In November 2017 I accompanied the inaugural Ultimate Uruguay ride, which combines all the Gaucho Trails: the Painted Birds Trail, Jose Ignacio and the inland estancia Balcon del Abra. This was my first visit to South America and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.

For these trails you should be a strong intermediate rider, capable of adapting to a new style of riding. The riding style was very different to the English style I am used to, and to Western riding, with which I am also comfortable. However, it was fairly easy to adapt to with the help of our patient gauchos.

The Painted Birds Trail is a wonderfully varied ride, but if you have the time you may like to add a few days at Jose Ignacio or Balcon del Abra.

The first six days on the Ultimate Uruguay ride follow the Painted Birds Trail, and you can read about my experiences in my blog by clicking here.