Horseback Riding In Chile

On the Way Up
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I thought during the six hour ride,  as I was riding continously on steep narrow ledges no wider than a foot and in some areas giving way, ...and I paid for this?  I was certain after the ride I should receive a T-shirt that said, "I Survived the Pangal".  Let me explain further as to not  lead anyone to think it is not worth going.

Cascada de las Anaimas "Waterfall of the Spirits", is located approximately 50km (roughly 40 miles) Southeast of Santiago and near the towns of Cajon del Maipo, San Alfonso and the El Morado National Park.  The reason why I chose this eco-tour operator over others is because it is a generational family run ranch and nature sanctuary with some restoration of native vegetation.  Also, their website and customer service was easy and prompt.  This particular area reminded me of some of the more steep foothill areas of California-particulary off of Hwy 49, Coloma area and near Mariposa.   Much of the vegetation is similar too (but of course probably a different type)- California poppies, scrub oak, something that looked similar to Manzanita/Madrone.  But then there were a few cactus here and there.

Halfway Up
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Myself and two other American girls took the ride...luckily they spoke Spanish well enough to talk to our Chilean guide, "Leo".   I was impressed how well taken care of these horses were-well fed and groomed.  Also, much larger than what I anticipated (Criollo Crosses).   They were well behaved too-but then they would have to be as not to kill them self and rider!  I was really impressed with my fellow riders, as they did not have as much riding experience as myself and showed little fear.