Tom VonGnechten

Horse Guide, Blacksmith & Magic Maker

Tom has spent his adult life in pursuit of self-sufficiency and sustainablity. His love for the wilderness has led him to various remote, off-grid living situations where he has acquired the skills needed to grow food, build, and make tools.

Tom's life experiences and wide-ranging skill sets lend themselves well to life in the wilds of Patagonia. As the internship coordinator, Tom teaches interns the basics of homesteading - be it metal work, gardening, building, milking, writing haikus or any number of activities, Tom's infectious enthusiasm and energy brings joy to any work task.  As the resident metallurgist, he runs a modest smithy where he repairs, creates, and innovates.

Most guests at Ranquilco see only a blur of Tom as he scurries between work tasks. If you do have a chance encounter to pause him, he will be delighted to share a maté with you and expound upon the beautiful joy of existence.