Estancias, or ranches, play a huge part in Argentina's culture and economy. In the early days these establishments were responsible for making Argentina one of the biggest meat and grain producers in world. These ranches dotted all over the countryside are also where the best steaks in the world come from. For Argentineans, great steaks are not just a pastime but a national obsession comparable to wine tasting, with over 50 different cuts of meat to choose from.

Estancias also give tourists the rare opportunity to stay as a guest at a working estancia in order to experience the unique gaucho ranch culture in a tranquil and beautiful setting of untamed countryside. Most estancias are over two hundred years old and still maintain traditional practices and values.

The typical Argentine estancia contains a mansion in French, English, and colonial style, with the main residence usually converted to receive guests. These elegant and historic buildings overlook vast expanses of countryside where cattle and sheep graze.

Estancias can be found all over Argentina, including in the Pampas region outside of Buenos Aires, and in the mountains of Southern Patagonia. Being in such a beautiful natural setting makes it an excellent place for all types of outdoor activities, including horseback riding on trails or, for the more adventurous, with the gauchos on a cattle drive. You can also choose to join in on the daily activities of the gauchos. Other excursions such as whitewater rafting or mountain trekking are usually available depending on the location of the estancia.

Estancias are also known for their excellent cooking of barbeque, fresh local meats of lamb and beef, and vegetables from the garden. Some of the chefs may even let you in on their recipes. It is also common to see a group of people at a fire playing the guitar in the evenings.

Gauchos, much like the American Cowboy, have become a national icon, their lives retold in stories and legends. Today they are still very much an integral part of the working estancia. Also like the cowboy, gauchos have excellent horsemanship. It is typical to see a taming or a horse show on a daily basis as well as out in the fields during the cattle drives.

Enjoy the serenity and simplicity of traditional ranch life on visit to an estancia. Relax and rejuvenate from the daily grind by slowing down and really taking in the beautiful surroundings and fresh air of the countryside.

Horseback Riding Estancias
Horseback riding has played a huge role in life at an estancia and is one of the most popular ways to explore the vast pampas region. Some estancias specialize in breading horses and offering the best conditions for travelers wanting the ultimate horseback riding vacation. These estancias usually offer guided trail rides, polo lessons, and a chance to ride along with the gauchos as they go about their daily ranch activities. It is also typical to see the gauchos displaying their world-class horsemanship as they break a young horse or have a showmanship demonstration. These speciallized estancias are found in Buenos Aires and partly in Bariloche.
Buenos Aires Riding Estancias
All Bariloche Estancias

Buenos Aires Estancias
Just outside Buenos Aires are acres and acres of the rolling fields of the pampas, which is home to Argentina Estancia traditions. This wild, untouched land of the pampas is a great place for eco-tourism adventures and for discovering the way of life of the gauchos. In this beautiful, peaceful countryside it is not hard to find a cozy place to relax. Many of the estancias offer their guests all of the amenities found in luxury hotels, but in the tranquility of a rural setting. While some estancias are known more for their horseback riding activities and facilities, all of them invite their guests to experience their unique culture. You'll get a taste of asado, which is traditional Argentine barbeque, empanadas, and other local specialties. You'll also get a glimpse of daily ranch life, which may include a tango dancing show in the evening.
Buenos Aires Relaxation Estancias
Buenos Aires Riding Estancias

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