
Lago Rivadavia Chubut Argentina
A breathtaking Patagonian gem, Lago Rivadavia enchants with its vibrant turquoise glacial waters and lush Andean forests.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for activities

Lago Rivadavia Chubut Argentina
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Patagonian gem, Lago Rivadavia enchants with its vibrant turquoise glacial waters and lush Andean forests.
"A paradise with stunning lakes, rivers, and a beautiful forest; I would come back!"

🚗 Vehicle is Key
Public transport is scarce; a car is essential for exploring . Consider a rental for flexibility.
🥶 Cold Water Warning
The lake is beautiful but very cold! Be prepared for a bracing swim .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Stunning Lake Itself
Lago Rivadavia
A glacial lake with breathtaking turquoise waters, surrounded by lush Patagonian forests.

Rivadavia River Circuit Trail
Parque Nacional Los Alerces
An easy 3-km round trip offering diverse views of lakes, rivers, and streams, plus a beautiful forest.

Mirador al Lago Rivadavia Viewpoint
Arroyo del Hacha Waterfall trail
A short 1-km hike leads to this viewpoint, offering spectacular panoramic vistas of the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Lago Rivadavia
Best Time for a Dip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle is Key
Public transport is scarce; a car is essential for exploring. Consider a rental for flexibility.
🥶 Cold Water Warning
The lake is beautiful but very cold! Be prepared for a bracing swim.
🎣 Sport Fishing Paradise
A prime spot for sport fishing enthusiasts, with various trails offering access to prime spots.
🥾 Trail Exploration
The Rivadavia River Circuit and Arroyo del Hacha trails offer stunning, accessible scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle is Key
Public transport is scarce; a car is essential for exploring. Consider a rental for flexibility.
🥶 Cold Water Warning
The lake is beautiful but very cold! Be prepared for a bracing swim.
🎣 Sport Fishing Paradise
A prime spot for sport fishing enthusiasts, with various trails offering access to prime spots.
🥾 Trail Exploration
The Rivadavia River Circuit and Arroyo del Hacha trails offer stunning, accessible scenery.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for incredible Patagonian landscapes, especially from viewpoints.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lago Rivadavia for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly the stunning turquoise glacial waters and surrounding forests. The accessible trails, like the Rivadavia River Circuit, are highlighted as enjoyable for their scenic diversity. While the water is famously cold, many find the overall experience to be a 'paradise' and highly recommend a visit.
"Bellisimo"
Paula Lamelas
"The lake!"
Pablo Oliva
"The Rivadavia River Circuit trail was my favorite. You can see lakes, rivers, and streams all the way from the coast, as well as a stunning forest. There are campsites that offer kayaking, but the main activity is sport fishing. The entire route is easy to navigate, but it's a 3-km round trip. A paradise. I would come back!"
tania pires
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Lago Rivadavia is by car, as public transportation is limited. It's located within Parque Nacional Los Alerces, accessible via Provincial Route 71. If you're coming from Esquel or Trevelin, you'll likely drive through scenic Patagonian landscapes. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the journey.
While challenging, some visitors might arrange private transfers or taxis from nearby towns like Esquel or Cholila. However, having your own vehicle offers the most freedom to explore the park and its various viewpoints and trails.
The roads leading to and around Lago Rivadavia are generally well-maintained, especially Provincial Route 71. However, some sections might be unpaved or gravel, so driving cautiously is advised. Check local conditions before you go.
Lago Rivadavia is approximately 80-90 kilometers from Esquel, a journey that typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on road conditions and stops.
Currently, there are no regular shuttle services directly to Lago Rivadavia. Visitors are encouraged to use private vehicles or arrange private transportation for their visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Lago Rivadavia is located within Parque Nacional Los Alerces, which has an entrance fee. The fee is per vehicle or per person, depending on the park's current regulations. It's advisable to check the official Parque Nacional Los Alerces website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Parque Nacional Los Alerces is generally open year-round, but specific visitor centers or facilities might have seasonal hours. The park itself is accessible during daylight hours. For the most accurate information, consult the park's official website.
While some national parks in Argentina offer online booking, it's best to verify this for Parque Nacional Los Alerces. You can typically purchase tickets at the park entrance stations. Check the official park website for any online ticketing options.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as children, seniors, or students. It's recommended to inquire at the park entrance or check the official park website for details on potential discounts.
The entrance fee typically grants access to the park's main areas, viewpoints, and designated trails. It contributes to the conservation and maintenance of the park's natural beauty and infrastructure.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy stunning scenery, hiking on trails like the Rivadavia River Circuit, photography, and even a refreshing (though cold!) swim. Sport fishing is also a popular activity.
Yes, the Rivadavia River Circuit trail is a popular 3-km round trip offering diverse views. The Mirador al Lago Rivadavia viewpoint is accessed via the Arroyo del Hacha Waterfall trail, a 1-km hike.
The lake is beautiful but very cold, even in summer! Some visitors do take a dip, especially on warmer days. Be prepared for a bracing experience.
While specific sightings vary, the park is home to diverse Patagonian flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for native birds and other wildlife in the surrounding forests and along the water.
Absolutely! The Mirador al Lago Rivadavia offers spectacular panoramic views. Many spots along the drive and trails provide excellent photo opportunities of the lake and mountains.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Lago Rivadavia are very limited. It's best to pack your own food and drinks for a picnic, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring the park. Nearby towns like Cholila or Esquel offer more dining choices.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! There are often designated picnic areas within Parque Nacional Los Alerces. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the park's natural beauty.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch. Consider items that are easy to transport and consume outdoors. Don't forget reusable containers and bags for waste.
The closest significant grocery stores will be in towns like Esquel or Cholila. It's recommended to stock up on supplies before heading into the national park.
While some visitor centers might offer limited snacks or souvenirs, dedicated food services are generally not available within the park. Plan to bring your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mirador al Lago Rivadavia viewpoint is a must for panoramic shots. The shores of the lake itself, the Rivadavia River Circuit trail, and any pull-offs along the scenic drive offer incredible photo opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical, painting the landscape in stunning colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, local guides or tour operators in Esquel or Trevelin might offer excursions that cater to scenic photography. It's worth inquiring locally.
The vibrant turquoise color of the glacial water, the surrounding Patagonian forests (lengas and coihues), the majestic mountains, and the reflections on the lake's surface are all incredibly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting and engaging kids in identifying different birds or plants. The drive to the lake itself is scenic and can be an adventure. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are minimal. The Arroyo del Hacha Waterfall trail to the viewpoint is also a manageable hike for families looking for a rewarding vista.
🎣 Anglers and Sport Fishermen
It's crucial to be aware of fishing regulations within Parque Nacional Los Alerces. Ensure you have the necessary permits and adhere to catch-and-release policies or size/bag limits as stipulated by park authorities. The remote nature of the location means you'll likely find fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful fishing experience. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including waders and fly-fishing equipment, and be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Parque Nacional Los Alerces
Beyond the visual splendor, the park is a haven for biodiversity. Keep an eye out for native bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot mammals like guanacos or foxes. The park's rivers and lakes are also crucial habitats. For those interested in the park's natural history, interpretive centers often provide valuable insights into its geology, flora, and fauna. The sheer scale and untouched nature of Los Alerces make it a truly special destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Many visitors combine a trip to Lago Rivadavia with explorations deeper into the park. This might include visiting other lakes like Futalaufquen or Menéndez, or seeking out the iconic Alerce trees themselves. The park's infrastructure includes campsites and refuges, allowing for extended stays and a more immersive experience in the Patagonian wilderness. Remember to respect park regulations, stay on marked trails, and practice Leave No Trace principles to help protect this extraordinary environment.
The Allure of Glacial Waters
While visually stunning, these glacial waters are also exceptionally cold. Even during the peak of summer, the water temperature rarely rises above 10-15°C (50-59°F). This coldness is a testament to the pristine, untouched nature of the surrounding environment and the direct influence of the glaciers. For those brave enough to take a dip, it's an invigorating and unforgettable experience, often described as a 'shock to the system'. The clarity of the water, however, is usually excellent, allowing you to see deep into its depths.
The temperature of the lake can also be influenced by wind. As one reviewer noted, on windy days, the lake's layout can actually make the water feel warmer and more sheltered from the wind. This unique microclimate can make certain spots more inviting for a brief immersion. Whether you're swimming, kayaking, or simply admiring its beauty from the shore, the glacial waters of Lago Rivadavia are a defining feature of this Patagonian landscape.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit