Plan your polo travels—from Argentine estancias to UK club hopping. Essential tips for playing polo while exploring the world.
Polo Travel: Playing Around the World
One of polo's greatest pleasures is its international community. As a polo player, the world becomes your playground, with opportunities to play in diverse settings from Argentine pampas to English countryside, Dubai desert to Thai beaches.
Why Travel for Polo?
Benefits of International Polo
**Skill development**: Different styles and conditions challenge your game**Cultural immersion**: Experience polo's various traditions**Networking**: Build global polo connections**Adventure**: Combine your passion with travel experiences**Value**: Some destinations offer excellent polo at lower costsTop Polo Travel Destinations
Argentina: The Polo Heartland
**Why Go**: The world's best polo, exceptional horses, immersive culture
**When**: October to December (high season)
**What to Expect**:
World-class horsesIntense training environmentsAuthentic gaucho cultureBeautiful estancia settings**Budget**: $400-800/day for all-inclusive polo holidays (lessons, horses, accommodation, meals)
**Key Destinations**:
Buenos Aires area: Access to elite clubsPilar region: Numerous polo estanciasSan Antonio de Areco: Traditional gaucho townUnited Kingdom: Classic Polo Tradition
**Why Go**: Historic clubs, traditional format, strong polo calendar
**When**: May to September (season)
**What to Expect**:
Prestigious clubs and tournamentsTraditional atmosphereWell-organized club structureVariable weather**Budget**: £150-300/session for horse hire and play
**Key Destinations**:
Windsor/Ascot area: Guards, Coworth ParkCirencester: Beaufort, Cirencester ParkHampshire: Hampshire Polo ClubSpain: Mediterranean Polo
**Why Go**: Great weather, excellent facilities, Sotogrande hub
**When**: Year-round (different regions)
**What to Expect**:
World-class facilities in SotograndeGrowing club sceneCombination with beach holidaysInternational atmosphere**Budget**: €150-250/chukka
**Key Destinations**:
Sotogrande: Santa María, Ayala polo clubsCosta del Sol: Beach polo opportunitiesUnited Arab Emirates: Desert Luxury
**Why Go**: Winter sunshine, luxury facilities, international scene
**When**: October to April (winter season)
**What to Expect**:
Premium facilitiesMix of nationalitiesLuxury hospitalityConsistent weather**Budget**: $400-800/session at premium clubs
**Key Destinations**:
Dubai: Multiple clubs including Dubai Polo & Equestrian ClubAbu Dhabi: Growing sceneThailand: Tropical Polo
**Why Go**: Unique experience, value, adventure
**When**: November to February (cool season)
**What to Expect**:
Exotic settingFriendly atmosphereGood valueAdventure travel opportunities**Budget**: $200-400/day
**Key Destinations**:
Pattaya area: Thai Polo ClubPlanning Your Polo Trip
Essential Preparations
**Before You Go**:
Research clubs and facilitiesBook lessons or chukkas in advanceVerify horse hire availabilityCheck visa requirementsArrange travel insurance that covers polo**What to Pack**:
Your own helmet (properly fitted)Boots and knee padsWhite polo shirtsGloves if you prefer your ownMallets—check airline policies**What to Rent Locally**:
Horses (always)Sometimes mallets availableAdditional equipment as neededBooking Polo Holidays
**Specialist Operators**:
Several companies specialize in polo travel:
They arrange all logisticsMatch you with appropriate horsesProvide coaching if desiredHandle accommodation and transfers**Going Independent**:
If arranging yourself:
Contact clubs directlyBe clear about your levelConfirm all details in writingHave backup plansPractical Considerations
Language
English widely spoken in polo communitiesSpanish helpful in ArgentinaBasic local phrases appreciated everywhereMoney
Confirm payment expectations (cash, card, transfer)Tipping customs vary by countryBudget for tips to grooms/petiserosHealth and Safety
Travel insurance covering equestrian sports essentialKnow local medical facilitiesCarry basic first aidStay hydrated in hot climatesCultural Sensitivity
Respect local customsUnderstand polo etiquette may differBe flexible and open-mindedBuild relationships respectfullyCombining Polo with Tourism
Non-Polo Activities
Most polo destinations offer rich experiences beyond the field:
**Argentina**: Wine tours, tango, Buenos Aires culture**UK**: Historic sites, countryside, London**Spain**: Beach, gastronomy, architecture**UAE**: Desert safaris, shopping, cuisine**Thailand**: Temples, beaches, cuisineTraveling with Non-Players
If traveling with partners/family who don't play:
Choose destinations with diverse activitiesConsider spectator-friendly venuesBalance polo and non-polo timeMany polo holidays offer lessons for beginnersPolo travel offers a unique way to see the world while pursuing your passion. Whether seeking the ultimate Argentine polo experience or exploring emerging destinations, the global polo community welcomes players who share the love of the sport.
