One of the great horseback journeys across the Andes, following historic gaucho trails through epic landscapes.
Led by Jakob von Plessen and Daisy Soames, this eight-day ride moves through forested valleys, high passes and open plateaus carved by weather and time. Days are spent riding well-trained horses across challenging terrain, including the dramatic Paso de las Lágrimas, one of the region’s most formidable crossings.
Long hours in the saddle are balanced by time to rest in camp and share simple, well-prepared meals. Evenings are informal and communal, spent with guides and fellow riders.
For those seeking a genuine connection with the wilderness, this is as real as it gets.
WHEN TO TRAVEL
November – February
LENGTH
8 days
Journey Highlights
- Explore untamed Patagonian landscapes, from verdant valleys and crystalline rivers to rugged mountain summits.
- Traverse the awe-inspiring Pass of Tears, a high-altitude route with sweeping views of the Andes and Chilean wilderness.
- Spend evenings at remote safari-style camps, lodges and farmsteads, immersing yourself in authentic gaucho traditions while enjoying traditional asados and stories by the campfire.
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Day 1 – Arrival
On arrival, you’re met at the airport for a two-hour drive into the mountains, before continuing by speedboat across a remote lake to the Fila Hua Hum valley. From the forested shoreline, you meet your guide and horses and begin a short introductory ride to Base Camp.
At camp, there’s time to settle into your tent before drinks and dinner in the quincho – the log cabin that serves as the camp’s dining room, sitting room and bar.
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Day 2 – Fila Hua Hum Valley
Early in the morning, the gauchos bring the horses into the corral as preparations begin for the day. Two rides are planned, allowing time to settle into the saddle and get to know your horse. The first explores the Fila Hua Hum valley; the second climbs the valley sides to a high vantage point overlooking the surrounding landscape.
The afternoon is unhurried, with a long pause at camp before the second ride. Dinner is served in the evening, prepared by the camp’s private chef, followed by a dessert course. Tents are warmed overnight, with a fire lit early the following morning.
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Day 3 – The Pass of Tears
Today’s ride crosses a narrow mountain ridgeline, one of the most demanding sections of the journey. The route offers wide views across the surrounding valleys, with time to pause at the high point to watch condors circling overhead. Lunch is carried in saddle bags and taken at the tree line.
The night is spent at El Buque Fly Camp, where dinner is prepared over the campfire and shared together. Facilities here are simple and in keeping with the setting, with fresh spring water available at camp.
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Day 4 – Base Camp
The route descends from the mountains back to Base Camp, passing through bamboo forest and open valley. The terrain here is known for puma activity, often evidenced only by tracks along the path, and it’s not uncommon to encounter members of Jakob’s wider horse herd grazing nearby as you approach camp. A river crossing marks the final stretch back to Base Camp.
The afternoon is left free. Options include an additional ride, fly fishing, a guided nature walk, or time to rest at camp.
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Day 5 – Lake Ride
Today follows a gentler rhythm, with a relaxed ride back towards the lake where the journey began. The route crosses neighbouring land, passing grazing horse herds in the open valley, with opportunities for faster canters along the way.
The afternoon is free, allowing time to rest ahead of the longer rides to come.
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Day 6 – Felipe’s Fly Camp
Departing Base Camp, the journey turns east for a two-day ride across high ground to the land of Felipe Chandia, a local gaucho whose family has long worked this remote area. Saddle bags are loaded as the route climbs steadily towards the highest point of the journey, with wide views across the mountains and down towards Lake Traful.
As evening approaches, Felipe’s horses are brought down from the hills in preparation for the following day, when mounts are changed. Jakob’s horses are released to make their way back to Base Camp. The night is spent at Felipe’s Fly Camp, with dinner cooked over the fire and accommodation in simple dome tents set among the trees.
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Day 7 – Felipe’s House
The day begins at Fly Camp with breakfast prepared over the fire. After meeting your new horse from Felipe’s herd, the route descends towards the shores of Lake Traful.
Lunch is served at Felipe’s house beneath the fruit trees. The afternoon is unstructured, with time to rest or swim in the lake before the evening.
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Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, there is a final short ride to the lakeshore, followed by a speedboat transfer across the lake. On arrival, a vehicle is waiting for the two-hour drive to Bariloche.
Arrival is expected by midday, allowing onward flights from mid-afternoon.
Where You’ll Stay
Each night offers a distinct experience, from the quiet luxury of Base Camp to the rugged simplicity of the fly camps.
- Jakotango Base Camp: Located beside the Río Filo Hua Hum, this camp features safari-style tents with en-suite bathrooms and wood-burning stoves. The quincho provides a warm, communal space for meals and conversation.
- Fly Camps: These remote mountain camps feature dome tents equipped with sleeping bags, cots, and thick mattresses. The amenities are simple, but the sense of remoteness is unparalleled.
- Felipe’s Homestead: This traditional farmstead offers safari tents with shared bathrooms, surrounded by barns and corrals. The hospitality of Felipe and his family makes this a true highlight of the journey.
Intrigued by this adventure? Speak to our travel designers about securing a saddle on one of Jakotango’s coveted rides.
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What type of horse will I be riding?
The Criollo horses of Patagonia are the unsung heroes of this journey. Hardy, intelligent, and perfectly adapted to the terrain, they are steady companions on narrow ridges and steep descents alike. Saddles are traditional recados, designed for comfort and long hours in the saddle.
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How much riding experience do I need for this trail?
This journey is crafted for riders confident at all paces, with the stamina for full days in the saddle. The terrain can be challenging, with steep climbs and rocky descents, but the rewards are unparalleled. Non-riders can also be accommodated, with opportunities to relax at Base Camp while others explore the high country.
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What do I need to pack?
The Patagonian climate is famously mercurial. Guests should pack for all possibilities: thermal layers for cold nights, waterproofs for sudden rain, and sun protection for clear skies. Portable power banks are recommended for charging devices at the fly camps, where electricity is unavailable. We will provide a full packing list to all riders.
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