Meet our Guide: Jakob

The Patagonia Trail, Argentina , The Maasai Mara Ride, Kenya

Jakob Von Plessen is one of Globetrotting’s most famous guides. He has one foot in Kenya where he guides the Maasai Mara safari for half the year and the other foot in Argentina on The Patagonia Trail. Jakob has over 20 years experience escorting guests on horse riding adventures, so he knows a thing or two about putting together an ideal itinerary that combines adventure, ruggedness, good laughs and comfort. On top of all that, he played a big part in helping create and run the inaugural Gaucho Derby in 2020 and as seen above, he’s a bit of a natural on-screen!

Watch the video above to learn about Jakob’s ethos and background, and read on for his insights on The Patagonia Trail.

How long have you been running your horse riding holidays in Patagonia?
We have been running rides since 2003.

And what was the background, history or reason for starting?
I started guiding horseback safaris in Kenya in 1999 and brought the same idea to Patagonia. I had been brought up there and wanted to share the Patagonian beauty with the world from a different perspective.

How many guest horses do you have?
We have 20 horses for guests plus guide horses and pack horses.

Describe your herd of horses in four words.
Bombproof and absolutely reliable.

What is the philosophy or ethos behind The Patagonia Trail?
To show a genuine untouched Patagonia and the lifestyle of the gauchos that inhabit it.

What do you love most about your job?
That people leave our safaris having learnt more about horses. Everyone who leaves says they never thought horses would be able to go over such terrain.

What is the most challenging part?
E-mails, but now we have Paula!

Why should globetrotters sign up for this ride?
I think we have never disappointed anyone and personally I think we have the best outfit.

A tip that every globetrotter must know before signing up for this ride.
This ride is vertigo unfriendly – and don’t eat yellow snow!

Finish this sentence – Don’t leave home without…
Zipping up your tent!

What has been the most memorable or significant moment of your guiding career?
When the volcano exploded. But that’s a story for the campfire…

Click here to read more about The Patagonia Trail in Argentina, or here for more info on the Maasai Mara safari in Kenya.