GLACIERS
3 days / 2 nights horseback ride
Enjoy two or three days of adventure, sailing through Argentino Lake among icebergs, to reach a historic Estancia where you can enjoy horseback riding through unique landscapes, surrounded by pure nature.
You can then relax at the Lodge of the Estancia with personalized service. It's an unparalleled experience to discover the majesty of Patagonia in all its splendor!
Day 2: Mirador Cristina
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
ELEVATION: 800 MASL
DURATION: 6 hours riding
+ 1 hour for lunch
This day we will begin the journey through another sector of the Caterina River Valley to begin the ascent on a stone path that was previously used by the pioneers, immersing ourselves in a forest of ñires and lengas. We will make a stop at the Cascada de los Perros, a space to relax with panoramic views of what we traveled on the first day, the Estancia Valley and Pearson Lake. We will continue ascending along the western slope of Cerro Mesón until we reach Mirador Cristina, where we will take a short break and have lunch with a majestic view of the surrounding hills, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and the Upsala Glacier, in the midst of a comforting silence…
On the way back we will descend along other paths until we reach the main part of the Estancia.
Day 1: Pearson Lake
DIFFICULTY: LOW
ELEVATION: FLAT
DURATION: 4 hours riding + 1 hour of lunch
In this northern horseback ride, we will discover the deep valley of the Caterina River and a pristine glacial landscape. Along the way, we will observe the typical flora and fauna of the steppe, crossing lagoons, mountains, and the majestic Cerro Norte in the background. After 2 hours of riding, we will reach the refuge by the Pearson Lake, surrounded by pure nature, to take a well-deserved break accompanied by a snack. On our return, we will take a different path, exploring other areas of the valley, until we reach the main house of the Estancia where you will be staying.
Itinerary
07:30
Beginning of the shared transfer service from hotels in Calafate to Puerto Punta Bandera.
08:30
Passengers who use private or third-party transfers must arrive at the port.
09:00
The Navigation begins with cafeteria service on board.
11:30
Arrival at Estancia Cristina and welcome. Lunch and coordination of the expeditions to enjoy during your stay.
17:30
We leave from the Ranch.
18:45
Arrival at Puerto Punta Bandera.
19:30
Arrival at El Calafate.
Day 3: Mirador del Hielo
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM/HIGH
ALTITUDE: 750 MASL
DURATION: 7 hours riding + 1 hour for lunch
This will be the longest day. We will begin by ascending the Cordón Feruglio until we immerse ourselves in Monte de los Loros, enjoying a different vegetation from the previously covered, old forests and a challenging climb until we reach a unique panoramic view of the Upsala Glacier. From this viewpoint, we can see its main and eastern fronts, exclusive to the Estancia next to Lake Guillermo. This place will immerse us in the wild Patagonian wind, providing a unique sensation. If we tour the area and observe, we can also appreciate impressive views of the Andes Mountains, with the Bertacchi, Cono and Murallón Hills and their tributary glaciers, as well as part of the Southern Patagonian Ice. After a short break, we will have lunch and return by the same path, mainly downhill, discovering new landscapes such as the Pampa de los Potros, other lagoons and the Cerro de las Cachuchas, until reaching the Estancia's main building.
Horseback riding
These trips are activities with varying duration and difficulty, guided by experts from National Parks. At the saddlery, our guides will provide riding equipment and select horses according to the physical build and experience of each rider. After an introduction on handling and safety, we will begin our journey.
What's included?
Transfers
Shared land transfers to and from hotels in El Calafate.
National Park
National Park Access Fee.
Navigation
Navigation from Puerto Punta Bandera, touring the Upsala Arm and Cristina Channel and returning from the ranch to Puerto Punta Bandera.
(A refrigerator is provided during navigation.)
Equipment
Horses, saddle and saddlebag.
Accommodations
Accommodation at THE LODGE.
All meals
Breakfast, lunch or boxed lunch, and dinner. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Expeditions
Horseback riding expeditions guided by experts.
Internet
Satellite Wi-Fi in the Octagon.
NOT INCLUDED
- Premium beverages.
- Laundry service.
- Private transfers.
- Private expeditions.
(Please inquire about adding these services).