Neuquén (in mapuche language, “daring, and vehement”) has strong cultural roots on the millenarian mapuche tradition (mapu – land, che – people).

Presently many mapuche communities live in Neuquén territory, especially in Patagonia of Lakes, and they give value to their vision of the world and their customs inviting people to visit their lands and share their traditions.

This tradition is reflected on each everyday life expression of these communities. Religion, music, handicrafts and cooking keep the tradition of these people alive.

In the course of time, the mapuche people have kept the identity of their products. At present, craftsmen mainly work on weaving and wood carving and all the handicrafts are made using techniques that have been passed from generation to generation.

In the town of Villa Pehuenia, the mapuche Puel community has been running successfully, and for several years, the Batea Mahuida Snow Park.