Andes Crossing - Mendoza
An authentic riding experience
The historic Andes Crossing — birthplace of legendary stories and breathtaking landscapes.
Crossing the Andes on horseback is one of those rare journeys that still carries the true spirit of the great expeditions of the past.
For centuries, arrieros and gauchos have guided their horses through these mountains, navigating valleys, high passes, and untouched landscapes that look exactly as they did hundreds of years ago.
Our journey follows those same historic trails.
For several days, you ride through rugged mountains, crystal-clear glacial rivers, and remote camps beneath one of the clearest skies in South America.
It’s a simple, genuine experience — deeply connected to nature and to the horse beneath you.
This is not just another trail ride.
It’s a true small-scale expedition in the heart of the cordillera — crafted for riders who seek real adventure on horseback.
Experience and Structure
The Andes Crossing is completed in five days and four nights, linking high-mountain camps across the Mendoza cordillera. The route blends wide-open valleys, volcanic sand stretches, and challenging high passes before reaching the natural border with Chile.
Each day has a clear distance and a comfortable pace designed so you can fully enjoy the trail, with well-timed rest stops and camp life that adapts to the mountain environment.
This expedition runs with a professional, well-organized structure and a team that brings real, hands-on experience in the cordillera.
Our guides and baqueanos know these trails intimately and understand every condition the mountains can bring. With more than 200 successful crossings completed, the journey is built on meticulous planning, deep knowledge of the terrain, and careful attention to every detail — guaranteeing a safe, authentic, and unforgettable experience for riders seeking a true high-mountain adventure.
How to get there
Our adventure begins in Las Loicas, a small town nestled in the Andes, an hour and a half from Malargüe. Keep in mind that it only has one café and a small guesthouse. There are no gas stations. Although it's possible to drive to Malargüe from Buenos Aires in about 12 hours, it's recommended that you fly to Mendoza or San Rafael. From there, for the rest of the trip (2.5 hours from San Rafael, 4.5 hours from Mendoza), you can rent a car or travel by bus (check schedules).
What to bring
The expedition includes full logistics and all shared equipment provided by the organization, carefully planned to guarantee a safe and smooth journey in mountain conditions. We supply all meals and drinks (with and without alcohol), breakfasts, snacks,and the complete set of communal gear:high-mountain tents, heaters, cooking pots, and everything else necessary for the trail. Below is the list of personal equipment each rider must bring to enjoy the experience comfortably and safely.
You will need:
§ Sleeping bag
§ Layered garments, for cold temperatures and wind
§ Hat with a chin strap (it gets very windy up high)
§ Camera
§ Gloves
§ Flashlight/ Headlamp
§ Personal hygiene toiletries
§ Towel
§ Swimsuit
§ Sunscreen
§ Lip balm
USD 690
International rate
The Gaucho Argentino team will contact you via WhatsApp to coordinate the payment of the balance before departure.