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Northern Chilean Getaway
Northern Chile
Chile
Chile Chico is situated only 300 miles north of Santiago. Planes from the capital land in La Serena - beautiful seaside resort by the Pacific, three times every day. From here, explore the wild Sierra, the huge Andes and experience a romantic and pure nature moving through canyons, endless plains and over passes of the untouched Andes in close contact to Chilean mountain farmers. There is also time to relax at the Hacienda, having a bath in the crystal clear water of the river. Enjoy hiking on nature trails, or dreaming in the hammock.
The blue Pacific with its hidden fishing villages and little mountain settlements in the wild Andes is part of what we encounter in this region as well as lonely valleys and trails in the peace and quiet of the high mountains over which condors fly. A well-known holiday little town to visit is Pisco Elqui in the magical Elqui valley, known for the production of pisco (don't go without trying the famous Chilean pisco sour!). The Rio Hurtado valley is situated nearby, only eight miles to the west; and this is where our trip starts.
An Andean adventure tour for you who want to explore nature. Discover the wilderness of Chile during a few days of horse riding trip far away from civilization suiting riders and non-riders alike.
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Guest Ranch
Camping Ride with pack horses
Short Getaway
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Meeting:
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Ovalle or Vicuna
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Airport:
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La Serena
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Transfer:
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La Serena or Orvalle
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
Max
6 riders
(per riding group)
Max Capacity
12
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2024
Rates include*:
Accommodations (standard room while staying at hacienda), All meals, 2 riding days, All camping equipment (sleeping bag, inlet, thermal mat & tent), Transfer from/to Ovalle.
Guiding available in English, German and Spanish
Safety helmet, sombrero head, chaps & saddle bags can be provided
| A | 2024 | 4 day Trip | 4d / 3n | $695 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2024
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Transfer from Ovalle, one way, per car
This is a "Group Rate" - to be paid locally
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$100
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2024
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Transfer from La Serena, one way, per car
This is a "Group Rate" - to be paid locally
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$120
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2024
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Transfer from Vicuña, one way, per car
This is a "Group Rate" - to be paid locally
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$100
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2024
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Single supplement (standard room)
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$150
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2024
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Upgrade to Suite, dbl, pp
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$125
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2024
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Upgrade to Suite, sgl, pp
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$575
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Transfers are available from Ovalle, La Serena, and Vicuna. Check out is at noon on the last day.
Tour Dates for 2024
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| A |
2024
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01/01
- 04/30
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4d / 3n
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4 day Trip
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1
/6
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
Transfers from/to Vicuña or La Serena & Gratuities
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes.
Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from Ovalle, La Serena, or Vicuña. The trip through the mountains to get to our first nights accomodation takes about two hours. On reaching the lodge you can bathe in the river, pick and eat exotic fruit, or relax in a hammock. In our kitchen we only use natural and fresh food to prepare you a delicious dinner. After our meal we sit on the terrace, watching the stars while drinking a glass of Chilean wine and finishing the first day of our trip.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda
Day 2: Ride to Maiten
At about 9:30 am, we will prepare for exploration. Our guides acquaint you with the horses, the riding style and any safety precautions. We set off at 11:00 am after having packed all we need for our trip into the wilderness. We pass through wild plateaus and canyons, ride the endless Sierra and enjoy a picnic lunch and a Siesta. In the afternoon, we pass over heights of 2,000 meters. Crystal-clear air allow for magical views of the valleys of the Andes. This evening we will set up camp under the open sky in the oasis of the Andes called Maiten. In front of a campfire, we serve dinner. (Alternatively you are welcome to change this two-day ride for two one-day rides starting at the hacienda. Your overnight stay would be at the Hacienda in cozy beds then.)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight camping in Maiten
Day 3: Ride back to Hacienda
We continue our trip after breakfast trekking through the high plateaus surrounding the Maiten Sierra and discover extreme contrasts of nature. The sierra shines in various colors due to the minerals present in the rock.You will be fascinated by the green Algarrobo trees, cacti as high as yourself and the calm loneliness. When riding back to the Hacienda, heardsmen with their goats might cross our way. In the evening we will serve dinner in the garden.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda
Day 4: Departure
Today is your departure day, but there is still time today to continue your exploration of our little paradise. Swimming, sunbathing, hiking or just relaxing.
Meals included: Breakfast
Meeting:
Ovalle or Vicuna
Airport:
La Serena
Train station:
bus station in Ovalle
Transfer:
La Serena or Orvalle
Distance:
60 miles, 2 hrs
Transfers are available from Ovalle, La Serena, and Vicuna. Check out is at noon on the last day.
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Tack:
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Gaucho-saddle with sheep-fur padding or Wintec trekking saddle
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Horses:
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Criollos
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Pace:
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As we ride about 6 to 11 hours a day and we also climb the mountains, which are sometimes higher than 3000 - 4000 meters, we only walk our horses on this intense terrain therefore we can accept beginners without fear of steep ascents, descents & heights
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Walk |
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Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Novice+
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Age:
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Min
18
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Max
65
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs / 90 kg
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
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Max
6 riders
(per riding group)
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Max Capacity
12
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Horses
Our horses are descendants of the Chilean Criollos. They are calm and sweet-natured. Growing up in rocky and difficult areas has made them sure-footed and reliable animals.
Our horses are specifically trained for trail rides. We use neither spurs nor whips. We use the same paths as the men called "Huasos" in Chile and "Gauchos" in Argentina. That is how our horses gain strength and endurance.
We find the right horse for every customer. Our herd ranges from calm, easy-going horses to more lively ones.
Tack
The saddles provided are local Chilean type, which are called Avios. Its origin is Spanish and they have been designed specially for long distance trips. Its wooden mount, reinforced with iron, is cushioned with “chiporro” and protected with leather. The other cloth beneath the saddle is called batán, pellón and matra, and are normally laid on ground by gauchos to provide a soft and warm bed.
We Provide:
sleeping bag, thermal mat, tent, personal pannier (cup etc.), ice-box, thermos bottle, (by request) safety helmet, sombrero head and riding gaiters, first aid kit, saddle bags and finally one of the well trained and calm Chilean mountain horses. Explorations accompanied by English, German and Spanish speaking guides.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
PassportsPassport valid for at least six months required by nationals referred to in the chart.Passport NotePassports issued to children must contain a photo and state the nationality.VisasNot require. more
La Serena area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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72
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72
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70
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67
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64
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62
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62
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62
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63
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65
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67
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70
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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58
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58
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57
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53
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50
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48
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47
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48
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49
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51
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53
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56
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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22
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22
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21
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19
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18
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17
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16
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17
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17
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18
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19
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21
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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15
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15
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14
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12
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10
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9
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8
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9
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9
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10
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12
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13
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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0
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0
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0
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0
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1
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1
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2
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1
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0
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0
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0
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0
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
There are 310 sunny days a year. The Hacienda is situated in the typical dry Andean climate of South America at heights of 1000 meters. As a rule, temperatures at night are around 50°F (10°C) colder than temperatures by day.
Spring (September to November)
The average temperature by day 68°F (20°C)
Summer (December to March)
The average temperature by day 77°F (25°C), may become even warmer until 86°F (30°C)
Autumn (April to May)
The average temperature by day 68°F (20°C)
Winter (June to August)
The average temperature by day 59/68°F (15/20°C). During winter it might be cloudy and it also might rain for a couple of hours.
Here are some last ideas about what to bring with you in order to be well prepared for the trip:
- Warm clothes/jacket for the nights and also during the day, because especially on the third and fourth day we will reach altitudes about 3.800 meters and it will be windy during the trip (waterproofed and wind proofed clothes are recommendable)
- Cap, a scarf and cloves
- Warm wool socks for the nights in the sleeping bags
- Good trekking shoes
- In case a small pillow for the sleeping bag
- In case a book or e-book
- Camera
- Flash light
- Sun cream with a high protection factor and balm lipstick
- Sunhat or riding helmet (we can also provide it in case that you don´t want to bring your own one)
- Ear tip (crowing roosters, snoring companions)
- Sanitary tampon
- Small towel
- Medication
- In case bathing suite
This is what we provide for the trip:
- Comfortable Gaucho-saddle or trekking saddle “Wintec” with sheep-fur padding
- Sleeping bag and clean inlet
- Thermal self-inflate mat
- Tent (depending on the weather condition)
- Personal pannier (cup etc.), ice-box, thermo bottle
- Safety helmet or sombrero head and riding gaiters
- First aid kit
- Saddle bags
- GPS-Messenger
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride with 2 overnight stays at the Hacienda and 1 night camping.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Hacienda
Night 2: Camping at Maiten
Night 3: Hacienda
Hacienda
The Hacienda has 7 comfortable colonial style guest rooms. Each standard room (single, double or triple room available) comes with a private bathroom. It is possible to upgrade to a suite for an extra fee. The suites are bigger and have big windows with great views of the mountains
The hacienda also has a beautiful garden where guests can relax. Wi-Fi is available in public areas and is free of charge. Laundry services are available for an extra fee.
Camping
While camping, we provide you with 1 or 3-person tents, an isothermal mattress and a sleeping bag. Outhouses are available at most camps but you might have to dig a hole in the ground in the most remote camps. Guests can go for a swim in nearby rivers to bathe while camping.
Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we cannot find another rider to share.
Meals
While staying at the hacienda, breakfasts and dinners and included (no drinks) and while camping all meals are included and wine is served for dinner.
For our meals we use exclusively local products of traditional cultivation that we obtain directly from the small holding farmers of the Río Hurtado valley.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater for special diet requirements with prior notice.
This trip
can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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|
Gaucho-saddle with sheep-fur padding or Wintec trekking saddle
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|
Horses:
|
|
Criollos
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|
Pace:
|
|
As we ride about 6 to 11 hours a day and we also climb the mountains, which are sometimes higher than 3000 - 4000 meters, we only walk our horses on this intense terrain therefore we can accept beginners without fear of steep ascents, descents & heights
|
Walk |
|
|
Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Novice+
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Age:
|
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Min
18
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Max
65
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs / 90 kg
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Riders:
|
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Min
1 riders
|
Max
6 riders
(per riding group)
|
Max Capacity
12
|
Horses
Our horses are descendants of the Chilean Criollos. They are calm and sweet-natured. Growing up in rocky and difficult areas has made them sure-footed and reliable animals.
Our horses are specifically trained for trail rides. We use neither spurs nor whips. We use the same paths as the men called "Huasos" in Chile and "Gauchos" in Argentina. That is how our horses gain strength and endurance.
We find the right horse for every customer. Our herd ranges from calm, easy-going horses to more lively ones.
Tack
The saddles provided are local Chilean type, which are called Avios. Its origin is Spanish and they have been designed specially for long distance trips. Its wooden mount, reinforced with iron, is cushioned with “chiporro” and protected with leather. The other cloth beneath the saddle is called batán, pellón and matra, and are normally laid on ground by gauchos to provide a soft and warm bed.
We Provide:
sleeping bag, thermal mat, tent, personal pannier (cup etc.), ice-box, thermos bottle, (by request) safety helmet, sombrero head and riding gaiters, first aid kit, saddle bags and finally one of the well trained and calm Chilean mountain horses. Explorations accompanied by English, German and Spanish speaking guides.
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months required by nationals referred to in the chart.
Passport Note
Passports issued to children must contain a photo and state the nationality.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days except the following:
(a) 1. nationals of Greece for up to 60 days and nationals of Romania for up to 30 days.
(b) transit passengers continuing their journey on the same or first connecting aircraft provided holding required travel documents for onward destination and not leaving the airport transit lounge.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
2. Nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA entering Chile for touristic purposes will be charged a processing fee payable on arrival and in cash only. For nationals of Australia, the fee is US$56; for nationals of Canada, the fee is US$132; and for nationals of the USA, the fee is US$100 .
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/2 |
| 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.
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Northern Chilean Getaway
Tour Code:
IT-CHRT15
4 days /
3 nights
Dates :
All year round
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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