This is a 2 hour duration activity.
Let yourself be carried away by amazing views along the shores Paraná River on horseback riding. A one-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers. Discover with our guides the trails on the riverbanks, crossing eucalyptus plantations to relish in the sounds and colors of the imposing landscape of the Paraná River.
Explore Argentina’s stunning landscapes on our horseback riding tours. Trot through picturesque trails, immerse yourself in the rich local culture, and create unforgettable memories.
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Paraná River Rides: Equestrian Trails in Argentina
Esteros del Iberá, in Corrientes province, is one of the best places to go horseback riding in Argentina. With its astonishing nature, geography and culture, horse riders can connect with nature along trails on the banks of the Paraná River. Spectacular landscapes and lavish flora and fauna await at every step of the way.
Whether you are a beginner or professinal horserider looking for equestrian trails in Argentina, this tour is definitely for you. The upper Paraná has two areas of distinct vegetation: forests to the east and savannahs to the west. The forests continue along the Paraná River downstream to Corrientes, where the savannah takes over both banks.
The swampy soils, with their very poor drainage conditions and somewhat sandy texture, are not suitable for farming. This area has the highest proportion of rural population in the province. Horticultural production under cover is also developed, with increased prominence of citrus production (orange in particular), yerba mate, rice and tobacco.
This area includes the tobacco-growing area of Corrientes province, where a significant number of small producers are based. As for livestock activities, cattle breeding takes place on farms of various sizes.
Why Horseback Riding is a unique experience in North East Argentina
Riding along the trails on the edge of the Paraná River, one may observe non-saline sandy soil where the marsh vegetation has adapted to an excess of freshwater, including cattails, reeds and water hyacinths. The irupé, the aguapé, the water sequins and poppies are some of the typical aquatic species, which also play a fundamental role within the ecosystem.
Among the few trees present are the criollo willow and the ceibo. Grasses abound. A distinctive feature of this landscape is the presence of formations called “embalsados”, i.e., an accumulation of sediments, vegetation and fauna that float in water bodies.
The native fauna that will be seen along the way includes otters, turtles, capybaras, caimans or yacarés, flamingos, herons and dozens of different bird species. No doubt horseback riding is a fun and relaxing way of going on an in-depth exploration of the geography.
In 1970, forestry became a high priority objective in Argentina, for the future development of the pulp industry, the raw material of paper, an item that, when imported, takes up considerable amounts of foreign currency.
Corrientes responded to this call and currently has 516,771 hectares of cultivated forests, most of them for the planting of pine and eucalyptus. The expedition crosses part of these plantations on horseback, riding through the sounds and colors of the imposing landscape of the Paraná River.
Horseback riding Culture & Puerto Valle Experience
This expedition lasts two hours. Starting from the corral of the estancia, our guides will lead the way along the trails on the riverbank and across eucalyptus plantations.
As you may know, the horse culture in Argentina is quite signicicant. The “gaucho” horseman and cattle herder culture persists, and offers a unique experience for animal and horse lovers alike.
About horseback riding equipment
To fully enjoy your horseback riding adventure in a safe maner, here’s a concise list of the equipment you’ll need:
- Helmet: Protects the head from injury in case of falls or accidents, ensuring rider safety.
- Saddle: Provides a comfortable and stable seat for the rider, allowing better control and balance while riding.
- Bridle: Consists of reins and a bit, enabling the rider to communicate with the horse and control its movements.
- Stirrups: Attached to the saddle, these provide support for the rider’s feet and help maintain balance while riding.
- Riding Boots: Sturdy boots with a small heel to prevent the foot from slipping through the stirrup and provide grip and protection while riding.
- Chaps or Half Chaps: Optional but recommended for added comfort and protection, especially for longer rides. They cover the lower leg and prevent chafing from the saddle.
- Gloves: Protect the hands from blisters and provide better grip on the reins, enhancing control and comfort during the ride.
- Riding Pants: Comfortable and flexible pants or breeches designed for riding, providing freedom of movement and protection from chafing.
- Whip or Crop: Optional aids for communication and reinforcement of commands, used lightly and sparingly for encouragement or correction.
Curious to experience horse riding?
Puerto Valle has a park with an area of 14 hectares, which is also a great location for guests to go horseback riding, against the backdrop of the Paraná River, enjoy the peace and quiet of the premises, and connect with nature.
Other options to explore the Paraná River at Puerto Valle: take a boat ride, or if you’d like a more extreme experience, go on the kayak tour, departing from the pier of the estancia.