Unusual Things to Do in Mar del Plata: Polo Experience
2026-03-14 09:44
If you are looking for unusual things to do in Mar del Plata, a polo experience is one of the most authentic activities you can try in Argentina. Known worldwide as the home of elite polo players and legendary horses, Argentina offers travelers the rare opportunity to step onto a polo field, ride a trained horse, and experience the culture behind the sport.
Just a short drive from the city center, visitors can enjoy a complete polo day that combines sport, nature, and Argentine gastronomy. From hotel transfer to a traditional asado with wine tasting, this experience allows tourists to discover a side of Argentina that most visitors never see.
Below is what a typical Polo Experience in Mar del Plata looks like.
1. Comfortable Transfer from the City
Your polo adventure begins with a private transfer from your hotel in Mar del Plata to the countryside, where polo fields and horse farms are located.
Within about 30–40 minutes, the scenery changes from coastal city streets to the peaceful landscapes of the Argentine pampas. Rolling fields, fresh air, and grazing horses create the perfect atmosphere to disconnect from the city and prepare for a day outdoors.
Transfers are usually organized for small groups, making the experience relaxed and personal.
2. Polo Lesson, Practice Match or Cavalcade
Once you arrive at the polo club, professional instructors introduce you to the basics of polo.
The activity typically includes:
Introduction to polo horses and equipment
Safety briefing and riding instructions
Stick-and-ball practice (hitting the ball while riding)
Basic polo techniques used by professional players
Even beginners with little riding experience can participate. The horses are specially trained for polo and instructors guide you through every step.
Option 1: Polo Lesson & Practice
Guests who want a full sports experience can try a beginner polo lesson, where they learn to control the horse and hit the ball. Many visitors are surprised how exciting the sport becomes after just a few minutes on the field.
Option 2: Cavalcade Through the Countryside
For travelers who prefer a more relaxed activity, a cavalcade (guided horseback ride) through the countryside is another beautiful option.
Riding through open fields near Mar del Plata allows guests to enjoy nature, spot local wildlife, and experience the traditional Argentine horse culture.
Both options provide a memorable way to connect with horses and the landscapes of the pampas.
3. Traditional Argentine Asado & Wine Tasting
After the activity, the experience continues with one of Argentina’s greatest traditions: the asado.
Guests gather around a countryside table where local hosts serve a selection of grilled meats cooked slowly over wood fire. Typical dishes include:
Argentine beef cuts
Chorizo sausages
Fresh salads
Homemade bread
The meal is accompanied by Argentine wines, often from famous regions such as Mendoza.
During lunch, visitors can relax, talk with the polo players, and learn more about the culture of the sport in Argentina.
Why Polo Is One of the Most Unique Experiences in Mar del Plata
While many tourists visit Mar del Plata for its beaches and nightlife, few realize that the surrounding countryside offers one of the most authentic Argentine experiences: polo.
A polo day combines several elements travelers love:
Outdoor adventure
Horseback riding
Argentine gastronomy
Cultural immersion
Instead of simply watching polo, visitors become part of the sport, even if only for a day.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for unique activities in Mar del Plata, a polo experience with transfer, lesson or cavalcade, and an Argentine asado with wine tasting is an unforgettable choice.
Whether you are a horse lover, a sports enthusiast, or simply curious about Argentina’s most prestigious sport, a polo day offers a rare opportunity to experience the traditions of the pampas in an intimate and exciting way.
It is not just an activity — it is a true Argentine cultural experience.