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