The Original Mate Ritual Experience • 90 Min • Small Groups • All Included
Spend 90 minutes learning how to prepare, pour, and share yerba mate in Retiro, Buenos Aires. This hands-on tasting decodes the plant Ilex paraguariensis and the social etiquette behind Argentina’s most ubiquitous ritual.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; able to stand or sit for short periods.
Wildlife
History
Yerba mate has roots with the Guaraní people and was later cultivated and processed in Jesuit missions; it remains a shared social custom across Argentina.
Conservation
Look for producers who practice sustainable harvesting of Ilex paraguariensis and consider bringing a reusable gourd to reduce waste.
The Original Mate Ritual Experience • 90 Min • Small Groups • All Included
Arrive 10 minutes early
The session starts promptly; arriving early lets you join the ronda from the first pour.
Bring a reusable gourd if you have one
Hosts welcome personal calabazas and bombillas—using your own reduces waste and makes a memorable souvenir.
Ask about yerba sourcing
Inquire where blends come from to learn about regional drying and flavor differences.
Hydrate between tastings
Mate can be strong; carry water to cleanse the palate between brews.
Reusable mate gourd & bombilla
Useful if you plan to continue the ritual after the session and reduce single-use items.
Light jacket
Comfortable layer for sitting near open windows in cooler months.
spring
Notebook or phone for notes
Record blend names, temperatures, and tasting notes for later shopping.
Cash (small bills)
Handy for small purchases of yerba or artisan goods recommended by the guide.