Ride into the working heart of Uruguay on a three-day estancia stay at La Pilona. Learn traditional gaucho skills, join cattle musters and sleep to the crackle of an asado-fire in the Sierra de Lavalleja.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The sun rises over low granite ridges and long swaths of grass as you leave Mariscala and enter the estate roads of Estancia La Pilona. Horses wait in the corral, their breath fogging the chill of morning; leather tack is shown and adjusted with the quiet efficiency of hands that have saddled animals for generations. Riding out, trails cut through hills, ravines and fenced pastures where cattle and sheep roam across nearly 2,000 hectares of the Sierra de Lavalleja.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in reasonable physical condition who can mount/dismount and sit in the saddle for several hours; riders of all levels accommodated.
Wildlife
History
Estancias are central to Uruguay’s rural culture; ranching and gaucho traditions shaped local social and land-use practices across the 19th and 20th centuries.
Conservation
The ranch manages grazing across large pastures—respect fences and livestock, minimize trail impact and follow guides’ instructions to reduce stress on herds and native grassland.
Reserve your spot on the Three Days Tour In A Traditional Ranch Estancia La Pilona today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear tack-friendly boots
Choose closed-toe riding boots with a shallow heel to stay comfortable and secure in the stirrups during multi-hour rides.
Hydration and sun protection
Bring a 1–2L refillable bottle and high-SPF sunscreen—exposure increases on open pasture and ridgelines.
Expect variable terrain
Trails cross hills, ravines and uneven pasture—lightweight gaiters can keep dirt and grass out of boots.
Plan for quiet evenings
Bring earplugs and a headlamp; accommodations are rustic and evenings center on shared meals and the fireplace.
Sturdy riding or hiking boots
Provide ankle support and a heel for safe saddle contact.
Helmet or riding hat
Protects against falls—check whether the ranch provides helmets or bring your own.
Layered clothing (light fleece + wind layer)
Mornings can be cool and afternoons warm; layers let you adjust comfort on the trail.
spring
Refillable water bottle and sunscreen
Staying hydrated and sun-safe matters on exposed rides and long afternoons outdoors.
summer