
Los Alerces National Park
Discover ancient Alerce forests, turquoise glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes in this Patagonian gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the dust and crowds

Los Alerces National Park
Best Time
Beat the dust and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Alerce forests, turquoise glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes in this Patagonian gem.
"A natural paradise with stunning turquoise waters and ancient trees, a must-visit in Patagonia!"

🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Public transport is scarce. A rental car offers the best way to explore the park's vastness.
💧 Bring Your Own Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside the park, so pack essentials.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Río Arrayanes
Connects Lago Futalaufquen and Lago Verde
A stunning turquoise river lined with arrayán trees, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Los Pozones
Within the park
A series of beautiful natural pools with vibrant turquoise waters, perfect for admiring nature's artistry.

Alerce Trees
Various locations, accessible by boat tours
Marvel at the ancient, towering Alerce trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting Around the Park
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Public transport is scarce. A rental car offers the best way to explore the park's vastness.
💧 Bring Your Own Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside the park, so pack essentials.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all your trash, including organic waste.
⏰ Check Bus Schedules Carefully
Only one bus daily from Esquel; confirm times to avoid long waits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Public transport is scarce. A rental car offers the best way to explore the park's vastness.
💧 Bring Your Own Water & Snacks
Limited facilities inside the park, so pack essentials.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all your trash, including organic waste.
⏰ Check Bus Schedules Carefully
Only one bus daily from Esquel; confirm times to avoid long waits.
💰 Be Aware of Tourist Pricing
Some travelers report higher bus fares for tourists.
👟 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Trails can be dusty and uneven.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking turquoise lakes and ancient Alerce trees, calling it a natural paradise. However, some find the park's accessibility challenging without a car and note potential price discrepancies for tourists on public transport.
"We loved our day here, next time we would overnight in the park. Lots of camping options, but hosterías and lodges as well. We hiked a few of the trails and visited the beaches. A little dusty but we got there early which worked great."
Robert Quinn
"The place is beautiful and for those who like to see a green blueish lake (unique). It has like 3 main hikes (2 of them form a circular). You can start left or right as it brings you back to the starting point (parking station or bus stop). I give it a 4 star because there is only one bus departure and one arrival with lots of resting time between them. BUS leaves from Esquel at 7h45 mon-fri and 8am on Sat-sun. Careful as the bus driver doubles the price for tourists (not all). See if you can ask a local to buy you the departure and arrival ticket. It costs normally 800 soles (both ways) but expect to pay 1600 as I did. It leaves around 4h45 or 5h15 pm but better go at 4h45 to be safe as there are no other busses. You can complete everything in 2-3hrs at the green lake but you can't walk to the other lake as it is too far. If you manage to get a lift from drivers you can go to the other lakes but see the bus schedule attached (it will leave at different times because it is a long road). Ask the driver for the different times. If you are lucky to manage a ride you have sufficient time for 2 main lakes. The 3rd trail is found near the parking lot (ask the parking lot agent for that trail starting point). Aside from the price discrimination, the good news that there are no entrance fee for the park, maybe due to covid. Total cost as of oct 2022 is either 800 or 1600 pesos. Bring food and water."
Antoine Assaad
"Successive glaciations have moulded the landscape in the region creating spectacular features such as moraines, glacial cirques and clean water lakes. The vegetation is dominated by dense forest, which give way to alpine meadows. Most distinctive is its alerce forest."
Russ Lacuata
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, which offers the most flexibility. There is a public bus service from Esquel, but it runs only once a day and has limited return times, so planning is crucial.
It's challenging. Public transport is very limited. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the different lakes and trails. If you can't rent a car, consider booking guided tours or trying to hitchhike with other visitors.
The roads within Los Alerces National Park are generally unpaved and can be dusty, especially during drier periods. Drive cautiously.
While possible, it's a very long day trip. Los Alerces is located south of Bariloche, and the travel time can be significant. It's better to stay overnight in or near the park for a more relaxed experience.
No, there are no regular shuttle services within the park. Your best bet for internal transport is your own vehicle or arranging rides with other visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Historically, there has been an entrance fee, though some reviews mention it being waived at times. It's advisable to check the official park website or inquire locally for the most current information.
Some visitors have reported parking fees at specific popular spots like Pasarela Arrayanes. It's good to be prepared for potential small charges.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities and access points may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
Advance ticket purchase is usually not necessary for park entry itself, but if you plan on booking specific excursions like boat tours to see the Alerce trees, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak season.
While not always advertised, some reviews mention potential discounts or free entry during certain periods, especially in the off-season. It's worth inquiring at the park entrance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include trails around Lago Verde and Lago Futalaufquen, offering varying difficulty levels. The trails to Los Pozones and Pasarela Arrayanes are also highly recommended for their scenic beauty.
Swimming is possible in designated areas, but the water is very cold year-round due to its glacial origins. Los Pozones offers a unique experience with its natural pools.
The park is home to various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot native mammals. Geoffroy's cats, known for their swimming abilities, have been spotted here.
Yes, there are several camping options within the park, ranging from basic sites to more developed campgrounds. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.
The most effective way to see the ancient Alerce trees is by taking a boat excursion. These tours often depart from specific points within the park and provide access to areas where these magnificent trees grow.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options within the park are limited, primarily consisting of small cafes or restaurants associated with lodges or campgrounds. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks.
In nearby towns like Esquel and Trevelin, you'll find a range of Patagonian cuisine, including lamb, trout, and local artisanal products.
Absolutely! There are many scenic spots perfect for a picnic. Remember to pack out all your waste to help preserve the park's natural beauty.
No, there are no grocery stores within the park itself. You'll need to stock up on supplies in Esquel or other nearby towns before entering.
Yes, most campsites are equipped with facilities for cooking, such as grills or designated fire pits (check for fire restrictions).
📸 📸 Photography
The turquoise waters of Río Arrayanes and Los Pozones are incredibly photogenic. The panoramic views from various viewpoints overlooking the lakes and mountains are also stunning.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical over the lakes.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you plan on commercial or professional shoots, it's best to contact the park administration beforehand to inquire about regulations and permits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and lakes. 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 less common, many general guided tours will take you to the most scenic spots, offering ample opportunities for great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Camping within the park provides a memorable experience for families, allowing for more time to enjoy the natural surroundings. While the water is very cold, the natural pools at Los Pozones can be a fun, albeit chilly, adventure for kids to splash around in.
🎣 Anglers and Fly Fishing Enthusiasts
Lodges like Le Fario Lodge cater specifically to anglers, offering guided trips and comfortable accommodations. The opportunity to fish in waters where trout have seen few flies is a significant draw for serious fishermen seeking a unique challenge.
🚗 Road Trippers and Vanlifers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Alerce Trees
To truly appreciate these magnificent trees, visitors often take boat excursions that navigate the park's waterways, leading to areas where the Alerces grow in abundance. Seeing these towering trees up close is a humbling experience and a highlight for many visitors.
Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting these ancient forests. The park's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores the global importance of preserving this natural wonder for future generations.
Navigating the Turquoise Waters
Los Pozones is another must-visit, a series of natural pools formed by the river, offering a surreal and picturesque landscape. The water, though breathtakingly beautiful, is very cold due to its glacial origins, making swimming a bracing experience for the brave.
Many visitors enjoy exploring these waterways by boat, which also provides access to remote areas and the ancient Alerce forests. Kayaking and fishing are also popular activities for those seeking to immerse themselves in the park's aquatic beauty.
Planning Your Park Experience
Be prepared for dusty roads within the park, especially during drier months. Packing water and snacks is essential, as amenities are scarce. The park's beauty is best preserved by adhering to Leave No Trace principles, so remember to pack out everything you pack in.
For those interested in overnight stays, camping is a popular option with various facilities available. Booking accommodations or campsites in advance, particularly during the peak summer season, is advisable to secure your spot.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit