Expedition

Crossing the Andes on horseback through Patos Sur Valley

CALINGASTA, PROVINCE OF SAN JUAN – ARGENTINA

Follow the authentic route of liberator General José de San Martin, leading to the historic Battle of Chacabuco, which secured chile`s independence.

"… we are already in chapel, my friend, for our expedition. To estimate how my sad and stupid head works, I tell you that I need thirteen thousand mules to move myself…"

*Note: This is a humorous and exaggerated expression used by San Martín to convey the complexity and difficulty of their undertaking. Mulases were used as pack animals in the Andes, so San Martín is implying that he needs an absurdly large number of them to accomplish their goal.

What makes this experience so memorable?

MEETING POINT IN BARREAL:

Welcome to Barreal, the starting point of our adventure! Meet your fellow expedition members in this charming town nestled at 1700 meters above sea level. Check in at the mountain hostel and get ready for the journey ahead. We will take care of equipment preparation and logistics, and then gather for a warm welcome dinner to kick off our exciting expedition!

 

• Day 1:
Start your adventure with breakfast and checking out of the mountain hostel. Board 4x4 trucks for a thrilling ride to Las Hornillas (2400 masl). Meet the expert muleteers and their trusty sillero and carguero cattle. Then, saddle up for a scenic horseback ride to Hornitos del Medio (3000 masl), where you will set up camp and enjoy dinner under the stars. .

 

Today, we'll traverse the breathtaking Las Hornillas landscape, where the brave soldiers of the Army of the Andes crossed the Los Patos River in 1817. We'll also explore the imposing Los Manantiales ravine, where the army's divisions reunited to rest and replenish supplies, surrounded by lush pastures, fresh water, and abundant firewood. Get ready for an unforgettable experience! resources for the sustenance of both soldiers and mounts.

 

• Day 2:
Rise and shine for a hearty breakfast, then saddle up for an epic ride! Climb to the highest point of our expedition, the summit of El Espinacito (4500 masl). Take in the beautiful views and feel a sense of accomplishment. Afterward, ride to Ciénaga de Gallardo (3000 masl) and set up camp for the night. Enjoy dinner and rest your legs- you have earned after 6 hours in the saddle today!

 

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• Day 3:
Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a photogenic horseback ride to Los Patos Sur Valley (3100 masl). This stunning valley, formed by ancient glaciers, treats you to spectacular landscapes, diverse native flora, and fauna. Set up camp, indulge in dinner, and rest your legs after a leisurely 4-hour ride. Horseback riding for 4 hours.

 

Los Patos Sur Valley was a strategic haven for the Andes Army’s reorganization before crossing the Western Cordon of the Andes, now the border with Chile. History echoes through this valley’s majestic landscapes.

 

• Day 4:
Wake up and get ready for an exceptional horseback ride to the Argentine-Chilean border at Valle Hermoso Pass (3850 masl). Marvel at the majestic North Face of Mount Aconcagua (6962 masl) and the stunning Gussfeldt Glacier. Return to Los Patos Sur Valley camp for dinner and rest after an 8-hour ride filled with gorgeous view.

 

General José de San Martín led the charge through Valle Hermoso Pass with Major Arcos and 200 Grenadiers to unite with Brigadier O’Higgins and Soler, and Colonel Las Heras divisions in Chile. Their mission? To triumph in the Battle of Chacabuco and secure a victory for Chile.

 

• Day 5:

Resting day. Relax and take it easy in El Valle de Los Patos Sur.

 

• Day 6:
Fuel up with breakfast, then saddle up for a scenic horseback ride! Ride to Rancho de Lata, nestled at the foot of towering Cerro La Honda (4300 meters above sea level). Set up camp and enjoy dinner under the stars. Tonight, rest your weary head after a thrilling 5-hour ride. .

 

• Day 7:
Fuel up with a delicious breakfast, then saddle up for another exciting day! Ascend to the challenging Cuesta de La Honda (4.300 masl), feeling the thrill of the climb. Then, descend along the scenic banks of the Las Leñas River, taking in the views. Finally, arrive at the charming Los Hornitos del Medio (3.000 masl) and set up camp. Enjoy dinner and well-deserved rest after a fantastic 6-hour horseback ride. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andes!

 

• Day 8:
Ride to Las Hornillas for lunch after breakfast. Then, transfer to Barreal and check in at the mountain hostel. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner! Today, you'll ride for 5 hours in total. .

Dates Season 2024/2025

- December 9-16, 2025
- January 13-20, 2025
- February 3-10, 2025
- February 17-24, 2025

Contact us to arrange a custom trip that fits your schedule!

 

• Types: Horseback Riding
• Duration: 8 days and 7 nights in the mountains
• Group size: 4 people.
• Recommended age range: 13 years.
• Maximum recommended age: 65 years.
• Difficulty level: Medium, with passages of controlled difficulty.

• Price per person: Click here to ask

MAIN SERVICES AND FACILITIES

Guides and Staff
• Guide (trained in first aid)
• Muleteers
• Cook

Transportation and Equipment :
• Horse and muleback riding
• Cargo mules
• 7 noches de alojamiento en campamento en la de Cordillera de Los Andes 

• 2 nights mountain hostel in Barreal
• 7 nights camping in Andes Mountains (tents, sleeping bags, insulating mats)
• Accommodation : 2 nights mountain hostel in Barreal and 5 nights camping in Andes Mountains (tents, sleeping bags, insulating mats)

Dining and Dietary Options:
• Creole Menu (vegetarian, vegan, and celiac options available upon request)
• Tableware

Safety and Communication:
• Satellite Communication
• Support truck
• First Aid Kit
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Services Not Included:

• Transfers from the place of origin to Barreal
• Personal equipment
• Air Evacuation Insurance
• Travel Assistance Insurance / Personal Accident Insurance
• Program abandonment costs.
• Tips