23 September 2026
Sierra Baguales: Nature, History, and Adventure in a Remote Corner of Patagonia
To the northeast of Estancia Cerro Guido, near the natural border between Chile and Argentina, rises the Sierra Baguales. Its peaks, valleys, and rock formations reveal a Patagonia unlike that of the better-known tourist routes: remote, silent, and still largely unexplored.
Getting to this area is no easy task. The distances, the terrain, and the lack of conventional trails make it necessary to explore the area through a planned, guided excursion. For those staying at Estancia Cerro Guido, this prime location offers the opportunity to visit one of the region’s most remote landscapes and explore it accompanied by guides who know the routes and its unique features.
A largely unexplored mountain range
The Sierra Baguales is part of a mountain range located northeast of the estancia, very close to the border with Argentina. Unlike other more popular destinations in Patagonia, this area is characterized by wide-open spaces, off-trail excursions, and a sense of seclusion that lasts for much of the day.
The route offers views of hills covered in coirón grass, small lagoons, wide valleys, and peaks such as Cerro Tridente and Cerro Ciudadela. Guanacos and birds may be spotted along the way, while the presence of wild horses serves as a reminder of the origin of this mountain range’s name (Baguales).
Its restricted access and geographical conditions have helped preserve the area’s untouched character. The exclusivity of the experience stems not only from the distance but also from the opportunity to explore a region that lies off the beaten path and can only be reached in groups accompanied by guides from the estancia.
A landscape that bears traces of the past
In addition to their scenic value, the Sierra Baguales and the nearby Las Chinas River Valley boast a significant paleontological and archaeological heritage. Their rock strata and formations contain records that allow us to study the evolution of the environments, climate, and species that inhabited this area millions of years ago.
Since 2012, multidisciplinary teams from Chilean and international institutions have conducted paleontological expeditions in various areas of Cerro Guido and the Las Chinas River Valley. The research has led to the identification of fossils of plants, invertebrates, and dinosaurs, as well as the gathering of evidence regarding possible ancient connections between South America and Antarctica.
Archaeological heritage belongs to a different time scale and provides information about human presence in the region. Both fields of study help us understand that this landscape contains multiple layers of history, ranging from prehistoric ecosystems to the traces left by those who wandered through Patagonia in more recent times.
More information: Paleontology at Estancia Cerro Guido
Excursions to discover Sierra Baguales
Estancia Cerro Guido offers a variety of options for exploring this area and the Las Chinas Valley. Each option provides a different way to experience the vastness of the region, ranging from challenging hikes to shorter trails and electric bike tours.
Sierra Baguales: A full-day, high-difficulty hike that begins at Puesto Las Flores. The route includes a steep off-trail ascent, an approach to the base of the mountain range, and a descent through wide valleys. It’s the perfect option for those seeking a day of adventure and direct contact with the area’s landscape.
Sierra Baguales Lookout: a half-day version—shorter but challenging. The ascent leads to a lookout point facing the Tridente and Ciudadela hills, with views of the pampa stretching to the east. During the winter, this excursion is part of our Special Winter Program and is done on snowshoes, allowing you to explore the snow-covered landscape and discover a different perspective of this mountain range.
Las Chinas Lookout: a full-day hike through a wild and largely unexplored valley. Follow the course of the Las Chinas River, cross open fields, and climb over rugged terrain to a lookout point surrounded by unique rock formations.
Puesto Rojo E-bikes: A half-day tour through the Las Chinas Valley. The e-bike lets you ride across the steppe and reach Puesto Rojo, combining outdoor activity with a unique perspective on the landscape.
A Patagonia to be discovered over time
Exploring Sierra Baguales broadens one’s perspective on Patagonia. Beyond its mountains and valleys, the region brings together nature, scientific research, and traces of human settlement in a place that still retains its remote character.
From Estancia Cerro Guido, this little-known place is incorporated into the travel experience through guided excursions tailored to each guest’s schedule and interests. Getting there requires planning and effort, but it offers something hard to find in more crowded destinations: the chance to walk through a secluded landscape, observe its details, and understand the history preserved in its rocks.
