Whether you choose a gentle trek or an exhilarating gallop through the open plains, horse riding in South America is an excellent way to discover the harder-to-reach places that await you on this exciting continent. Spend a day on a working estancia in Argentina or perhaps head to the coast and trot along the beach in Punta del Diablo, Uruguay. In a collection of countries where horsemanship is still very much a part of everyday life, could there be a more natural way to travel?

During your time in South America you will note that the humble horse plays an integral role in the culture of much of the continent’s population; from the wild horses that roam the remote Chilean national parks, to the elite Polo-playing steeds of Argentina and the gentrified animals that trot through the cobbled streets of Cartagena. Argentina, home to countless rural estancias, is a good place to start if you are looking for a day trip incorporating some riding. Even if you are staying in the cosmopolitan capital there are many ranches within easy reach that will welcome you for the day, teach you about what it really means to be a gaucho and even provide you with a delicious barbecue to round things off.

Elsewhere, if you are looking to get away from it all, the options are limitless. Experienced riders will love the popular route across the Andes from Chile to Argentina, with the stunning landscape unravelling before you, never failing to thrill. For those who would rather take a shorter ride, how about a day trip into the countryside just outside Mendoza, where you will be treated to lookout points and just enough varied terrain to keep you on your toes. Or, for something completely different, consider exploring Easter Island on horseback. Guided tours take you to all the major archaeological sites, leaving you to enjoy the cool breeze upon your face and the breathtaking scenery as you go.