FAQ’s

What’s special about this horse-riding expedition?

This horse-riding expedition make us visit one of the most beautiful and unique places in the Andes Range, where the plane carrying Uruguayan rugby players crashed in 1972. The “Valle de las Lágrimas” is called “glacier cirque”. It is a big valley, similar to an amphitheater surrounded by snowed peaks of towering black and brown rocks with a glacier situated in the middle. This is the place where the aircraft crashed.
In every horse-riding expedition, every person participates actively in the program. Each participant can share experiences with people from different cultures, discover spectacular landscapes and feel the magic bond between a horse and its rider.

Is it necessary to know how to ride horses?

It’s not necessary since people with little or no experience can ride a horse. Experience in riding horses does help but it’s not a requirement. It is important not to be afraid of horses. We do work with tame horses which are used to walking in this area.
Regardless of experience, our guides and assistants will constantly offer help for you to enjoy every day at the most.

Is there any physical limitation in able to participate?

This expedition is not recommended for those people with severe medical problems that may need immediate medical assistance. (People with heart diseases, epileptics, etc). Also, it is not recommended for people who suffer vertigo or weight which exceeds 120kgs. In case you suffer from any problem, please visit your doctor. We recommend a medical checkup before the trip.

Can I return before the horse-riding finishes?

No. You have to be sure about participating in this experience as, logistically it is very difficult to come back before the rest of the team. In the event of leaving early, we’ll have to strike camps earlier, split up guides and equipment which would be a problem for the rest of the participants.

Is there an age restriction to participate?

The riding is not technically difficult and every person can take part. Of course, it’s better if you a have good physical condition. We have had people from 12 to 70 years old in our expeditions. 12-years old children must come with their parents. For younger children, please consult with us first.

How many hours do we ride every day?

Every day is different but mainly we ride between 4 to 7 hours per day. We stop many times during the day to eat, rest, check saddles and stretch our legs. We ride steady due to the rocky trails. Also, we want everybody to be together so we can chat, take pictures, etc, while we ride.

How can I prepare for this expedition?

Many people may think that horse-riding doesn’t involve a good physical condition. It is true that we don’t need the same condition as required to make a trekking expedition by foot, however, a good physical condition will help to fully enjoy the activities and be comfortable when riding the horses.
A good combination of aerobics and resistance exercises together with a healthy and well balanced diet is the best preparation .

Can I come as a single participant?

Of course you can. It is not necessary to come with a group of people since we offer programmed group expeditions where everybody can join. It is a good opportunity to get to know people since the experiences in the mountains make us establish great relationships in short time. In our groups, you’ll find people from all over the world, who share the spirit of adventure and respect for the story of the expedition.
Most of the participants have either read the book or watched the movie regarding the story. What’s more, in some cases, they’ve come to know some of the tragedy survivors.

What is the weather like?

In the Andes range, as in every mountain range, weather is difficult to predict. We have to be ready for a big difference in temperatures during the day and night.

What do I have to take into account when preparing my personal equipment?

Clothes have to be comfortable. We recommend synthetic material (polartec) instead of wool and cotton clothes. You should try to avoid bringing new shoes in order not to suffer from blisters.
We can answer any doubt via email or phone. Also, when you meet our guides at the hotel, they will check your equipment and advise you regarding what to take and what to leave at the hotel.
Down sleeping bags are most recommended is this case due to their light weight and small size. They have to be at least for -10°.

What safety measures are taken?

Our horses are very tame, quiet and well- trained for mountains. Our guides are very experienced as are the horse’s handlers. In case of emergency, we know the fastest route to return and we carry a first aid kit at all times.
What’s more, we also have a satellite phone for case of emergency.
At the same time, we consider it extremely important to keep in mind the group collaboration and cooperation when listening to the guides and horse handlers.

What kind of facilities do we have during the horse-riding?

The trip takes place in a remote landscape in the middle of the Andes Range. During the season, we set up the base camp at Barroso post with solar panels for lighting. We also have cooking equipment, first aid kit and satellite phone in case of emergency.
During the evening, we spend some time around a bonfire drinking “mate” while dinner is being cooked. We sleep in tents for 2 or 3 people. You also have the option to spend the night bivouacking to admire the night sky.

What do we eat?

offer varied, home-made food. We carry everything on the mules. Everything is organised so that you can enjoy a fresh meal.
Breakfast consist of, tea, coffee and milk, cookies, marmalade and bread.
Lunch consist of cold meals, like pies, sandwiches and juice.
Dinner is the most important meal of the day. It’s always a hot cooked meal. It consists of soups, barbecue, pasta, risottos, etc. And of course, wine. We get fresh water from the streams.
In case you are a vegetarian, or need a gluten- free diet or any other restriction, just let us know on booking and we prepare the food.

What kind of documentation do I need to take?

You’ll need your ID or your passport. In case you are a minor, you’ll need legal authorisation. Please ask in advance.

Can prices change?

We really try to keep prices the same, however sometimes it is not possible. We always recommend checking the latest prices before booking. Once your booking is made, the price does not change.

Do I have to carry extra money?

On the actual expedition extra money is not necessary, however, we recommend carrying some extra for personal expenses such as cigarettes, drinks at the hotel, tips, etc. Tips are not mandatory. They represent a thankful gesture for those that provides the services.