La Barra to Garzon Ride Uruguay Uruguay Uruguay is a small friendly country full of experiences; a country to enjoy the simple things of life (which sometimes turn out to be the greatest)! You can relax and enjoy things like good fresh food cultivated by locals, a cooking class with a worldwide famous local chef who will received you at his home, fine good wines made by passionate owners, virgin beaches, music from the heart like Tango and Candombe. In the native traditions that existed in our lands before the arrival of the Spaniards, the horse was a symbol of power, endurance and freedom. In those cultures, the horse signified loyalty, love and the unwavering faith of the warrior spirit that understands the power achieved through true cooperation. We invite you to get to know our horses, learn how to bond with them through communication and enjoy a wonderful trip! The horse is an integral part of nature, and its passage doesn’t disturb the environment around us, enabling us to enter natural reserves, forests and beaches without disturbing the animals living in these areas. For those who wish to indulge in luxury, we offer an upgrade to this trip with exceptional accommodations. Progressive Ride (no camping) Ride with Western Tack Meeting: Aguaverde Vineyards Airport: Punta del Este Airport Transfer: Punta del Este or Montevideo Airport Riders: Min 2 riders Max 8 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

Minimum Deposit: 50 %

 

Rates Note:

Please, provide your passport information at time of booking

Transfer and Other Charges:

Transfers available from Punta del Este and Montevideo airport. Arrive in the morning of Day 1. Check-out by 12:00pm on last day.

Sample Itinerary: Luxury accommodations - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from Montevideo to your accommodation in La Barra. Start your horseback riding adventure by meeting your horse!  Today we will ride along the vineyards of Aguaverde and enjoy lunch.
Meals included: Lunch 
Accommodation at Fasano Locanda Hotel

Day 2: Sculpture Park Ride
After breakfast, ride along private trails, bordering local estancias and countryside until reaching the Sculpture Park and exhibition Centre of the Atchugarry Foundation founded by Pablo Atchugarry, a renowned Uruguayan artist. 
Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the lake. Then, continue riding to Medellin Polo Club where our horses will spend the evening. Transfer back to your accommodation. 
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at San Vicente

Day 3: Olive oil, Wine & Ride
This morning, we ride on trails that will take us along the countryside to vineyards, olive plantations and grasslands, a unique landscape. We will enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing to Estancia VIK where we will spend the night! 
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Estancia VIK

Day 4: Garzon
The day begins with a drive to Bodega Garzon. After a visit to the winery with tasting, we will ride along hilly trails surrounded by landscapes of slopes and vineyards. We will ride towards the sleepy town of Garzon and discover this area known as the “Tuscany of Uruguay”. In 2004, the renowned Argentinean chef Francis Mallmann and the Argentinean winemaker Manuel Mas, founded the Garzon Restaurant and Hotel which brought a new “hippie chic” spirit to the area. Word began to spread about the town’s old-time charms: gauchos riding on horseback along tidy gravel streets, residents greeting one another by name, and children playing in a flower-filled central plaza. We will enjoy lunch at the local old train station.
Short transfer back to your accommodation. 
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Estancia VIK

Day 5: Uruguayan countryside
Today begins with a ride along private trails of local estancias and into the deep Uruguayan countryside.  We will cross streams and go past various gates of neighbor estancias hoping to see deer, capybaras or American rheas. Once we get to the perfect spot, we enjoy a picnic lunch.
Our afternoon includes more riding along the countryside to Anastasio Lagoon. Short drive to your accommodation.  
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Bahia VIK

Day 6: Water Ride
After a short drive we get back in the saddle, enjoying beautiful views over the lagoon. We will enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our ride on the beach. We will ride up to the lakes of La Marquesa, looking for capybaras and deer.
Short drive to your accommodation.  
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch 
Accommodation at Bahia VIK

Day 7: El Caracol Ride
The day begins with a drive to the protected area of El Caracol where we will meet our horses. We will ride across the forest towards the most eastern point of the Garzon lagoon and along the lagoon shore towards a secluded spot where we will enjoy a typical Asado lunch. In the afternoon, we will ride back along the beach to the circular bridge and then into the countryside. On arrival, we will say goodbye to our horses before heading back to the hotel.
Farewell dinner at local restaurant. Day 8: Departure 
Private transfer to Montevideo’s Airport or Port after breakfast.



Non-riders are more than welcome to attend! Non-riding activities: Sight-seeing; hiking; fishing; surfing; biking; trekking; canoeing; bird watching.

                                        José Ignacio area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	78	78	75	71	65	59	58	60	61	66	70	76
Average Low Temperature (°F)	66	67	64	60	55	50	48	49	51	55	59	64
Average High Temperature (°C)	25	26	24	21	18	15	15	15	16	19	21	24
Average Low Temperature (°C)	19	20	18	16	13	10	9	10	10	13	15	18

Source: NOAA


Seasons
The weather in Uruguay is variable, but you can expect somewhat warm spring and autumn temperatures, although we can also get some cool days (especially early in the morning or at night) and some rainy days too. Except for the winters (July to September) the climate is usually mild with rainfalls scattered throughout the calendar. 

The best time for this trip is spring and autumn.

Clothes and Equipment: Clothes and equipment should be light to accommodate for riding. We suggest to dress in layers.

You will also need: Sun block, insects repellent, a warm coat, jacket or sweater, hat (sun/rain), footwear (boots or sneakers) bathing suit and wet weather gear for the eventuality of rainy days. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars. Remember that as your bags will be transferred from accommodation to accommodation by car, you can pack as many clothes as you want to feel comfortable.

The use of helmets is not mandatory in Uruguay. However, we encourage our guests to use it. Please let us know in advance if you need us to provide one.

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

2 Pairs of riding trousers (or jeans with full or half chaps)

T-shirts and long sleeved tops (cotton polo necks are good for layering)

Riding boots (well broken in) or ankle-high multi-purpose ride/walk boots which work well when worn with half-chaps and can comfortably be worn for walking too

Riding helmet (riders not wishing to wear a hard hat do so at their own risk)

1 Pair of insulating and quick-drying gloves for riding

Wool cap or other warm hat

Waterproof/windproof (gortex or other suitable fabric) jacket with hood

Waterproof pants

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Wool sweater or fleece

Fleece Jacket or waistcoat

Sun hat or visor

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear

2 Pairs of socks (including a couple of knee-high socks for riding)

Pyjama

Bag for dirty clothes

Swimsuit

2 Bandannas or scarves

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for the emergency)

Sewing kit

Camera and enough extra films

Waterproof camera bag (or bring plastic bags to cover when in saddle bags i.e. Ziplocks)

Belt pack

Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!)

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

Minimum 1 Litre water bottle or two half-litre bottles

** No trip reports found with the tour ID you provided.

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so you will be staying in different locations during the trip.

Description
The accommodations provided in our programs are clean, comfortable and provide a very good service. Wi-Fi is available in all accommodations.
If you are sharing your room, please let us know in advance if you prefer twin or double beds.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Fasano Locanda Hotel
Night 2: Hotel San Vicente
Night 3 & 4: Estancia VIK
Nights 5, 6 & 7: Bahia VIK

Fasano Locanda Hotel
This beautiful hotel opened in 2016 and provides luxurious accommodations. The hotel is set in a relaxing natural surroundings, overlooking the Maldonado River. The building was designed by a renowned architect and features only 10 rooms. Each ensuite room has a modern décor with its own private balcony, air conditioning/heating and a mini-bar. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Hotel San Vicente
This boutique hotel is surrounded by beautiful nature. The rooms are modern and spacious, with big windows overlooking the lake. Each room features a TV, heating and private facilities.
Wi-Fi is available in common areas


Bahia VIK
Bahia VIK offers stylish accommodations in either bungalows or rooms located in the main building. The structures are modern and let plenty of light enter the rooms. Each room comes with air conditioned and their own bathroom with toiletries. The view over the ocean is relaxing and guest can also decide to go for a swim in the swimming pool. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.


Estancia VIK
This lovely estancia has been renovated to create a modern-chic ambiance. The property has a beautiful garden and an outdoor swimming pool. Each room is decorated with contemporary art pieces and features air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, a safe, a private bathroom and a private terrace overlooking the garden.

Accommodations are subject to changes based on availability

Room Occupancy
Triple occupancy possible.
If you attend as a single rider willing to share but we are unable to find another rider to share, the single supplement fee applies.



Meals
All breakfasts and lunches are included in this program. Dinners need to be paid extra, except for dinner on the last day, which is already included in your package.

All breakfasts are eaten at the accommodations where we spent the night.
Lunches are picnic-style and out on horseback.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to all dietary restrictions with advanced notice.

This trip can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		South American saddles w/ sheepskin (similar to Western). Western neck reining is used.
Horses:		Uruguayan Criollo and crosses of Uruguayan Criollo.
Pace:		Can accommodate all riding levels. Between 3-6 hours per day. Can adjust itinerary and hours in the saddle.
Level:		(2 to 5 out of 5)    Novice to Advanced
Weight:		Max 210 lbs / 95 kg
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 8 riders

Riding Experience
We can accommodate all levels (from someone who has been on a horse but who does not necessarily feel comfortable at all paces to advanced) of riding for this trip and adjust the itinerary as need-be. Groups can be separated based on riding levels. We ride between 3-6 hours per day, which can also be adjusted.

Horses
During our rides we work very hard to maintain the same set of horses throughout the whole tour. Our intention is that riders can actually build a bond with their horse and enjoy not only the landscape and ride but also the company of their horse. Depending on the size of the group, one or more spare horses will accompany us in case a change is needed. The horses are the local Uruguayan Criollo breed and criollo cross, ideally suited to the terrain.

Tack
We use local, ‘western’ type saddle with a sheepskin. Neck reining (western ‘one-hand riding). Help will be given in adjusting to this tack, which is very suitable for long days in the saddle. 

Emergencies
In case of accident, our guides will always carry a mobile phone, which they will use to contact local assistance. All of the towns along our route count on a medical emergency service.

Weight Restrictions
If your weight is more than 95 kilos (~210lbs) there is a surcharge so we can take an extra horse - so the weight is not too demanding for one horse.

Non-Riders
Non-riders are welcome on this trip. Non-riding activities include sight-seeing, hiking, fishing, surfing, biking, trekking, canoeing and bird watching.

Passports
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in the chart.

Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above except:
1. nationals of Estonia who do need a visa (please note that nationals of Canada, Ireland, Malta and the USA are only permitted visa-free stays of up to three months);
2. US citizens travelling on diplomatic or offical passports require a visa.

Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Types of Visa and Cost
Tourist: £27. Business and Tourist: Enquire at consulate (or consular section at embassy) for cost as it may vary with the exchange rate. US visas: $42.

Validity
Visas are usually for stays of up to three months, but check with the consulate, as this is dependent on nationality. Extensions for a further three months are possible; apply at the immigration office in Uruguay.

Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy); see Contact Addresses.

Working Days Required   21.

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No/2
Other EU	No/1
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.