Uruguay

7 and 9 night rides run between October and December, and February to early May. Accommodation is in a mix of private camps, lodges and hotels.

Where is it?

In Rocha province, eastern Uruguay.

What is it like?

A small South American country that is unexpectedly diverse, Uruguay has fertile rolling grasslands that are ideal for cattle farming, large estancias where gauchos and horses continue to play a major role in day-to-day life and a wonderful coastline of unspoilt, sandy beaches. Overall it has superb and varied riding country. Taking you across a variety of estancias, over sand dunes and deserted beaches, through palm groves and past inland lakes teeming with wildfowl, these rides also include visits to historic Portuguese forts, nights in comfortable beachside hotels and a chance to see dolphins, black-necked swans, parrots and capybaras (the giant guinea-pig like creatures of the South American wetlands). Added to this the company of friendly locals and skilled gauchos who tell you of their lives and traditions, make them a wonderful South American experience

Who does it suit?

All rides are aimed at reasonably experienced riders, but there are a couple of options to choose from depending on the time you have and also your accommodation preferences. With varied scenery and a mix of culture and countryside, these rides are a great choice if you want a little bit of everything!

Why we love it

Uruguay is an unexpected gem. With its mix of countryside, culture, coastline, colourful birds and exotic wildlife, it’s full of character and interest – as well as super South American horses!

Travel with trust

When you travel with Ride World Wide, you can travel with trust. We’re a member of ABTOT (the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust) which provides financial protection for your booking through our ABTOT bond and under the ABTOT ATOL franchise. If you have any questions please ask.

In a Nutshell

Riding
5-7 hours a day
Horses
Uruguayan Criollo breed
Pace
moderate, with good chances to canter
Riding Ability
intermediate riders and above
Weight Limit
90 kgs/ 14st 2lbs
Group Size
max 10
Accommodation
simple private camps, private lodge, estancia, posadas and 3* hotels
2026 Dates
October to December, late February to early May, set dates; see “Key Information” below
2026 Prices
7 night rides from USD 3,287 (approx £2,530) per person; see “Key Information” below
What you'll be doing

Itinerary in Brief

Below is an example itinerary. Please ask us for other itineraries.

Day 1

Transfer by bus from Montevideo to Barras de Valiza in Rocha Province. Lunch and an afternoon ride to try the horses. Dinner and night Los Chaja Eco Lodge

Day 2

Breakfast and a full day ride to Cabo Polonia through the sand dunes and along the beach. Visit the sea lion colony, then stop for lunch in the town. In the afternoon ride back to Los Chaja. Dinner and night.

Day 3

The ride today takes you through ancient Ombu forest and the wetlands around Laguna Negra, with its abundant bird life. Night is in camp set up ahead of you at Barra Grande.

Day 4

A full day ride heading into very different terrain of pastureland and palm forest. Camp is set up in a private reserve, at El Mirador, a tremendous viewpoint.

Day 5

Breakfast and start riding back toward the coast, leaving the highlands. In the afternoon arrive at Don Bosco, a Silesian colony on the shores of the black lagoon. Night in camp or upgrade to a cabin if you wish.

Day 6

A morning ride to explore the Cerro de la Virgen, an amazing 360 degree lookout and its surrounding ancient forest. The afternoon to relax, watch birds and enjoy the beautiful campsite at Don Bosco.

Day 7

Breakfast and set off riding across estancia (farm) land, through palm forests and wetlands. A picnic lunch en-route and in the afternoon continue to Los Moros next to the Atlantic Ocean where camp is set up.

Day 8

An exhilarating morning ride along the Atlantic beach, before arriving back at the base at Vailiza. Lunch and say goodbye to the horses before a late afternoon bus transfer back to Montevideo. OR

Day 9 - 10

Optional two night extension to Punta del Diablo, Santa Teresa fort and La Coronilla.
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