Piedra Trompul
Discover Piedra Trompul, a unique Patagonian rock formation offering breathtaking views and adventurous, unmarked trails near San Martín de los Andes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Piedra Trompul
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Piedra Trompul, a unique Patagonian rock formation offering breathtaking views and adventurous, unmarked trails near San Martín de los Andes.
"Embrace the wild beauty of Piedra Trompul, where unmarked trails lead to unforgettable Patagonian vistas."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be rough and unmarked. Good hiking boots are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
🗺️ Offline Maps Recommended
Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps or use a GPS device for navigation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piedra de Trompul Summit
Summit of the rock formation
Hike to the top for panoramic views of Lago Lácar and surrounding mountains. A true Patagonian vista.
Cerro Colorado Trek
Near Piedra de Trompul
An extinct volcano offering moderate to challenging hikes with incredible scenery.
Mirador Bandurrias
Overlooking Lago Lácar
Offers breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding peaks, including Piedra de Trompul.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Prepare for Unmarked Trails
Respect the Land and Local Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be rough and unmarked. Good hiking boots are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
🗺️ Offline Maps Recommended
Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps or use a GPS device for navigation.
🌬️ Wind Can Be Strong
The 'Piedra del Viento' lives up to its name. Be prepared for strong winds, especially at higher elevations.
📸 Capture the Landscape
Bring your camera! The black and white photography opportunities are stunning.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be rough and unmarked. Good hiking boots are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
🗺️ Offline Maps Recommended
Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps or use a GPS device for navigation.
🌬️ Wind Can Be Strong
The 'Piedra del Viento' lives up to its name. Be prepared for strong winds, especially at higher elevations.
📸 Capture the Landscape
Bring your camera! The black and white photography opportunities are stunning.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes. There are limited facilities for refilling water bottles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Piedra Trompul for its stunning natural beauty and adventurous, off-the-beaten-path hiking experience. The panoramic views are a major draw, offering a true taste of Patagonia. However, some find the unmarked trails challenging and recommend preparedness for navigation and weather.
"natgeo Photo by Luján Agusti @lujanag | Portrait of one of the oldest couples in the Indigenous Mapuche community of Cayún, the philosophical Lonko Florentino Cayun and Albina Cayulef, in their vegetable garden. Some 130 years ago, the Cayún lof—the Indigenous term for "community"— fled toward the province of Neuquén at the Argentine border with Chile. Like hundreds of other Native communities in Argentina, they were dispossessed of their lands by a military operation called the "conquest of the desert." La Piedra de Trompul (Trompul's Stone), an area surrounded by national forests in the basin of the Lácar lake, became their new home. Today, between 80 and 90 people live at this place, more than 1,000 meters (3,000ft) above sea level, where winters threaten to destroy harvests and can isolate families for weeks. Follow me at @lujanag to learn more my Patagonian homeland."
Davi Small
"Wonderful place, I climbed the stone but there is no marked path, it is by intuition since there are several forks in the road"
Marcela Rocha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piedra Trompul is located near San Martín de los Andes. You can reach the area by car, often heading towards Route 48. Some trails start directly from the vicinity.
Public transportation options directly to Piedra Trompul are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for transport.
Access points can vary. Some trekkers start from near the Piedra Trompul itself, while others might begin from trailheads for Cerro Colorado or Mirador Bandurrias.
While not always explicitly advertised for Piedra Trompul itself, local trekking guides in San Martín de los Andes can often arrange tours that include this area or nearby attractions like Cerro Colorado.
Piedra Trompul is a short drive from San Martín de los Andes, typically within 10-15 minutes depending on the specific access point you're heading to.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to Piedra Trompul and its surrounding natural areas is free, as it's part of the natural landscape and national forests.
Most trails in the area, including those leading to or around Piedra Trompul, do not have specific entrance fees. However, always check for any park regulations if you venture into designated national park areas.
Piedra Trompul is an outdoor natural attraction, so it's accessible year-round during daylight hours. Access might be limited by weather conditions in winter.
As it's a natural site, no advance booking is required for general visits. If you're arranging a guided tour, then booking with the tour operator would be necessary.
Visitors are expected to respect the environment and local Mapuche community. Stick to marked paths where available and avoid disturbing wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hiking can range from easy walks to more challenging ascents. The climb up Piedra Trompul itself is often described as intuitive with no clearly marked path.
While the lower areas might be accessible, the unmarked trails and potential for strong winds might make the summit climb challenging for very young children. Consider shorter walks or viewpoints.
The summit of Piedra Trompul offers incredible panoramic views. Mirador Bandurrias also provides stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Drone usage is possible, as seen in some social media content, but always be aware of local regulations and respect privacy.
The 'Piedra del Viento' (Stone of the Wind) is said to make its presence felt and heard in San Martín de los Andes when the wind blows strongly.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography. Autumn colors can also be spectacular.
Yes, the rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes lend themselves beautifully to black and white photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive Patagonian scenery. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
If you encounter members of the Mapuche community, always ask for permission before taking photos. Respect their privacy and cultural norms.
The unique rock formation itself, the panoramic views of Lago Lácar, and the surrounding rugged Patagonian landscape are highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The lower areas around Piedra Trompul offer opportunities for gentle exploration. +1 Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for potentially windy conditions. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Trekkers
Ensure you have appropriate footwear, navigation tools, and sufficient water for your excursions. 📸 Photographers
+1 The golden hours provide exceptional lighting for landscape photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Piedra Trompul
For those seeking a more structured hike, the nearby Cerro Colorado offers a volcanic trek with moderate to high difficulty, depending on the season.
Mirador Bandurrias provides a more accessible viewpoint with stunning vistas of Lago Lácar, making it a great option for those who prefer less strenuous activity. These nearby attractions offer complementary experiences to the raw adventure of Piedra Trompul itself.Remember that the area is known for its wind, earning it the nickname 'Piedra del Viento' (Stone of the Wind).
This can add an element of challenge but also contributes to the dramatic Patagonian atmosphere. Always check weather conditions before heading out and inform someone of your hiking plans.Cultural Significance and Community
The area is not just a natural wonder but also a place where community life continues. Social media content shows initiatives involving local schools, such as the Escuela Rural 337 'Piedra de Trompul,' highlighting educational and family activities.
+2 This underscores the living culture of the region, where nature and community are intertwined.When visiting, remember that you are on traditional lands. Practicing responsible tourism, such as leaving no trace and respecting local customs, is paramount.
Photography Opportunities
The panoramic views from the summit, overlooking Lago Lácar and the majestic Patagonian mountains, are particularly breathtaking during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. +1Beyond the iconic stone, the nearby Cerro Colorado presents a rugged volcanic landscape perfect for capturing dramatic textures and expansive vistas.
The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities, from the vibrant greens of summer to the golden hues of autumn. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to fully encompass the grandeur of the Patagonian scenery. For those interested in a more artistic approach, the raw, untamed nature of the area lends itself well to fine art photography.
Remember to always be mindful of the weather, as wind and changing light can create dynamic shooting conditions. Respecting the natural environment and any local communities you encounter will also enhance your photographic experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit