Originally used for war, the Criollo horse is the direct descendant of some of the best European horses, brought by the Spanish conquistadors to the New World during the 16th century. Natural selection under the harsh conditions of life in the vast South American plains gradually transformed this horse into the symbol of the legendary Gaucho (cowboy) lands.

To talk about of the Criollo horse is to talk about the Gaucho. The Gaucho is proud and adventurous, but at the same time simple and noble. ... ...

by: Gwen Rizzo

Argentina is well-known for producing top polo talent of both the human and equine kind. Polo is treated as a national sport in Argentina and is widely followed among the locals. The Argentine polo season (October through December) is highlighted by the Triple Crown of Polo—the Tortugas, Hurlingham and Argentine Opens. The Argentine Open is the grand finale of the tournaments and is played on the Palermo fields, owned by the Argentine Army, in the center of Buenos Aires. The final ... ...

Whenever Jose turned his horse up the next switchback, I did the same with a light touch of the rein to Estrella's neck. I relaxed after the second switchback. Head down, alert, calm, the horse carried me to the top of the hill with grace and ease. At the top, we were treated to a breathtaking 360 degree panorama of the mountains and terrain that make up the Central Valley of Costa Rica, where most of the population lives. We watched transfixed as the sun set in the west, splashing orange, salmon ... ...

In the U.S., while the history has just started, every Marchador breeder or owner has their own story of how they fell in love. This journey, to bring a new breed to the U.S., is really a love story.

The Mangalarga Marchador (MARCH A DOOR) is a breed that descends directly from Iberian stock. This gaited horse is known and bred for its smooth step – the marcha – and is the National Horse of Brazil. It has a gentle temperament, intelligence, stamina and a comfortable ride,

In 1807 Napoleon invaded ... ...

www.chilenativo.com" target="blank">Chile Nativo guides, gauchos from Estancia Guido, and two local women working on a video about Patagonia, to scout a new horse pack trip near the Torres del Paine Park.

We arrive late in the night under a brilliant full moon to our warmly lit estancia (large estate) and accommodations, Lodge Cerro Guido. After unloading the gear we gather around a cozy fire, snack on appetizers and drink Pisco sours while waiting to meet our hosts. The newly renovated Estancia ... ...