Looking for the best estancias near Buenos Aires? These amazing getaways are all within a short distance from Argentina’s capital.
I’m a big fan of cities. If I’m not hiking, a city is usually where I travel to most. But every now and then, it’s nice to get away from the hustle and bustle and escape to the countryside. So, when city life in Buenos Aires gets too much – or if you’re after a unique experience when you visit Argentina – it’s not difficult to find that escape.
And the best place to escape to is one of the many estancias near Buenos Aires. In just under an hour you can be whiling away a lazy day by a pool, riding horses or enjoying a traditional Argentine asado (barbecue) while getting a taste for local culture.
Rent a car and stay overnight (or longer) or simply head out for the day as part of an organised dia de campo (day in the countryside). Some are more touristy than others, some have retained their original traditions, and some are still working estancias where you can join in rounding up cattle and discover life as a gaucho.
If you have the time on your Argentina itinerary, add a Buenos Aires estancia stay! Here are some incredible options near the city.
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Need help planning your Argentina trip? 🇦🇷
Feeling overwhelmed about planning your trip to Argentina? I get it. And I can help! I offer one-to-one travel consultation calls to help you plan your trip to Argentina. In an hour, we can map out a realistic itinerary or work through your specific questions so you can book an incredible trip. Save hours of your time with my local knowledge and expertise.
What is an estancia?
You may be wondering, what is an estancia? An estancia is essentially the Argentine version of a ranch, and there are many within a short distance from Buenos Aires. They range from the super luxurious with in-house spas and gourmet food, to the more traditional with basic lodgings where you can experience life as a gaucho (cowboy).
Should you visit an estancia on a day trip or stay overnight?
A day trip to an estancia near Buenos Aires is enough if you want to experience traditional Argentine countryside life, enjoy a gaucho show, go horseback riding and feast on an asado before returning to the city. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Buenos Aires.
However, if your budget allows, an overnight stay lets you slow down and enjoy the peaceful setting after the day-trippers leave. You’ll have more time for activities like horse riding, cycling and walking the grounds, and you’ll get a better feel for life on an Argentine estancia. You probably want to do this if you have more than 3 days in Buenos Aires.
I’ve done both and both are worthwhile – it really comes down to how much time you have available!
Best Buenos Aires estancias
Here are my favourite Buenos Aires estancias to visit, covering the simple to the luxe, and day trips and overnight stays.
Buenos Aires estancias map
This map shows where each of these estancias are located.
1. Estancia Villa Maria
Best for: Romantic weekend away, weekend with friends
Distance from Buenos Aires: 56km / 1 hour
This is my favourite estancia in Argentina – because it was the first one that we visited. The sprawling grounds at Estancia Villa Maria are gorgeous, the staff attentive yet discreet and the food delicious. There’s also a swimming pool for those hot Buenos Aires days.
Built in the late 1920s, it’s been beautifully restored and boasts many a celebrity visit, including Michel Bublé when he married his Argentine sweetheart in 2011.
We stayed overnight here and enjoyed multi-course meals, coupled with plenty of wine, of course!
You can relax inside the property’s 11 beautifully preserved suites and enjoy the many games, books and DVDs or hop on bikes for a leisurely ride around the estate. The estancia also has horse riding, and during high season there are polo matches, tango dancing and gaucho skills on display.
Estancia Villa Maria isn’t far from Ezeiza international airport, so you could even spend your final night in Buenos Aires here. There’s a shuttle from the estancia to the airport.
→ Check prices and book a romantic stay or a weekend away with friends with Booking.com or Expedia ←
2. La Bandada
Best for: Culinary experiences, gaucho introduction
Distance from Buenos Aires: 121km / 1 & 3/4 hours
Recently renovated, you’ll immediately feel at home at this working estancia. La Bandada’s property covers 250 acres – plenty of space for horse riding, polo, walking, biking or swimming. There’s even an adorable French Bulldog to snuggle with!
The onsite chef whips up dishes featuring seasonal vegetables directly from their own garden. You’re even free to pick a few veggies yourself. Of course, Argentina’s famous meat products are on display with each meal (vegetarians are also catered for), and the staff can’t promise that you won’t leave without putting on a little weight!
If you don’t have time to stay the night, take a day trip out here for horse riding and asado fun. Book the dia de campo online here.
3. Estancia El Ombú
Best for: Tranquil countryside stay, authentic experience
Distance from Buenos Aires: 123km / 1 & 3/4 hours
Estancia El Ombú de Areco is one of the more “authentic” Argentine countryside experiences. This historic estancia, established as a post house in the late 19th century, is located near San Antonio de Areco, known for its historic buildings and cobblestone streets, as well as for Argentina’s famous gaucho culture.
The accommodations at Estancia El Ombú are minimalist with vintage furnishings. Rooms are filled with light with comfortable beds.
The property is expansive, with plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can participate in horseback riding, enjoy traditional Argentine barbecues and swim in the pool. El Ombu is well-known for its dia de campo day trip.
4. Estancia La Candelaria
Best for: Luxury weekend away
Distance from Buenos Aires: 119km / 1 &3/4 hours
From the moment you roll up in front of the castle – that’s really the only way to describe it! – you’ll be blown away.
La Candelaria’s 100-acre park was designed by renowned landscape architect Carlos Thays and features 240 species of trees.
Built in 1840, prepare for pure luxury in the comfortable yet ornate rooms in one of the best estancias in Argentina. Think huge chandeliers, ornate wood panelling and vintage furniture.
There’s plenty to keep you busy, with horseback riding, tennis court, a pool, walking trails through the nearby forest and sugarcane fields, and spa and wellness centre. Meals are included in overnight stay packages
You don’t need to stay overnight to experience this estancia – book a day to experience La Candelaria’s famous fiesta gaucha or día de campo. Book the Buenos Aires estancia tour of La Candelaria online here.
5. Estancia La Bamba de Areco
Best for: Luxury weekend away
Distance from Buenos Aires: 124km / 1 &3/4 hours
One of the oldest estancias in Argentina, La Bamba de Areco is also one of the best luxury estancias near Buenos Aires.
Each room is named after a famous polo horse and has lovely views over the outdoor gardens, park or polo fields. There are no televisions or telephones, so it’s perfect for those who really want to escape (in luxury).
Meals are communal and taken in a different part of the estancia. Like other estancias, you can spend a few days on horseback rides or mountain bikes, enjoy the huge swimming pool, wander through the gardens or book a hot stone massage. During polo season, you can even watch the daily polo matches.
6. Estancia Los Dos Hermanos
Best for: Traditional gaucho stay, warm hospitality
Distance from Buenos Aires: 92km / 1.5 hours
Another beautiful estancia near Buenos Aires, Estancia Los Dos Hermanos is more traditional than others.
Come here for a día de campo. Spend a day riding horses followed by a full asado with plenty of Malbec. You’ll need to take a siesta after all the food!
If you choose to stay a night or two, there are four spacious and private cottages. Be treated to delicious Argentine food and spend your days lying by the pool, birdwatching, horseback riding or playing croquet.
Visit a Buenos Aires estancia on a day trip
If you don’t have enough time to stay a night or two at an estancia near Buenos Aires, then there are plenty of tours that can arrange a day trip to one. These day trips tend to focus more on a Buenos Aires gaucho experience and are a lot of fun! They’re particularly fun for families, as kids can really get involved and learn about Argentine culture.
- This full-day tour heads to San Antonio de Areco for a day of gaucho showmanship, horseback riding and of course a full asado lunch. Book your day trip on Viator. Transportation is included.
- Estancia Santa Susana is close to Buenos Aires and remains a working estancia. Spend a day here on this tour which includes a full asado for lunch (with wine!) and a folklore show.
- Learn about life on an estancia on this tour to Estancia Don Silvano. Like the other tours, it includes transportation, a full lunch and activities. Book online here.
- If you prefer a private tour for your family or group, then this tour can arrange a great day out at an estancia. Book online here.
Final thoughts: Buenos Aires estancias
Buenos Aires is an incredible city – you could easily stay here for weeks. But when you need a break from the concrete jungle, these estancias near Buenos Aires are the perfect escape. From horseback riding to traditional asado barbecues, these unique properties are a great way to experience Argentine culture in a peaceful setting.
Estancias near Buenos Aires: FAQs
What is an estancia and how does it differ from a hotel?
An estancia is a large rural estate typical in Argentina, similar to ranches that you’d find in the US. They’re deeply rooted in Argentine culture and history, often with a focus on the traditional gaucho (cowboy) lifestyle. Estancias tend to be more intimate than a typical hotel, and are located in scenic, tranquil environments.
Can you visit an estancia as a day trip?
Yes, many estancias near Buenos Aires welcome visitors for the day. These Buenos Aires day trips, known as días de campo, typically include a traditional Argentine barbecue lunch, horseback riding or carriage rides, folk music and dance performances, and the chance to watch gauchos demonstrate their horsemanship skills.
What is the best time of year to visit an estancia near Buenos Aires?
The best time to visit an estancia near Buenos Aires is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months. This is when the weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities. Summer (December to February) can be hot, but it’s still a popular time, especially for families on school holidays. Many of these estancias have pools for a cool dip.
How do I get to these estancias?
Most estancias near Buenos Aires are within a 1 to 3-hour drive, making them accessible for day trips or weekend getaways. The best transportation options include renting a car or arranging a private transfer through the estancia. Many of these estancias can be reached by bus if you’re looking to save money, but it can be complicated to figure out the best route.
What types of activities can visitors expect at an estancia?
Common activities at an estancia include horseback riding, hiking, bird watching and participating in traditional farm activities. Many estancias also offer cultural experiences like Argentine barbecue (asado), folk music and dance performances, and demonstrations of gaucho skills. The activities available can vary greatly depending on the estancia’s size and location.
Are estancias suitable for families with children?
Yes! Most estancias are family-friendly and offer activities suitable for children. These can include gentle horseback rides, farm animal interactions, outdoor games and swimming. Check with the estancia in advance, because some are adults-only.
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Have you visited an estancia in Argentina before? Which of these estancias near Buenos Aires would you like to visit? Let me know in the comments below.
Need help planning your Argentina trip? 🇦🇷
Feeling overwhelmed about planning your trip to Argentina? I get it. And I can help! I offer one-to-one travel consultation calls to help you plan your trip to Argentina. In an hour, we can map out a realistic itinerary or work through your specific questions so you can book an incredible trip. Save hours of your time with my local knowledge and expertise.
Read next
Before you go… you might also like these Buenos Aires articles:
- 3-Day Buenos Aires Itinerary
- The Best Day Trips from Buenos Aires
- Where to Eat in Buenos Aires: 35+ Best Restaurants
- The Ultimate Buenos Aires Bucket List
- Where to Stay in Buenos Aires: Best Neighbourhoods
- What to Buy in Buenos Aires
- Argentina Itinerary Ideas: Options for 1-4 Weeks
ARGENTINA TRIP ESSENTIALS
- Book your flight to Argentina online with Skyscanner. I like how this site allows you to find the cheapest days.
- One thing I always purchase is travel insurance! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
- Wise is my choice for sending and receiving money and spending money overseas (you can get a digital and physical card).
- Find a great hotel in Argentina. Check prices on Booking.com and Expedia online.
- Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Argentina on GetYourGuide or Viator. I love a good food tour in particular!
- Saving money? Check out the range of free walking tours across Argentina with GuruWalk (don’t forget to tip!).
- How to get around? I use DiscoverCars for car hire, or Motorhome Republic and Jucy for campervan/RV rental. For buses, trains and ferries, I use 12GO, Busbud and Omio.
- Grab an e-sim to stay connected while on the road.
- A copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Argentina will be handy. Also pick up a Spanish language phrasebook to help you navigate your visit.
- Keep those bottles of wine you’ll be buying safe in these wine bags.
- Check out my Amazon shop for my fave travel items – everything from backpacks and suitcases to travel adapters and beauty products.
PIN IT FOR LATER: ESTANCIAS NEAR BUENOS AIRES
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