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March 02, 2011

Beyond Buenos Aires: Estancia Experience

Discover Argentine Culture at Estancia Los Patos




Argentina is famous for its pampas, and for its gauchos, the strong, dark, mythical cowboys of the Argentine plains. Visiting an estancia, on e of the large farms set on the unending pampas, is a memorable experience, and more and more private estancias are opening their gates to visits and overnight stays.

Should you visit one of the distant estancias, you should allow two or three days to be able to absorb the atmosphere of the pampas. If you don’t have so much time, you should take a private full day tour to learn about gaucho culture and experience the traditional estancia lifestyle.

Our Experience

We spent a day out at an Estancia called Los Patos about 120 km out of Buenos Aires City. Angel and his sister Silvina welcomed us and while we had delicious tapas and drinks, they gave us an in-depth introduction of the life in the pampas.

We were given a ride on a horse and we were able to watch the gauchos showing off their horsemanship skills which were extraordinary and impressive.

The highlight was the “asado” (barbeque) which can only be described as a banquet- with unlimited drinks and unlimited offerings of meats, salads and typical dishes. This was followed by a private Tango Lesson - the best of which was a tango dance display which was highly emotive.

After hitting the dance floor, we decided to take a Polo lesson and we practiced polo on beautiful horses. Estancia Los Patos is any polo lover’s dream. There you can indulge in your passion for this popular Argentine sport. Learn about its history and how to play with the help of a professional player.



The experienced players at the on-site polo clinic instruct guests of all levels. Alternatively, take part in a game or just sit back and watch.

What to do:
Bird Watching: The plains and lakes of the pampas surrounding the estancia are home to a huge variety of birdlife. Many birds can be seen within the estancia grounds.



Horse-back riding over the plains



Enjoy the breathtaking pampas landscapes, with vast plains and spectacular sunsets, on horseback, driving cattle and sheep with a gaucho.
There are many activities to do in the Estancia: biking, shooting, horse back riding lessons, herding cattle with gauchos and bird-watching provide opportunities to explore the pampas. Another option is simply lounging: by the pool in summer, enjoy delicious mealtimes and learn about history and traditions in the pampas surrounded by a fabulous landscape.




You will take with you special memories that will never be forgotten. Estancia Los Patos is an authentic traditional working ranch which makes it an ideal contrast to the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires.

Other Experiences Options:

Traditional ‘sulky’ horse cart rides; culinary classes; Jineteada (local rodeo).

Please ask your Ideas Travel Consultant for more details about these options.

Easy Add-Ons:
Holidays to an estancia can be combined with a stay in Buenos Aires or a winery estate or a number of other destinations, including Patagonia, Iguassu, Salta and Mendoza Wine Country.

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