In 2013, by coincidence — or perhaps destiny — I arrived and settled in Patagonia. My home is a farm in Ensenada, at the foot of the imposing Calbuco and Osorno volcanoes, surrounded by the natural richness that makes this region one of the most fascinating places on the planet. But living here goes far beyond postcard landscapes: it is an experience that blends the raw force of nature, the simplicity of rural life, and a deep passion for exploring mountains.
The influence of the volcanoes on daily life is something only those who live here truly understand. Calbuco, dormant for decades, awakened on April 22, 2015, with an eruption that transformed both the landscape and everyday life across the region. The sky darkened with ash, communities were evacuated, and the power of the volcano reminded us how small we are in the face of nature. That event strengthened my respect for — and connection to — this living, unpredictable territory.
We are also surrounded by one of the richest ecosystems in the world. The region is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its unique biodiversity, and it is here that the Route of Parks of Patagonia begins — a visionary conservation project driven by Tompkins Conservation that protects millions of hectares of forests, rivers, and untouched mountains.
Working as a mountain guide in this environment is both a privilege and a responsibility. I lead people through landscapes shaped by fire and ice, helping them understand the power of the elements and the importance of conservation. Every expedition is an opportunity to share stories about this land — from its geological formation to the experiences of those who live here. The goal is not only to reach summits or complete traverses, but to offer a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be in Patagonia.
Living here also demands discipline.
Winter is long and harsh, and adapting to it requires being physically and mentally prepared for daily challenges. I am deeply grateful for the influence of friends who, around 2006, guided me into the path of rowing. Years of intense training taught me essential values such as resilience, focus, and determination — qualities that are fundamental in the work of a mountain guide, where every expedition requires preparation, endurance, and decision-making under pressure. These same skills also support mental well-being and the rhythm of rural life.
Life in Ensenada reflects this balance between nature, discipline, and adventure. Days begin early on the farm: feeding chickens, caring for sheep, and sharing daily life with the dogs and cats that are part of the routine. Between tasks, training continues, keeping both body and mind ready for the demands of the mountains and for rowing competitions.
This life is also connected to my work with the Brazilian Antarctic Program, where extreme conditions require not only physical endurance but also technical knowledge of hostile environments and strong teamwork. Every experience — whether a sunrise on a volcanic slope, a starry night deep in the forest, or an expedition across Antarctic ice — reinforces what brought me here: the desire to live intensely in one of the last truly wild places on Earth.
If you want to experience this place up close, come discover Patagonia with me. More than a destination, this land is a living story that deserves to be explored with respect and admiration.