Float above Buenos Aireas in a hot-air balloon
The ultimate way to escape chaos of Buenos Aires is in a gliding hot-air balloon above the city. Launching in Capilla del Señor, 80km (50 miles) outside the city, you can float over the beautiful countryside, spotting animals while admiring the views. The best time to take the one-hour flight is in the evening just before sunset. Tangol (tel: +54 11 4363 6000; www.tangol.com) can get you off the ground with tours that include transfers from your hotel.
Get caught up in a polo match
Ever since English cattlemen introduced the sport, polo has held a special place in Argentine culture. It continues to thrive amid the higher classes of society, so catching a match in Buenos Aires is easy, with many organised throughout the year. The Hurlingham Club (tel: +54 11 4662 5510; www.hurlingham-club.com.ar) is the most famous association in the area, but the likes of La Tarde Polo (tel: +54 11 4798 9231) offer one day lessons too.
Hoof your way around an estancia (ranch)
Horse riding is a true Argentine passion, and there are plenty of opportunities to saddle up in and around Buenos Aires. A great option is to visit one of the beautiful Estancias (ranches) in easy reach of the city, who run riding trips form their land. El Ombu de Areco (tel: +54 11 4737 0436; www.estanciaelombu.com) is close enough to visit in a day, and one of the country’s oldest ranches, while Dos Talas (tel: +54 22 4544 3020; www.dostalas.com.ar), offers sunset riding around a beautiful lake.
Play 18 holes at one of Argentina's best golf courses
Golf is a fast growing sport in Argentina and Buenos Aires is home to some of the country’s finest courses. Try teeing off at the challenging Jockey Club (tel: +54 11 4815 0022; golf.eljockeyclub.com) in San Isidro with its beautiful greens and tricky water hazards. Or test your mettle at the regal-looking Buenos Aires Golf Club (tel: +54 11 4468 1737; www.bagolf.com.ar) with its lumpy fairways and clawing bunkers.
Tour Buenos Aires on two wheels
Buenos Aires’ cycling provision is ever-improving and getting around on two wheels is one of the best ways to discover the city when time is limited. BA Bikes (tel: +54 11 6698 5923; www.babikes.com.ar) offer excellent rides around the key sights, but also have tailored trips focusing on food, the city’s burgeoning street art scene and even one designed for those looking to get the best photos of Buenos Aires in all its glory.
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