5 Things to Know Before Booking a Polo Experience in Córdoba, Argentina

Córdoba, Argentina, is a gem known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant equestrian culture, and top-notch estancias, making it a must-visit for polo lovers.

Whether you're a pro or just dipping your toes into the sport, this region offers a genuine and thrilling way to dive into polo. Before you book your polo adventure, here are five key things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best experience possible.

1. No Prior Polo Experience Needed A lot of travelers think polo is only for seasoned riders, but that’s a myth! The estancias in Córdoba welcome everyone, making sure that newbies can pick up the basics while more experienced riders can hone their skills.

✔ Beginners: Get the hang of basic riding, how to grip the mallet, and striking techniques

✔ Intermediate Riders: Work on your positioning, control, and game strategy

✔ Advanced Players: Jump into fast-paced practice sessions and full matches At Estancia Los Potreros, skilled instructors make sure every rider, no matter their experience level, feels at home on the field.

2. Polo Ponies Are Specially Trained and Easy to Ride Polo ponies are a different breed from regular horses—they’re specifically bred and trained for the sport. With their speed, agility, and responsiveness, they make learning a breeze, even for those who have never ridden before.

🐎 What Makes Polo Ponies Unique:

✔ Quick and adaptable, ideal for those tricky maneuvers during the game

✔ Trained to turn sharply and speed up effortlessly

✔ Comfortable with riders swinging mallets and hitting balls These amazing horses make polo enjoyable and accessible, even for complete beginners.

3. Polo Is Fast-Paced, Yet Simple to Learn While professional polo matches can be intense, your estancia experience is all about fun and relaxation. Instructors break down the game rules, riding techniques, and hitting strategies so players can quickly get the hang of things.

At Los Potreros, polo lessons include:

✔ How to properly hold and swing the mallet

✔ Understanding ball control and...

Riding positions and game strategy After just a few lessons, most guests feel ready to jump into a friendly match!

4. Polo Is More Than Just a Sport—It’s a Cultural Experience In Córdoba, polo is woven into the fabric of estancia life. It’s not merely about playing the game; it’s about diving into Argentine traditions.

🏇 Ride alongside gauchos, picking up classic Argentine riding techniques

🔥 Savor a traditional Argentine asado—slow-grilled beef paired with local wines 💬 Unwind with fellow players, swapping travel tales over drinks after the match A polo experience here is a delightful mix of sport, culture, and camaraderie, making it truly unforgettable.

5. Book in Advance for the Best Experience Polo experiences at Los Potreros and other estancias in Córdoba are in high demand, especially during peak seasons. Booking ahead guarantees:

✔ Access to top-notch instructors and horses

✔ A personalized experience tailored to your skill level

✔ The opportunity to blend polo with trail riding and other estancia activities

The ideal time to visit Córdoba for perfect riding conditions is from September to April, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor fun. Final Thoughts Whether you’re a horse riding aficionado or just seeking an exciting new adventure, polo in Córdoba offers a fantastic mix of thrill and tradition. From mastering polo techniques to sharing meals with fellow riders, this is an experience that will linger in your memory long after you’ve left the field.

Why Estancia Los Potreros is the Perfect Horseback Riding Getaway

There’s something truly enchanting about galloping through vast landscapes on horseback. It’s not merely about the stunning views—it’s about that deep connection to nature, the powerful horse beneath you, and the rich history woven into the land. Estancia Los Potreros, nestled in the picturesque hills of Córdoba, Argentina, offers a unique blend of adventure and tradition, making every ride feel like a journey into another realm.

When I first learned about this estancia, I was a bit uncertain. Would it be just another ranch with standard trail rides? Would it feel contrived, like a typical tourist spot? But as soon as I arrived, I realized this place was something special. It felt authentic. It was immersive. It was everything I had hoped for—and then some.

A Horseback Riding Experience Like No Other

The first thing that strikes you at Los Potreros is the horses. They aren’t confined to stables, waiting for their turn—they roam freely across the land, seamlessly blending into the estancia’s rhythm. The herd includes Criollo, Peruvian Paso, and Polo ponies, each selected for their temperament and ability to deliver an unforgettable ride.

And let’s not forget about those rides. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned rider, you have the freedom to ride at your own pace. There are gentle trails winding through forests and streams for those seeking a leisurely experience, exhilarating gallops over open hills for the adventurous, and even polo lessons if you’re eager to dive into Argentina’s most celebrated equestrian sport.

But what truly sets this experience apart are the gauchos. Riding alongside these legendary Argentine horsemen is a rare opportunity. They don’t just lead the way—they ride with you, sharing their techniques, recounting their stories, and offering a glimpse into a way of life that has thrived for centuries.

More Than Just Riding—The Full Estancia Experience

Life at Los Potreros isn’t just about the hours spent in the saddle—it’s about everything else that surrounds it.

Mornings kick off with breakfast under the shade of towering trees, where the cheerful sounds of birds blend with laughter and lively chatter. After a long day of riding, we gather outdoors for homemade meals that are always fresh and bursting with flavor, often featuring produce straight from the ranch. And the evenings? They’re truly something special. Guests come together for drinks and appetizers, sharing stories and slipping into relaxed conversations. It’s that kind of vibe where strangers quickly become friends, where adventurers from all corners of the globe bond over their love for travel, exploration, and horses. Then there’s the asado, Argentina’s beloved barbecue tradition. Picture this: beef slow-cooked over an open flame, paired with simple yet perfect sides—it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. You don’t rush through it; you take your time and savor every bite, just like everything else here.

Why You Should Visit

There are countless places to go horseback riding, but very few where you can truly immerse yourself in the experience. Los Potreros isn’t just a spot on the map—it’s a journey. It’s the kind of place you never want to leave, where every moment feels genuine, and you come to understand that riding isn’t just about the motion—it’s about the connection. Whether you’re drawn in by the exhilarating canters, the peaceful trail rides, the rich history, or simply the sense of being part of something greater, you’ll walk away with memories that will last a lifetime.

🏇 Come for the horses. Stay for the people. Leave with stories you’ll cherish forever.