Gauchos are master horsemen
Gauchos are master horsemen

Gaucho Experience in Argentina, Buenos Aires

Overview

Just as North Americans have their cowboys, Argentines have their gauchos. This frontier culture is strongest in the Pampas (prairies) immediately surrounding the capital, as this is where the country was first settled. Gauchos are national symbols in Argentina, whether it's the real-life horsemen who still exist today, or the folk heroes of epic Argentine poems, like Martín Fierro, whose stories are passed down over generations.

This excursion is a real gaucho experience. It involves a visit to Santa Susana, a working Argentine estancia (ranch) that welcomes visitors with a reception featuring wine, soft drinks, and empanadas. After a guided tour of the property, it will then be time to do some horseback riding (or perhaps take a carriage ride) before settling in for a traditional folkloric music performance. Of course, everyone is invited to get up and dance.

Lunch here is an Argentine asado (mixed grill) paired with even more of the country's fantastic wine. Real gauchos will then showcase their prowess with the bolas—traditional throwing weapons comprised of round weights connected by cords. Their displays will demonstrate how these deceptively simple weapons, when used in the right hands, can be effective at bringing down horses, cows, and even people. 

After lunch, the gauchos will continue to showcase their abilities, this time as they perform a series of feats known as carreras de sortijas ("ring races"). These are typical in gaucho equine competition and showcase the cowboys' great skills on horseback. The day ends with a late-afternoon serving of mate, the popular tea-like infusion that is an indispensable part of Argentine culture.

Itineraries with Gaucho Experience in Argentina

Experience Buenos Aires - 4 Days

Explore the highlights of Buenos Aires on this quick 5-day trip. First, explore the eclectic city of Buenos Aires on a comprehensive walking tour. In the evening, get in touch with the rhythm of Buenos Aires during a tango lesson. Next, travel to the countryside to experience the gaucho (cowboy) lifestyle and enjoy traditional Argentine asado before heading back to enjoy one last evening in the city. 

Argentine Culture & Waterfalls Experience - 8 Days

Take in the beauty and complexity of Argentine culture and natural landscapes on this eight-day journey. First, learn all about the history and people of Buenos Aires on a full-day walking tour. Next, head just outside of the city to experience the culture of the gaúchos. Then, travel north to the iconic Iguazú Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world. Top it all off with a trip back to Buenos Aires to enjoy a traditional dinner and tango performance.

Buenos Aires & Puerto Madryn Adventure - 8 days

Experience the culture and wildlife of Argentina on this 8-day adventure. Begin your adventure in the cosmopolitan capital city of Buenos Aires. Take in the city's sights and sounds on a full-day bike tour. Then, head just outside of the city to experience gaucho culture, and enjoy some traditional Argentine asado. Next, head south to Puerto Madryn, a seaside community in Patagonia famous for its diverse ecosystem featuring many unique birds and marine mammals.

Exploring Argentina's Wildlife & Culture - 12 Days

This itinerary is ideal for those interested in getting the full Buenos Aires experience while also discovering the famed natural wonders of Argentine Patagonia. Begin in the cosmopolitan capital of Buenos Aires, where you'll bask in the sights and tastes of the city while enjoying your city tour, cooking class, and tango show. Next, head south to Puerto Madryn, a seaside community in Patagonia famous for its diverse ecosystem featuring many unique birds and marine mammals, like whales and penguins. Here, you'll enjoy whale watching and snorkeling with sea lions and penguins before heading back to Buenos Aires where you'll learn all about gaucho (cowboy) culture on a working Argentine estancia (ranch).