Authentic Chilean estancia life, roaring fires, lenga forests, fishing in the bay, mountain explorations, roasted lamb and beef, dogs and puppies

Stay at Estancia Mercedes in Chile

Who this ride is for:

Real, Genuine Ranch Life Seekers

Want authenticity? You got it. Catch your horse, saddle up, and set off to bring the herd in. Ride into the mountains in search of wild bulls. Round up the sheep and practice shearing. Forage clams from the bay or try your hand at fishing. Help chop firewood to cook by and lend a hand in the kitchen. Kick back in the evening with a cup of gaucho-style coffee (coffee made with coals from the fire) and read one of the many naturalist books on hand. This is a real estancia run by a small family, Sebastian, Grissel, and Naitiry.

All Levels of Riders + Non-riders

Estancia Mercedes is perfect for all levels of riders and non-riders. Horses are matched perfectly to the rider and easy to ride with relaxed reining and a comfy sheepskin pad. Not a rider? No problem. There is plenty to do around the estancia on your own two feet.

Quick Stats

Ride Length: Stays of any length can be accommodated

Location: A 15-minute boat ride then a 1 hour car ride from Puerto Natales, Chile

Pricing: $1200/night, double occupancy

Only two rooms available

Dates: August - April

The Riding Experience

Horseback is undoubtedly the best way to experience Estancia Mercedes. Rather than following designated riding trails, you'll explore the landscapes that make up everyday life on the ranch—native lenga forests, rivers, open grasslands and bogs, and rugged hills overlooking the fjords.

Rides are adapted to the experience of each guest, whether you're looking for a relaxed introduction to Patagonian riding or longer days covering more challenging terrain. Along the way you may help move livestock, visit remote corners of the property, or simply enjoy hours of riding without seeing another soul.

The horses are working ranch horses and many are bred and raised on the estancia. Sure-footed, calm, and well suited to Patagonia's varied terrain, they are old-hands at navigating mud, rocks, and dense vegetation. They're valued members of the family and carefully matched to each rider to ensure both comfort and confidence.

Rides are conducted using traditional Chilean tack, reflecting the ranch's authentic working heritage while providing a comfortable setup for long hours in the saddle. Guests ride in the same style used by the local horsemen, adding another layer of authenticity to the experience and offering a glimpse into everyday life on a Patagonian estancia.

While confident riders will appreciate the freedom to explore Patagonia's diverse landscapes, Estancia Mercedes also welcomes less-experienced riders. Before heading out, the guides take time to introduce each guest to their horse, explain the tack, and provide a relaxed safety and riding demonstration covering basic cues, mounting, steering, stopping, and riding techniques. This thoughtful introduction helps first-time and novice riders feel comfortable before setting off, while experienced equestrians can quickly get acquainted with the horses and local riding style.

Whether it's your first trail ride or you've spent a lifetime in the saddle, the emphasis is on creating a safe, enjoyable experience where you can relax, build confidence, and fully appreciate the remarkable landscapes that surround the estancia.

A Week at Estancia Mercedes

Meet your friendly boat captain at the Puerto Natales harbor before crossing the Última Esperanza Fjord (15 minutes) to the Antonio Varas Peninsula. Grissel or Sebastian will be waiting to drive you to the estancia. Settle into your room, enjoy your first home-cooked meal, and perhaps stretch your legs with an introductory ride along the bay. Or simply wander the landscapes of the estancia before relaxing by the fire.
Spend the morning exploring forests and hills on horseback before returning for a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, join in with seasonal ranch activities or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Ride farther into the estancia, crossing rivers and discovering spectacular viewpoints over Patagonia's fjords and mountains. Keep your camera ready for condors and other wildlife. Stop at a meadow for a lunch of steaks cooked over the fire.
Experience another side of estancia life by rounding up the sheep and bringing them back for a shearing demonstration.
After one final breakfast overlooking the fjord, return by car and boat to Puerto Natales.

Stay

Simple, comfortable, and unmistakably Patagonian, Estancia Mercedes feels far more like staying with friends than checking into a hotel.

The two guest rooms are warm and inviting, providing everything needed after a long day outdoors. Large windows frame the surrounding landscapes, while the large living room encourages lingering conversations over coffee, local wine, or a crackling fire after dinner.

Luxury here isn't measured by thread count—it's measured by genuine hospitality and the feeling of being welcomed into a family's way of life.

Eat

Beef, Lamb, and Fish, oh-my! I am still dreaming of the beef Sebastian cooked over a campfire and sliced before serving up with a small pile of salt to dip in. It’s a given that the lamb roast will also haunt you.

Vegetarians, don’t worry! Though it may not seem like, with the focus on the meats, there are lots of vegetables and carbs to go around! This is where I became obsessed with avocado toast and traditional Chilean flan.

Out-of-the-saddle Activities

Set out on a walk around the bay, down the road, or up the river. Try your hand fishing. Learn to shear sheep. Go berry picking. Harvest clams. Cut firewood. Read a book by the fire. Take a cooking class. Drink a hot cup of tea. Help Sebastian and Grissel train the horses. Search for mushrooms.

Your day will be as busy or as relaxed as you’d like.

Practical Information

Estancia Mercedes is located in a remote area on the Peninsula Antonio Varas located across the Señoret channel from the town of Puerto Natales, Chile. It is necessary to take a short and scenic boat taxi across the channel then debark on a 1 hour car ride to the estancia. Puerto Natales is easily accessible from Santiago, via a 1.5 hour plane ride. Puerto Natales is known as the gateway to Torres Del Paine National Park with stunning mountain views, multi-day hikes, and unique wildlife including guanacos and pumas. We are happy to add-on to your estancia stay with a trek or stay in the park.
Yes, please contact me for more information and to inquire about your specific dietary restrictions.
No Wi-Fi or cell phone service is available at the estancia. Talk about a great time to disconnect! Your hosts have a Starlink connection at their home for emergencies.
Yes, the weight limit for criollos is 200 lbs.
A selection of helmets and chaps are available for your use, but are not required. Please remember to check your travel insurance to verify if you need to wear a helmet for coverage.
Absolutely. Families are warmly welcomed, and children often love meeting the animals, exploring the property, and experiencing life on a real Patagonian estancia.