Mendoza: Sunset Horseback Ride, Andes BBQ & Wine Tasting

Summary

Sunset rides in Mendoza’s Andes with gauchos and barbecue

You’ll ride with gauchos through Mendoza’s foothills at sunset, learn some basics on horseback, spot condors overhead, then share barbecue and local wine under open skies. Expect laughter around the fire and honest flavors — plus pickup from your hotel so you can just relax into it all.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous about getting on a horse again — it’s been years — but there I was, boots crunching in the dry grass just outside Mendoza, trying to remember how to say “slow down” in Spanish. Our guide, Martín, gave me this quick riding lesson that felt more like a chat than a class. He laughed when my horse decided to ignore me completely. The air smelled like dust and wild herbs, and you could see the sun starting to slip behind the first lines of the Andes.

The ride itself was quieter than I thought it’d be. Sometimes all you could hear was the horses’ hooves and Martín pointing out condors circling above us — he said they’re kind of like old friends up here. We climbed slowly until we reached this spot at 1200 meters where everything just opened up. There was a breeze that made my eyes water (or maybe that was just me being sentimental). I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in city traffic.

By the time we got back, someone had already started the fire. The smell of wood smoke and grilling meat hit us before we even got off our horses. There were grilled vegetables too — smoky eggplant, peppers — and glasses of Malbec from Mendoza that tasted way better after two hours in the saddle. Everyone sat together at one long table under these ridiculous stars. It got chilly fast; someone handed me an extra jacket without saying much, just a nod. That part felt especially Argentine somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding and barbecue experience

• Ride horses in Andes mountains
• Spot condors and blackberry eagles
• Enjoy barbecue and grilled vegetables
• Taste Mendoza wines under stars

Top questions

How long is the horseback riding tour near Mendoza?

The horseback ride lasts about 2 hours in the Cordillera de Los Andes near Mendoza.

Is transportation included for this Mendoza sunset horseback tour?

Yes, round trip transportation is included from Mendoza city.

What food is served during the tour?

The tour includes a complete barbecue with grilled vegetables and local Mendoza wine.

Do I need prior riding experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed; there’s a short riding class at the start with local guides.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What wildlife might I see during the ride?

You may spot condors and blackberry eagles while riding in the mountains.

How high do we go during the ride?

The route reaches up to 1200 meters above sea level in the Andes foothills.

What’s included

Your day includes round trip pickup from Mendoza city, two hours of guided horseback riding with gauchos through the Andes foothills, a barbecue dinner with grilled vegetables and local wines served outdoors beneath starry skies before heading back in comfort.