What to do

Riding: Cordoba

The rounded hills to the north of the city provide some of the best riding in South America

Cordoba - Horse riding
Cordoba - Horse riding

Probably the top destination in Argentina to head to if you are a keen rider. Like the Pampas, the region and hills to the north of Cordoba itself, have a strong tradition of farming and cattle rearing. The rounded hills of the Sierras Chicas provide interesting and varied riding terrain with plenty of gulleys and woodland areas to explore, occasionally coming out onto sweeping vistas. The accommodation and ranches in this area of Argentina are our picks for the best for intermediate to advanced riders.

The rolling and ancient hills of the Sierras Chicas have been dated as older than the Andes range itself and, when you visit, there really is a feeling that you are taking part in the history of Argentina.

All of the ranches and estancias that now host tourists were once traditional cattle and sheep farms. With this abundant, rolling grassland that softens the peaks of the hills, it is easy to be taken in by this history of the places.

It is fair to say that the accommodation may not be as smart or as swish as that of the big cities, but, with great horses, superb scenery and wholesome, hearty food, a stay in this region is an absolute delight.

The varied and temperate nature of this area is, however worth bearing in mind and so, for the months of April until July, many of them do either close down or run a limited service. The heat in the summer can also play an important factor and so, for us, we would recommend that you look to come here in the period between, in the spring and autumn for the best riding a climate.

When to go to Cordoba:

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    At a glance…The Cordoba region

  • Population: 1.5 million+
  • Location: Central Argentina
  • Recommended time: 3 to 5 nights
  • Time to visit: Year round
  • Go here for: Cultural sights, riding
  • Further reading...

  • › Cordoba
  • › Culture
  • › Paso Peruano Horses