Though ancestors of the modern horse are thought to have inhabited Chile in the Pleistocene, these creatures had long disappeared by the modern era. The incorporation of the horse was instrumental in the Mapuches' centuries-long resistance to the Conquistadors , and the spread of their culture into the Argentine pampa . Today, the widespread use of horses is one of the most salient characteristics of Chilean rural life. Motorized vehicles still haven't replaced horses as the primary vehicle of the Chilean cowboy, or huaso .
Horses are available for hourly or daily rental on nearly every beach and in many national parks.
El Caballo Chileno is ever present, much talked about and admired. These arrieros , with their unique clothing and equipment, local knowledge and customs, provide a glimpse at one of the most traditional sectors of modern Chilean society, a slice of living history. Travelers should note the difference between horseback riding and horse trekking, the latter of which usually implies using horses only as pack animals. Talk to your tour operator and be sure you know what you're signing up for. Note that each of these offerings is linked to the travel company or operator of the trip directly.