The 7 Best Estancias Near Buenos Aires in 2024

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Article written by: Rebecca
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Looking for the best estancias near Buenos Aires? You’ve come to the right place! These amazing getaways are all within a short distance from Argentina’s capital.

I’m a big fan of cities – it’s 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 or riding horses or enjoying a traditional Argentine asado (barbecue) while getting a taste for local culture.

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).

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) where you’ll have the chance to ride horses and enjoy an asado. 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, make sure you add a Buenos Aires estancia stay! Here are 7 of the best options near the city.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

7 best Buenos Aires estancias

1. Estancia Villa Maria

Best for: Romantic weekend away, weekend with friends

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.

Meals are multi-course affairs, coupled with wine, of course.

You can relax inside the property’s beautifully preserved rooms 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 is close to 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 | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

A picturesque Tudor-style mansion reflected in a tranquil pond, surrounded by a manicured lawn and trees under a clear blue sky. The property is Estancia Villa Maria, the author of this article's favourite estancia near Buenos Aires.
A beautiful place to spend a weekend is an estancia near Buenos Aires
An elegant Tudor-style manor house with extensive ivy growth on the façade, with people seated outside, enjoying a conversation at dusk. The property is Estancia Villa Maria, the author of this article's favourite estancia near Buenos Aires.
Relaxing with friends at Estancia Villa Maria

2. La Bandada

Best for: Culinary experiences, gaucho introduction

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.

Check prices online with Booking.com or Expedia | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

A covered outdoor patio with comfortable seating overlooking a swimming pool, with open views to a well-manicured lawn. La Bandada is a beautiful estancia near Buenos Aires, Argentina, known for its polo and outdoor activities.

3. Estancia El Ombu

Best for: Tranquil countryside stay, authentic experience

Estancia El Ombú de Areco is one of the more “authentic” Argentine countryside experiences. This historic estancia, established as a posthouse 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.

Check rates and availability online here.

4. Estancia La Candelaria

Best for: Luxury weekend away

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.

The 100-acre park was designed by renowned landscape architect Carlos Thays and features 240 species of trees. Prepare for pure luxury in the comfortable yet ornate rooms in one of the best estancias in Argentina.

If you’re heading out for the day you can experience La Candelaria’s famous fiesta gaucha or día de campo. Book the Buenos Aires estancia tour of La Candelaria online here.

Check rates and availability online

An aerial view of an ornate, castle-like building amidst lush greenery, with tall palm trees and a clear sky above. The property is Estancia La Candelaria, one of the most luxurious estancias near Buenos Aires.

5. Estancia La Bamba de Areco

Best for: Luxury weekend away

One of the oldest estancias in ArgentinaLa 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. 

Check the latest rates and book online

A person pouring white wine from a bottle into a wine glass held by another person, with a blurred background suggesting an outdoor setting. There's always plenty of wine served at estancias in Argentina, especially the luxury and high-end estancias.

6. Estancia Don Manuel

Best for: Outdoor activities like polo lessons and horseback riding

Most well-known as one of Argentina’s premier polo schools, Estancia Don Manuel can arrange a multi-day polo holiday where you spend your days playing chukkas and learning polo skills.

There are acres of lush grass, plenty of beautiful horses and amazing meals that cater to all kinds of dietary requirements at this Buenos Aires estancia.

As well as plenty of polo activities, there’s a swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis and volleyball courts, games room, yoga classes and bikes to take for a ride. And, of course, horseback riding.

Stay the night or head out there on a “ranch day”. You’ll learn a few polo techniques, watch a polo match and enjoy an asado on a day trip.

Book Estancia Don Manuel online

7. Estancia Los Dos Hermanos

Best for: Traditional gaucho stay, warm hospitality

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.

Check prices online and book your stay

A cowboy on horseback in Argentina overseeing a large herd of cattle in a grassy field, with a solitary tree and a clear sky in the background. You can learn gaucho skills on the estancias near Buenos Aires.

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 look like a lot of fun!

Buenos Aires estancias map

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 or country homes that you’d find in the US or UK. 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.

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.


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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

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