Nahuel Huapi National Park
Bariloche, Rio Negro
Stretching over 1.8 million acres, Nahuel Huapi National Park is Argentina’s oldest national park. Centered around the region’s largest lake, Nahuel Huapi, and encompassing the popular resort town of San Carlos de Bariloche, this enormous park offers mountain and forest hikes, and the opportunity to cruise the lakes.
The Basics
Spectacular scenery awaits at every turn in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, and adventurous travelers can enjoy hiking to the summit of Cerro Tronador, Cerro Lopez, or Cerro Catedral. There are also plenty of ways to get on the water, and to spot native wildlife, such as the monito del monte (a lemur-faced marsupial) and llama-like guanaco. Guided treks are available, as well as sightseeing cruises and kayak trips on the lake.
Things to Know Before You Go
There is an entrance fee payable for tours and boat cruises in the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
There are a number campsites in the park, ranging from basic free sites to paid sites with amenities.
The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so dress appropriately for hiking and pack warm clothing, even in the summer months.
San Carlos de Bariloche and Villa La Angostura both offer plenty of options for food and accommodation.
The Tourist Office in Bariloche has maps and information on the park; be sure to let them know if you plan to hike independently.
How to Get There
Nahuel Huapi National Park lies between San Carlos de Bariloche and Villa La Angostura, and it’s a short drive from either town. Public buses shuttle hikers into the park during the summer months, but for those without their own transport, it’s most convenient to join a tour.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the park is between October and April, when the warm weather is ideal for hiking, water sports, and outdoor activities. For winter visitors, the main ski season on Cerro Catedral runs from July to September.
The Road of the Seven Lakes
Nahuel Huapi National Park lies along the Road of the Seven Lakes (Ruta de Siete Lagos). This picturesque 65-mile (108-kilometer) route runs from Villa La Angostura to San Martín de Los Andes, passing the lakes of Nahuel Huapi, Espejo, Correntoso, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico, and Lácar. You can drive the route in a day, but take time to enjoy the views of glittering lakes, waterfalls, and lagoons, against a backdrop of wild forests and snow-capped mountains.
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