Uruguay & Argentina: Gauchos and Estancias

Be swept back in time with a visit to Argentina and Uruguay's estancias

What could be more exhilarating than horseback riding on the windswept plains of the Sierras de Córdoba mountain range and the hilly countryside of an Uruguayan estancia? This nine-day itinerary combines the best of Argentina and Uruguay gaucho culture with a city break in Buenos Aires. You will have the opportunity to experience centuries-old estancia (ranch) life in Córdoba, Argentina, and José Ignacio, Uruguay, while enjoying communal, candle-lit dinners and farm-to-table asados over a blazing fire.

Who is a luxury Uruguay & Argentina: Gauchos and Estancias trip best for?

Uruguay & Argentina: Gauchos and Estancias is ideal for avid riders and those interested in South America's gaucho culture—which is still alive and well in Argentina and Uruguay. Kids will love the ranch animals, but this is also a great itinerary for a couple or family looking for a slower pace of travel, and an opportunity to get into the lesser-visited backcountries of Argentina and Uruguay.

Day-to-day itinerary

Uruguay & Argentina: Gauchos and Estancias trip highlights

Fly into Córdoba, home to well-preserved colonial architecture and one of South America's oldest universities. Beyond city limits, scattered throughout the Sierras de Córdoba mountain range, are numerous working and touristic estancias (ranches) offering travelers horseback riding, bird watching, fly fishing, hiking, and a peek into rural Argentine farm life. Spend three nights at Estancia Los Potreros, or similar, and enjoy world-class horseback riding in the mountains, farm-to-table dining, authentic Argentine asados, and an opportunity to disconnect and learn more about Argentina's storied gaucho culture.
Take a city break and explore Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires. Visit its historic landmarks, stroll the colorblock streets of La Boca, and embrace the passion of tango at bustling milongas. With a private guide, delve deeper into the city's enchanting culture with tours focused on your travel interests—food, wine, architecture, art, history, and culture; Buenos Aires has it all!
Take the ferry across the Rio de la Plata or hop a quick flight over to Uruguay. Once there, you'll have the opportunity to experience Uruguay's estancia culture and landscapes. Stay at Estancia Martin Pescador, which lies at the foothills of the Sierra del Caracol, an interesting contrast to Argentina's mountains. This historic ranch house has just nine rooms, so guests will be welcomed into the family. Spend three days exploring the ranch, horseback riding, bird watching, biking, hiking, and enjoying fresh food from the organic garden in front of the fire.

Price

Starting at $8,125 per person sharing in 2024.

When is the best time to travel to Argentina and Uruguay?

The estancias of Uruguay and Argentina can be considered year-round accommodations; however, you might want to travel between late September and early May for the best weather. Uruguay's coastline can bring rain and wind during the southern winter months of June, July, and August.

Uruguay & Argentina: Gauchos and Estancias map

Easy extensions

It's quite simple to extend time within Uruguay and add nights at the beach, the city, or the vineyards. Alternatively, explore more of Argentina, visiting the Lake District and beyond.

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