| Horseback is a perfect way to see the | | | | The modern borders of Argentina were formed |
| spectacular landscapes of Argentina and | | | | to some extent by the expansion west, north |
| Chile. These two countries encompass an | | | | and south of the Gaucho culture. That culture |
| exciting and colourful land that contains | | | | is alive and thriving today and it can be |
| almost every landscape and climate imaginable | | | | experienced first hand at the many estancias |
| - from lush rainforests to harsh and arid | | | | (ranches) throughout Chile and Argentina. |
| deserts to the native forests, lakes and | | | | Staying at a working ranch is one of the best |
| fjords of Patagonia.It is a part of the world | | | | ways to experience contemporary rural life |
| rich in culture and history with a unique | | | | and see the Gaucho (or Huaso in Chile) way of |
| infusion of old and new world. The amazing | | | | life. The estancias provide first class |
| geography and the welcoming rural cultures | | | | accommodation, delicious traditional cuisine |
| provide the raw ingredients for amazing and | | | | and the perfect base for exploring the |
| unforgettable horseback trekking.With many of | | | | surrounding countryside. From some estancias |
| the most beautiful wilderness areas | | | | it is also possible to organise fishing or |
| inaccessible by road you can venture far from | | | | hunting trips and even a game of Polo for the |
| the beaten track and explore the country much | | | | courageous. Optimundo works with 20 of the |
| as the early settlers would have done in | | | | best estancias in Chile and Argentina, |
| centuries past.We can arrange horseback treks | | | | contact us for booking details.The author |
| in many locations from the northern deserts | | | | worked and travelled in South America for |
| to Patagonia and most places in between. | | | | many years before setting up Optimundo, a |
| Treks can take the form of half-day | | | | travel company that specialises in private |
| excursions to local beauty spots or | | | | tours to Chile and Argentina. |
| multiple-day treks that take you far out into | | | | |
| the wilderness regions where you can relax in | | | | Optimundo offers a range of exclusive luxury |
| the evenings round a camp fire and sleep | | | | travel itineraries that have been designed |
| under the southern stars.The horse is an | | | | with expert knowledge of the region. The |
| integral part of history and culture in | | | | company also provides a efficient and |
| Argentina particularly, but also in Chile. | | | | friendly tailor-made service, so that you can |
| The Spanish conquest of the Americas would | | | | specify the elements that you want in your |
| have been very different without the horse. | | | | perfect trip to Chile and Argentina. |