Mini-Tourism and Adventure at Laguna La Brava - Canoeing, Trekking, Horseback Riding - Sierras de Balcarce

Untamed Nature

Just 420 km from Buenos Aires, between Balcarce and Mar del Plata, a natural refuge of wildlife awaits, with a large body of water and hills 300 meters high.

The Balcarce hills are part of the Tandilia system, which dates back to a time before the continents split apart. They stretch in a crescent shape from Cabo Corrientes –Mar del Plata– to Sierras Bayas in Olavarría-Azul. The Laguna Brava hill range is dominated by plateau-like formations with a steep front facing north and a gentle slope toward the southwest.

The first white settlers in this area were Jesuit missionaries in 1741, forced to leave a few years later by the chief Cangapol, also known as “el Bravo” (the Fierce One).

We'll cover the rest of the history over the 3 days of the trip, during which we'll do a fascinating trek to the top of Sierra Brava, fun canoeing on this beautiful lagoon, and horseback or bike rides through the countryside. Optionally, you can also take a tandem paragliding flight to enjoy this small hidden paradise in every possible way. 

Day 1: We leave Buenos Aires early. Arrival and meeting at Laguna La Brava. We settle into the cabins. In the afternoon we travel 5 km to the other side of the lagoon to start the trek to the top of Sierra Brava, with unmissable panoramic views. Along the way we'll include some climbing and a zip line. During the hike we pass through aromo tree forests, overhangs and a cave. Geological and archaeological notes, plus wildlife and flora spotting. Snack at the summit and return along the lagoon shore (ask about a tandem paragliding introductory flight). Back to the ranch. Dinner and after-dinner conversation. Option of board games or a night walk. Overnight stay.

Day 2: Breakfast. Kayak and rowboat outing to enjoy the lagoon. Lunch.  Chance to spot birds and enjoy the lagoon from a different perspective, with Sierra Brava in the background. Back to the ranch. Option to go biking or horseback riding. Return to Buenos Aires in the afternoon. End of the program

There's the possibility of taking a paragliding flight from the top of the hills. Ask about this service.

• Guides
• Local transfers
• 4 guided activities (trekking, climbing, zip line, kayak)
• Full board from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 2
• Overnight stay at a lodge or ranch (both options right on the lagoon)
• Ongoing assistance.

• Travel (we carpool)
• Drinks 
• Extra activities
• Tips and bedding or sleeping bag for the lodge option.

Ask us for the list

On this trip, generally between 6 and 15 people.

The hostel is basic, but we can try to arrange a single room for you if you ask with enough notice. Otherwise rooms are double or shared, between 2 and 5 beds.  

We suggest from 11 years old and up to 65. It's not an exact rule. You need to be able to walk on sand and trails. 

• Not being sedentary, or if you are, training up until the departure date. Training, in any form, works very well.
• Knowing you'll be sleeping at a hostel with basic services and comforts.

On these programs we have lunch during the excursions, boxed-lunch style or sandwiches, savory pies, empanadas. Dinners are at a restaurant in town. Breakfast at the lodging. 

Everyone should bring their personal luggage in a duffel bag or large backpack to leave at the lodging. During the excursions it's best to carry a small backpack for water, sunscreen, warm clothing, etc.