Estancia Ranquilco

Estancia Ranquilco

Estancia Ranquilco is a family-owned, 100,000-acre horse and cattle ranch nestled deep in the wild heart of Northern Patagonia. The ranch serves as a refuge in nature where guests from around the world come to experience miles of unfenced horseback riding and world-class fly fishing. Vacations at Ranquilco offer a unique blend of fun, adventure, and tranquility, combining authentic Argentine ranch culture with high-quality, familial service, ruggedly beautiful landscapes, off-the-grid living, and top-notch riding adventures.

About the Ranch

Ranquilco is a family-owned working ranch and adventure vacation destination located in the Andean foothills of Northern Patagonia. It is a remote refuge where guests can enjoy unfenced horseback riding, world-class fly fishing, and cultural experiences unlike any other. The ranch stretches across leagues of high steppe, river valleys, meadows, and jagged cliffs, reaching the heart of the Argentine cordillera. The western property boundary abuts the Chilean border, providing sweeping views of active volcanoes and snow-capped peaks.

The eco-lodge at Ranquilco is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact through self-sufficiency practices. Much of the food is grown in a large organic garden, and the ranch produces its own grass-fed meats. Electricity is generated onsite by hydroturbines using reclaimed irrigation water, and most transportation is via horse, making Ranquilco a living example of large-scale ranch-style homesteading.

Ranquilco hosts a diverse group of international staff and volunteers who come to work, ride, and play, drawn by a shared love of horses, wilderness, community, and adventure. Local gaucho families work with the ranch, bringing deep regional knowledge, skill, and warm-heartedness. The community regularly comes together to share traditional Argentine asados and dance.

Accommodations

Ranquilco's lodge and outbuildings were built circa 1980 using locally harvested materials. Beautifully perched above the Trocomon River, each room is unique and comfortable, offering a rustic ranch elegance. Guests can relax while listening to the sounds of the river and horses nearby, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Horses

Most guests arrive at the ranch on horseback, as luggage is packed in on horses or mules. The horses at Ranquilco are primarily Argentine Criollos, known for their strength, calm demeanor, and surefootedness on rugged mountain trails. Guests are offered the opportunity to care for their own horse, with options for every riding level, from safe and calm for beginners to spirited for advanced riders.

Rivers

The Trocoman and Picunleo Rivers flow through the central portions of the Estancia, sustaining large trout populations and renowned for fly fishing. The rivers are filled with Pancora, a crawdad-type bottom-dweller providing a natural food source for the trout. There are numerous sandy beaches and deep swimming holes within walking distance of the lodge, perfect for a refreshing day in nature.

Food

At Ranquilco, the ranch is fortunate to receive gifts directly from the land—fruit from the orchards, vegetables from the gardens, trout from the rivers, and meat from the meadows. Guests enjoy three nutritious meals a day, featuring delicious roasts, empanadas, stews, fresh pastas, and garden salads. Breakfasts are continental-style, with homemade granola, fresh milk, and coffee. Guests are introduced to maté, a traditional South American tea, enjoyed socially throughout their stay.

Meals are served family-style on the outdoor terrace with sweeping views of the Trocoman River, in the cozy kitchen, or with fine china in the dining room.

Garden

Given the ranch's distance from grocery stores, there is a deep appreciation for homegrown foods at Ranquilco. The large organic garden provides delicious greens, squash, carrots, beans, and more, paired with grass-fed beef, lamb, or goat, ensuring meals feature food harvested that very day.