Estancias & Rural Tourism
Useful info
Estancias and country hotels are at the core of what is known as Rural Tourism, and a valuable insight into a country that stands out for its agricultural tradition. Visitors can take part in typical rural activities such as cattle herding or lamb shearing; watch gaucho shows, folk dances, games of polo or "pato" (the national sport); and of course try the famous Argentine “asado” (barbeque). Most estancias also organise horse riding, trekking, cycling, nature trails, fishing and sometimes hunting, depending on the location, for their guests.
Guests on an estancia are treated as old friends. The atmosphere is always relaxed and visitors are encouraged to participate as little or as much as they like in the activities on offer. Simply relaxing in the comfort of a luxurious estancia is counted as an activity too!
Tips_
- To really enjoy an estancia, you should stay for a few days.
- An “asado”, from start to finish, can last up to eight hours.
- The word “gaucho” comes from the Quechua “huachu”, which means orphan or vagabond. The original gauchos were nomads, wandering the Pampas, living off the land.
- The Jesuit Estancias of Cordoba have been declared World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
