Argentina Tours: A Day with the Gauchos

Buenos Aires offers countless attractions that may keep you busy for years. But if you want to get an authentic feel of what Argentina is really like and learn about the culture outside of the city, take a day trip from Buenos Aires and visit one of the several working estancias located in the area.



Spend a day with the Gauchos in San Antonio de Areco, the closest town to the Argentinean capital that provides visitors with a real taste of the Gaucho traditions. As you walk through the charming village of San Antonio, don’t forget to take a look at the beautiful work of outstanding silversmiths and artisans usually displayed.



The annual festival of the gaucho, on the "Day of the Tradition" on November 10th, is one of the most outstanding display of Gaucho culture, as all the inhabitant of the village gather out, dressed in their traditional wear, to eat and party Gaucho-style. This is a truly magical experience but don’t worry if you come at another time, as Gauchos are always ready to party and you are sure to find some fiesta going on any day of the year.



In the estancias, you will be treated to the most traditional ways of the Gaucho culture. One of the central events of the Gauchos’ life is the asado, a sort of barbeque party. Join the locals for a delicious traditional meal consisting of locally made of empenadas, chorizo, vacio and red wine. After each feast the musicians pull out their guitars, drums and sometimes accordions, for an endless party, so be prepared to dance the night away with the locals. Try to master the moves of the gato, and other traditional dances, which involve a combination of hands-in-the-air, foot-tapping and handkerchief-waving in a round circle.



If you are lucky, you may be treated to a horseshow, as Gauchos are generally eager to demonstrate their riding skills. If you wish and the weather allows it, you can also explore the estancia on your own, either on horseback or in a carriage.



This guide to spending a day with the Gauchos was written by a Argentina travel expert at Argentina For Less available to help you custom design exciting and adventurous Argentina tours.