Mendoza: Sunset Horse Back Riding in the Mountains and BBQ

The best part of this Mendoza outing is the setting: you ride into the mountains as the light softens, with the city far behind and a wide view from about 2,100 meters above sea level. The horses are carefully matched to your height and riding experience, so first-timers can take part without feeling thrown into the deep end.

I like the small group of no more than 14 and the warm, family-run feel at El Relincho. I also like that the ride ends with a proper Argentine asado, not a quick snack. The main drawback is the rough road to the ranch, and the ride itself can last close to three hours, with steep sections that may unsettle nervous riders.

Key points to know before you book

• A sunset ride to a 2,100-meter viewpoint: The mountain views are the central reason to come, with a 15-minute pause for photos and fresh air.
• Calm horses chosen for each rider: Stella and the ranch team assess your size and experience before assigning a horse.
• A real asado after the ride: Expect beef and pork, salads, roasted vegetables, wine, juice, water, and dessert served at the ranch.
• Beginner-friendly, but not completely flat: The horses are well trained, yet the upper route includes steep climbs and descents.
• Bumpy transport in the final stretch: The drive can be uncomfortable for anyone prone to motion sickness.
• Good value at $120: Transportation, a long ride, dinner, drinks, guides, and hotel pickup are all included.

Leaving Mendoza for the mountain ranch

This is an eight-hour outing, so set aside most of your day and evening. Pickup is available from your hotel in Mendoza, and you should wait outside about 10 minutes before the agreed time.

The van ride out of the city takes roughly an hour, though the exact timing depends on hotel locations and other pickups. The final approach to the ranch is the part to prepare for. The road is bumpy, and the ride can take 30 to 35 minutes on the roughest section. Drivers go slowly and stop when needed, but motion sickness is a real concern.

I would take motion sickness medicine if you normally need it, and I would avoid a heavy meal before departure. Keep your water close, and do not count on this being a smooth sightseeing transfer. It is part of reaching a remote mountain ranch, but it is also the least comfortable part of the day.

The upside is the change in pace. Mendoza’s city streets and wine-country traffic give way to open mountain country. Once you arrive, the setting feels quiet and rural, with horses and the everyday life of a working family ranch around you.

Meeting Stella and choosing your horse

At El Relincho, Stella and the ranch team welcome you before the ride. The arrival often includes tea, coffee, biscuits, lemonade, or another small refreshment while the group gathers.

The horse selection is one of the most important details here. Rather than handing everyone a random mount, the team asks about your riding background and considers your height, build, and comfort level. Several first-time riders have found this reassuring, and families with older children have also taken part.

You will receive basic riding and safety instructions before mounting. The explanations are available in English and Spanish, and the guides stay with the group on the trail. The calm temperament of the horses is a major advantage. They are trained for the mountain route and accustomed to walking over uneven ground.

Still, do not confuse beginner-friendly with effortless. You remain in the saddle for around two and a half to three hours. Your legs, hips, and back may feel the work, especially if you have not ridden before. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are essential. Comfortable clothing and sunscreen matter too, since the mountain sun can be strong even when the air feels cool.

Riding the lower trails before sunset

The ride begins at a steady walking pace. This is not a fast horseback excursion, and there is no promise of galloping. The pace gives you time to get used to your horse and watch how it handles the trail.

The lower route is generally easier, with some flatter stretches. Guides help you control the horse and explain what to do as the group moves through the mountain country. For a first ride, this gradual start is useful. You can focus on balance and reins before reaching the more demanding sections.

The scenery is the real reward. You get clean mountain air, long views, and the feeling of moving through open country rather than looking at it through a van window. The ranch setting also gives the outing a stronger sense of place than a standard city excursion.

You should know that this is a group ride. The horses follow a controlled route, and the guides set the pace. That makes the outing safer and easier for beginners, but it gives experienced riders less freedom than a private trail ride. If you want to choose your own speed or explore independently, this may feel structured.

The steep climb to the 2,100-meter viewpoint

The route becomes more exciting as you gain height. Some riders find the uphill and downhill sections thrilling, while others feel nervous on narrow paths or near steep drop-offs.

Your horse knows the mountain route, but you still need to listen carefully to the guides. The safest approach is to stay relaxed, follow instructions, and avoid trying to steer aggressively. The horses are used to climbing, and the guides are there to help when the ground becomes uneven.

The upper section is optional in the sense that riders can skip it, but it is also the defining part of the outing. If you are physically able and reasonably comfortable around horses, I would consider taking the higher route. The view from the top is repeatedly described as the highlight, and it gives the sunset ride its sense of occasion.

A 15-minute stop allows you to get off, stretch, and take photos of the mountain panorama. This is not a long hiking break, so use the time well. Bring your phone or camera where you can reach it, but secure it carefully during the ride. At altitude, the air may feel cooler, and the wind can pick up, so a light layer is sensible.

The exact sunset effect will depend on the season, weather, and starting time. The activity runs in varied conditions and is canceled only in extreme bad weather. You should not expect the same colors every evening, but the mountain setting remains the main attraction.

Returning to an Argentine asado

Back at the ranch, the day changes from outdoor adventure to long dinner. The meal is a typical Argentine barbecue, or asado, with beef and pork accompanied by salads and roasted vegetables.

This is not just food added to the end of the excursion. It is the social heart of the experience. Dinner is served family-style, with the small group gathered around a table, wine poured, and time to talk with the ranch family and other riders.

The meat is the star, and the portions are generous. Wine is included, along with water and juice, followed by dessert. Alfajores have appeared at the ranch table, and special meals can be arranged if you tell the provider at least 24 hours ahead. Vegetarian, vegan, and celiac requests are specifically accepted, but do not wait until pickup to mention them.

I like this combination of riding and food because each part makes the other better. After several hours in the saddle, you are ready for a substantial meal. After the quiet mountain ride, sitting down with wine and a hot barbecue feels connected to the place, rather than added for convenience.

The hosts are a major part of the evening. Stella and her family create a welcoming atmosphere, and the ranch dogs and farm setting add to the informal feel. You are not being rushed through a buffet and back into a vehicle. The dinner gives you time to slow down.

What $120 includes

At $120 per person, this is not the cheapest activity around Mendoza, but it covers a full day and evening away from the city. The price includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Round-trip van transportation
• A guided horseback ride
• BBQ dinner
• Wine, water, juice, and dessert
• English and Spanish assistance

A wine tour in Mendoza can easily fill a day, so this experience competes with those outings for your time and budget. Its value is strongest if you want mountains, horses, and local food in one package. You are paying for transport to a remote area, a long guided ride, several guides, and a generous dinner, not simply for an hour on horseback.

The small group also matters. With a maximum of 14 people, the guides can keep an eye on nervous riders and help with individual needs. A larger group might lower the price, but it would also make the horse selection and mountain route less personal.

The flexible booking terms help if your plans are not fixed. You can reserve and pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. Pickup times can shift because drivers may wait for other passengers, and once a driver arrives, the waiting limit is 10 minutes, so be ready outside.

Who will enjoy this ride most

I would recommend this for couples, families with older children, solo visitors, and anyone who wants a Mendoza experience beyond vineyards. The family group that included children aged 11 and 13 found the guides patient and reassuring, and the activity can work well for people with no riding background.

It is especially good for you if you like a quiet, scenic outing with a strong meal at the end. The social dinner suits people who enjoy meeting others, while the small group keeps the atmosphere fairly relaxed.

You should think twice if you are very nervous around horses, uncomfortable with steep mountain paths, or unable to sit in a saddle for several hours. The guides can support beginners, but they cannot turn the route into a flat, short ride. The bumpy transfer is another issue for anyone with motion sickness.

The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or anyone over 243 pounds, or 110 kilograms. Those limits are worth checking before you reserve.

Practical ways to make the day better

Wear long pants that allow movement and shoes with closed toes. Leave sandals and loose clothing at the hotel, and apply sunscreen before pickup.

Bring a light layer for the mountain air and keep valuables secure during the ride. A phone with a wrist strap or zipped pocket is more useful than a large camera bag.

If you are a beginner, say so clearly during the horse selection. The staff can match you with a quieter, more suitable horse, and the guides can give you closer support. Do not feel embarrassed about asking questions before you mount.

If you are an experienced rider, explain what kind of route you prefer. The ranch can assess your comfort with the flatter option or the more challenging climb, though the ride remains guided and controlled.

Finally, prepare for the transfer. Motion sickness medication, a small amount of water, and a light stomach will make the rough final road easier to handle.

Should you book El Relincho?

Yes, if you want a memorable mountain outing and understand what you are signing up for. The strongest reasons are the well-chosen horses, patient guides, dramatic views, and the generous asado served in a family ranch setting.

I would not book it as a casual one-hour introduction to riding. The saddle time is long, the upper trail includes steep sections, and the road to the ranch is rough. But if you can handle those points, $120 buys a well-filled day that combines scenery, Argentine riding culture, and a proper dinner in a way a standard city tour cannot.

FAQ

How long does the horseback riding experience last?

The full activity lasts eight hours. The horseback ride itself is generally around two and a half to three hours, including the mountain route and photo break.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Round-trip transportation by van, hotel pickup, and hotel drop-off are included. Meet the driver outside your hotel about 10 minutes before the agreed pickup time.

How far is the ranch from Mendoza?

The drive from Mendoza to the mountain area takes approximately one hour, though timing depends on pickups and traffic. The final road can be bumpy and may take around 30 to 35 minutes.

Can beginners join the horseback ride?

Yes. The ranch team gives riding and safety instructions and chooses horses according to your height and experience. The horses are trained for the route, but beginners should still be comfortable with a ride lasting up to three hours.

What food and drinks are included?

Dinner includes an Argentine barbecue with beef and pork, salads, roasted vegetables, wine, water, juice, and dessert.

Can special diets be accommodated?

Yes. Tell the activity provider at least 24 hours before the tour if you need a vegetarian, vegan, or celiac-friendly meal.

Who cannot take part?

The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people over 243 pounds, or 110 kilograms.