The Hostettlers and their Guarani jungle paradise

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Hans and Christine in their peaceful oasis Rodrigo Muñoz

Far from civilisation, but not isolated: Hans with a friend and his loyal dog Abi standing in front of the Hostettler home Rodrigo Muñoz

Christine in her office Munoz

Hans and Christine organise ecotourism activities. Rodrigo Muñoz

Hans walks Abi in the Guarani jungle. Rodrigo Muñoz

It was in Paraguay that Christine learned how to make cheese. Rodrigo Muñoz

Hans is still amazed by the lush vegetation where he lives. Rodrigo Muñoz

Raising chickens is another aspect of daily life. Rodrigo Muñoz

Hans uses this plane to check for illegal activity in the nature preserve. Rodrigo Muñoz

In the family garden, Christine picks some lettuce for lunchtime. Rodrigo Muñoz

Handy Hans renovated the house in Paraguay himself, including the addition of electricity and running water. Rodrigo Muñoz

Escorting a pair of ecotourists on a walk Rodrigo Muñoz

Made of local herbs, the traditional mate tea is a refreshing pick-me-up. Rodrigo Muñoz

Labour of love: the Nueva Gambach farm Rodrigo Muñoz

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It has been 36 years since Christine and Hans Hostettler decided that they preferred comfort to freedom and settled in an idyllic but inhospitable part of southern Paraguay. They founded an organic farm, which they named Nueva Gambach after their home village in the Bernese Oberland. Their house is located near the San Rafael nature reserve, one of the last remnants of the Atlantic Forest. The couple is dedicated to its protection.