We were not allowed to travel on entrance road to ranch - too muddy - we were "trucked" in a mile

Visited the "El Ombu" Ranch, in San Antonio de Areco, one and one-half hours from city

Ranch was named after this banyan-like tree

As you can see, the tree was planted in 1806

Parrillada (assortment of grilled beef, blood & pork sausages, chicken) slow grilling on the barbeque pits

Argentinean food cooked on wood fire - spicy, but delicious

Tourists may relax at the estancia for several nights

Main room of the ranch is very homey

The "great room" contains comfortable chairs, a fireplace, and billiard table

Mode of transportation for groups from muddy entrance

Resident gaucho and housekeeper at the "kitchen" building

A collection of colorful wagons

Dining area on terrace of main building for guests

Bo and Maryann from Sweden whom we met on cruise

The gaucho entertained us during lunch with guitar music

Payment for services in form of silver coins!

Riders ready to show their equestrian skills

The two gals are flight attendants on Lufthansa and ride frequently at home

The gaucho stayed close to keep my horse moving along

A large bull in the pasture of 750-acre ranch

It wasn't easy climbing on this horse!

Riding through pastures of 400 cows, 40 horses, sheep, goats

Ventured through several acres of farm animals

Returning to the stables....

I needed help to get off that big horse!!!!

Nice ride - but not doing it again for 20 years....