When travelers arrive at Pingo Salvaje, they discover much more than a place to go horseback riding; they find the beating heart of Patagonia in every step. Here, the baqueanos have built a close-knit family bound by a shared passion for horses and life in the great outdoors.
For those of us who spend our days riding the trails of Pingo Salvaje, our connection with horses isn’t something learned from a book. It’s forged through firsthand experiences out in the field—perhaps from childhood memories or an unforgettable summer on a family ranch. Others among us stumbled upon this calling later in life, realizing it’s never too late to love and respect these majestic animals.
What remains constant is the thrill of feeling the fresh breeze on your face, hearing the clip-clop of hooves, and gazing upon the mountains stretched across the horizon. This is the Patagonia we hold dear—a land where powerful winds and sudden weather shifts are simply part of the everyday adventure.
At Pingo Salvaje, a baqueano’s routine unfolds amid laughter, teamwork, and deep respect for everyone involved—people, horses, and even the loyal dogs that tag along. As evening falls, we set the herd free, and at dawn, some of us head out to gather them while others prepare the ranch for incoming visitors. Every detail is carefully planned to keep things running smoothly, from the horses’ well-being to reassuring a traveler who’s nervous about riding for the first time.
But it’s not all serious work. We have our fair share of stories, sometimes involving unexpected dips in a creek while trying to help someone retrieve a lost wallet. Those moments of panic quickly shift into laughter, reminding us that even in challenging situations, the bond we share—our love of adventure and the unbreakable spirit of the countryside—always shines through.
Every horse at Pingo Salvaje has its own personality, story, and way of communicating. For a baqueano, recognizing these traits is crucial when matching a rider to the right mount. That bond is nurtured day by day, by grooming the horse, observing its reactions, and working with patience and a firm hand. Our four-legged companions learn to interpret our tone of voice, our mood, and even our fears. Over time, they come to understand that we’re no threat, but rather a close presence that cares for them while keeping necessary boundaries in place.
Talking about Patagonia means talking about a climate that can shift drastically—sometimes within a single day. We’re used to experiencing rain, sunshine, fierce winds, and perhaps a flurry of snow all in the span of a few hours. Facing these conditions demands both the right clothing and the ability to make quick decisions: finding alternate routes, shortening the journey if night falls, and always carrying a poncho strapped to your saddle. It’s part of the magic and the challenge that keeps us on our toes and, above all, grateful for the chance to live and work in such a vibrant, surprising place.
When a traveler arrives at Pingo Salvaje, we do our best to help them feel Patagonia exactly the way we live it: with all its power, beauty, and immensity. Our greatest wish is to see them conquer their fears, settle into the horse’s rhythm, and marvel at the scenery. We want them to leave with more than just the perfect photo—carrying instead the memory of freedom, adventure, and a glimpse into a culture forged in the vastness of the south.
Baqueano culture is shaped by knowledge passed down through generations. Each of us had someone who taught us the essentials: how to saddle a horse properly, how to treat it with respect, and how to navigate nature safely. Here at Pingo Salvaje, we feel responsible for keeping this heritage alive and sharing it with younger generations. The world may be changing at breakneck speed, but our roots—the connection to the land and our horses—remain as strong as ever.
Living and working as baqueanos at Pingo Salvaje goes beyond simply riding a horse. It’s about being part of a community that values freedom, camaraderie, and respect for nature. Each story, every shared laugh, and every route across the steppe is a reminder of how fortunate we are to call this corner of the world home.
If, as you read these lines, you feel the call of Patagonia and a spark of curiosity about the baqueano’s way of life, we invite you to visit us at Pingo Salvaje. Come experience our way of living, ride at our side, and take home a memory that will stay with you forever. May you close your eyes anywhere in the world and still feel the wind of the pampa, the horse’s steady gait, and the warmth of a culture that embraces you from the heart.
We look forward to welcoming you on this unforgettable Patagonian adventure!