3 Ways To Experience Gaucho Culture In Buenos Aires
One of the most iconic figures in Argentine culture is that of the gaucho, or cowboy. Deeply ingrained in the history and culture of the country, heroes of literature and folklore, the gaucho way of life has existed for more than three centuries. The gauchos live on today, as in their history, in the pampas, or grasslands. Just a short drive outside the city of Buenos Aires, you will find yourself in La Pampa, home to many estancias (ranches) and gauchos, who continue to work on the land.
No trip to Argentina is complete without getting to know this gaucho culture. Luckily, Buenos Aires provides many opportunities for an authentic experience with these national icons. Here are 3 great options to choose from:
Experience the gaucho way of life in Buenos Aires / Source
1. Feria de Mataderos
You don’t even have to leave Buenos Aires for a taste of gaucho culture. Every Sunday and Public holiday, the Feria de Mataderos takes place in the neighbourhood of Mataderos (translated as slaughterhouses, after its roots as the meat district of the city). Running for 26 years now, this traditional market is one of the most traditional experiences you can have in the city. A bit out of the way of the traditional tourist circuit, it’s well worth the effort to travel here. The fair is split up into three areas made up of traditional gaucho handicrafts, artistic performances of gaucho folklore and gaucho games on horseback. A word of advice: go hungry. You’ll find some of the best street food in Buenos Aires at this gaucho fair – from the best parrilla meat, choripans, and fried empanadas, to humita, locro, tamales and more.
How to get there: The fair takes place from 11am to 8pm. You can travel there independently by taking a colectivo. Alternatively, book a private tour to the Feria de Mataderos, with a professional guide who can give you greater insight into the gaucho culture. Whichever option you choose, be sure to check in advance if the fair is running. The market closes when it rains and over the summer vacation.
Get a taste of gaucho culture at the Feria de Mataderos.
2. Gaucho Day Trip to an Estancia
Escape the city to the pampas to visit the gauchos on a working ranch. The home of the gauchos, the estancias in Buenos Aires province are where you will get the most complete picture of the gaucho way of life. Once of the best ways to experience this is by booking a gaucho day trip to an estancia. Enjoy a full day of activities including horse riding, a gaucho asado lunch, traditional Argentine folkloric music and dance, and an impressive demonstration of the gaucho’s skills and traditions as they show off their horsemanship.
Gauchos showing off their horsemanship at Estancia Santa Susana
3. San Antonio de Areco
The third way to experience gaucho culture near Buenos Aires is to visit the charming gaucho town of San Antonio de Areco. It may be a mere 115km away from the city, but it will feel like a world apart as the town still lives and breathes traditional gaucho culture. This town is the perfect option for a weekend getaway. Spend a relaxing weekend wandering around San Antonio de Areco’s landmarks, sampling the local food, going for a horseback ride through the pampas, or visiting nearby estancias. If you don’t have time to make a weekend of it, book a day tour instead, including a visit to a Estancia Ombu, a number of fun activities, and, of course, a gaucho feast!
Gaucho culture lives on in San Antonio de Areco / Source
Learning more about the gauchos will give you a greater understanding of Argentina’s traditions, history and culture about the first inhabitants of the Pampas, so don’t miss out on this authentic experience in Buenos Aires.
Visit our website for more great cultural tours in Buenos Aires, for an unforgettable trip to Argentina!
Written by: Nicole Eberhard
For: Bsas4u
