertness, just because you're experiencing something new.
Practical information to ensure you have a good time
- You will wear a long pair of jeans or gabardine trousers, closed shoes with a sole (not running shoes), a light long-sleeved shirt and a hat or sombrero. Some accommodations offer riding helmets, but you need to ask when booking.
- During the summer, the sun is strong in the pampa and in the winter, the wind cuts down the temperature; so bring an extra jacket or sweater in your backpack.
- Most stays include lunch in the price of the day trip, but alcoholic beverages between meals are charged separately. If you have dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance, as some may offer vegetarian options.
- Some accommodations, such as Don Silvano, offer a shuttle service as part of the package; others, such as El Ombú or La Bamba, require you to go on your own or hire a private service.
Advice from someone who got nervous
- Don't be embarrassed to say that this is your first time, as gauchos prefer to take care of a beginner rather than someone who pretends to have experience and ends up grabbing the horse by the neck.
- Ask for the gentlest horse in the stable, not the one that looks the prettiest to you. This is because white or light-colored horses are usually the ones that attract the most attention, but they are not always the most calm.
- It allows the gaucho to help you climb up and, during the ride, keep your hands at chest height and don't pull hard on the reins.
- Remember that the horse does not need you to lead it like a car; it follows the group and the guide.
- If at any time you want to stop, let us know. These walks are enjoyed without haste.
Questions that are often asked by those who have never mounted
Can it fall down?
In theory it is possible, but in practice it is very rare if you follow the gaucho's instructions word for word and do not make sudden movements.
Does the body hurt the next day?
If this is your first time, you are likely to feel some tension in your inner thighs and in the lower back area. This can be relieved with a good massage or a day of rest.
Is there an age or weight limit?
Each accommodation has its own rules regarding this, but in general they accept adults of any age and weight. It is best to check directly when booking.
What happens if it rains?
In these cases, most of the stays have covered lounges where you can wait for the rain to pass. If it is persistent, they usually reschedule or offer other activities such as dressage demonstrations in the stable.
Do I need to know anything about horses before going?
It is not necessary, as these stables are prepared to accommodate beginner riders.
Can you go alone or do you have to go in a group?
You can choose either of the two options, as some stables organize fixed group rides, while others allow you to book the rides for two or three people.