Not gauchos…

…but Patagonian baqueanos. The word is usually translated as cowboys, the closest equivalent outside of Chile, but a Patagonian baqueano is so much more. There are deep traditions to uphold as baqueanos are symbols almost of rural Chile. There is a dignity and honour in the name. It’s a serious business as this man and his son of the Patagonian steppes clearly demonstrate. The horses are beautifully kept and the men are superb riders, wearing long boots, baggy trousers, hats and warm ponchos. We have seen these delightful horsemen along the way with their cattle, sheep or guanacos and I was delighted to see a group of them here in Coyhaique and be able to get a photo. They were so proud!

We are enjoying a lazy Sunday in Coyhaique, the only town of notable size along the Carretera Austral and it is the logistical hub for the whole region. The little square has some fun sheep sculptures and a shepherd on a plinth (see extra), there are a couple good restaurants, excellent Patagonian IPA,  a laundrette and a supermarket for essential coffee, fruit and other groceries. 

We are getting some chores done today, which are important, but looking forward too to getting back out on the road, to the forests and lakes and mountains on the next part of our journey. 

Hope you’ve all had a restful weekend.