Haciendas are a type of organisation for country farms of several hundred acres and were introduced by the Spaniards in South America in the 16th century. A lot of workers were needed to tend the livestock, till the ground and bring in the harvest. In the past, the Hacienda was centre of life for the people.

Also for us is the Hacienda Los Andes the centre of life surrounded by a marvellous nature. The 1000 acres Hacienda Los Andes reaches from our river to the top of the Cerro Gigante mountain.

Only a few acres are being cultivated. The remaining are nature reserves which can be discovered on foot or on horseback.

Two hiking trails (4 and 7 kilometres) lead through the original countryside passing cactuses, riverbanks, canyons and lush meadows. Surrounded by trees and gardens stand the buildings of the Hacienda: stables, barns, houses and guest house.

The Rio Hurtado river rushes through the valley for ages and takes its way through our Hacienda along three kilometres. Its water is the elixir of life for nature and people. There are growing balm, laurel and mint; fruit, vegetables and green grass; and the knotty, magnificent Algarobo which are the ancient trees of the Sierra.

The Indians used its seeds to bake their flat bread. Their peaceful life was disturbed by the Inca who conquered the country for the gold and silver mines. They travelled to Argentina on the old cattle trail which still winds its way through the valley.

The Inca introduced the irrigation technology which is the digging of irrigation channels down the valley. Today, the people still profit from this antique irrigation system; as we do at the Hacienda.

The people here live in harmony with nature. They prepare gardens and small fields in winter. Train horses and do handicrafts. In the mild spring, magnificent seas of blossoms change the valley into a bright scenery surrounded by the snow covered Andes.

Summer is awaited with anticipation because its fruit, whether it is apricots or vine, the green grass, the well fed herd, determine the earnings of a family. In the mild autumn, they repair channels and work around houses and trails.

The Andes, nearly invincible, seem to have welded together the people. Hospitality, unity, working together in the fields and traditional celebrations are part of everyday life. And unlocked doors testify to honesty and frankness.

Little has changed to date. There may lead an earthy road through the lush valley of the Sierra of Rio Hurtado, but herds are still moving along trails into the Andes.

"Tranquilo!", the Caballeros (men in the saddles) still shout, and this word has some more meanings than just: slow.
Tranquilo actually means:
calm, coolness, freedom and peace.