Horseback adventure in northern Patagonia
Embark on a historic journey in the heart of Aysén, riding along ancient paths to the stunning Torres del Avellano. Enjoy the landscapes of the Andes, explore lush forests, and experience the authentic gaucho culture with traditional outdoor barbecues. Visit the abandoned mining village of Puerto Cristal, declared a National Monument. A unique experience that every seasoned rider must experience!
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Visit the iconic Torres del Avellano
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Ride along Chile’s largest lake
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Visit Puerto Cristal
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Explore the Marble Caves
Where it’s located
Located between the Los Lagos Region to the north and the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic Region to the south, Aysén is one of the main gateways to Chilean Patagonia and the southernmost region.
Horseback adventure to the heart of Patagonia
Set out on a unique horseback riding journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Patagonia. Designed for experienced riders, this moderate-difficulty adventure follows ancient trails, traverses lush forests, and immerses you in the region’s rich history and authentic gaucho culture.
Day 1 - Welcome to Coyhaique!
After your domestic flight from Santiago to Balmaceda Airport, your guide will greet you at the hotel in Coyhaique to provide an informative session about the journey. You will then have time to organize your gear and equipment.
We will advise you on how to prepare your luggage for the trip and make sure you don’t forget anything!
Your adventure this day includes
Accomodation and meals
Optional services
Day 2- Into the Cerro Castillo mountains
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on a two-hour drive to the Cerro Castillo mountains, heading towards a farm near Lago Alto. From here, the guides will introduce you to your horse and prepare the pack horses for a late morning departure.
This journey begins along ancient ox and horse paths, gradually transforming into a narrow trail through a small mountain pass in the high valley, where only a few families reside.
After a leisurely ride through the valley, with unforgettable views, we will arrive at Puesto Rabanal, where we will set up our first camp for the night. Dinner will be shared around a campfire, and we will rest after an enjoyable first day of travel.
Your adventure this day includes
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2-hour private transfer
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6-hour slow-paced horseback ride
Accommodation and meals
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Camp at Puesto Rabanal
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Breakfast
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Box lunch
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Dinner
Day 3 - At the foot of the Avellano Towers
Today, we will ride for a few hours until we reach the glacial lake and the base of the Avellano Towers. As the magnificent peaks appear, you will be amazed by the landscape and the colors of the valley.
We’ll tie the horses for lunch and take a short walk to the iconic viewpoint, where we’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
After lunch and the walk back to the horses, we’ll mount again for the return to our base camp. There, we’ll enjoy an evening with the guide and gauchos as they prepare a delicious Patagonian lamb barbecue.
Your adventure for this day includes:
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Private transfer
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6-hour slow-paced horseback ride
Accommodation and meals
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Camp at Puesto Rabanal
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Breakfast
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Box lunch
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Barbecue
Day 4 - Round trip ride through the Avellano Valley
Today is a long but beautiful ride, descending from the mountain pass as we make our way through the iconic Avellano Valley.
We will travel through stunning canyons and pristine forests, crossing rivers and making our way toward Lake General Carrera, the largest lake in Chile.
Our destination is a private family farm where we will set up camp to rest. Together, we will prepare dinner before enjoying a well-deserved night of rest.
Your adventure for this day includes:
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7-hour slow-paced horseback ride
Accommodation and meals
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Overnight at a local family farm
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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dinner
Day 5 - Round trip ride to the General Carrera Lake
Today, we head towards the majestic General Carrera Lake. As we exit the forest, you will be amazed by the stunning view of towering cliffs and the cobalt blue waters stretching out to the horizon.
We will ride along the coastal cliffs, and in some areas, we may need to dismount to safely cross slippery slopes or narrow trails. Our guides will always be there to assist you, ensuring a steady and safe passage.
Later on, we will descend to an abandoned farm by the lake, where we will find the perfect spot to set up camp.
Your adventure this day includes:
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5 to 6-hour slow-paced horseback ride
Accommodation and meals
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Camp at a farm next to the lake
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Day 6 - One-way trip to Puerto Cristal
Today, we will travel along the shores of the lake to the old mining town of Puerto Cristal, a national monument with a fascinating history.
Founded in 1945, it housed 850 people, including entire families, until the closure of its mine in 1997. Today, it is a National Monument and upon arrival, you’ll have a private tour of the
remaining facilities and enjoy a delicious dinner and night’s stay at their renovated guest house.
Your adventure this day includes:
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3 to 4-hour slow-paced horseback ride
Accommodation and meals
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Night at the Puerto Cristal guesthouse
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Day 7 - One way trip to Puerto Sánchez
After a wonderful night’s rest, enjoy a scenic ride down an old horse trail until arriving at the coastal town of Puerto Sanchez.
Also an old mining town, the village has continued to survive because of its connection by gravel road to the Carretera Austral and recent interest in tourism. In the afternoon, take a boat tour on the lake to the Marble Caverns, one of the top 10 places to visit in Chile.
Then, we will head to Puerto Río Tranquilo to spend the night.
Your adventure this day includes:
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1,5-hout total navigation
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3-hour slow-paced horseback ride
Accommodation and meals
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Night at a quiet cabin at the port
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Dinner
Day 8 - Return to Coyhaique
Today, a private transfer will take travelers to Balmaceda Airport for their afternoon flight or to Coyhaique if they are continuing their journey from this point.
We’ll bid farewell to this journey, bringing home new friendships and unforgettable memories.
Horseback accommodations through the Avellano Valley
After a day of exploration in Patagonia, rest is essential. On our tours in Aysén, you’ll stay in places that combine comfort with a connection to nature. Each option has been carefully selected to provide you with an authentic experience, allowing you to recharge for the next adventure.
Puerto Cristal Guest House
This charming renovated guesthouse was built in the early 1950s with a single purpose in mind: to serve and host distinguished guests visiting Puerto Cristal! This is how the house first welcomed European and Japanese geologists, authorities, and engineers. Located on the heights of Puerto Cristal, the guesthouse offers an unrivaled view of General Carrera Lake. Its construction is made of stone and wood, with large windows and spacious rooms. It does not have internet or television, allowing guests to truly rest and disconnect.
Dates and prices
We offer scheduled departures that allow you to plan your adventure with complete clarity. Prices are calculated based on the number of confirmed passengers, reducing the cost per person as more travelers join. Each group has a maximum of 8 people to ensure a personalized and high-quality experience.
2-3 people
USD $6,900 per person
4-8 people
USD $4,300 per person
*RATES FOR THE 2025/2026 SEASON: (valid until April 2026)
What is included in the tour?
Private transportation as indicated in the itinerary
All meals as specified in the program
All horses, saddles, and pack horses
Helmets, leather chaps, leather gloves, saddlebags
4-season tents (double occupancy)
4 nights of camping in nature
1 Night of accommodation at Puerto Cristal Guest House
1 Night of accommodation at Puerto Tranquilo Cabin
Professional local guide (English and Spanish speaking)
Local gauchos to assist with horseback riding
Take your adventure to the next level
We want your adventure to be unique and completely personalized. That’s why we offer a variety of add-ons to enhance your experience.
Visit the San Rafael Lagoon + 1 additional night at Puerto Río Tranquilo
Hike to the Exploradores Glacier + 1 night at Puerto Río Tranquilo
What you should know
Responsible Travel
At Chile Nativo, we support the conservation and sustainable development of Patagonia. That is why for every tour booked to Torres del Paine, we donate $15 to the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund. Additionally, we collaborate with local communities, support small businesses, and sponsor two rural schools.
Responsible Travel
At Chile Nativo, we support the conservation and sustainable development of Patagonia. That is why for every tour booked to Torres del Paine, we donate $15 to the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund. Additionally, we collaborate with local communities, support small businesses, and sponsor two rural schools.
